Old Testament
1 Chronicles 7:4
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
This verse highlights the strength of certain clans based on their family size.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Ezra
- Written
- Around 430 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Post-exilic Jews
According to their family records, these clans could field 36,000 soldiers ready for war, because they had many wives and sons.
And with them, by their generations, after the house of their fathers, were bands of soldiers for war, six and thirty thousand men: for they had many wives and sons.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse highlights the strength of certain clans based on their family size. With 36,000 soldiers ready for battle, it shows how having many family members can contribute to a community's ability to defend itself. The mention of wives and sons indicates that these clans valued family life, which in turn provided them with manpower. This reflects a broader principle: strong families can lead to strong communities. The ability to gather such a large number of soldiers suggests unity and preparedness. It also emphasizes the importance of lineage and heritage in shaping a group's identity and strength. In times of conflict, the size of a family could mean the difference between survival and defeat. Thus, this verse serves as a reminder of the power of community and the role of family in achieving collective goals. It encourages us to appreciate our families and recognize their potential impact on our lives and society as a whole. Building strong relationships can lead to greater support and resilience in challenging times.
Related Bible verses
How to apply 1 Chronicles 7:4 to your life
Consider the strength of your own family and community. How can you foster relationships that build support and resilience? Engage with your loved ones, invest time in nurturing those connections, and recognize the power of unity in facing life's challenges together. Every family member contributes to the whole, so value each role they play.
Curated for this public verse page. 1 Chronicles Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 1 Chronicles 7:4 mean?
1 Chronicles 7:4 highlights the military strength of certain clans, emphasizing that their large family size, with many wives and sons, allowed them to field 36,000 soldiers. This reflects the idea that strong families contribute to strong communities, especially in times of conflict.
What is the significance of family in 1 Chronicles 7:4?
The verse underscores the importance of family size in providing manpower for defense. It suggests that having many family members can enhance a community's ability to unite and prepare for challenges.
What does 'bands of soldiers for war' refer to in 1 Chronicles 7:4?
'Bands of soldiers for war' refers to the organized military groups formed from the clans mentioned in the verse. It indicates their readiness and capability to defend their community due to their large numbers.
How does 1 Chronicles 7:4 relate to community strength?
The verse illustrates that the size and unity of families can significantly impact a community's strength. It shows that strong familial ties can lead to greater collective resilience and preparedness.

The Book of 1 Chronicles
Genealogies (Chs 1–9)
The record begins with the line from Adam to Noah and his sons: Shem, Ham, and Japheth. The descendants of Japheth are listed, followed by the descendants of Ham, which include Nimrod, a mighty one in the earth, and the ancestors of the Philistines. The line of Shem is traced down to Abram, who is Abraham. The sons of Abraham—Ishmael and Isaac—are named, along with the sons of Abraham’s concubine Keturah. The generations of Ishmael are listed, followed by the descendants of Isaac’s son Esau, including the dukes and early kings of Edom.
Unlock the full 1 Chronicles summary
Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.
The complete summary of 1 Chronicles — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 29 chapters.
What you get
Every chapter of 1 Chronicles summarized in clear, modern English
How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points
Permanent access — read anytime, on any device
Best value • Save over 90%
One-time purchase • Access anytime
ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.
Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.