1 Chronicles 6 22

1 Chronicles 6:22 kjv

The sons of Kohath; Amminadab his son, Korah his son, Assir his son,

1 Chronicles 6:22 nkjv

The sons of Kohath were Amminadab his son, Korah his son, Assir his son,

1 Chronicles 6:22 niv

The descendants of Kohath: Amminadab his son, Korah his son, Assir his son,

1 Chronicles 6:22 esv

The sons of Kohath: Amminadab his son, Korah his son, Assir his son,

1 Chronicles 6:22 nlt

The descendants of Kohath included Amminadab, Korah, Assir,

1 Chronicles 6 verses

1 Chronicles 6 22 Meaning

This verse details a specific genealogical line within the Kohathite branch of the Levites, identifying a direct succession from Kohath through Amminadab and Korah, to Assir. It functions as a precise record for validating ancestral lineage, crucial for establishing eligibility for roles within the Levitical service, particularly those related to temple duties in Israel.

1 Chronicles 6 22 Context

1 Chronicles chapter 6 focuses on the comprehensive genealogies of the Levites, detailing their lines for the purpose of validating their right to various religious offices and services within the Tabernacle and later the Temple. This chapter is highly structured, tracing priestly lineages through Aaron and other Levitical branches, notably those appointed by King David for musical service. Verse 22 specifically contributes to a detailed Kohathite lineage that emphasizes not only the ancestry but also connects it to significant figures, particularly highlighting how a line from Korah—who rebelled against God's ordained leadership—was preserved and continued its function, leading to future generations involved in sacred worship. The historical context of Chronicles, written post-exile, stresses the importance of re-establishing the legitimacy and proper order of Temple worship and service, making precise genealogies fundamental to this restoration.

1 Chronicles 6 22 Word analysis

• The son of Kohath: The Hebrew word for "son" (בֶּן - ben) denotes a male descendant. This phrase anchors the lineage to Kohath (קְהָת - Qəhâṯ), one of Levi's three sons (along with Gershon and Merari), from whom a major clan of Levites descended, entrusted with specific duties concerning the most sacred elements of the Tabernacle and later the Temple. This is not just a general familial tie but specifically establishes a foundational lineage.
• was Amminadab his son: "Amminadab" (עַמִּינָדָב - `Ammînāḏāḇ`) means "my kinsman is noble" or "my people are generous." In this genealogical list, "his son" explicitly confirms Amminadab as the direct male offspring in this specific sequence of Kohath. This establishes an unbroken line of descent essential for legal and religious claims in ancient Israel.
• Korah his son: "Korah" (קֹרַח - Qōraḥ) is a highly significant figure known for his rebellion against Moses and Aaron, described in Numbers 16. Despite this notorious rebellion, the inclusion of his name here, explicitly as a direct descendant ("his son") in this specific lineage, is critical. It implies that while Korah faced severe divine judgment, his lineage was not entirely extinguished, a point affirmed in Num 26:11, which states, "the sons of Korah did not die." This serves as a reminder of God's preservation and sovereignty, even within a line that experienced rebellion.
• Assir his son: "Assir" (אַסִּיר - `Assîr`) means "prisoner" or "bound." The continuity of the lineage through Assir, identified as Korah's direct son ("his son"), underscores the survival and perpetuation of this specific Kohathite branch. This particular line, surviving Korah's judgment, becomes highly relevant because later temple musicians and gatekeepers are referred to as the "sons of Korah" in various biblical texts (e.g., in the Psalms), implying their origin through this preserved branch of Korah's family.

• The son of Kohath... Assir his son: The consistent use of "his son" throughout this chain highlights a direct, lineal descent, rather than skipping generations or representing broader clan affiliation. This specificity is crucial in biblical genealogies, especially for establishing claims to heritage, office, or sacred service. The flow indicates a direct generational passage from Kohath to Amminadab, then to Korah, and finally to Assir, thereby connecting a foundational Levitical leader to a specific and notable line that continues through history. This continuity is a core message in the genealogies of Chronicles, reinforcing the divine order of Israelite society and worship.

1 Chronicles 6 22 Bonus section

The chronicler's extensive genealogical records, including 1 Chronicles 6:22, are not mere dry lists but purposeful theological statements. They underscore the post-exilic community's identity, legitimacy, and connection to their rich heritage and divine promises. The particular emphasis on Levitical and priestly lines directly serves the agenda of rebuilding the Temple and restoring proper worship. The inclusion of Korah's descendants despite his rebellion against divinely appointed authority serves as a powerful testament to God's redemptive power and ability to use imperfect or historically stained lineages for His holy purposes. This theological intent distinguishes Chronicles' genealogies from simple historical archives; they are instruments of spiritual and national restoration.

1 Chronicles 6 22 Commentary

1 Chronicles 6:22 is a seemingly straightforward genealogical entry, yet its inclusion carries profound significance within the chronicler's narrative. By tracing a line of Kohathite Levites from Amminadab through Korah to Assir, the verse directly addresses the historical aftermath of Korah's infamous rebellion (Numbers 16). While Korah met a dire end, divine mercy preserved his lineage through his sons, specifically mentioned in Numbers 26:11. This verse in Chronicles serves as a foundational link in the continuation of that very lineage. It highlights God's sovereignty and faithfulness, demonstrating that even amidst grave sin and its judgment, He can maintain and re-purpose a line for His service. This specific branch of Levites would later become prominent as the "Sons of Korah," key musical leaders and gatekeepers in the Temple worship, whose contributions are celebrated in various Psalms. Thus, this brief verse underscores the enduring nature of divine purpose and the chronicler's emphasis on legitimate lines for carrying out sacred duties in Israel, setting the stage for understanding the crucial role these descendants would play in future temple worship.