1 Chronicles 4:12
New International Version
Eshton was the father of Beth Rapha, Paseah and Tehinnah the father of Ir Nahash. These were the men of Rekah.

New Living Translation
Eshton was the father of Beth-rapha, Paseah, and Tehinnah. Tehinnah was the father of Ir-nahash. These were the descendants of Recah.

English Standard Version
Eshton fathered Beth-rapha, Paseah, and Tehinnah, the father of Ir-nahash. These are the men of Recah.

Berean Standard Bible
Eshton was the father of Beth-rapha, of Paseah, and of Tehinnah the father of Ir-nahash. These were the men of Recah.

Berean Literal Bible
And Eshton begat Beth-rapha, and Paseah, and Tehinnah father of Ir-nahash. These were the men of Rechah.

King James Bible
And Eshton begat Bethrapha, and Paseah, and Tehinnah the father of Irnahash. These are the men of Rechah.

New King James Version
And Eshton begot Beth-Rapha, Paseah, and Tehinnah the father of Ir-Nahash. These were the men of Rechah.

New American Standard Bible
Eshton fathered Beth-rapha and Paseah, and Tehinnah the father of Ir-nahash. These are the men of Recah.

NASB 1995
Eshton became the father of Beth-rapha and Paseah, and Tehinnah the father of Ir-nahash. These are the men of Recah.

NASB 1977
And Eshton became the father of Beth-rapha and Paseah, and Tehinnah the father of Ir-nahash. These are the men of Recah.

Legacy Standard Bible
Eshton became the father of Beth-rapha and Paseah, and Tehinnah the father of Ir-nahash. These are the men of Recah.

Amplified Bible
Eshton became the father of Beth-rapha, Paseah, and Tehinnah the father of Ir-nahash. These are the men of Recah.

Berean Annotated Bible
Eshton (effeminate) was the father of Beth-rapha (house of healing), of Paseah (limper), and of Tehinnah (supplication) the father of Ir-nahash (city of a serpent). These were the men of Recah (uttermost part).

Christian Standard Bible
Eshton fathered Beth-rapha, Paseah, and Tehinnah the father of Irnahash. These were the men of Recah.

Holman Christian Standard Bible
Eshton fathered Beth-rapha, Paseah, and Tehinnah the father of Irnahash. These were the men of Recah.

American Standard Version
And Eshton begat Beth-rapha, and Paseah, and Tehinnah the father of Ir-nahash. These are the men of Recah.

Contemporary English Version
whose three sons were Bethrapha, Paseah, and Tehinnah. It was Tehinnah who settled the town of Nahash. These men and their families lived in the town of Recah.

English Revised Version
And Eshton begat Beth-rapha, and Paseah, and Tehinnah the father of Ir-nahash. These are the men of Recah.

GOD'S WORD® Translation
Eshton was the first to settle Beth Rapha. He was the father of Paseah and Tehinnah, who first settled the city of Nahash. These were the men from Recah.

Good News Translation
who had three sons: Bethrapha, Paseah, and Tehinnah. Tehinnah was the founder of the city of Nahash. The descendants of these men lived in Recah.

International Standard Version
Eshton fathered Beth-rapha, Paseah, and Tehinnah, who fathered Ir-nahash. These are the men of Recah.

NET Bible
Eshton was the father of Beth-Rapha, Paseah, and Tehinnah, the father of Ir Nahash. These were the men of Recah.

New Heart English Bible
Eshton became the father of Beth Rapha, and Paseah, and Tehinnah the father of Ir Nahash. These are the men of Rechab.

Webster's Bible Translation
And Eshton begat Beth-rapha, and Paseah, and Tehinnah the father of Ir-nahash. These are the men of Rechah.
Majority Text Translations
Majority Standard Bible
Eshton was the father of Beth-rapha, of Paseah, and of Tehinnah the father of Ir-nahash. These were the men of Recah.

