1 Chronicles 15:20

KJV

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

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};

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?].

Berean Standard Bible

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

American Standard Version

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

Commentary

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

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is deeply embedded within the narrative of King David's second, successful attempt to bring the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem, following the tragic failure of the first attempt detailed in [1 Chronicles 13](/1_chronicles/13 "1 Chronicles 13 - Uzzah and the Ark"). Learning from Uzzah's death, which occurred because the Ark was transported incorrectly, David meticulously prepares for this second transfer. [1 Chronicles 15](/1_chronicles/15 "1 Chronicles 15 - The Ark Brought to Jerusalem") describes David's careful adherence to God's instructions, specifically that only the Levites were to carry the Ark on their shoulders ([1 Chronicles 15:2](/1_chronicles/15-2 "1 Chronicles 15:2 - David's Instructions for Carrying the Ark")). The chapter details the sanctification of the Levites, the appointment of a vast company of singers and musicians, and the specific instruments to be used. Verse 20, therefore, is a precise detail within this larger account of reverent preparation and joyful celebration, emphasizing the personal and organized nature of the worship.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Israel, the Ark of the Covenant was the most sacred object, symbolizing God's presence among His people and serving as the mercy seat where He communed with them ([Exodus 25:22](/exodus/25-22 "Exodus 25:22 - God's Presence on the Mercy Seat")). Its transport was a profoundly spiritual and national event. The Levites, as a tribe set apart for priestly and temple service, held unique responsibilities, including the handling of sacred objects and leading worship. Music played a central role in Israelite worship, not merely as entertainment, but as a divinely ordained means of expressing praise, lament, and devotion. Kings like David were not only political leaders but also spiritual figures responsible for the proper ordering of worship. The meticulous organization seen here reflects a culture deeply aware of God's holiness and the need for a precise, reverent approach to Him, especially after the recent divine judgment.
* **Key Themes:** 1 Chronicles 15:20 profoundly contributes to several key themes within the book of Chronicles and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it highlights **Organized Worship**, demonstrating David's leadership in ensuring that the approach to God was structured, intentional, and according to divine command, in stark contrast to the previous chaotic attempt. Secondly, it emphasizes the **Centrality of Music** as an indispensable element of Israelite worship and celebration, serving as a powerful medium for expressing joy, praise, and reverence during the Ark's procession. Thirdly, the verse underscores **Levitical Service**, showcasing the specific and vital role of the Levites as divinely appointed personnel for handling sacred objects and leading worship through music, illustrating their dedication to God's service. Finally, this passage reinforces the 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 respect for the Lord and His instructions, a lesson learned from the tragic events of [1 Chronicles 13](/1_chronicles/13 "1 Chronicles 13 - Uzzah and the Ark").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Psalteries (Hebrew, _nebel'_):** This term 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. It typically had a triangular or trapezoidal shape, with strings stretched over a frame and plucked by hand. 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.
* **Alamoth (Hebrew, _‘alamoth'_):** This Hebrew word literally means "maidens" or "young women." In a musical context, as found in the superscription of [Psalm 46](/psalms/46 "Psalm 46 - God is Our Refuge and Strength"), it is widely interpreted as a musical direction indicating a high-pitched, soprano, or treble register. This suggests that the psalteries were played in a higher octave or that the accompanying voices were in a higher range, contributing to a specific, perhaps bright and uplifting, sonic texture for the worship. It points to a sophisticated understanding of musical arrangement in ancient Israel.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And Zechariah, and Aziel, and Shemiramoth, and Jehiel, and Unni, and Eliab, and Maaseiah, and Benaiah, ":** This detailed listing of names highlights the meticulous organization of the worship service and the specific appointment of individuals to sacred tasks. It underscores that these were not random participants but chosen and consecrated Levites, each playing a designated role in the solemn and joyous procession. The Chronicler's emphasis on names reflects the importance of individual accountability and the personal commitment required for service in God's presence. It also serves as a historical record, validating the legitimacy and divine order of the event.
* **"with psalteries on Alamoth;":** This phrase specifies both the instrument and the musical register employed by these Levites. The use of "psalteries" (stringed instruments) indicates a melodic and harmonious contribution to the overall soundscape of the procession. The direction "on Alamoth" further refines this, suggesting a high-pitched or treble performance, which would have added a distinct quality to the music, perhaps conveying a sense of lightness, joy, or elevation appropriate for the sacred occasion. This detail emphasizes the intentionality and artistry involved in creating an atmosphere suitable for God's presence.

