1 Chronicles 15:16

And David spake to the chief of the Levites to appoint their brethren [to be] the singers with instruments of musick, psalteries and harps and cymbals, sounding, by lifting up the voice with joy.

And David {H1732} spake {H559} to the chief {H8269} of the Levites {H3881} to appoint {H5975} their brethren {H251} to be the singers {H7891} with instruments {H3627} of musick {H7892}, psalteries {H5035} and harps {H3658} and cymbals {H4700}, sounding {H8085}, by lifting up {H7311} the voice {H6963} with joy {H8057}.

David spoke to the chief of the L'vi'im to appoint their kinsmen to be singers making use of musical instruments - lutes, lyres and cymbals - to play loudly and raise sounds of joy.

David also told the leaders of the Levites to appoint their relatives as singers to lift up their voices with joy, accompanied by musical instruments—harps, lyres, and cymbals.

And David spake to the chief of the Levites to appoint their brethren the singers, with instruments of music, psalteries and harps and cymbals, sounding aloud and lifting up the voice with joy.

Commentary

1 Chronicles 15:16 describes King David's meticulous preparations for bringing the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem, specifically focusing on the organization of musical worship. After a previous failed attempt (see 1 Chronicles 13:10), David ensures that the Ark is transported according to God's instructions, and a vital part of this rectified approach is the establishment of a dedicated worship team.

Context

This verse is set during a pivotal moment in Israel's history: King David's second, successful attempt to bring the Ark of the Covenant, God's dwelling place among His people, into Jerusalem. The first attempt ended tragically because the Ark was transported improperly, not by the Levites as prescribed by the Law (Numbers 4:15). Learning from this solemn lesson, David now meticulously follows divine protocol, which includes not only the correct method of carrying the Ark but also the establishment of an organized and joyful procession of worship.

Key Themes

  • Organized and Intentional Worship: David's command to "appoint their brethren" highlights the importance of structured, prepared, and dedicated worship. It wasn't spontaneous or haphazard but carefully planned to honor God properly. This reflects a deep respect for God's presence and the sacredness of the Ark.
  • The Centrality of Music in Worship: The verse explicitly mentions "psalteries and harps and cymbals," underscoring the vital role of instrumental music alongside singing ("lifting up the voice") in ancient Israelite worship. Music was not merely an accompaniment but an integral expression of devotion and celebration.
  • Joyful Expression: The phrase "sounding, by lifting up the voice with joy" emphasizes that worship was meant to be an exuberant and heartfelt expression. This joy (Hebrew: simchah) was a natural response to God's presence and His covenant faithfulness, a theme echoed throughout the Psalms.
  • The Role of the Levites: The Levites, descendants of Levi, were divinely appointed for temple service, and here we see their specific function in leading public worship through music and singing. This was a sacred duty, not merely a performance.

Linguistic Insights

The term "Levites" refers to the priestly tribe responsible for various duties related to the tabernacle and later the Temple. Their appointment here signifies a formal, recognized role in public worship. The instruments mentioned—psalteries (a stringed instrument, likely a type of lyre or harp), harps, and cymbals—were common in ancient Near Eastern music and were specifically used in Israelite worship to create a rich, vibrant sound. The emphasis on "joy" (Hebrew: simchah) suggests a profound, uninhibited gladness in God's presence, contrasting sharply with the fear and sorrow of the previous attempt to move the Ark.

Practical Application

This verse offers timeless lessons for worship today. It reminds us that:

  • Worship should be intentional and prepared: While spontaneous worship is valuable, there is also a place for thoughtful planning and dedication in our corporate gatherings.
  • Joy is a vital component of worship: Our praise should reflect the gladness we have in God, celebrating His goodness and presence.
  • God values our gifts: Whether through singing, playing instruments, or other forms of service, God desires for us to use our talents to honor Him.
  • Learning from past mistakes is crucial: Just as David corrected his approach, we are called to learn from our errors and seek to honor God in ways that align with His truth and character. This commitment to proper reverence and joyful adoration ensures that our worship is truly pleasing to Him.
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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • 1 Chronicles 13:8

    And David and all Israel played before God with all [their] might, and with singing, and with harps, and with psalteries, and with timbrels, and with cymbals, and with trumpets.

  • Nehemiah 12:36

    And his brethren, Shemaiah, and Azarael, Milalai, Gilalai, Maai, Nethaneel, and Judah, Hanani, with the musical instruments of David the man of God, and Ezra the scribe before them.

  • 1 Chronicles 23:5

    Moreover four thousand [were] porters; and four thousand praised the LORD with the instruments which I made, [said David], to praise [therewith].

  • 2 Chronicles 5:13

    It came even to pass, as the trumpeters and singers [were] as one, to make one sound to be heard in praising and thanking the LORD; and when they lifted up [their] voice with the trumpets and cymbals and instruments of musick, and praised the LORD, [saying], For [he is] good; for his mercy [endureth] for ever: that [then] the house was filled with a cloud, [even] the house of the LORD;

  • 1 Chronicles 16:42

    And with them Heman and Jeduthun with trumpets and cymbals for those that should make a sound, and with musical instruments of God. And the sons of Jeduthun [were] porters.

  • Psalms 149:3

    Let them praise his name in the dance: let them sing praises unto him with the timbrel and harp.

  • Psalms 87:7

    As well the singers as the players on instruments [shall be there]: all my springs [are] in thee.
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