Old Testament
1 Chronicles 4:5
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Ashur, the founder of Tekoa, had two wives: Helah and Naarah.
Compare translations
And Ashur the father of Tekoa had two wives, Helah and Naarah.
What 1 Chronicles 4:5 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we learn about Ashur, who is recognized as the founder of Tekoa. He had two wives named Helah and Naarah. This detail, while seemingly simple, highlights the importance of family and relationships in ancient times. The mention of two wives suggests a complex family structure, which was not uncommon in that era. It also reflects the social norms and practices of the time, where polygamy was accepted. Understanding these relationships can help us appreciate the historical context of the people mentioned in the Bible. Ashur's role as a founder indicates his significance in the community, showing that individuals played vital roles in shaping their towns and cultures. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of family ties and the legacies we leave behind in our communities, even if they are not always highlighted in grand narratives. It encourages us to think about our own relationships and how they contribute to our identity and the places we call home.
How to apply 1 Chronicles 4:5 to your life
Consider the relationships in your life and how they shape who you are. Just as Ashur's family influenced his community, your connections can impact those around you. Take time to nurture these relationships and reflect on the legacy you want to create in your own community. Every relationship matters, and they all contribute to your story and identity. Embrace the importance of family and friendships in your life journey.
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 Joseph, Jacob's son's story: Joseph Is Born (Genesis 30:22–24)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Joseph, Jacob's son

Photo: U.S. Army photo by Spc. Samantha R. Ciaramitaro, via DVIDS and Wikimedia Commons. License: Public domain in the United States — U.S. federal-government work. Source. Location: Great Ziggurat, Ur Archaeological City (Tell el-Mukayyar), Dhi Qar Governorate, Iraq. 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.
Ur
The city Abram's family left to travel toward Canaan.
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 4:5
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 4:5
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
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 4:5 mean?
1 Chronicles 4:5 introduces Ashur, the founder of Tekoa, and mentions his two wives, Helah and Naarah. This verse highlights the importance of family structures in ancient times and reflects the social norms of polygamy that were common during that era.
What is the significance of Ashur in 1 Chronicles 4:5?
Ashur is significant as the founder of Tekoa, indicating his role in establishing a community. His mention in the genealogies shows the importance of lineage and family in the historical context of the Bible.
What does the mention of two wives in 1 Chronicles 4:5 indicate?
The mention of Ashur having two wives, Helah and Naarah, indicates the practice of polygamy in ancient cultures. It reflects the complex family dynamics and social structures that were prevalent at that time.
How does 1 Chronicles 4:5 relate to family and community?
1 Chronicles 4:5 emphasizes the role of family in community building through Ashur's relationships. It suggests that individual family ties can have a lasting impact on the identity and legacy of a community.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.