Who was Bechorath?

Bechorath (Hebrew: בְּכוֹרַת, Bekhōrath, meaning “firstborn” or “youthful”) was an ancestor of Saul, the first king of Israel. Though only briefly mentioned in the Bible, Bechorath is identified as part of Saul‘s paternal lineage. His name appears in the genealogical record found in 1 Samuel 9:1, where we read:

“There was a Benjamite, a man of standing, whose name was Kish son of Abiel, the son of Zeror, the son of Bechorath, the son of Aphiah of Benjamin.” (1 Samuel 9:1, NIV)

This verse places Bechorath in the tribe of Benjamin, within a respected family line that culminates in Saul. Though there are no recorded deeds or narrative about Bechorath himself, his mention in Saul’s genealogy is significant for understanding the background of Israel’s first monarch.

Biblical References

• 1 Samuel 9:1 – Bechorath is named as Saul’s great-grandfather in the genealogy of Kish.

• 1 Samuel 9:2 – Saul is introduced as a “handsome young man” chosen from this same line.

• 1 Chronicles 8:33; 9:39 – These genealogies also recount the line of Saul but omit Bechorath by name, possibly for brevity or because they focus on different branches.

Cross-References

• Genesis 35:18 – The concept of “firstborn” (bekhor) is deeply significant in the Old Testament, connecting to inheritance and divine selection.

• Deuteronomy 21:15-17 – Laws concerning the rights of the firstborn reflect cultural and theological weight tied to the term related to Bechorath’s name.

• Matthew 1:1-17 – Genealogies also play an important role in the New Testament, especially in establishing Jesus‘ legal and royal lineage.

What Happened in the Bible?

Bechorath does not appear in the narrative storyline of the Bible, but his role is preserved through his place in the genealogy of Saul. In 1 Samuel 9, the chapter marks a turning point in Israel’s history as the people, clamoring for a king like other nations, are introduced to Saul, the son of Kish. The genealogy in verse 1 is not just a list of names but a statement of Saul’s family standing and reputation.

By tracing Saul’s descent through Bechorath and others, Scripture affirms Saul’s legitimacy as a Benjamite of good heritage. The listing of Bechorath affirms that Saul’s appointment was not arbitrary; rather, it reflected God’s providence in raising a leader from a respected family line within one of the tribes of Israel.

What It Means for Today’s Christians

Though Bechorath’s name is mentioned only once, his presence in Scripture reminds believers that every individual in God’s plan matters—even those who appear briefly and without fanfare. His inclusion in Saul’s genealogy highlights the value of faithfulness across generations.

Christians today can reflect on the importance of heritage, legacy, and God’s sovereign oversight in history. Even the “unknown” people in Scripture had a role to play in God’s unfolding story. This encourages believers to trust that their faithful obedience, even in obscurity, contributes to God’s greater purposes.

Moreover, genealogies remind us that God works through families and generations to accomplish His redemptive plan. As with Bechorath’s family line leading to a king, God’s divine plan of kingship would ultimately find its fulfillment not in Saul, but in Jesus Christ, the eternal King descended from David.

How Bechorath’s Legacy Points to Jesus and the Gospel

Bechorath is an ancestor of Saul, who was chosen by God to be king, though his reign would be flawed and ultimately replaced by David. The story of Saul’s lineage sets the stage for the rise of David, from whose line the Messiah would come. Bechorath’s name, meaning “firstborn,” also echoes the biblical theme of the firstborn as both a position of privilege and responsibility.

In the New Testament, Jesus is called the “firstborn over all creation” (Colossians 1:15) and “the firstborn from the dead” (Revelation 1:5), titles that carry theological weight. Where Saul failed as king, Jesus succeeds perfectly. Where human lineages fall short, Jesus, the divine King, reigns with righteousness forever.

Bechorath’s place in a flawed royal line helps highlight the superiority of Christ’s kingship. His silent presence in Scripture prefigures how God often works through seemingly insignificant people and moments to unfold His redemptive purposes.

Broader Biblical Themes

1. Genealogy and Identity

Biblical genealogies serve not merely as historical records but as theological statements about God’s faithfulness through generations. Bechorath’s inclusion reinforces this theme.

2. The Firstborn Theme

The concept of the firstborn represents favor, inheritance, and responsibility. Jesus, the true Firstborn, fulfills the role that others, including Saul’s line, could not uphold.

3. God’s Sovereignty in Choosing Leaders

Bechorath’s descendant Saul was chosen by God to lead, showing how God raises leaders in His timing. Yet Saul‘s failure contrasts with God’s perfect choice of Christ as King.

4. Obscurity and Purpose

Bechorath’s life shows that even when people seem lost in history, their role may still be vital in God’s sovereign design. God sees and uses all people for His glory.

Reflection Questions

1. What can we learn from the fact that people like Bechorath are mentioned only briefly in Scripture but still play a part in God’s story?

2. How does the biblical emphasis on genealogies strengthen your trust in God’s faithfulness over time?

3. In what ways does Jesus, the true Firstborn, fulfill the role that human kings like Saul could not?

4. How can you live a faithful life today, even if your role seems unnoticed or minor?

5. What legacy of faith are you building for the generations that may come after you?

Though Bechorath is a quiet figure in Scripture, his inclusion in Saul’s ancestry serves as a testimony to God’s attention to detail and His unfolding plan through generations—ultimately pointing forward to the eternal reign of Jesus Christ.