Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible

these are the sons of Ehud--most probably the judge of Israel (Jdg 3:15). His descendants, who had at first been established in Geba in Benjamin, emigrated in a body under the direction of Gera (Ch1 8:7) to Manahath, where their increased numbers would find more ample accommodation. Manahath was within the territory of Judah.

Shaharaim begat children in the country of Moab--He had probably been driven to take refuge in that foreign land on the same calamitous occasion that forced Elimelech to emigrate thither (Rut 1:1). But, destitute of natural affection, he forsook or divorced his two wives, and in the land of his sojourn married a third, by whom he had several sons. But there is another explanation given of the conduct of this Benjamite polygamist. His children by Hushim are mentioned (Ch1 8:11), while his other wife is unnoticed. Hence it has been thought probable that it is Baara who is mentioned under the name of Hodesh, so called because her husband, after long desertion, returned and cohabited with her as before.

These dwelt in Jerusalem--The ordinary and stated inhabitants of Jerusalem were Judahites, Benjamites, and Levites. But at the time referred to here, the chiefs or heads of the principal families who are enumerated (Ch1 8:14-27) established themselves in the city after their return from the captivity.

STOCK OF SAUL AND JONATHAN. (Ch1 8:33-40) Ner begat Kish--The father of Ner, though not mentioned here, is stated (Ch1 9:35) to have been Jehiel. Moreover, the father of Kish is said (Sa1 9:1) to have been Abiel, the son of Zeror, whence it would seem that Abiel and Ner were names of the same person. Abinadab--the same as Ishui (Sa1 14:49). Esh-baal--that is, Ish-bosheth.

Merib-baal--that is, Mephibosheth.

Jehoadah--or, Jara (Ch1 9:42).

mighty men of valour, archers--(see on Jdg 20:16). Great strength as well as skill was requisite in ancient archery, as the bow, which was of steel, was bent by treading with the feet, and pulling the string with both hands. Next: 1 Chronicles Chapter 9