What number verse is 1 Chronicles 15:20 in the Bible?

1 Chronicles 15:20 is the 10,812th verse of the Bible. Counting straight through the King James canon — all 31,102 verses from Genesis 1:1 to Revelation 22:21 — 1 Chronicles 15:20 sits at position 10,812.

Translation

King James Version

And Zechariah, and Aziel, and Shemiramoth, and Jehiel, and Unni, and Eliab, and Maaseiah, and Benaiah, with psalteries on Alamoth;

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KJV (with Strong's)

And Zechariah ^H2148, and Aziel ^H5815, and Shemiramoth ^H8070, and Jehiel ^H3171, and Unni ^H6042, and Eliab ^H446, and Maaseiah ^H4641, and Benaiah ^H1141, with psalteries ^H5035 on Alamoth ^H5961;

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Complete Jewish Bible

Z'kharyahu, 'Azi'el, Sh'miramot, Yechi'el, 'Uni, Eli'av, Ma'aseiyahu and B'nayahu were to play the lutes for 'alamot [high-pitched music?].

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Berean Standard Bible

Zechariah, Aziel, Shemiramoth, Jehiel, Unni, Eliab, Maaseiah, and Benaiah were to play the harps according to Alamoth.

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American Standard Version

and Zechariah, and Aziel, and Shemiramoth, and Jehiel, and Unni, and Eliab, and Maaseiah, and Benaiah, with psalteries set to Alamoth;

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World English Bible Messianic

and Zechariah, and Aziel, and Shemiramoth, and Jehiel, and Unni, and Eliab, and Maaseiah, and Benaiah, with stringed instruments set to Alamoth;

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Geneva Bible (1599)

And Zechariah, and Aziel, and Shemiramoth, and Iehiel, and Vnni, and Eliab, and Maaseiah, and Benaiah with violes on Alamoth,

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Young's Literal Translation

and Zechariah, and Aziel, and Shemiramoth, and Jeheil, and Unni, and Eliab, and Maaseiah, and Benaiah, with psalteries besides virgins,

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Study This Verse

SUMMARY

1 Chronicles 15:20 meticulously lists a specific group of eight Levite musicians—Zechariah, Aziel, Shemiramoth, Jehiel, Unni, Eliab, Maaseiah, and Benaiah—who were appointed to play psalteries in the "Alamoth" register. This detailed enumeration occurs during the momentous and divinely ordered procession of the Ark of the Covenant from the house of Obed-Edom to Jerusalem, underscoring King David's profound commitment to highly organized, joyful, and biblically faithful worship, and highlighting the integral role of music and the Levites in approaching God's holy presence.

CONTEXT

Literary Context: This verse is intricately woven into the broader narrative of King David's second, successful attempt to bring the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem. This endeavor follows the tragic failure of the first attempt, detailed in 1 Chronicles 13, where Uzzah's death resulted from the Ark being transported improperly on a cart rather than by the Levites. Learning from this severe lesson, David meticulously prepares for this second transfer, demonstrating a profound shift towards reverent obedience to divine law. 1 Chronicles 15 elaborates on David's careful adherence to God's instructions, specifically emphasizing that only the Levites were to carry the Ark on their shoulders (1 Chronicles 15:2). The chapter then details the purification and sanctification of the Levites, the appointment of a vast company of singers and musicians, and the specific instruments to be used for the procession. Verse 20, therefore, serves as a precise and vital detail within this larger account of reverent preparation and exuberant celebration, emphasizing the personal, organized, and divinely sanctioned nature of the worship.
Historical & Cultural Context: In ancient Israel, the Ark of the Covenant was not merely a religious artifact but the most sacred object, symbolizing God's tangible presence among His people and serving as the mercy seat where He communed with them (Exodus 25:22). Its transport was a profoundly spiritual, national, and theological event. The Levites, as a tribe set apart for priestly and temple service, held unique and sacred responsibilities, including the handling of holy objects and leading communal worship. Music played an indispensable role in Israelite worship, functioning not merely as entertainment, but as a divinely ordained means of expressing praise, lament, devotion, and even prophetic utterance. Kings like David were not only political leaders but also spiritual figures responsible for ensuring the proper ordering of worship and the nation's relationship with God. The meticulous organization seen in 1 Chronicles 15, including the specific mention of musicians and their instruments, reflects a culture deeply aware of God's holiness and the imperative need for a precise, reverent, and joyful approach to Him, especially after the recent divine judgment that underscored the gravity of their sacred duties.
Key Themes: 1 Chronicles 15:20 profoundly contributes to several overarching themes within the book of Chronicles and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it highlights Organized Worship, demonstrating David's exemplary leadership in ensuring that the approach to God was structured, intentional, and meticulously aligned with divine command, standing in stark contrast to the previous chaotic and unauthorized attempt. Secondly, it emphasizes the Centrality of Music as an indispensable and powerful element of Israelite worship and celebration, serving as a divinely appointed medium for expressing profound joy, heartfelt praise, and deep reverence during the Ark's sacred procession. Thirdly, the verse underscores Levitical Service, showcasing the specific, vital, and consecrated role of the Levites as divinely appointed personnel for handling sacred objects and leading worship through music, thereby illustrating their dedication and unique calling in God's service. Finally, this passage reinforces the crucial theme of Reverence and Obedience, as David's careful adherence to God's commands regarding the Ark's transport, including the proper personnel and instruments, reflects a deep and learned respect for the Lord and His instructions, a lesson profoundly absorbed from the tragic events of 1 Chronicles 13.

EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

Key Word Analysis

Zechariah (Hebrew, Zᵉkaryâh', H2148): From the root meaning "Jah has remembered," Zechariah (H2148) is the name of twenty-nine Israelites, here identifying one of the Levite musicians. His name, meaning "Yahweh remembers," carries theological weight, suggesting God's faithfulness to His covenant and His people, even as they sought to properly honor Him by bringing the Ark into Jerusalem. The prominence of names in this passage, especially those with theological meanings, underscores the personal and divinely recognized nature of their service.
Psalteries (Hebrew, nebel', H5035): This term (H5035) refers to a stringed instrument, often translated as a harp or lyre. The nebel was a prominent instrument in ancient Israelite worship, known for its rich, melodic sound. Its inclusion here signifies the importance of melodic accompaniment and skillful musical artistry in the solemn and joyous occasion of bringing the Ark into Jerusalem, contributing to the overall atmosphere of praise and reverence.
Alamoth (Hebrew, ʻĂlâmôwth', H5961): This Hebrew word (H5961), a plural form literally meaning "girls" or "young women," is understood in a musical context as a technical direction indicating a high-pitched, soprano, or treble register. As found in the superscription of Psalm 46, it suggests that the psalteries were played in a higher octave or that the accompanying voices were in a higher range, contributing a specific, perhaps bright and uplifting, sonic texture to the worship. This detail points to a sophisticated understanding of musical arrangement and performance in ancient Israelite sacred music.

Verse Breakdown

"And Zechariah, and Aziel, and Shemiramoth, and Jehiel, and Unni, and Eliab, and Maaseiah, and Benaiah, ": This exhaustive listing of eight specific names serves multiple purposes. It highlights the meticulous organization of the worship service, emphasizing that these individuals were not randomly chosen but specifically appointed and consecrated Levites, each with a designated role in the solemn and joyous procession. The Chronicler's emphasis on individual names underscores the importance of personal accountability, the unique calling of each servant, and the personal commitment required for service in God's holy presence. Furthermore, it functions as a historical record, validating the legitimacy, divine order, and detailed planning of this pivotal event in Israel's spiritual history.
"with psalteries on Alamoth;": This phrase precisely specifies both the instrument and the musical register employed by these Levite musicians. The use of "psalteries" (stringed instruments) indicates a melodic and harmonious contribution to the overall soundscape of the procession, adding depth and richness to the worship. The accompanying direction "on Alamoth" further refines this, suggesting a performance in a high-pitched or treble range. This specific musical instruction would have added a distinct quality to the music, perhaps conveying a sense of lightness, exultation, or elevation, fitting for the sacred occasion of bringing God's presence into the city. This detail underscores the intentionality, artistry, and excellence involved in creating an atmosphere suitable for the Ark of the Covenant.

