1 Chronicles 12:6

KJV

Elkanah, and Jesiah, and Azareel, and Joezer, and Jashobeam, the Korhites,

KJV (with Strong's)

Elkanah {H511}, and Jesiah {H3449}, and Azareel {H5832}, and Joezer {H3134}, and Jashobeam {H3434}, the Korhites {H7145},

Complete Jewish Bible

Elkanah, Yishiyahu, 'Azar'el, Yo'ezer, Yashov'am the Korchi,

Berean Standard Bible

Elkanah, Isshiah, Azarel, Joezer, and Jashobeam, who were Korahites;

American Standard Version

Elkanah, and Isshiah, and Azarel, and Joezer, and Jashobeam, the Korahites,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Chronicles 12:6 meticulously lists five individuals—Elkanah, Jesiah, Azareel, Joezer, and Jashobeam—who are specifically identified as "the Korhites." This verse is part of a larger catalog detailing the diverse and valiant men who pledged their loyalty and support to David, joining him during his formative years as a leader, even before he was fully established on the throne of Israel. It highlights the wide-ranging coalition that formed around God's chosen king, including those from unexpected backgrounds.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** 1 Chronicles 12 provides a comprehensive and detailed account of the various groups and individuals who rallied to David's side during his time of exile and ascent to the throne. The chapter begins by listing warriors from Benjamin (David's own tribe, ironically, as Saul was a Benjamite), then moves to Gadites, Manassites, and finally Levites and Benjamites who came to David at Ziklag. This particular verse, 1 Chronicles 12:6, falls within the section (verses 5-7) that identifies specific Levites who joined David, highlighting their unique skills, such as being "mighty men, helpers of the war." The Chronicler’s emphasis on these detailed lists underscores the divine orchestration of David's rise to power and the broad-based support he garnered from across Israel, culminating in the grand assembly at Hebron where he was crowned king over all Israel.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The period described in 1 Chronicles 12 is a tumultuous one for David, marked by his persecution by King Saul. David was in a precarious position, often living as an outlaw, yet he was steadily gathering a loyal following. These men, including the Korhites, chose to align themselves with David during a time when such allegiance could be dangerous, demonstrating profound faith in God's anointing upon David. Culturally, the meticulous listing of names and lineages was significant in ancient Israel, emphasizing tribal identity, family honor, and the importance of individual contributions to national endeavors. The "Korhites" were a Levitical family, traditionally known for their roles in temple service, particularly as musicians and gatekeepers, making their appearance as warriors notable and indicative of a willingness to serve God's chosen leader in any capacity required.

* **Key Themes:** The inclusion of this verse within 1 Chronicles 12 contributes significantly to several overarching themes. Firstly, it powerfully illustrates **Divine Sovereignty and Orchestration**, demonstrating how God meticulously brought together a diverse and capable coalition to support David, ensuring the success of His chosen king. This echoes the broader narrative of God raising up David and establishing his kingdom, as seen in [1 Samuel 16:12-13](/1_samuel/16-12 "1 Samuel 16:12-13 - David's Anointing"). Secondly, the specific naming of individuals underscores the theme of **Loyalty and Commitment**. These men willingly pledged their allegiance to David during a period of uncertainty and danger, reflecting a deep trust in God's plan for David's kingship. Their dedication stands as a testament to unwavering support for God's anointed. Finally, the mention of "the Korhites" highlights the **Diversity of Gifts and Service**. Descendants of Korah were primarily associated with sacred duties, such as music and guarding the temple gates (e.g., [1 Chronicles 26:1](/1_chronicles/26-1 "1 Chronicles 26:1 - Korhite Gatekeepers")). Their participation as warriors demonstrates that God utilizes people from all backgrounds and with varied skills to accomplish His purposes, even in roles seemingly outside their traditional callings, emphasizing that every gift can be consecrated for God's work.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Korhites (Hebrew, _Qorchiy_):** This term refers to the descendants of Korah, a Levitical family. While Korah himself is infamous for his rebellion against Moses and Aaron, detailed in [Numbers 16:1-3](/numbers/16-1 "Numbers 16:1-3 - Korah's Rebellion"), his lineage did not entirely perish. Instead, his surviving sons established a prominent and respected line within the tribe of Levi, particularly known for their roles in temple service, including gatekeepers (e.g., [1 Chronicles 9:19](/1_chronicles/9-19 "1 Chronicles 9:19 - Korhite Gatekeepers")) and, most famously, as composers of numerous Psalms (e.g., Psalms 42, 44-49, 84-85, 87-88). Their appearance here among David's warriors is significant, showcasing their willingness to contribute militarily despite their traditional priestly or musical heritage, demonstrating a versatile commitment to God's chosen king.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Elkanah, and Jesiah, and Azareel, and Joezer, and Jashobeam":** This list of five distinct names emphasizes the specific individuals who came to David's aid. The Chronicler's meticulous record-keeping highlights the personal commitment and loyalty of these men. Each name represents a unique life and a conscious decision to align with God's anointed leader, underscoring the breadth and depth of support David received.
* **"the Korhites":** This phrase identifies the familial and tribal affiliation of these five men. It signifies their descent from Korah, a specific branch of the Levitical tribe. This detail is crucial for understanding their traditional roles within Israel (temple service) and makes their enlistment as warriors particularly noteworthy, demonstrating their readiness to adapt their service to the needs of God's kingdom and His chosen leader.