World English Bible
Eshton became the father of Beth Rapha, Paseah, and Tehinnah the father of Ir Nahash. These are the men of Recah.
Literal Translations
Literal Standard Version
And Eshton begot Beth-Rapha, and Paseah, and Tehinnah father of Ir-Nahash; these [are] men of Rechah.

Berean Literal Bible
And Eshton begat Beth-rapha, and Paseah, and Tehinnah father of Ir-nahash. These were the men of Rechah.

Young's Literal Translation
And Eshton begat Beth-Rapha, and Paseah, and Tehinnah father of Ir-Nahash; these are men of Rechah.

Smith's Literal Translation
And Eshton begat the house of healing, and Paseah and Tehinnah the father of the city of enchantment These are the men of Rechab.
Catholic Translations
Douay-Rheims Bible
And Esthon beget Bethrapha, and Phesse, and Tehinna father of the city of Naas: these are the men of Recha.

Catholic Public Domain Version
Then Eshton conceived Bethrapha, and Paseah, and Tehinnah, the father of the city of Nahash. These are the men of Recah.

New American Bible
Eshton became the father of Bethrapha, Paseah, and Tehinnah, the father of the city of Nahash. These were the men of Recah.

New Revised Standard Version
Eshton became the father of Beth-rapha, Paseah, and Tehinnah the father of Ir-nahash. These are the men of Recah.
Translations from Aramaic
Lamsa Bible
And Eshton begat Tehiah, and Ropha begat Paseah, and Paseah begat Tehiah, and Tehiah begat Jazir.

Peshitta Holy Bible Translated
And Eshtun begot Rupha, and Rupha begot Paskhi, and Paskhi begot Tekhia, and Tekhia begot Yazir.
OT Translations
JPS Tanakh 1917
And Eshton begot Beth-rapha, and Paseah, and Tehinnah the father of Ir-nahash. These are the men of Recah.

Brenton Septuagint Translation
He begot Bathraias, and Bessee, and Thaeman the founder of the city of Naas the brother of Eselom the Kenezite: these were the men of Rechab.

Additional Translations ...
Audio Bible



Context
More Descendants of Judah
11Chelub the brother of Shuhah was the father of Mehir, who was the father of Eshton. 12Eshton was the father of Beth-rapha, of Paseah, and of Tehinnah the father of Ir-nahash. These were the men of Recah. 13The sons of Kenaz: Othniel and Seraiah. The sons of Othniel: Hathath and Meonothai.…

Cross References
Eshton was the father of Beth-rapha,

1 Chronicles 2:50-53
These were the descendants of Caleb. The sons of Hur the firstborn of Ephrathah: Shobal the father of Kiriath-jearim, / Salma the father of Bethlehem, and Hareph the father of Beth-gader. / These were the descendants of Shobal the father of Kiriath-jearim: Haroeh, half the Manahathites, …

Joshua 15:20-32
This is the inheritance of the clans of the tribe of Judah. / These were the southernmost cities of the tribe of Judah in the Negev toward the border of Edom: Kabzeel, Eder, Jagur, / Kinah, Dimonah, Adadah, …

Genesis 36:31-43
These are the kings who reigned in the land of Edom before any king reigned over the Israelites: / Bela son of Beor reigned in Edom; the name of his city was Dinhabah. / When Bela died, Jobab son of Zerah from Bozrah reigned in his place. …
of Paseah,

Ezra 2:49
the descendants of Uzza, the descendants of Paseah, the descendants of Besai,

Nehemiah 7:51
the descendants of Gazzam, the descendants of Uzza, the descendants of Paseah,

Nehemiah 3:6
The Jeshanah Gate was repaired by Joiada son of Paseah and Meshullam son of Besodeiah. They laid its beams and installed its doors, bolts, and bars.
and of Tehinnah the father of Ir-nahash.

2 Samuel 10:1-3
Some time later, the king of the Ammonites died and was succeeded by his son Hanun. / And David said, “I will show kindness to Hanun son of Nahash, just as his father showed kindness to me.” So David sent some of his servants to console Hanun concerning his father. But when they arrived in the land of the Ammonites, / the princes of the Ammonites said to Hanun their lord, “Just because David has sent you comforters, do you really believe he is showing respect for your father? Has not David instead sent his servants to explore the city, spy it out, and overthrow it?”

