Old Testament
1 Chronicles 3:9
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
These were all of David's sons, not counting the sons born to his concubines. Tamar was their sister.
Compare translations
These were all the sons of David, beside the sons of the concubines, and Tamar their sister.
What 1 Chronicles 3:9 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we learn about the family of King David, specifically his sons and their sister, Tamar. The mention of concubines indicates that David had relationships beyond his primary wife, which was common in that time. This verse highlights the complexity of David's family dynamics. Tamar, being named alongside her brothers, suggests her importance in the family. The distinction between the sons and those born to concubines shows the different statuses within the family. Understanding these relationships helps us see the human side of biblical figures, revealing their struggles and triumphs. David's family was not just a royal lineage; it was filled with personal stories and challenges. This verse invites us to reflect on our own family dynamics and the roles we play within them, reminding us that every family has its unique story and complexities. It encourages us to appreciate our connections and the impact they have on our lives, just as David's family shaped his legacy.
How to apply 1 Chronicles 3:9 to your life
Consider your own family relationships and the roles you play. Reflect on how these connections shape your identity and experiences. Just like David's family, every family has its unique challenges and stories that can teach us valuable lessons about love and support. Embrace these connections and learn from them as you grow in your own life journey. Appreciate the importance of each family member in your life, just as David did.
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.

Illustrated scene from Ruth's story: Three Widows (Ruth 1:1–5)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Ruth

Photo: Zeev Stein / PikiWiki Israel, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.5. Source. Location: Tel Beer Sheva National Park, Israel. 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.
Beersheba
Where Abraham and Isaac dug wells and worshiped the LORD, at the southern edge of the land.
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 PlansAsk AI about 1 Chronicles 3:9
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 3:9
Related Bible verses
Key themes
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
What does 1 Chronicles 3:9 say about David's family?
1 Chronicles 3:9 lists the sons of King David, excluding those born to his concubines, and mentions his daughter Tamar. This highlights the complexity of David's family structure, indicating that he had multiple relationships and children, which was typical for kings of that era. Tamar's inclusion alongside her brothers signifies her importance in the family.
Why does the verse mention concubines in relation to David's sons?
The mention of concubines in 1 Chronicles 3:9 reflects the cultural norms of ancient times where kings often had multiple wives and concubines. This distinction emphasizes the different statuses of children born to primary wives versus those born to concubines, illustrating the complexities and hierarchies within David's family.
What can we learn from the family dynamics in 1 Chronicles 3:9?
The family dynamics presented in 1 Chronicles 3:9 teach us about the complexities of relationships within families. Just as David's family had its challenges and stories, our own families have unique dynamics that shape who we are. This verse encourages us to reflect on our roles and connections, recognizing the importance of each family member in our lives.
How does Tamar's mention in this verse impact our understanding of her role?
Tamar's mention in 1 Chronicles 3:9 alongside her brothers indicates her significance within David's family. It suggests that she played an important role, not just as a sister but also in the broader narrative of David's lineage. Understanding her position helps us appreciate the complexities of familial relationships and the impact of each member's story.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.