Old Testament

1 Chronicles 26:31

Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.

ClearClear Bible Translation

Jerijah was the chief of the Hebronites, traced through their family records. In the 40th year of David's reign, a search was conducted, and mighty men of valor from this clan were found at Jazer in Gilead.

Compare translations
KJVKing James Version

Among the Hebronites was Jerijah the chief, even among the Hebronites, according to the generations of his fathers. In the fortieth year of the reign of David they were sought for, and there were found among them mighty men of valour at Jazer of Gilead.

What 1 Chronicles 26:31 means

Plain-English insight for readers

Jerijah was a notable leader among the Hebronites, a group with a rich history. His lineage was carefully documented, showing the importance of family and heritage. In the 40th year of King David's reign, a search was made to identify strong and capable warriors from this clan. They were discovered in Jazer, a location in Gilead. This highlights the value of recognizing and honoring one's roots. The mighty men found were not just fighters; they represented the strength and legacy of their families. Their bravery and skills were essential for the kingdom's defense. This passage reminds us that our backgrounds can shape our identities and contributions to society. It encourages us to appreciate our heritage while also striving to make a positive impact in our communities today. Understanding where we come from can empower us to fulfill our potential and serve others effectively, just as Jerijah and his clan did for David's reign. Their story is a testament to the importance of courage and loyalty in leadership.

How to apply 1 Chronicles 26:31 to your life

Reflect on your own background and the strengths it provides you. Consider how you can use your unique experiences to contribute positively to your community. Just like Jerijah's clan, your heritage can empower you to make a difference in the world around you. Embrace your story and share it with others to inspire them too. Every individual has a role to play in building a better future together.

Curated for this public verse page. 1 Chronicles Summary

Explore more of the Bible

Learn the Bible through its people and places

Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.

A painting of Lamech holding his newborn son Noah outside a tent, with a plow and tools lying on the ground nearby

Illustrated scene from Noah's story: Noah Is Born (Genesis 5:28–32)

Meet the people of the Bible

Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.

Noah

An old color photograph of Nablus in a green valley below Mount Gerizim, with people resting on rocks in front.

Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725043). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nablus and Mount Gerizim, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.

Explore the places of the Bible

See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.

Shechem

Where God promised the land to Abram, and where Joshua led Israel to renew the covenant.

Get full access with one subscription

Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.

See Plans

Ask AI about 1 Chronicles 26:31

Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.

Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter

Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.

Keep studying 1 Chronicles 26:31

At a Glance — the Book of 1 Chronicles

Author
Traditionally attributed to Ezra
Written
Around 430 BC
Genre
Historical narrative
Original Audience
Post-exilic Jews

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

Who was Jerijah in 1 Chronicles 26:31?

Jerijah was the chief of the Hebronites, a significant leader recognized for his lineage and authority among his people. His role highlights the importance of leadership within the clan and the value placed on family heritage in ancient Israel.

What does the term 'mighty men of valor' mean in this context?

The phrase 'mighty men of valor' refers to strong and courageous warriors who were recognized for their bravery and skill in battle. In 1 Chronicles 26:31, these men were identified as part of Jerijah's clan, emphasizing their crucial role in supporting King David's reign and the defense of the kingdom.

Why was a search conducted in the 40th year of David's reign?

The search conducted in the 40th year of David's reign aimed to identify capable warriors from the Hebronites, particularly those who could contribute to the kingdom's military strength. This reflects David's strategic approach to ensure he had a reliable and valorous force to protect and expand his kingdom.

What is the significance of heritage in this verse?

Heritage plays a crucial role in 1 Chronicles 26:31, as it underscores the importance of lineage and family history in shaping identity and leadership. Jerijah's documented ancestry highlights how one's background can influence their capabilities and responsibilities within the community.

Daily Verse — straight to your inbox

A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.