1 Chronicles 19:1-3
Some time later, Nahash king of the Ammonites died and was succeeded by his son. / And David said, “I will show kindness to Hanun son of Nahash, because his father showed kindness to me.” So David sent messengers to console Hanun concerning his father. But when David’s servants arrived in the land of the Ammonites to console him, / the princes of the Ammonites said to Hanun, “Just because David has sent you comforters, do you really believe he is showing respect for your father? Have not his servants come to you to explore the land, spy it out, and overthrow it?”

2 Samuel 17:25
Absalom had appointed Amasa over the army in place of Joab. Amasa was the son of a man named Ithra, the Ishmaelite who had married Abigail, the daughter of Nahash and sister of Zeruiah the mother of Joab.
These were the men of Recah.

1 Chronicles 2:55
and the clans of the scribes who lived at Jabez—the Tirathites, Shimeathites, and Sucathites. These are the Kenites who came from Hammath, the father of the house of Rechab.

2 Kings 10:15
When he left there, he found Jehonadab son of Rechab, who was coming to meet him. Jehu greeted him and asked, “Is your heart as true to mine as my heart is to yours?” “It is!” Jehonadab replied. “If it is,” said Jehu, “give me your hand.” So he gave him his hand, and Jehu helped him into his chariot,

Jeremiah 35:2-10
“Go to the house of the Rechabites, speak to them, and bring them to one of the chambers of the house of the LORD to offer them a drink of wine.” / So I took Jaazaniah son of Jeremiah, the son of Habazziniah, and his brothers and all his sons—the entire house of the Rechabites— / and I brought them into the house of the LORD, to a chamber occupied by the sons of Hanan son of Igdaliah, a man of God. This room was near the chamber of the officials, which was above the chamber of Maaseiah son of Shallum the doorkeeper. …
Joshua 15:13-19
According to the LORD’s command to him, Joshua gave Caleb son of Jephunneh a portion among the sons of Judah—Kiriath-arba, that is, Hebron. (Arba was the forefather of Anak.) / And Caleb drove out from there the three sons of Anak—the descendants of Sheshai, Ahiman, and Talmai, the children of Anak. / From there he marched against the inhabitants of Debir (formerly known as Kiriath-sepher). …

Judges 1:11-15
From there they marched against the inhabitants of Debir (formerly known as Kiriath-sepher). / And Caleb said, “To the man who strikes down Kiriath-sepher and captures it, I will give my daughter Acsah in marriage.” / So Othniel son of Caleb’s younger brother Kenaz captured the city, and Caleb gave his daughter Acsah to him in marriage. …

1 Chronicles 2:42-55
The sons of Caleb the brother of Jerahmeel: Mesha his firstborn, who was the father of Ziph, and Mareshah his second son, who was the father of Hebron. / The sons of Hebron: Korah, Tappuah, Rekem, and Shema. / Shema was the father of Raham the father of Jorkeam, and Rekem was the father of Shammai. …

1 Chronicles 11:35
Ahiam son of Sachar the Hararite, Eliphal son of Ur,


Treasury of Scripture

And Eshton begat Bethrapha, and Paseah, and Tehinnah the father of Irnahash. These are the men of Rechah.

Irnahash.

1 Chronicles 4:12
And Eshton begat Bethrapha, and Paseah, and Tehinnah the father of Irnahash. These are the men of Rechah.

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Begat Begot Beth City Eshton Ir Nahash Paseah Pase'ah Rapha
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Begat Begot Beth City Eshton Ir Nahash Paseah Pase'ah Rapha
1 Chronicles 4
1. The posterity of Judah by Caleb, the son of Hur.
5. Of Ashur, the posthumous son Hezron.
9. Of Jabez, and his prayer.
11. The other families of the same stock.
21. The sons of Shelah.
24. The posterity and cities of Simeon.
39. Their conquest of Gedor, and of the Amalekites in mount Seir.












