1 Chronicles 15 21

1 Chronicles 15:21 kjv

And Mattithiah, and Elipheleh, and Mikneiah, and Obededom, and Jeiel, and Azaziah, with harps on the Sheminith to excel.

1 Chronicles 15:21 nkjv

Mattithiah, Elipheleh, Mikneiah, Obed-Edom, Jeiel, and Azaziah, to direct with harps on the Sheminith;

1 Chronicles 15:21 niv

and Mattithiah, Eliphelehu, Mikneiah, Obed-Edom, Jeiel and Azaziah were to play the harps, directing according to sheminith.

1 Chronicles 15:21 esv

but Mattithiah, Eliphelehu, Mikneiah, Obed-edom, Jeiel, and Azaziah were to lead with lyres according to the Sheminith.

1 Chronicles 15:21 nlt

Mattithiah, Eliphelehu, Mikneiah, Obed-edom, Jeiel, and Azaziah were chosen to play the lyres.

1 Chronicles 15 verses

1 Chronicles 15 21 Meaning

This verse precisely identifies specific Levite musicians – Mattithiah, Elipheleh, Mikneiah, Obed-Edom, Jeiel, and Azaziah – and details their specialized musical role in the grand procession bringing the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem. Their duty was to play harps, specifically described as being "on the Sheminith," a musical term likely denoting a lower register or an eight-stringed instrument, performed with the intention "to excel" or lead in the worship. It underscores the meticulously organized and high-quality worship ordained by King David for the Lord.

1 Chronicles 15 21 Context

This verse is set during a pivotal moment in Israelite history as chronicled in 1 Chronicles 15 – King David's second, successful attempt to bring the Ark of the Covenant from the house of Obed-Edom to Jerusalem. The Chronicler emphasizes meticulous adherence to Mosaic law and proper Levitical service, contrasting sharply with the earlier failed attempt (1 Chron 13) which resulted in Uzzah's death due to mishandling the Ark. Chapter 15 focuses on David's specific instructions for the Levites – setting apart the priests, Kohathites, and assigning families to bear the Ark correctly. Crucially, David also organizes the Levites into choirs and musical divisions (1 Chron 15:16-24), signifying the elevated role of music in this sacred procession and future temple worship. The named individuals in this verse are part of these specially appointed musical divisions, highlighting their specific roles and instruments as the Ark is brought with great rejoicing into the city of David. This event marks a step towards centralized, formalized worship in Jerusalem.

1 Chronicles 15 21 Word analysis

• and Mattithiah, and Elipheleh, and Mikneiah, and Obed-Edom, and Jeiel, and Azaziah: These are six specific Levite individuals identified by name.
  • Their individual naming signifies precise assignments and the importance of their roles within David's elaborate organization. It shows accountability and honor.
  • Obed-Edom: His inclusion is highly significant. The Ark had previously rested at his house for three months, bringing blessings upon his household (1 Chr 13:14). His prominent role here (possibly as a gatekeeper-musician according to 1 Chr 26:4-5, 1 Chr 15:18, 24) suggests divine favor and trust due to his faithful care for the Ark.
  • These men are explicitly noted as singers/musicians in 1 Chr 15:18 and are among the second rank of gatekeepers appointed for this task, emphasizing their dual function of guarding and ministering through music.
• with harps: The Hebrew term is כִּנֹּרוֹת (kinnorot), the plural of kinnor.
  • The kinnor is typically translated as a "lyre" or "harp." It was a stringed instrument known for its pleasant sound and often used in worship and celebratory contexts.
  • The prominence of harps indicates the musical richness and beauty intended for this solemn occasion.
• on the Sheminith: The Hebrew is הַשְּׁמִינִית (ha-sheminit). This is a critical musical directive.
  • Rooted in the Hebrew word for "eight" (shemoneh), it likely indicates a specific musical instruction.
  • Interpretations include:
    • Playing in a lower register or bass clef (an "octave" below or "for the bass").
    • An eight-stringed instrument.
    • A specific musical mode or tune, perhaps a solemn or foundational one.
  • Its use contrasts with Alamoth ("for the high pitches/sopranos" or "maiden instruments") found in the previous verse (1 Chron 15:20), suggesting different sections of the ensemble played in different ranges, contributing to a full and balanced sound.
  • Its presence in Psalm titles (Psa 6, 12) confirms it as an established musical notation or style in Israelite worship.
• to excel: The Hebrew term is לַנַּצֵּחַ (la-natseaḥ). This is an infinitive with a preposition from the root נצח (N-TS-H).
  • Commonly translated as "to lead," "to oversee," "to preside," or "to be victorious."
  • In the context of music, it signifies the purpose or manner of their performance: to lead the singing, to excel in their musical offering, or perhaps functioning as chief musicians or choirmasters. It implies a high standard of skill and dedication.
  • It points to a desire for worship to be performed not merely adequately, but with utmost proficiency and leadership.

1 Chronicles 15 21 Bonus section

The chronicler's detailed cataloging of Levite families and their specific duties, as seen in this verse, highlights a strong theological emphasis on proper divine order (תָּכְנִית, tochnit) and adherence to established practices for worship. This specificity directly counters any notion of casual or impromptu approach to the presence of God. The mention of "Sheminith" could also symbolically hint at themes of completion (7 days of creation, with the 8th day pointing to a new beginning or new covenant), adding a layer of prophetic significance to the orderly musical arrangements ushering in a new era of Israelite worship centered in Jerusalem under David. The sheer number of musicians and their varied instruments mentioned across the chapter (psalteries, lyres, cymbals, trumpets, Sheminith, Alamoth) points to a symphony of worship, showcasing the rich diversity within unity in their devotion to the Lord.

1 Chronicles 15 21 Commentary

1 Chronicles 15:21 offers a glimpse into David's revolutionary vision for Israelite worship – a vision deeply rooted in order, skill, and reverent joy. By explicitly naming individual Levites like Mattithiah, Obed-Edom, and others, and detailing their precise instruments and performance instructions ("harps on the Sheminith to excel"), the Chronicler underscores the personal commitment and specialized expertise required for serving the Lord. This was not a haphazard affair, but a highly organized and skilled offering. The emphasis on "Sheminith" (likely a lower register) and "to excel" (to lead/perform with excellence) speaks to the layered, majestic sound envisioned for this sacred procession, signifying depth, stability, and high quality in praising God. This verse teaches us that God desires not just participation, but dedicated, skillful, and purposeful service in all worship endeavors, whether individual or corporate.

• Example 1: A church worship team meticulously practices and seeks training to ensure their musical offerings are skilled and Spirit-filled.
• Example 2: An individual commits to preparing well for a Bible study group, researching deeply, and praying, ensuring their contribution is excellent.