#### Literary Devices
The Chronicler employs several literary devices in this verse and the broader chapter. The primary device is **Catalog** or **List**, as the entire chapter is dedicated to enumerating the various groups and individuals who joined David. This extensive listing serves to impress upon the reader the overwhelming and diverse support David received, underscoring the legitimacy and divine backing of his kingship. Furthermore, the use of **Specificity** and **Detail** in naming individuals and their lineages (like "the Korhites") lends historical verisimilitude and emphasizes the personal sacrifices and contributions made by these men. It elevates their individual acts of loyalty to a significant historical record. There is also an element of **Paradox** or **Irony** in the mention of "the Korhites" as warriors; a family primarily known for sacred, non-military duties (musicians, gatekeepers) is here presented in a martial context. This highlights God's ability to use individuals in unexpected ways, transcending traditional roles to fulfill His purposes.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
1 Chronicles 12:6, by naming specific Korhites among David's warriors, powerfully illustrates God's sovereign hand in raising up leaders and providing them with a diverse, loyal, and capable support base. It underscores the theological truth that God's kingdom work requires the consecrated efforts of all kinds of people, regardless of their background, traditional vocation, or perceived limitations. The inclusion of those from a lineage with a troubled past (Korah's rebellion) further highlights God's grace and His ability to redeem and utilize anyone for His glory. This verse serves as a reminder that every gift and calling, whether military, musical, or otherwise, can be dedicated to God's purposes, contributing to the flourishing of His people and the establishment of His righteous rule.

* [Numbers 16:32](/numbers/16-32 "Numbers 16:32 - The Earth Swallows Korah")
* [1 Chronicles 9:19](/1_chronicles/9-19 "1 Chronicles 9:19 - Korhite Gatekeepers")
* [Psalm 84:10](/psalms/84-10 "Psalm 84:10 - Sons of Korah's Desire for God's Courts")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
This seemingly simple list of names in 1 Chronicles 12:6 offers profound insights for contemporary believers. It reminds us that God's work is rarely accomplished by a single individual, but rather through the collective, diverse, and often unexpected contributions of many. Just as David's kingdom was built upon the loyalty and varied skills of his supporters, so too does the church, the body of Christ, thrive when every member uses their unique gifts, even those that seem unconventional or outside traditional roles. This verse challenges us to recognize the value of every person's contribution, to foster unity amidst diversity, and to be willing to step out of our comfort zones when God calls. It encourages us to be loyal and committed to the leaders God has placed over us and to the broader mission of His kingdom, trusting that He can use anyone, regardless of their past or perceived limitations, for His glorious purposes.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the inclusion of "the Korhites" challenge your assumptions about who God can use for His purposes?**
* **In what ways might God be calling you to use your unique gifts or background in a way that seems unconventional or outside your "traditional" role?**
* **How can you better demonstrate loyalty and support to the spiritual leaders and community God has placed in your life?**
* **What does this verse teach you about the importance of diverse contributions within the body of Christ?**

