Descendants of Reuben

 

 

 

1 Chronicles 5: 1-3

 

February 11, 2023

 

Descendants of Reuben

The sons of Reuben the firstborn of Israel (for he was the firstborn, but because he defiled his father's couch, his birthright was given to the sons of Joseph the son of Israel, so that he could not be enrolled as the oldest son; though Judah became strong among his brothers and a chief came from him, yet the birthright belonged to Joseph),  the sons of Reuben, the firstborn of Israel: Hanoch, Pallu, Hezron, and Carmi.

When we come across a statement like “he defiled his father’s couch” one must wonder if sitting on the couch, cost him his birthright.  So we go to the best commentator to find the answer, the Bible.  So let us explore Genesis 49:1-4, to find the truth; Jacob Blesses His Sons

“Then Jacob called his sons and said, “Gather yourselves together, that I may tell you what shall happen to you in days to come. “Assemble and listen, O sons of Jacob, listen to Israel your father.  “Reuben, you are my firstborn, my might, and the first fruits of my strength, preeminent in dignity and preeminent in power.  Unstable as water, you shall not have preeminence, because you went up to your father's bed; then you defiled it—he went up to my couch!”  In the book of Deuteronomy 21:17, we see what Reuben gave up, to sleep with Bilhah his father's concubine.  Verse 17, “He must acknowledge the son of his unloved wife as the firstborn by giving him a double share of all he has. That son is the first sign of his father’s strength. The right of the firstborn belongs to him.”

 

As you continue reading Genesis 49, you will learn why the other sons were passed over and Judah was picked by Jacob.

 

From the Back Porch,

 

Bob Rice