Joel
Joel is listed in the genealogy of Judah as a descendant of Simeon (1Ch.4.35).
Biography
Joel appears in the genealogical records of the tribe of Simeon as recorded in 1 Chronicles 4:35, where he is listed among the tribal leaders during the period of the Divided Monarchy. The Simeonite genealogies in Chronicles reflect a community that maintained its tribal identity even as Simeon's territory remained embedded within Judah. Joel's name, meaning 'Yahweh is God,' was common across multiple tribes, reflecting its deeply theistic character. While no narrative account accompanies his name, his inclusion in the Chronicler's genealogical survey signals that he was considered a figure of tribal significance, likely a clan head or recognized ancestor whose descendants remained part of the Simeonite community in southern Canaan.
Significance
Joel's mention in the Simeonite genealogy reflects the theological purpose of Chronicles, which demonstrates that God's covenant faithfulness extended to all twelve tribes, even those whose tribal territories were absorbed or diminished over time. The tribe of Simeon received no independent allotment within the Promised Land but was scattered within Judah (Joshua 19:1), yet their genealogical records were preserved and honored. Joel's inclusion affirms that no branch of Israel was forgotten in the divine economy. This mirrors the broader biblical theme that God keeps account of His people, a truth that resonates with the New Testament promise that none given to the Son will be lost.
Verse Appearances (1)
1Chr
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]