Literary Devices

The Chronicler's presentation in 1 Chronicles 15:20 employs several literary devices to convey its message with precision and emphasis. The most prominent is Cataloging (or enumeration), evident in the detailed listing of the eight Levite musicians by name. This meticulous list serves to emphasize the thorough organization and personal involvement in the sacred procession, validating the historical accuracy and divine order of the event. It highlights that each individual had a specific, appointed role, leaving nothing to chance in the presence of God's holiness. Another significant device is Technical Detail, specifically in the mention of "psalteries on Alamoth." This precise specification regarding instruments and musical register underscores the intentionality, excellence, and professionalism with which the worship was conducted. It reveals a sophisticated understanding of musical arrangement and the paramount importance of offering the highest quality of artistry in service to God. The combination of these devices paints a vivid picture of a carefully planned, reverent, and profoundly joyful act of communal worship.

THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS

1 Chronicles 15:20, by detailing the specific musicians and their instruments, contributes significantly to the biblical theology of worship. It illustrates that approaching a holy God is not a casual or haphazard affair but requires careful preparation, divine order, and the dedicated service of those set apart for sacred duties. The emphasis on music underscores its divine origin and its power to facilitate communion with God, expressing both the profound reverence for His holiness and the overflowing joy of His presence. This passage also implicitly teaches about the importance of learning from past failures (such as Uzzah's death in 1 Chronicles 13:9-10) and humbly adhering to God's revealed will in matters of worship and service. The Old Covenant's meticulous rituals and prescribed roles, exemplified here, foreshadow the perfect order and direct access provided by the New Covenant.

REFLECTION AND APPLICATION

The meticulous preparation, joyful exuberance, and divinely ordered worship described in 1 Chronicles 15:20 offer profound and enduring lessons for believers today. Just as King David ensured the highest quality of musical talent and organization for the Ark's procession, we are called to offer our very best in all aspects of our worship to God. This encompasses intentionality in our personal devotion, thoughtful and prayerful preparation for corporate gatherings, and the diligent and excellent use of our spiritual gifts for His glory. Music, as powerfully demonstrated by the Levites, remains a potent and divinely ordained medium for expressing praise, prayer, and deep devotion, capable of uplifting spirits and creating an atmosphere conducive to experiencing God's manifest presence. Our service to God, whether in formal church roles or in the everyday rhythms of our lives, should ideally be characterized by the same joy, willingness, and commitment to excellence evident in these ancient musicians. Ultimately, this passage serves as a timeless reminder that true worship and service must be done according to God's revealed will, not merely human ingenuity or preference, echoing the New Testament call to worship "in spirit and truth" found in John 4:24, combining sincere hearts with adherence to biblical principles.

Questions for Reflection

How does the meticulous preparation for bringing the Ark inform our approach to corporate worship today, particularly regarding intentionality and excellence?
In what specific ways can we, like the Levites, use our unique gifts and talents with excellence, joy, and a spirit of service to God in our contemporary contexts?
What does "worship in spirit and truth" (John 4:24) truly mean for us, especially when considering the detailed instructions given for Old Testament worship?

FAQ

Why are so many names listed in this verse, and what is their significance?

Answer: The listing of names like Zechariah, Aziel, Shemiramoth, and others in 1 Chronicles 15:20 is highly significant for several reasons. Firstly, it underscores the meticulous organization and personal involvement in the sacred task of transporting the Ark of the Covenant. King David was not leaving this momentous event to chance; he was appointing specific, qualified individuals to specific, consecrated roles. Secondly, it highlights the paramount importance of the Levitical service. These were not just any musicians, but Levites, a tribe set apart by God for temple duties, including music and handling sacred objects. Their names validate their divine appointment and the sacred order of the worship. Thirdly, the detailed enumeration emphasizes that worship was not a haphazard or spontaneous act, but a carefully planned and executed endeavor, reflecting the holiness of God and the profound importance of the Ark as the tangible symbol of His presence among His people. It also serves as a historical record, lending credibility and weight to the Chronicler's account of this pivotal moment in Israel's spiritual history, reinforcing the theme of divine order and human obedience.

CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT

While 1 Chronicles 15:20 describes Old Covenant worship, its underlying themes find profound Christ-centered fulfillment in the New Covenant. The Ark of the Covenant, symbolizing God's tangible presence among His people, ultimately points to Jesus Christ as the true dwelling place of God with humanity, the Word made flesh who "dwelt among us" (John 1:14). The Levites, who were consecrated to facilitate access to God's presence through their dedicated service and music, foreshadow Christ as our ultimate and perfect High Priest and mediator, through whom we now have direct, unhindered access to God's throne of grace (Hebrews 4:14-16; 1 Timothy 2:5). The meticulous and joyful worship with instruments points to the New Covenant reality where worship is no longer confined to a physical temple or specific rituals but is offered "in spirit and truth" (John 4:23-24), empowered by the Holy Spirit and centered on the person and redemptive work of Christ. Through His once-for-all sacrifice, Christ has opened a new and living way into the holiest place, allowing all believers to draw near to God with confidence, not through Levitical musicians or an earthly Ark, but through the cleansing power of the blood of Jesus (Hebrews 10:19-22). He is the true Ark, the true presence, and the true access to God.

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Commentary on 1 Chronicles 15 verses 1–24

1 ¶ And David made him houses in the city of David, and prepared a place for the ark of God, and pitched for it a tent.

2 Then David said, None ought to carry the ark of God but the Levites: for them hath the LORD chosen to carry the ark of God, and to minister unto him for ever.

3 And David gathered all Israel together to Jerusalem, to bring up the ark of the LORD unto his place, which he had prepared for it.

4 And David assembled the children of Aaron, and the Levites:

5 Of the sons of Kohath; Uriel the chief, and his brethren an hundred and twenty:

6 Of the sons of Merari; Asaiah the chief, and his brethren two hundred and twenty:

7 Of the sons of Gershom; Joel the chief, and his brethren an hundred and thirty:

8 Of the sons of Elizaphan; Shemaiah the chief, and his brethren two hundred:

9 Of the sons of Hebron; Eliel the chief, and his brethren fourscore:

10 Of the sons of Uzziel; Amminadab the chief, and his brethren an hundred and twelve.

11 And David called for Zadok and Abiathar the priests, and for the Levites, for Uriel, Asaiah, and Joel, Shemaiah, and Eliel, and Amminadab,

12 And said unto them, Ye are the chief of the fathers of the Levites: sanctify yourselves, both ye and your brethren, that ye may bring up the ark of the LORD God of Israel unto the place that I have prepared for it.

13 For because ye did it not at the first, the LORD our God made a breach upon us, for that we sought him not after the due order.

14 So the priests and the Levites sanctified themselves to bring up the ark of the LORD God of Israel.

15 And the children of the Levites bare the ark of God upon their shoulders with the staves thereon, as Moses commanded according to the word of the LORD.

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.

17 So the Levites appointed Heman the son of Joel; and of his brethren, Asaph the son of Berechiah; and of the sons of Merari their brethren, Ethan the son of Kushaiah;

18 And with them their brethren of the second degree, Zechariah, Ben, and Jaaziel, and Shemiramoth, and Jehiel, and Unni, Eliab, and Benaiah, and Maaseiah, and Mattithiah, and Elipheleh, and Mikneiah, and Obededom, and Jeiel, the porters.

19 So the singers, Heman, Asaph, and Ethan, were appointed to sound with cymbals of brass;

20 And Zechariah, and Aziel, and Shemiramoth, and Jehiel, and Unni, and Eliab, and Maaseiah, and Benaiah, with psalteries on Alamoth;

21 And Mattithiah, and Elipheleh, and Mikneiah, and Obededom, and Jeiel, and Azaziah, with harps on the Sheminith to excel.

22 And Chenaniah, chief of the Levites, was for song: he instructed about the song, because he was skilful.

23 And Berechiah and Elkanah were doorkeepers for the ark.

24 And Shebaniah, and Jehoshaphat, and Nethaneel, and Amasai, and Zechariah, and Benaiah, and Eliezer, the priests, did blow with the trumpets before the ark of God: and Obededom and Jehiah were doorkeepers for the ark.

