Who was Zilthai?

Zilthai (Hebrew: זִלְתַּי, Ziltay) is a lesser-known individual mentioned in the genealogical records of the tribe of Benjamin found in the Old Testament. His name appears in 1 Chronicles 8:20, in the context of a genealogical list tracing the descendants of Benjamin, the youngest son of Jacob. The name Zilthai is believed to mean “my shade” or “my protection is Yahweh”, possibly reflecting a sense of divine shelter or covering, which was a common theological theme in Hebrew naming conventions.

Though Zilthai is mentioned only briefly, his inclusion in the inspired genealogical record holds significance. These genealogies were not arbitrary; they served to preserve Israel’s history, tribe-by-tribe, showing continuity, identity, and the fulfillment of God’s promises to the patriarchs.

Biblical References and Context

The only biblical reference to Zilthai is:

• 1 Chronicles 8:20 – “Elienai, Zilthai, Eliel“

This verse is part of a longer genealogy listing the descendants of Benjamin through various sons and clans. This passage appears in a section detailing the lineage from Benjamin to King Saul, the first monarch of Israel. While Zilthai is not given a personal narrative or description of deeds, his name contributes to the meticulous record of Benjaminite descent.

Cross References

Although Zilthai himself is not mentioned elsewhere, the broader genealogy in 1 Chronicles 8 intersects with other significant biblical characters and locations:

• 1 Samuel 9:1-2 – Saul’s ancestry is also traced through Benjamin.

• Genesis 35:16-18 – Benjamin’s birth and significance among the tribes of Israel.

• 1 Chronicles 9:35-44 – A parallel genealogical record continuing the line from Benjamin.

What Happened in the Bible?

Zilthai’s name appears without a recorded personal story or deed, much like many individuals listed in biblical genealogies. However, his placement within the tribe of Benjamin connects him to a larger redemptive narrative. The tribe of Benjamin held a unique place in Israel’s history: it was nearly annihilated in a civil war (Judges 20), yet God preserved a remnant. From this remnant came King Saul, and later, significant New Testament figures such as the Apostle Paul (Philippians 3:5), who identified himself as a Benjaminite.

Genealogical records like this one in 1 Chronicles 8 were especially important after the Babylonian exile. The chronicler, under divine inspiration, sought to reestablish tribal identities and reaffirm God’s faithfulness to His covenant people. Every name, including Zilthai, contributed to this larger purpose.

Meaning for Today’s Christians

Though Zilthai is not a central biblical character, his inclusion in Scripture is not without value. His presence reminds believers that God knows every individual by name, even those who do not have public roles or recorded exploits. In a culture that often equates value with visibility or achievement, the biblical genealogies counter that narrative by emphasizing identity and belonging in the family of God.

Zilthai’s name also offers spiritual encouragement. If his name indeed means “my protection is Yahweh,” then it reflects a timeless truth: God is the shelter and protector of His people. This is a recurring theme in the Psalms and throughout Scripture (Psalm 91:1-4, Proverbs 18:10).

How Zilthai’s Story Points to Jesus and the Gospel

Genealogies in the Old Testament are not disconnected from the gospel. Rather, they form the scaffolding of redemptive history, ultimately leading to the coming of Jesus Christ. Matthew 1 and Luke 3 both begin their gospels with genealogies, showing that Jesus came from the promised line of David, of the tribe of Judah. However, the inclusion of lesser-known tribes and individuals, like Benjamin and its descendants, reinforces that the gospel is for all people—not only for the prominent, but also for the forgotten or overlooked.

Zilthai, as part of the preserved line of Benjamin, reminds us that God is faithful to preserve His people, even through generations of obscurity, exile, and hardship. His life, though not detailed, plays a part in the unfolding story that leads to Christ. Jesus, the greater King, would one day call even Benjaminites to Himself—including Saul of Tarsus, who became Paul the Apostle and a powerful witness of grace (Acts 9).

Broader Biblical Themes

1. God’s Faithfulness to Every Generation

Zilthai’s inclusion in the genealogies reminds us that God keeps meticulous track of His people, sustaining His promises through every generation.

2. The Significance of the Hidden and Unseen

Many believers serve God in quiet faithfulness, without public recognition. Zilthai symbolizes the quiet servant whose name is still known and recorded by God.

3. Divine Protection and Covenant

The possible meaning of Zilthai’s name—“my protection is Yahweh”—ties into the broader theme of God as the refuge of His people, a core truth echoed in Christ’s saving work.

4. The Value of Heritage and Identity

Biblical genealogies encourage believers to value spiritual heritage and see themselves as part of God’s redemptive lineage through Christ.

Reflection Questions

1. What does the inclusion of obscure names like Zilthai teach us about God’s attention to detail and care for every individual?

2. How do genealogies help us see the unfolding plan of redemption in Scripture?

3. In what ways do you find identity and value in being part of God’s family, even if your role seems hidden?

4. How can the meaning of Zilthai’s name encourage you to trust in God’s protection during times of uncertainty?

5. Are there ways you can affirm the value of others who quietly and faithfully serve the Lord, like those whose names appear only once in Scripture?

Though Zilthai appears briefly, his name contributes to the rich, interconnected tapestry of God’s Word—a reminder that every person matters to God, every life is seen, and every name in God’s book has eternal value.