1 Chronicles 6 23

1 Chronicles 6:23 kjv

Elkanah his son, and Ebiasaph his son, and Assir his son,

1 Chronicles 6:23 nkjv

Elkanah his son, Ebiasaph his son, Assir his son,

1 Chronicles 6:23 niv

Elkanah his son, Ebiasaph his son, Assir his son,

1 Chronicles 6:23 esv

Elkanah his son, Ebiasaph his son, Assir his son,

1 Chronicles 6:23 nlt

Elkanah, Abiasaph, Assir,

1 Chronicles 6 verses

1 Chronicles 6 23 Meaning

1 Chronicles 6:23 is a specific entry within the meticulous genealogical record of the Levites, primarily the Kohathite lineage, in the book of Chronicles. This verse names three consecutive generations: Assir, his son Tahath, and his son Uriel. It serves as a connecting link in a direct line that establishes the ancestry of key figures in Israel's history, highlighting the divine order and continuity of God’s plan through His chosen lineage for service.

1 Chronicles 6 23 Context

1 Chronicles chapter 6 is primarily dedicated to the genealogy of Levi, tracing his descendants through his three sons: Gershon, Kohath, and Merari. This chapter meticulously outlines the priestly line originating from Aaron (a descendant of Kohath), as well as the various other Levitical families responsible for temple service. The Chronicler, writing in the post-exilic period, emphasizes these genealogies to affirm the legitimacy and continuity of the priesthood and the Levitical offices, thereby validating the proper order of worship in the newly restored community.

Verse 23 is embedded within the section (vv. 22-28) that traces a specific lineage of the Kohathites that extends to the prominent prophet and judge, Samuel. While not the priestly line of Zadok, it establishes the pedigree of significant figures responsible for spiritual leadership. The overall context underscores the Chronicler's theological emphasis on divine election, covenant faithfulness, and the centrality of the temple and its proper functioning to Israel's national identity. These extensive lists ensure that the rightful heirs to specific duties, properties, and positions are known, maintaining order and preventing unlawful claims.

1 Chronicles 6 23 Word analysis

• His son was Assir,

  • His son: This phrase simply denotes direct paternal lineage, a standard formula in biblical genealogies. It highlights a continuous generational transfer of identity and potentially, responsibility.
  • Assir (אֹסִיר, 'O'sir): This name means "prisoner" or "bound." In ancient Israel, names often held descriptive or prophetic meanings, reflecting circumstances of birth, parental hopes, or characteristics. While the etymology of Assir might seem to imply a negative connotation, in the context of a simple genealogical listing, it typically functions merely as a proper noun to identify an individual. This particular Assir is distinct from another Assir mentioned as a son of Korah (Ex 6:24, 1 Ch 6:22), suggesting the repetition of names within tribal lineages.

• his son Tahath,

  • his son: Again, this reiterates the lineal progression, emphasizing the chain of generations.
  • Tahath (תַּחַת, Tachath): The name means "under" or "beneath." Similar to Assir, while possessing an etymological meaning, its primary function here is as a personal name in the lineage. Its specific meaning is unlikely to carry significant theological weight in this simple enumeration beyond identifying this particular ancestor.

• his son Uriel.

  • his son: Concluding the sequence in this verse, marking Uriel as the third generation listed in this specific entry.
  • Uriel (אוּרִיאֵל, 'Uri'el): This name carries more explicit theological significance, meaning "God is my light" or "flame of God." Names that directly invoke God often reflect a faith statement, a hope, or a recognition of God's character. While this Uriel is part of the line leading to Samuel, another prominent Uriel, also a Kohathite, served as a chief during David's time and was involved in bringing the Ark to Jerusalem (1 Ch 15:5, 11). The recurrence of such a theologically significant name across different lines within the same tribe can subtly highlight a shared heritage of faith or divine purpose. This name underscores God's illuminative presence and guidance, a theme often echoed in the Psalms and Prophetic books.

• Words-group analysis:

  • "His son... his son... his son...": This repetitive phrasing is characteristic of biblical genealogies. It stresses the unbroken continuity of the lineage and the meticulous record-keeping, essential for maintaining tribal identities, land inheritance, and legitimate claims to religious office in Israel. It underlines the divine preservation of specific family lines for particular purposes.

1 Chronicles 6 23 Bonus section

The genealogical records in 1 Chronicles serve not merely as historical archives but as theological statements. They link the current generation with the foundational patriarchs, particularly Abraham, Judah (the royal line), and Levi (the priestly/service line), anchoring their identity and purpose in God's eternal covenant. This verse's contribution is precisely that, providing an indisputable link within a significant Levitical line that includes major figures and underscores the enduring hand of God in shaping the history and spiritual leadership of Israel. The very act of preserving these names demonstrates the Lord's detailed knowledge of His people and His unwavering commitment to their heritage.

1 Chronicles 6 23 Commentary

1 Chronicles 6:23, though brief and consisting solely of names, is far from a dry, uninteresting entry. It is a vital link in the elaborate genealogical tapestry woven by the Chronicler to accomplish several key theological and historical aims. By precisely tracing this specific Kohathite line through Assir, Tahath, and Uriel, the Chronicler reinforces the divinely ordained continuity and legitimacy of those called to service within Israel. The primary purpose of such detail in Chronicles, particularly in this chapter, is to underscore the foundational structure of the post-exilic community: a people unified around the rebuilt temple and its divinely appointed priesthood and Levites. This verse establishes one piece in the larger puzzle, validating the lineage that later gives rise to the prophet Samuel, whose importance in Israel's history is undeniable. The name "Uriel" itself, meaning "God is my light," offers a subtle theological whisper, aligning the generations within a divine truth and subtly indicating that these families were beneficiaries of God’s illuminating presence. These genealogies confirm divine faithfulness in preserving a chosen people and their order.