Who was Zacchur?

Zacchur (Hebrew: זַכּוּר, Zakkur, meaning “mindful” or “remembered”) is a minor figure in the genealogical records of the tribe of Simeon, mentioned in 1 Chronicles 4:26. He appears as the son of Mishma, the son of Hamuel, within a list that traces the descendants of Simeon—one of the twelve tribes of Israel descended from Jacob’s son Simeon. Though Zacchur himself is not associated with any specific deeds or narratives, his mention in the sacred genealogies affirms his place within the covenant community of God’s people.

Biblical Reference

• 1 Chronicles 4:26 – “The sons of Mishma: Hammuel his son, Zacchur his son, and Shimei his son.”
  This verse positions Zacchur in the lineage of Simeon, specifically as a grandson of Mishma and the father of Shimei.

Cross References

While Zacchur himself is not mentioned elsewhere in Scripture, others with the same name appear in different tribal and historical contexts:

• Numbers 13:4 – Zacchur, father of Shammua, the Simeonite spy.

• Nehemiah 3:2; 12:35 – Zacchur mentioned among builders of the wall and Levitical musicians.
  These instances refer to different individuals but share the same Hebrew name, underscoring its thematic significance: being “remembered” or “mindful” in the sight of God.

What Happened in the Bible?

Zacchur is mentioned only briefly in a genealogical list, yet this placement within the record of the tribe of Simeon serves several theological and literary purposes. The Chronicler, writing during or after the Babylonian exile, sought to preserve Israel‘s tribal identities and spiritual heritage. The inclusion of Zacchur in this genealogy suggests a preservation of his family line, possibly hinting at their faithfulness or prominence within their tribe.

Zacchur’s family line continued through his son Shimei, and further descendants are listed in the same chapter. This line of descent may point to a family that had a significant role within Simeon, perhaps maintaining continuity in worship, leadership, or land inheritance.

What It Means for Today’s Christians

Even the most obscure names in Scripture carry weight because they are included in God’s Word. Zacchur reminds believers today that God remembers every person in His covenant community, whether famous or forgotten by history. His name—meaning “remembered”—echoes the truth that God does not overlook His people. In a world that often values prominence and public achievement, Zacchur stands as a quiet testimony to the enduring significance of faithfulness and identity in God’s family.

Christians can draw encouragement from this: our lives may not be widely known, but we are remembered by the Lord. Every believer, no matter their earthly recognition, has a secure and honored place in the family of God.

How Zacchur’s Story Points to Jesus and the Gospel

Though Zacchur does not directly appear in redemptive events, his genealogical placement plays a role in the broader biblical theme of heritage and promise. Genealogies in Scripture are not mere lists—they are threads in the fabric of God‘s redemptive story. By faithfully preserving the tribal line of Simeon, Zacchur’s name contributes to the continuity that would eventually bring about the coming of Christ, born into Israel according to the flesh (Romans 9:5).

Jesus affirmed that every name, every sparrow, and every hair on a person’s head is known to God (Luke 12:6-7). This divine mindfulness finds symbolic expression in the name “Zacchur.” In the gospel, we are not only remembered—we are redeemed, adopted, and named as co-heirs with Christ (Romans 8:17). Zacchur’s place in the genealogy points to the value of every life in God’s unfolding plan of salvation.

Broader Biblical Themes

1. Remembrance and Covenant Faithfulness

Zacchur’s name ties directly into the theme of divine remembrance. Throughout Scripture, God remembers His covenants and His people (Genesis 8:1; Exodus 2:24). This remembrance is not mere recollection but active faithfulness to His promises.

2. The Value of the Obscure in God’s Plan

Scripture frequently exalts the humble and highlights the seemingly insignificant. Figures like Zacchur may be unknown to us, but they are preserved in God’s Word, echoing the truth that God uses all people—known and unknown—for His purposes (1 Corinthians 1:27-28).

3. Lineage, Legacy, and Continuity

Genealogies highlight God‘s sovereign control over history. Every generation links to the next, building toward the fulfillment of divine promises. Zacchur’s mention is a link in the chain pointing to Israel‘s preservation and ultimately to the Messiah.

4. Tribal Identity and Unity

The Chronicler’s focus on tribes, especially Simeon, emphasizes the unity and diversity of God’s people. Zacchur’s family belongs to a larger body, just as believers today form one body in Christ (1 Corinthians 12:12-14).

Reflection Questions

1. How does knowing that even minor biblical figures like Zacchur are named and remembered encourage your faith?

2. In what ways do you see God’s mindfulness over your own life, especially in seasons of obscurity or seeming insignificance?

3. How can genealogies in Scripture remind us of the importance of legacy, spiritual heritage, and faithfulness across generations?

4. What does Zacchur’s story—though brief—teach us about being part of a larger redemptive narrative that centers on Jesus?

Even the smallest names in Scripture carry the weight of God‘s remembrance and grace. Zacchur, though unnamed in any narrative, stands as a testimony to God’s sovereign mindfulness over all His people—past, present, and future.