1 Chronicles 24:27

KJV

The sons of Merari by Jaaziah; Beno, and Shoham, and Zaccur, and Ibri.

KJV (with Strong's)

The sons {H1121} of Merari {H4847} by Jaaziah {H3269}; Beno {H1121}, and Shoham {H7719}, and Zaccur {H2139}, and Ibri {H5681}.

Complete Jewish Bible

that is, the descendants of M'rari through his descendant Ya'aziyahu: Shoham, Zakur and 'Ivri.

Berean Standard Bible

The descendants of Merari from Jaaziah: Beno, Shoham, Zaccur, and Ibri.

American Standard Version

The sons of Merari: of Jaaziah, Beno, and Shoham, and Zaccur, and Ibri.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Chronicles 24:27 meticulously records Beno, Shoham, Zaccur, and Ibri as descendants of Merari through Jaaziah, thereby integrating them into the comprehensive Levitical divisions orchestrated by King David. This verse, embedded within an extensive administrative and genealogical record, profoundly underscores the divine emphasis on order, precise lineage, and dedicated service, all in preparation for the future, structured worship within the Temple, ensuring that only those legitimately appointed performed sacred duties.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within a significant section of 1 Chronicles (chapters 23-26) that details King David's meticulous organization of the Levitical and priestly courses in anticipation of the future Temple service. Chapter 23 provides a general overview of the Levites' duties, while chapter 24 specifically outlines the divisions of the priests (the sons of Aaron) and then proceeds to detail the remaining Levitical families. Verses 20-31 of chapter 24 meticulously list the specific families within the three major Levitical clans—Gershon, Kohath, and Merari—who were assigned various duties. Verse 27, by precisely naming specific sons of Merari through Jaaziah, contributes to this exhaustive record, showcasing the thoroughness with which David prepared for the administration of sacred worship, even prior to the Temple's construction under Solomon.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** During his reign, King David, having successfully unified the kingdom and brought the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem, dedicated substantial effort to preparing for the construction of the Temple and its perpetual service. This era was marked by a profound cultural emphasis on the preservation of tribal and family lineages, which were indispensable for determining land inheritance, establishing social identity, and, most critically, ensuring legitimate participation in religious functions. The Levites, as a tribe uniquely set apart for sacred service, had specific roles and responsibilities outlined in the Mosaic Law. David's extensive organization, while perhaps an expansion, was deeply rooted in these ancient traditions, guaranteeing that the elaborate system of worship would be properly managed by divinely appointed and genealogically verified personnel. The detailed lists in Chronicles reflect a deep cultural value placed on historical record-keeping and the preservation of identity through an unbroken lineage.

