1 Chronicles 1:19 Meaning and Explanation
“And unto Eber were born two sons: the name of the one was Peleg; because in his days the earth was divided: and his brother's name was Joktan.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Eber had two sons, Peleg, named for the dividing of the earth, and Joktan.
What Does 1 Chronicles 1:19 Mean?
Eber's two sons mark a parting of ways: Peleg, in whose days the earth was divided, and Joktan, whose own descendants will fill the next verses. The name Peleg itself preserves the memory of a great dividing, whether of peoples or of lands, in his generation. The chosen line will run on through him.
The note about the divided earth gives a glimpse of a world being parceled out among the nations, even as God keeps one family for Himself. Division and scattering mark human history, yet the Lord works steadily through it toward a gathering. The line of Peleg leads on to Abraham, in whom all the divided families of the earth are promised blessing.
1 Chronicles 1:19 in the Original Language
Peleg (פֶּלֶג), 'division' -- the name sounds like the Hebrew for 'to divide', explaining 'in his days the earth was divided'.
Frequently Asked Questions About 1 Chronicles 1:19
What does 1 Chronicles 1:19 mean?
Eber had two sons, Peleg, named for the dividing of the earth, and Joktan.