Who was Hazzobebah?
Hazzobebah is a little-known biblical figure mentioned in a genealogical list within the tribe of Reuben in 1 Chronicles 4:8. Though he appears only briefly, his name, placement in the text, and the context in which he is listed offer a glimpse into God’s purposes through generations and His attention to individuals who are otherwise lost to history.
Name Meaning and Linguistic Background
The Hebrew name Hazzobebah (חַצּוֹבֵבָה) likely comes from a root meaning to plait or interweave, and some scholars suggest it may mean “the plaiter” or “one who intertwines.” It could also be associated with the idea of binding or combining things, though the precise etymology remains uncertain due to the rarity of the name.
Biblical Reference and Genealogical Placement
Hazzobebah is mentioned in 1 Chronicles 4:8:
“and Koz, who was the father of Anub and Hazzobebah and of the clans of Aharhel son of Harum.” (NIV)
This verse falls within a larger genealogy of the tribe of Judah (1 Chronicles 4:1-23), detailing descendants and clan associations that contributed to the development of the southern kingdom of Judah. While the tribe of Reuben is more commonly associated with genealogies earlier in Chronicles, this section is clearly Judahite.
Hazzobebah is presented as a descendant of Koz, along with Anub and the clans of Aharhel. Though no further details are given about him personally—no deeds recorded, no territory assigned, and no family exploits described—his inclusion affirms that his lineage mattered in the covenant story.
Cross References
There are no other biblical references to Hazzobebah outside of 1 Chronicles 4:8. However, his association with Koz, Anub, and Aharhel places him within a larger context of the clans of Judah, similar to other genealogical listings such as:
- Ezra 2:61 – The sons of Koz are also mentioned in relation to the priestly genealogies, which may or may not be related.
- Nehemiah 7:63 – Priests without valid genealogical records, including sons of Koz.
- 1 Chronicles 2-4 – Extensive listings of Judahite families and clans.
Biblical Context and What Happened
In the book of 1 Chronicles, genealogies serve a vital role. The Chronicler is writing after the Babylonian exile to reestablish Israel‘s identity and remind the people of God’s covenant promises. Each name, even obscure ones like Hazzobebah, represents a thread in the tapestry of God’s redemptive history.
Although no narrative is attached to Hazzobebah, his inclusion in Scripture underlines that every individual in God’s plan matters. These lists preserve names that may have otherwise been forgotten but are recorded in God‘s Word forever.
Meaning for Today’s Christians
Hazzobebah reminds believers today that God values every individual, even those who appear insignificant by worldly standards. In Christ, no one is forgotten. The New Testament reinforces this truth in verses like:
“Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God.” (Luke 12:6, NIV)
Though we know nothing about Hazzobebah’s accomplishments or faith, his name in Scripture affirms that God works through generations, names, families, and lineages to accomplish His purposes.
How His Story Points to Jesus and the Gospel
Hazzobebah’s obscure but recorded presence in Judah’s genealogy echoes the larger biblical theme that God brings forth His Messiah from the line of Judah (Genesis 49:10; Matthew 1:1–16). Jesus descended from a lineage that included many people of humble background. Names like Hazzobebah are part of the ancestral soil from which the Savior would ultimately come.
In a deeper way, the genealogical records preserved in Scripture demonstrate God’s sovereignty over history and His intentional movement through time to bring salvation to the world through Jesus Christ.
Broader Biblical Themes
1. God’s Sovereignty Over Lineage and History
Genealogies may seem tedious to modern readers, but they are God’s way of marking time and people. Every generation matters. Every individual serves a place in God’s sovereign plan.
2. The Value of the Unnamed and Unknown
People like Hazzobebah show us that even those with no recorded actions still had worth in God‘s eyes. In today’s world of self-promotion and fame, Scripture honors those who are faithful and often forgotten.
3. The Faithfulness of God to His Covenant People
By recording the names of Judah’s descendants, the Chronicler emphasizes God‘s faithfulness to His promises to Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and Judah—even after exile and failure.
4. Identity Rooted in Belonging to God’s People
Hazzobebah’s inclusion affirms that identity and legacy are ultimately defined not by fame, but by being part of the people of God.
Reflection Questions
- What can we learn from the fact that God included even obscure names like Hazzobebah in His Word?
- Do I sometimes feel overlooked or insignificant in God’s kingdom? How does Scripture affirm my value?
- In what ways am I investing in a legacy of faith—even if no one else sees it?
- How does the genealogy of Christ deepen my understanding of God‘s redemptive plan through generations?
- What steps can I take to remember and honor God’s faithfulness to both the well-known and the unknown in Scripture?
Though Hazzobebah remains a mystery in terms of action or narrative, his name endures as a silent witness to God’s providence, reminding every believer that even the seemingly forgotten are remembered by the Lord.