Eshton was the father of Beth-rapha
Eshton is a relatively obscure figure in the genealogies of 1 Chronicles. The mention of Beth-rapha, which means "house of healing" or "house of the giant," suggests a place or lineage of significance, possibly indicating a family known for strength or healing. This reflects the importance of names and their meanings in Hebrew culture, often signifying the character or destiny of a person or place.

of Paseah
Paseah, meaning "limping" or "lame," is another name that appears in the genealogies, possibly indicating a physical characteristic or a metaphorical description of the family line. The name Paseah also appears in Ezra 2:49 and Nehemiah 7:51, associated with the descendants who returned from the Babylonian exile, suggesting a continuity of this family line through Israel's history.

and of Tehinnah the father of Ir-nahash
Tehinnah, meaning "grace" or "favor," is noted as the father of Ir-nahash, which translates to "city of the serpent." This name could imply a location known for its serpentine features or a place associated with danger or wisdom, as serpents often symbolize in biblical literature. The mention of a "city of the serpent" might also evoke imagery of spiritual warfare or the presence of evil, contrasting with the grace implied in Tehinnah's name.

These were the men of Recah
Recah is not a well-documented location in biblical texts, but its mention here suggests a group or clan of significance. The genealogical records in Chronicles often highlight the importance of familial and tribal connections, underscoring the unity and identity of the Israelite people. The men of Recah, therefore, represent a distinct lineage within the broader narrative of Israel's history, contributing to the tapestry of God's chosen people.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Eshton
A descendant of Judah, Eshton is noted as the father of Beth-rapha, Paseah, and Tehinnah. His lineage is part of the genealogical records in 1 Chronicles, which trace the heritage of the tribes of Israel.

2. Beth-rapha
A son of Eshton, though little is known about him, his mention signifies the importance of family lineage in the chronicling of Israel's history.

3. Paseah
Another son of Eshton, Paseah's name appears in the genealogical records, emphasizing the continuity of the family line.

4. Tehinnah
The father of Ir-nahash, Tehinnah is another descendant of Eshton. His mention highlights the significance of his offspring, Ir-nahash.

5. Ir-nahash
Meaning "city of the serpent," this place or person is associated with Tehinnah. The name may suggest a location or a notable event related to the family.

6. Recah
The men of Recah are mentioned as part of this genealogical record, indicating a group or family associated with Eshton's descendants.
Teaching Points
The Importance of Heritage
The genealogies in Chronicles remind us of the importance of our spiritual heritage and the legacy we leave for future generations. Understanding our spiritual lineage can inspire us to live faithfully.

God's Faithfulness Through Generations
The detailed genealogies demonstrate God's faithfulness in preserving His people and fulfilling His promises through generations. We can trust in God's faithfulness in our own lives.

Significance of Every Individual
Even seemingly obscure names in genealogies have significance in God's plan. This teaches us that every person has value and purpose in God's kingdom.

The Role of Family in Faith
The passage highlights the role of family in the transmission of faith and values. We are encouraged to nurture and pass on our faith to our children and communities.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1. What is the meaning of 1 Chronicles 4:12?

2. How does 1 Chronicles 4:12 illustrate the importance of family lineage in Scripture?

3. What can we learn about God's faithfulness from the descendants listed here?

4. How does this verse connect to God's promises to the tribes of Israel?

5. How can we apply the value of heritage in our Christian walk today?

6. What role does community play in fulfilling God's plans, as seen in this verse?

7. What is the significance of Eshton in 1 Chronicles 4:12?

8. How does 1 Chronicles 4:12 fit into the genealogy of Judah?

9. What role did Beth Rapha play in biblical history according to 1 Chronicles 4:12?

10. What are the top 10 Lessons from 1 Chronicles 4?

11. Is there any external verification for the groups listed in 1 Chronicles 4--especially those not mentioned elsewhere--suggesting they might be legendary or symbolic?

