What is the purpose of First and Second Chronicles?

Answer

Likely written between 450 and 425 BC, 1 and 2 Chronicles contain numerous genealogical lists. Moreover, a significant portion of the content overlaps with the narratives in the books of Samuel and Kings. Undoubtedly, God had a specific purpose in inspiring the writing of Chronicles, despite its resemblant content.

To begin with, not all the material in Chronicles duplicates that of Samuel and Kings. In reality, more than half of Chronicles presents unique content. The scope of 1 and 2 Chronicles is extensive, tracing Israel’s history from Adam and Eve to the conclusion of the Babylonian Captivity. Special attention is given to the tribe of Judah, the intended audience, and the Levitical priests crucial in reestablishing worship in Jerusalem. The Davidic Covenant and temple worship are recurring themes throughout Chronicles.

Ezra, the priest, and scribe is commonly attributed as the author of 1 and 2 Chronicles. The Babylonian Talmud explicitly names Ezra as the writer of these texts. Furthermore, the events in 1 and 2 Chronicles set the stage for Ezra and Nehemiah (originally a single book in the Hebrew Bible).

Another intriguing aspect is the title of 1 and 2 Chronicles in the Septuagint (a Greek translation of the Old Testament from around 300 BC). The title translates to “The Books of Things Omitted,” alluding to additional details surrounding the historical events recorded in Samuel and Kings. Due to the Judean focus of Chronicles, we gain deeper insights into the southern kingdom of Judah and its monarchs, while the books of Kings provide more information about the northern kingdom of Israel.

The books of 1 and 2 Chronicles played a vital role in Judah’s restoration after their time in Babylon. The remnant returned to a desolate Jerusalem, a ruined temple, and numerous challenges. They likely felt overwhelmed and abandoned by God. By recounting God’s history, they

People, the author of the Chronicles reminded the new generation that God had been their help in ages past. By emphasizing the unconditional Davidic Covenant, he gave them hope for the future. By including the genealogies, he showed them that they were the ones to continue the legacy. In short, the author of the Chronicles showed a despairing people that they had a powerful, faithful God who would strengthen them to rebuild the temple and the city.