### FAQ
**Why are "the Korhites" mentioned specifically, given their traditional roles?**
Answer: The specific mention of "the Korhites" is significant because their lineage was primarily associated with sacred duties within the tabernacle and later the temple, particularly as musicians and gatekeepers ([1 Chronicles 9:19](/1_chronicles/9-19 "1 Chronicles 9:19 - Korhite Gatekeepers"), [1 Chronicles 26:1](/1_chronicles/26-1 "1 Chronicles 26:1 - Korhite Gatekeepers")). Their presence among David's warriors highlights their willingness to step outside these traditional roles to serve God's chosen king in a military capacity. It underscores the breadth of support David received and demonstrates God's ability to use diverse individuals, even those from unexpected backgrounds or with specific vocational callings, for His overarching purposes. It also shows a deep personal commitment to David's cause, transcending their usual duties.

**What was the significance of Korah's lineage, considering his rebellion?**
Answer: Korah, a Levite, led a significant rebellion against Moses and Aaron's authority, detailed in [Numbers 16](/numbers/16 "Numbers 16 - Korah's Rebellion"), for which he and his followers faced divine judgment. However, the biblical text explicitly states that Korah's sons did not perish ([Numbers 26:11](/numbers/26-11 "Numbers 26:11 - Korah's Sons Did Not Perish")). This surviving lineage went on to become prominent figures in Israel's worship life, serving as temple gatekeepers and, notably, as composers of several Psalms (e.g., [Psalm 42](/psalms/42 "Psalm 42 - As the Deer Pants for Streams of Water"), [Psalm 84](/psalms/84 "Psalm 84 - How Lovely Is Your Dwelling Place")). Their inclusion in David's loyal company in 1 Chronicles 12:6 demonstrates God's grace and redemptive power, showing that a lineage, despite a rebellious ancestor, can be restored and used mightily for His purposes. It's a testament to God's ability to work through imperfect people and families.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The gathering of diverse and loyal individuals around King David in 1 Chronicles 12, including the unexpected Korhites, powerfully foreshadows the ultimate King, Jesus Christ. Just as David, as God's anointed, drew a varied company of followers—from distressed and indebted men at Adullam ([1 Samuel 22:2](/1_samuel/22-2 "1 Samuel 22:2 - David Gathers Men at Adullam")) to valiant warriors and priests—so too does Jesus gather His kingdom from every tribe, tongue, people, and nation ([Revelation 7:9](/revelation/7-9 "Revelation 7:9 - A Great Multitude from Every Nation")). The Korhites, with their background in temple service, represent those who might seem "unlikely" to be warriors, yet they served David's cause. Similarly, Christ calls not only the outwardly religious or traditionally "qualified" but also the marginalized, the broken, and those from troubled pasts, transforming them into His devoted disciples and co-laborers in the gospel ([Matthew 9:10-13](/matthew/9-10 "Matthew 9:10-13 - Jesus Eats with Sinners")). Under the New Covenant, all believers are a "royal priesthood" and a "holy nation" ([1 Peter 2:9](/1_peter/2-9 "1 Peter 2:9 - A Royal Priesthood")), transcending old vocational or tribal boundaries, empowered by the Holy Spirit to serve Christ with all their diverse gifts for the building up of His church ([Ephesians 4:11-13](/ephesians/4-11 "Ephesians 4:11-13 - Gifts for the Church's Growth")). Our ultimate loyalty is to Christ, the King of kings and Lord of lords ([Revelation 19:16](/revelation/19-16 "Revelation 19:16 - King of Kings and Lord of Lords")), and He enables us to fulfill His purposes, no matter our background or perceived limitations.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.