#### Literary Devices
The Chronicler's presentation in 1 Chronicles 15:20 employs several literary devices to convey its message. The most prominent is **Cataloging** (or listing), seen in the enumeration of the eight Levite musicians by name. This detailed list serves to emphasize the meticulous 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. Another device is **Technical Detail**, specifically in the mention of "psalteries on Alamoth." This precision regarding instruments and musical register underscores the intentionality and excellence with which the worship was conducted. It reveals a sophisticated understanding of musical arrangement and the importance of offering the highest quality of artistry in service to God. The combination of these devices paints a picture of a carefully planned, reverent, and 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, 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 reverence for His holiness and the overflowing joy of His presence. This passage also implicitly teaches about the importance of learning from past failures (Uzzah's death) 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 access provided by the New Covenant.

* [Exodus 28:1](/exodus/28-1 "Exodus 28:1 - Priests Appointed")
* [Psalm 33:2](/psalms/33-2 "Psalm 33:2 - Praise with Lyre and Harp")
* [Nehemiah 12:46](/nehemiah/12-46 "Nehemiah 12:46 - David and Asaph's Musical Leadership")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The meticulous preparation and joyful, ordered worship described in 1 Chronicles 15:20 offer profound lessons for believers today. Just as David ensured the highest quality of musical talent and organization for the Ark's procession, we are called to offer our best in all aspects of our worship to God. This includes intentionality in our personal devotion, thoughtful preparation for corporate gatherings, and the diligent use of our spiritual gifts for His glory. Music, as demonstrated by the Levites, remains a powerful medium for expressing praise, prayer, and devotion, capable of uplifting spirits and creating an atmosphere conducive to experiencing God's presence. Our service to God, whether in formal church roles or in our daily lives, should ideally be characterized by the same joy and willingness evident in these musicians. Ultimately, this passage reminds us that true worship and service must be done according to God's revealed will, not merely human ingenuity, echoing the New Testament call to worship "in spirit and truth" ([John 4:24](/john/4-24 "John 4:24 - Worship in Spirit and Truth")), 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?**
* **In what ways can we, like the Levites, use our gifts and talents with excellence and joy in service to God?**
* **What does "worship in spirit and truth" ([John 4:24](/john/4-24 "John 4:24 - Worship in Spirit and Truth")) mean in light of 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 roles. Secondly, it highlights the 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 appointment and the divine 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 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.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While 1 Chronicles 15:20 describes Old Covenant worship, its themes find profound Christ-centered fulfillment. The Ark, symbolizing God's 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](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh")). The Levites, who were consecrated to facilitate access to God's presence through their service and music, foreshadow Christ as our ultimate and perfect High Priest and mediator, through whom we now have direct access to God's throne of grace ([Hebrews 4:14-16](/hebrews/4-14-16 "Hebrews 4:14-16 - Jesus, Our Great High Priest"); [1 Timothy 2:5](/1_timothy/2-5 "1 Timothy 2:5 - One Mediator Between God and Man")). 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](/john/4-23-24 "John 4:23-24 - True Worshipers")), empowered by the Holy Spirit and centered on the person and 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 blood of Jesus ([Hebrews 10:19-22](/hebrews/10-19-22 "Hebrews 10:19-22 - Confidence to Enter the Most Holy Place")).

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.

Cross-References

Psalms 46:1

¶ To the chief Musician for the sons of Korah, A Song upon Alamoth. God [is] our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.

Psalms 46:11

The LORD of hosts [is] with us; the God of Jacob [is] our refuge. Selah.