Preparation is here made for the bringing of the ark home to the city of David from the house of Obed-edom. It is here owned that in the former attempt, though it was a very good work and in it they sought God, yet they sought him, not after the due order, Ch1 15:13. "We did not go about our work considerately; and therefore we sped so ill." Note, It is not enough that we do that which is good, but we must do it well - not enough that we seek God in a due ordinance, but we must seek after him, in a due order. Note, also, When we have suffered for our irregularities we must learn thereby to be more regular; then we answer the end of chastisement. Let us see how the matter was mended. 1. David now prepared a place for the reception of the ark, before he brought it to him; and thus he sought in the due order. He had not time to build a house, but he pitched a tent for it (Ch1 15:1), probably according to the pattern shown to Moses in the mount, or as near it as might be, of curtains and boards. Observe, When he made houses for himself in the city of David he prepared a place for the ark. Note, Wherever we build for ourselves, we must be sure to make room for God's ark, for a church in the house. 2. David now ordered that the Levites or priests should carry the ark upon their shoulders. Now he bethought himself of that which he could not but know before, that, none ought to carry the ark but the Levites, Ch1 15:2. The Kohathites carried it in their ordinary marches, and therefore had no wagons allotted them, because their work was to bear upon their shoulders, Num 7:9. But upon extraordinary occasions, as when they passed Jordan and compassed Jericho, the priests carried it. This rule was express, and yet David himself forgot it, and put the ark upon a cart. Note, Even those that are very knowing in the word of God, yet have it not always so ready to them as were to be wished when they have occasion to use it. Wise and good men may be guilty of an oversight, which, as soon as they are aware of, they will correct. David did not go about to justify what had been done amiss, nor to lay the blame on others, but owned himself guilty, with others, of not seeking God in a due order, and now took care not only to summon the Levites to the solemnity, as he did all Israel (Ch1 15:3), and had done before (Ch1 13:2), but to see that they assembled (Ch1 15:4), especially the sons of Aaron, Ch1 15:11. To them he gives the solemn charge (Ch1 15:12): You are the chief of the fathers of the Levites, therefore do you bring up the ark of the Lord. It is expected that those who are advanced above others in dignity should go before others in duty. "You are the chief, and therefore more is expected from you than from others, both by way of service yourselves and influence on the rest. You did it not at first, neither did your duty yourselves nor took care to instruct us, and we smarted for it: The Lord made a breach upon us; we have all smarted for your neglect; this has been by your means (see Mal 1:9): therefore sanctify yourselves, and mind your business." When those that have suffered for doing ill thus learn to do better the correction is well bestowed. 3. The Levites and priests sanctified themselves (Ch1 15:14) and were ready to carry the ark on their shoulders, according to the law, Ch1 15:15. Note, Many that are very remiss in their duty, if they were but faithfully told of it, would reform and do better. The breach upon Uzza made the priests more careful to sanctify themselves, that is, to cleanse themselves from all ceremonial pollution and to compose themselves for the solemn service of God, so as to strike a reverence upon the people. Some are made examples, that others may be made exemplary and very cautious. 4. Officers were appointed to be ready to bid the ark welcome, with every possible expression of joy, Ch1 15:16. David ordered the chief of the Levites to nominate those that they knew to be proficients for this service. Heman, Asaph, and Ethan, were now first appointed, Ch1 15:17. They undertook to sound with symbols (Ch1 15:19), others with psalteries (Ch1 15:20), others with harps, on the Sheminith, or eighth, eight notes higher or lower than the rest, according to the rules of the concert, Ch1 15:21. Some that were priests blew with the trumpet (Ch1 15:24), as was usual at the removal of the ark (Num 10:8) and at solemn feasts, Psa 81:3. And one was appointed for song (Ch1 15:22), for he was skilful in it, could sing well himself and instruct others. Note, As every man has received the gift, so he ought to minister the same, Pe1 4:10. And those that excel in any endowment should not only use it for the common good themselves, but teach others also, and not grudge to make others as wise as themselves. This way of praising God by musical instruments had not hitherto been in use. But David, being a prophet, instituted it by divine direction, and added it to the other carnal ordinances of that dispensation, as the apostle calls them, Heb 9:10. The New Testament keeps up singing of psalms, but has not appointed church-music. Some were appointed to be porters (Ch1 15:18), others door-keepers for the ark (Ch1 15:23, Ch1 15:24), and one of these was Obed-edom, who reckoned it no doubt a place of honour, and accepted it as recompence for the entertainment he had given to the ark. He had been for three months housekeeper to the ark, and indeed its landlord. But, when he might not be so any longer, such an affection had he for it that he was glad to be its door-keeper.

Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 1–24. Public domain.

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Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.

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