Old Testament
1 Chronicles 9:39
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Ner was the father of Kish. Kish was the father of Saul. Saul was the father of Jonathan, Malchishua, Abinadab, and Eshbaal.
Compare translations
And Ner begat Kish; and Kish begat Saul; and Saul begat Jonathan, and Malchishua, and Abinadab, and Eshbaal.
What 1 Chronicles 9:39 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse outlines a family lineage, tracing the ancestry of Saul, the first king of Israel. It begins with Ner, who is identified as Kish's father. Kish then becomes the father of Saul, establishing a direct connection to Israel's monarchy. Saul's legacy continues through his sons: Jonathan, Malchishua, Abinadab, and Eshbaal. Each name represents a part of Israel's history and the unfolding story of leadership. Understanding these relationships helps us appreciate the significance of family and heritage in shaping destinies. This lineage not only highlights Saul's role but also sets the stage for future events in Israel's narrative. The mention of these names reminds us that every individual plays a part in a larger story, influencing generations to come. Family ties can be a source of strength and identity, impacting how we view ourselves and our place in the world. Recognizing our roots can inspire us to honor our past while shaping our future with intention and purpose.
How to apply 1 Chronicles 9:39 to your life
Reflect on your own family history and the values passed down through generations. Consider how your background shapes your identity and choices today. Embrace the lessons learned from your ancestors to guide your future decisions and relationships. Remember, you are part of a larger story that continues to unfold. Your actions today can influence those who come after you, just as your ancestors influenced you. Keep this in mind as you navigate your life.
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 Esther's story: Esther Becomes Queen (Esther 2:1–18)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Esther

Photo: Deror Avi, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 4.0. Source. Location: Tel Shiloh archaeological site, West Bank. 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.
Shiloh
Where Israel set up the tabernacle, and where God called the boy Samuel.
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 9:39
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 9:39
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 9:39 mean?
1 Chronicles 9:39 outlines the lineage of Saul, the first king of Israel, starting from his grandfather Ner through his father Kish. This genealogy emphasizes the importance of family heritage in the context of leadership and Israel's history.
What is the significance of Saul's lineage in 1 Chronicles 9:39?
The significance of Saul's lineage in 1 Chronicles 9:39 lies in its connection to Israel's monarchy. It highlights how family ties and heritage play a crucial role in shaping leadership and the unfolding narrative of the nation.
Who are the key figures mentioned in 1 Chronicles 9:39?
The key figures mentioned in 1 Chronicles 9:39 are Ner, Kish, Saul, and Saul's sons: Jonathan, Malchishua, Abinadab, and Eshbaal. Each name represents a part of the royal lineage and contributes to the historical context of Israel.
What does this verse tell us about family and identity?
This verse illustrates the importance of family and identity by tracing the lineage of a significant leader. It reminds us that our family history can influence our identity and the roles we play in our communities.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.