1 Chronicles 15 19

1 Chronicles 15:19 kjv

So the singers, Heman, Asaph, and Ethan, were appointed to sound with cymbals of brass;

1 Chronicles 15:19 nkjv

the singers, Heman, Asaph, and Ethan, were to sound the cymbals of bronze;

1 Chronicles 15:19 niv

The musicians Heman, Asaph and Ethan were to sound the bronze cymbals;

1 Chronicles 15:19 esv

The singers, Heman, Asaph, and Ethan, were to sound bronze cymbals;

1 Chronicles 15:19 nlt

The musicians Heman, Asaph, and Ethan were chosen to sound the bronze cymbals.

1 Chronicles 15 verses

1 Chronicles 15 19 Meaning

This verse identifies Heman, Asaph, and Ethan, who were prominent Levitical musicians, as being specifically assigned the role of sounding bronze cymbals. This command was part of the highly organized and divinely ordained procession to bring the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem, marking a significant act of worship and the establishment of ordered sacred service under King David.

1 Chronicles 15 19 Context

1 Chronicles chapter 15 records King David's second and successful attempt to bring the Ark of the Covenant from the house of Obed-Edom to Jerusalem. This endeavor followed a tragic initial attempt in chapter 13, where Uzzah died for improperly touching the Ark. Learning from this, David meticulously organized the process according to divine law (1 Chr 15:13), ensuring the Levites carried the Ark as commanded by the Lord. The entire procession was accompanied by a vast array of Levitical musicians, demonstrating David's fervent desire to establish ordered and joyful worship centered on the Ark as God's presence among His people. This verse, therefore, highlights specific, leading musical figures and their precise instruments, underscoring the professionalism and structure David brought to sacred service.

1 Chronicles 15 19 Word analysis

• Then the musicians: The Hebrew word here for "musicians" is לַמְשֹׁרְרִים (lam'shōrĕrîm), which refers specifically to "the singers" or "the song-leaders." In this context, they were highly skilled Levitical professionals appointed for sacred musical service, not merely general instrumentalists. Their designation signifies a specialized and divinely sanctioned role in worship.

• Heman: (הֵימָן, Heyman) A Kohathite Levite, appointed by King David as a chief musician. He is described as a "seer" and had fourteen sons who were also musicians (1 Chr 25:5). His position underscores the blend of musical artistry and spiritual authority in leadership within Levitical service. He often represents the Kohathite branch of Levites.

• Asaph: (אָסָף, Asaph) A Gershonite Levite, also appointed by David as a principal musician. His lineage and his group of musicians became very prominent, with many Psalms attributed to "the sons of Asaph" (e.g., Psalm 73-83). He symbolizes the Gershonite branch.

• and Ethan: (אֵיתָן, Ethān) A Merarite Levite, appointed as a chief musician, often mentioned alongside Heman and Asaph. In some contexts (e.g., 1 Chr 25:1), Jeduthun appears in his place, suggesting Jeduthun was his alternative name or the name of his family's leader. Ethan was renowned for his wisdom (1 Kgs 4:31). He represents the Merarite branch. The inclusion of Heman, Asaph, and Ethan together signifies the complete and representative leadership from the three main branches of the Levites (Kohath, Gershon, Merari), united in their service of sacred music.

• were to sound: The Hebrew term is לְהַשְׁמִיעַ (l'hashmi'a), meaning "to make to hear," "to cause to sound forth," or "to make a sound." It implies an active, purposeful action, ensuring the sound was projected and clearly audible. This wasn't passive background noise, but a prominent feature of the procession.

• cymbals: The Hebrew term is בִּמְצִלְתַּיִם (bim'tsil'ta'yim), referring to a pair of cymbals. These were percussion instruments designed for loud, resonant clashing sounds, often used to mark rhythms, call attention, or emphasize points in praise. They were not typically melodic but provided strong rhythmic punctuation for large musical ensembles, suitable for outdoor processions.

• of bronze: The Hebrew word is נְחֹשֶׁת (nĕchosheth). Bronze was a significant metal in biblical times, known for its durability, resonance, and use in sacred vessels and implements of the Tabernacle and Temple (e.g., the bronze altar and laver in Exodus). Its use here signifies quality, permanence, and a connection to the consecrated materials dedicated to divine service. The material contributes to the sound's carrying power and majestic quality.

• Words-group: "Heman, Asaph, and Ethan, were to sound cymbals of bronze.": This phrase designates specific, high-ranking Levitical musicians to a precise task. Their unified presence underscores the three Levitical divisions contributing to a harmonious and complete act of worship. The "sounding of bronze cymbals" emphasizes the energetic, resonant, and clear proclamation of praise and joy that accompanied the Ark, designed to be heard by all and to set the rhythm for the entire celebration. The bronze itself speaks to the sacredness and quality of the instruments dedicated to the Lord's service.

1 Chronicles 15 19 Bonus section

The Chronicler places significant emphasis on the lineage and duties of the Levites, meticulously detailing their roles in music, guardianship, and Temple service. This reflects the importance of maintaining proper order and continuity in divine worship across generations. The musical traditions established by David, including the roles of Heman, Asaph, and Ethan, continued for centuries, as evidenced by later biblical books like Ezra and Nehemiah, underscoring the enduring legacy of this well-ordered system of praise.

The cymbals, while seemingly simple instruments, played a vital role in ancient ensembles, similar to how modern percussion can define the energy and tempo of music. Their resonant quality would have amplified the celebration's joyous atmosphere, ensuring the entire community felt the excitement and solemnity of God's presence. Moreover, the choice of bronze, a sturdy and lasting material, hints at the enduring nature of true worship.

1 Chronicles 15 19 Commentary

1 Chronicles 15:19 presents a key detail in David's carefully orchestrated transfer of the Ark of the Covenant, underscoring his commitment to proper, divinely approved worship. By naming Heman, Asaph, and Ethan—the chief Levitical musicians representing the three major Levitical clans—the Chronicler emphasizes the structured, skilled, and hereditary nature of service to God. Their assigned role of sounding bronze cymbals, rather than a more melodic instrument, highlights the loud, rhythmic, and commanding nature of this specific form of praise during the grand procession. Cymbals served as crucial timekeepers, adding majesty and powerful expression to the music, essential for leading such a large and significant event. This precise organization reflected reverence for God and adherence to His established order, correcting the errors of the previous failed attempt. The verse also implicitly champions the value of dedicated and gifted individuals serving in specific capacities within the context of communal worship.

Practical examples of these principles include the intentional appointment of skilled worship leaders in churches today, the thoughtful selection of instruments that serve specific roles in enhancing praise, and the understanding that joyful worship often involves powerful and unified musical expression.