Who was Epher in the Bible?

Epher was a descendant of Judah, specifically listed as one of the sons of Ezrah in the genealogical records found in 1 Chronicles 4:17. He is a minor biblical figure mentioned only in this lineage.

Why is Epher mentioned in the Bible?

Epher's mention serves to preserve the genealogical record of the tribe of Judah, establishing the continuity of the line from which King David and, ultimately, Jesus Christ would come. His inclusion highlights the importance of every individual in God's overarching plan of redemption.

Are there any stories or key events about Epher?

No, there are no stories or specific events recorded about Epher's life. The Bible only records his name and his relationship within the genealogy of Judah in 1 Chronicles 4:17.

Epher

Old TestamentDivided MonarchyMaleSon

Epher was one of the sons of Ezrah, mentioned in the genealogy of Judah (1Ch.4.17).

Epher

Biography

Epher was a member of the tribe of Judah during the period of the Divided Monarchy, recorded in the genealogical lists of 1 Chronicles 4:17 as one of the sons of Ezrah. He appears alongside his brothers Jether, Mered, and Jalon in the extended genealogy of Judah's descendants. Though Scripture provides no narrative details about his individual deeds or accomplishments, his inclusion in the Chronicler's careful genealogical record indicates he was a recognized figure within the Judahite tribal structure. The Chronicler's listing of such names reflects a broader concern to establish continuity between Israel's ancestral heritage and the postexilic community, affirming that even those whose stories are untold were nonetheless part of God's covenantal people.

Significance

Epher's presence in the genealogy of 1 Chronicles 4:17 underscores the biblical principle that every member of God's covenant community has a place in the sacred record. The Chronicler's meticulous preservation of such names serves a theological purpose: to affirm that the identity of Israel as God's people extended beyond heroic figures to include ordinary members of the tribal families. In God's economy, no one within the covenant is forgotten.

Authority Records

Wikidata

FatherMidianSiblingAbidaSiblingEphahSiblingEnochSiblingElda'a

Verse Appearances (1)

1Chr

1Chr 4:17

References

Orr, J. (ed.) (1915) The International Standard Bible Encyclopedia. Chicago: Howard-Severance Company. [Public Domain]
Tyndale House, Cambridge (n.d.) Translators Individualised Proper Names with all References (TIPNR). STEPBible. Available at: https://www.stepbible.org. [CC BY 4.0]
Wikidata contributors (n.d.) Wikidata. Available at: https://www.wikidata.org. [CC0]
Church of England (1769) The Holy Bible, Authorized (King James) Version. [Public Domain]

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