1 Chronicles 6 36

1 Chronicles 6:36 kjv

The son of Elkanah, the son of Joel, the son of Azariah, the son of Zephaniah,

1 Chronicles 6:36 nkjv

the son of Elkanah, the son of Joel, the son of Azariah, the son of Zephaniah,

1 Chronicles 6:36 niv

the son of Elkanah, the son of Joel, the son of Azariah, the son of Zephaniah,

1 Chronicles 6:36 esv

son of Elkanah, son of Joel, son of Azariah, son of Zephaniah,

1 Chronicles 6:36 nlt

Elkanah, Joel, Azariah, Zephaniah,

1 Chronicles 6 verses

1 Chronicles 6 36 Meaning

1 Chronicles 6:36 details specific individuals within the paternal lineage of Heman, one of the three chief Levitical musicians appointed by King David for temple service. The verse lists Elkanah, Joel, Azariah, and Zephaniah as successive ancestors of Heman. This precision in genealogical record-keeping underscores the legitimacy and divinely ordained role of Heman and his descendants in the temple's musical worship, linking their post-exilic service to foundational, historical roots.

1 Chronicles 6 36 Context

1 Chronicles 6 is a significant chapter focused almost entirely on the genealogies of the Levites, who were chosen for temple service. It systematically details the descendants of Levi's three sons—Gershom, Kohath, and Merari—before focusing specifically on the line of Aaron for the priesthood. This verse is embedded within the lengthy genealogy of Heman (1 Chr 6:33-38), a prominent Kohathite Levite whom King David appointed as one of the three principal leaders of temple music. The Chronicler emphasizes Heman's exact ancestry to authenticate his, and by extension, his family's, right to serve in this crucial capacity within the sacred worship.

Historically, the book of 1 Chronicles was likely composed after the Babylonian exile, possibly in the late 5th or early 4th century BC. For the returning community, establishing continuity with their heritage and legitimate roles within the restored temple was paramount. Accurate genealogies served to confirm tribal identity, inheritance rights, and most importantly, authorization for service in the tabernacle and later, the temple. The meticulous listing of Levitical lines, including musicians, served to legitimate the present order of temple worship and reassure the people that their practices were rooted in God's historical commands and precedents from the Davidic era. It subtly underscores the stability and divine sanction of the re-established religious framework, directly counteracting any uncertainties or challenges regarding the authority of those leading the temple service.

1 Chronicles 6 36 Word analysis

• the son of: (Hebrew: בֶּן, ben). This repetitive phrase fundamentally indicates direct paternal lineage. Its consistent use in genealogies underscores the clear, unbroken chain of descent, which was crucial for establishing identity, rights, and responsibilities, especially within the structured temple service of the Levites. In a context where purity of line determined one's right to serve, this phrase acted as a precise legal and religious marker.
• Elkanah: (Hebrew: אֶלְקָנָה, ʾElqanah). Meaning "God has created," "God has acquired," or "God has possessed." A fairly common name in ancient Israel, notably being the name of the father of the prophet Samuel (1 Sam 1:1). In this specific verse, it denotes a distinct individual within Heman's direct ancestral line, affirming the historical continuity of the family's presence in Israel.
• Joel: (Hebrew: יוֹאֵל, Yôʾel). Meaning "Yahweh is God" or "The Lord is God." Another common Israelite name, held by a variety of individuals including one of the twelve minor prophets. As a theophoric name, it reflects a deep theological conviction or hope. Here, Joel is positioned as the immediate paternal predecessor of Elkanah in this particular lineage.
• Azariah: (Hebrew: עֲזַרְיָה, ʿAzaryah). Meaning "Yahweh has helped" or "The Lord is my helper." This is one of the most frequently occurring names in the Hebrew Bible, reflecting a common sentiment of divine aid. Many prominent figures bore this name, including kings and priests. In this verse, Azariah stands as an ancestor further back in Heman's line, preceding Joel, strengthening the chain of generations.
• Zephaniah: (Hebrew: צְפַנְיָה, Tsephanyah). Meaning "Yahweh has treasured," "Yahweh has hidden," or "Yahweh has protected." This name is also associated with a major prophet in the Bible (Book of Zephaniah). Here, Zephaniah represents an earlier patriarch in Heman's ancestry, linking his line back through more ancient times, further affirming the deep-seated roots and longevity of his family's historical presence in Israel.
• "the son of Elkanah, the son of Joel, the son of Azariah, the son of Zephaniah": This cascading series of "son of" phrases emphasizes the precise, unbroken genealogical descent. It meticulously tracks the line back several generations, confirming the authenticity and divine legitimacy of Heman's lineage. Such detailed lists were not mere record-keeping; they validated status, inherited responsibilities, and God-given roles, especially vital for those serving in the temple. This structure conveys continuity and authority.

1 Chronicles 6 36 Bonus section

• Variant Genealogies: It is notable that while 1 Chronicles 6:36 contributes to the larger genealogy of Heman, other texts (e.g., 1 Chr 15:17) refer to Heman as "the son of Joel," skipping some names. This does not indicate a contradiction but highlights that genealogies could sometimes be selective, focusing on key individuals or providing condensed versions depending on the author's immediate purpose. The detailed genealogy in 1 Chronicles 6, however, offers the fullest picture of Heman's paternal heritage, providing the strongest possible claim to his rightful position.
• Theophoric Names: The names "Joel," "Azariah," and "Zephaniah" are all theophoric, meaning they incorporate a divine element, usually the name of God (Yahweh or El). This prevalence of God-centered names throughout the lineage reflects a deep-seated piety and constant acknowledgment of God's role in the family's history and in their lives, underscoring the spiritual dimension behind even genealogical listings. It serves as a subtle reminder of the covenant relationship God had with His people.

1 Chronicles 6 36 Commentary

1 Chronicles 6:36, though appearing as a simple listing of names, is highly significant within the Chronicler's broader theological and historical aims. Its primary purpose is to establish and authenticate the precise lineage of Heman, a central figure in Israel's divinely appointed musical worship in the temple. By tracing Heman's ancestry back through generations, the Chronicler validates his authority and the right of his family to lead the temple choir. This meticulous genealogical record served to connect the post-exilic community with their rich, God-ordained past, ensuring the proper order of worship. It illustrates that even seemingly mundane details like a series of names can carry profound theological weight, reinforcing themes of legitimate authority, continuity of covenant, and the faithfulness of God in preserving His people's identity and their sacred traditions.