* **Key Themes:** The meticulous enumeration of names and assignments in this passage, including the sons of Merari, illuminates several profound theological and narrative themes. Firstly, it highlights **Divine Order and Administration**, revealing God's desire for a highly organized and structured system of worship, where every individual possesses a designated place and role within the community, thereby preventing chaos and fostering reverence. Secondly, the centrality of **Lineage and Legitimacy** is paramount; these genealogies were not mere historical curiosities but served as vital legal instruments for establishing the legitimate claim of individuals to priestly and Levitical roles, ensuring continuity and unwavering adherence to God's commands for sacred service, as seen in the divine mandate for the Levites in [Numbers 3:6-8](/numbers/3-6-8 "Numbers 3:6-8 - The Levites' Service to Aaron"). Thirdly, this detailed organization represents **Preparation for Temple Service**, a foundational and strategic step in readying the entire nation for the construction and perpetual operation of the Temple, even though Solomon would ultimately build it, underscoring David's visionary foresight and unwavering dedication to God's house. Finally, the inclusion of seemingly minor names, such as those in [1 Chronicles 24:27](/1_chronicles/24-27 "1 Chronicles 24:27 - Sons of Merari"), points to **God's Attention to Detail**, indicating that every person and their specific role matters profoundly in God's grand plan and historical record, a principle beautifully echoed in the New Testament's teaching on the interdependent nature of the body of Christ in [1 Corinthians 12:27](/1_corinthians/12-27 "1 Corinthians 12:27 - You are the body of Christ").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Beno (Hebrew, _bên_):** While listed as a proper name here, the Hebrew word H1121 (_bên_) literally means "son." The text's use of "Beno" (בנו) could be interpreted as "his son," suggesting a common noun used as a name, or a unique proper name derived from it. Its inclusion as a distinct individual in this meticulous record underscores the comprehensive nature of the Levitical genealogies, even when the name itself points to a fundamental familial relationship, signifying one who builds or continues the family line.
* **Merari (Hebrew, _Mᵉrârîy_):** Deriving from a root meaning "bitter," Merari was one of the three sons of Levi, whose descendants formed a major division of the Levites. The Merarites were specifically entrusted with the weighty responsibility of carrying and maintaining the heavier components of the tabernacle, such as its frames, bars, pillars, and bases (as meticulously detailed in [Numbers 3:36-37](/numbers/3-36-37 "Numbers 3:36-37 - Duties of the Merarites")). Their prominent inclusion in David's organizational scheme highlights the enduring continuity and vital importance of their sacred duties, transitioning from the wilderness tabernacle to the future, permanent Temple.
* **Ibri (Hebrew, _ʻIbrîy_):** This name is particularly striking as it is identical to the Hebrew word for "Hebrew" (עברי). While it functions as a personal name in this context, its etymological connection to the broader identity of the Israelite people might subtly reinforce the profound significance of these individuals as integral members of God's chosen nation, set apart for sacred service. Its presence within a precise genealogical list emphasizes the deep, interwoven connection between individual identity, familial lineage, and the national heritage within ancient Israel.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"The sons of Merari by Jaaziah;":** This opening clause precisely establishes the specific lineage being detailed. It traces the individuals back to Merari, one of Levi's sons, thereby affirming their tribal affiliation as Levites. The subsequent phrase "by Jaaziah" further refines this lineage, identifying Jaaziah as a specific patriarch or the head of a distinct family branch within the broader Merarite clan. This level of genealogical precision is characteristic of biblical records, which served to validate identity, inheritance rights, and, crucially in this context, eligibility for sacred service within the divinely appointed system.
* **"Beno, and Shoham, and Zaccur, and Ibri.":** This concluding clause enumerates the four specific individuals identified as the "sons" (or direct descendants) of Jaaziah. The names—Beno, Shoham, Zaccur, and Ibri—are presented as distinct persons, each holding a recognized place. Their inclusion in this meticulous record signifies their importance within the intricate Levitical structure organized by King David. While the text does not elaborate on their individual contributions, their very presence in this sacred, divinely inspired text affirms that each person within God's divinely ordained system of worship held a recognized and valued position. This detail underscores the comprehensive nature of David's preparations for the Temple, ensuring that every family branch was meticulously accounted for.

#### Literary Devices
The primary literary device employed in 1 Chronicles 24:27, and indeed throughout much of 1 Chronicles 23-26, is **Genealogy** and **List**. These are far from dry records; they serve profound theological and historical purposes. The meticulous listing of names functions as a form of **Validation**, authenticating the legitimate claims of individuals to priestly and Levitical roles, thereby ensuring the purity, continuity, and divine authorization of worship. The very act of recording these names demonstrates **Emphasis through Repetition**, as similar detailed lists appear throughout the books of Chronicles, powerfully reinforcing the importance of divine order, established lineage, and the sacred appointment of those who serve. Furthermore, the inclusion of such granular detail can be seen as a form of **Synecdoche**, where the specific names represent the larger concept of comprehensive organization and the divine mandate for structured, legitimate worship. This seemingly mundane list, therefore, becomes a powerful testament to God's profound attention to detail and His unwavering desire for an orderly and legitimate system of worship among His people.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
1 Chronicles 24:27, though a single verse within an extensive genealogy, powerfully contributes to the overarching biblical themes of divine order, the importance of faithful stewardship, and God's meticulous attention to every detail of His redemptive plan. The careful organization of the Levites reflects God's character as a God of order, not chaos, and His desire for His people to approach Him with reverence, structure, and intentionality. This verse underscores the profound truth that every individual, even those seemingly minor in a long list, has a designated place and purpose within God's grand design for worship and community. It speaks to the timeless principle that faithfulness in seemingly small or administrative tasks is absolutely vital for the proper functioning of God's kingdom and the continuity of His covenant promises across generations.

* [Numbers 4:47-49](/numbers/4-47-49 "Numbers 4:47-49 - Census and Service of the Levites") - Details the specific ages and service requirements for the Levites, highlighting the divine mandate for their organized and structured service.
* [Nehemiah 12:44-47](/nehemiah/12-44-47 "Nehemiah 12:44-47 - Provisions and Order for Priests and Levites") - Illustrates the continued importance of the Levitical divisions and their support centuries later, demonstrating the enduring legacy of David's meticulous organization.
* [Ephesians 4:11-12](/ephesians/4-11-12 "Ephesians 4:11-12 - Gifts for the Building Up of the Body") - Connects the Old Testament concept of specific roles and functions within God's people to the New Testament understanding of spiritual gifts for the building up and maturing of the body of Christ.

