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Token

Who was Token?

Token is briefly mentioned in a genealogical listing in 1 Chronicles 4:20, among the descendants of Judah. While the Scripture provides minimal narrative detail about Token, his name appears as part of a broader lineage of Judah’s descendants—a tribe central to Israel’s identity and the Messianic promise. The name Token (Hebrew: Tōkēn, תּוֹכֶן or תּוֹקֶן) may derive from a root meaning “measure,” “standard,” or “fixed portion,” implying something that is established, appointed, or set apart.

He is listed as one of the sons of Hashem:

“The sons of Hashem: Jezreel, Ishma, and Idbash. Their sister was Hazzelelponi. Penuel was the father of Gedor, and Ezer was the father of Hushah. These were the descendants of Hur, the firstborn of Ephrathah and father of Bethlehem.” — 1 Chronicles 4:3-4, NIV
 (Token appears in verse 20, within a separate lineage group: “The sons of Shimon: Amnon, Rinnah, Ben–Hanan and Tilon. The descendants of Ishi: Zoheth and Ben–Zoheth.”)

However, the precise Hebrew rendering is obscure and might represent a variation in transliteration or transcription. Some translations interpret the name differently or treat it as part of a phrase rather than a proper noun.

Biblical References and Cross-References

Explanation and Historical Context

The book of 1 Chronicles contains extensive genealogies, especially in its opening chapters. These genealogies were vital to Israel’s identity—showing continuity from the patriarchs to the post-exilic community. Token is one of the many individuals named in these genealogical listings, preserving the memory of lesser-known family branches.

In the context of 1 Chronicles 4, the chronicler traces the lines of Judah’s descendants, emphasizing both major and minor figures. These names—though sometimes obscure—reflect the deep heritage of God’s people and the fulfillment of His covenant promises. They also demonstrate God’s interest not just in kings and prophets but in ordinary families and individuals, some known only by name.

Theological Implications

Though Token’s life is not elaborated upon, his mention in Scripture reinforces a profound theological truth: every name recorded in God’s Word matters. The inclusion of names like Token shows God’s personal knowledge of each person in His redemptive plan.

This points us to the value of being part of God’s covenant people. In Christ, believers are grafted into the family of God (Romans 11:17–24). As with Token, even if the world forgets a person’s name, God remembers.

The genealogies also underscore God’s sovereignty in history. Token’s lineage, though obscure, is folded into the larger story of redemption that culminates in Jesus—the Lion of the tribe of Judah (Revelation 5:5).

Literary Analysis

The genealogical style of 1 Chronicles 4 presents names in list form with brief notations. These genealogies serve as a literary bridge between Israel’s past and present. By including both prominent and minor figures, the chronicler portrays the inclusive and meticulous faithfulness of God.

Token’s placement within the list serves a structural function in organizing Judah’s descendants, anchoring the nation’s legacy in real families and real people.

What It Means for Today’s Christians

Token represents those in Scripture who are known to God but largely unknown to history. For Christians today, this is deeply encouraging. Our value in God’s kingdom does not depend on public recognition or earthly achievement.

  • We are reminded that God calls, knows, and uses ordinary people.

  • Our names, like Token’s, are written in God’s record (cf. Luke 10:20, Philippians 4:3, Revelation 20:15).

  • Even when our role seems small, our inclusion in God’s family through Christ is what gives life eternal meaning.

How Token Points to Jesus and the Gospel

The genealogies of 1 Chronicles ultimately aim to preserve the line through which the Messiah would come. Though Token himself is not in the Messianic line, he is part of Judah’s tribe, the same tribe from which David and later Jesus Christ would descend.

This points to the faithfulness of God in preserving a people for Himself through generations—culminating in the birth of Jesus. As Matthew’s genealogy in Matthew 1 shows, God sovereignly wove together a diverse and often broken set of lives to bring forth His Son.

Token reminds us that everyone who belongs to God by faith contributes to His redemptive story, even if we never see the fullness of that impact on earth.

Broader Biblical Themes

Reflection Questions

  1. What encouragement can we draw from the fact that even lesser-known names are recorded in God’s Word?

  2. How does being part of God’s covenant family shape your identity?

  3. In what ways can we trust that God is using our lives for His redemptive purposes—even when we don’t see the results?

  4. How can you remain faithful in your generation, knowing God may use your faith to impact future generations?

  5. What does the inclusion of ordinary people in the Bible say about God’s character and His view of human worth?

Conclusion:
 Token may be a small name in a long list, but his inclusion in Scripture is a reminder of God‘s love for every individual within His covenant family. Through Christ, we too are part of a divine lineage—known, chosen, and used by God for His eternal purposes.

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