12. Are the lifespans and generational spans implied in 1 Chronicles 4 scientifically plausible, or do they represent mythical or symbolic timelines?

13. In 1 Chronicles 4:41, why is there no clear historical record of the destruction of these inhabitants, raising doubts about the event's authenticity?

14. In 1 Chronicles 18:4, how do we reconcile the figure of 7,000 horsemen with 2 Samuel 8:4, which mentions 1,700 instead?
What Does 1 Chronicles 4:12 Mean
Eshton

• “Eshton was the father of…” roots us in Judah’s literal genealogy (1 Chronicles 4:1), showcasing God’s faithfulness to real people in real history, as in Matthew 1:1-16.

• Genealogies prove the Lord keeps covenant promises (Genesis 12:2-3; 2 Samuel 7:12-16).

• Being named shows a life known and numbered by God (Job 14:5).


Beth-rapha

• Eshton “fathered” (founded) this place whose name hints at healing, echoing God the Healer (Exodus 15:26; Psalm 103:3; Isaiah 53:5).

• Families birthing communities follows a biblical pattern (Genesis 4:17; Joshua 15:13-17). Private obedience shapes public legacy.


Paseah

• Paseah’s line reappears among temple servants returning from exile (Ezra 2:49; Nehemiah 7:51), proving God preserves families over centuries (Jeremiah 29:11).

• Every role—artisan, gatekeeper, servant—is vital in God’s plan (1 Colossians 12:18-22).


Tehinnah and Ir-nahash

• Tehinnah founded “Ir-nahash,” the “city of the serpent,” recalling the Genesis 3:15 promise and its fulfillment (Romans 16:20).

• Founders claim territory for God, like Caleb (Joshua 14:12-14) and Jabez (1 Chronicles 4:10).


The men of Recah

• “These were the men of Recah” unites the names under one heritage, as with “sons of Korah” (Psalm 42) and “sons of Asaph” (1 Chronicles 25:1).

• Possible link to the obedient Rechabites (Jeremiah 35:1-19) highlights generational loyalty.

• God values community identity rooted in faithful ancestors (Proverbs 22:28; Hebrews 12:1).


Summary

1 Chronicles 4:12 shows God recording Eshton, Beth-rapha, Paseah, Tehinnah, Ir-nahash, and the men of Recah to affirm that He tracks every name and place, heals, preserves, empowers, and gathers. If He writes them into His Word, we can trust Him to weave our lives into His eternal story.

Parallel Commentaries ...


Hebrew
Eshton
וְאֶשְׁתּ֗וֹן (wə·’eš·tō·wn)
Conjunctive waw | Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 850: Eshton -- an Israelite

was the father of
הוֹלִ֞יד (hō·w·lîḏ)
Verb - Hifil - Perfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 3205: To bear young, to beget, medically, to act as midwife, to show lineage

Beth-rapha,
רָפָא֙ (rā·p̄ā)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 1051: Bethrapha -- an Israelite name

of Paseah,
פָּסֵ֔חַ (pā·sê·aḥ)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 6454: Paseah -- 'limper', three Israelites

and of Tehinnah
תְּחִנָּ֖ה (tə·ḥin·nāh)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 8468: Tehinnah -- 'favor', a descendant of Judah

the father
אֲבִ֣י (’ă·ḇî)
Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 1: Father

of Ir-nahash.
נָחָ֑שׁ (nā·ḥāš)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 5904: Ir-nahash -- 'city of a serpent', a city in Judah

These
אֵ֖לֶּה (’êl·leh)
Pronoun - common plural
Strong's 428: These, those

were the men
אַנְשֵׁ֥י (’an·šê)
Noun - masculine plural construct
Strong's 376: A man as an individual, a male person

of Recah.
רֵכָֽה׃ (rê·ḵāh)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 7397: Rechah -- descendant of Rechab


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OT History: 1 Chronicles 4:12 Eshton became the father of Beth Rapha (1 Chron. 1Ch iCh i Ch 1 chr 1chr)
1 Chronicles 4:11
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