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
While a genealogical list might initially appear distant from the complexities of modern life, 1 Chronicles 24:27 offers profound and enduring insights for contemporary believers. It serves as a powerful reminder that God is a God of intricate order and divine purpose, and He values every single individual within His overarching plan. Just as Beno, Shoham, Zaccur, and Ibri had their precisely designated place in the meticulous organization of the Temple service, so too does every believer have a unique, vital, and divinely appointed role within the vibrant body of Christ. This verse calls us to embrace our specific callings, no matter how seemingly small, administrative, or "behind-the-scenes," with unwavering diligence and faithfulness, recognizing that our individual contributions are indispensable parts of a larger, divinely orchestrated work. It encourages us to deeply appreciate the importance of structure, intentionality, and excellence in our corporate worship, our church communities, and our personal lives, fostering an environment where peace, effectiveness, and profound reverence can flourish. Furthermore, it challenges us to consider the legacy of faithfulness we are actively building, contributing to the ongoing work of God's kingdom for the benefit of future generations.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the meticulous detail in this verse challenge my perception of what God considers "important" or "significant" in His kingdom?**
* **In what practical ways can I embrace order, intentionality, and excellence in my personal life and service, thereby reflecting God's character as a God of divine order?**
* **How does understanding the specific, divinely ordained roles of the Levites inform my understanding of my own unique spiritual gifts and my irreplaceable place within the body of Christ?**
* **What "administrative" or "behind-the-scenes" tasks within my church or community might God be specifically calling me to serve in faithfully, even if they seem minor or unglamorous?**

### FAQ

**Why are these seemingly "minor" names included in the Bible?**

Answer: The inclusion of names like Beno, Shoham, Zaccur, and Ibri, even without detailed narratives about their lives, is crucial for several profound reasons. Primarily, it underscores the meticulous nature of God's historical record and His divine attention to every individual within His grand plan. In ancient Israel, genealogies served as vital legal and social documents, establishing identity, tribal affiliation, land rights, and, critically, legitimacy for sacred service. For the Levites, their precise lineage determined their unquestionable right to serve in the tabernacle and, later, the Temple. Thus, these names validate the comprehensive organization of the Levitical priesthood by King David, ensuring that only those divinely appointed and genealogically verified performed sacred duties. It also teaches us a timeless theological truth: every person, no matter how seemingly insignificant in human eyes, has a recognized and valued place in God's grand design, a principle beautifully emphasized in [1 Corinthians 12:27](/1_corinthians/12-27 "1 Corinthians 12:27 - You are the body of Christ").

**What was the role of the Merarites in the Temple service?**

Answer: The Merarites were one of the three main divisions of the Levites, descended directly from Merari, one of Levi's sons. Their primary responsibilities, established from the time of the wilderness tabernacle, involved the care and transport of the heavier and more structural components of the sacred dwelling. This included the frames, bars, pillars, and bases of the tabernacle (as meticulously described in [Numbers 3:36-37](/numbers/3-36-37 "Numbers 3:36-37 - Duties of the Merarites")). When the permanent Temple was built, their duties evolved but remained vital, transitioning to maintaining the Temple structure, serving as gatekeepers, treasurers, officers, and judges, as further detailed in later chapters of 1 Chronicles (e.g., [1 Chronicles 26:10-19](/1_chronicles/26-10-19 "1 Chronicles 26:10-19 - Gatekeepers, Treasurers, and Officers")). Their inclusion in David's comprehensive organization in [1 Chronicles 24](/1_chronicles/24 "1 Chronicles 24 - Divisions of Priests and Levites") demonstrates the enduring continuity and indispensable nature of their structural and administrative roles in facilitating proper, orderly worship.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While 1 Chronicles 24:27 appears to be a mere genealogical entry, it finds its profound and ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in the perfect order and legitimate priesthood established by Jesus Christ. The meticulous organization of the Levitical service, with its emphasis on lineage and designated roles, powerfully foreshadows the new covenant, where Christ Himself is the ultimate and perfect [High Priest](/hebrews/4-14 "Hebrews 4:14 - Jesus, Our Great High Priest"), whose lineage is not merely human but divine, tracing back to the eternal Son of God. The Old Testament system, with its detailed divisions and prescribed duties, served as a "shadow of the good things to come" ([Hebrews 10:1](/hebrews/10-1 "Hebrews 10:1 - Shadow of the Good Things to Come")), with Christ as the divine and eternal reality. In Him, the need for a physical temple and a human priesthood to mediate access to God is completely fulfilled, as He has opened "a new and living way" ([Hebrews 10:20](/hebrews/10-20 "Hebrews 10:20 - A New and Living Way")) directly to the Father through His perfect sacrifice. Furthermore, just as every Merarite had a specific place in the earthly temple's service, Christ, as the sovereign head of His body, the Church, meticulously assigns spiritual gifts and unique roles to every believer, making them "a royal priesthood" ([1 Peter 2:9](/1_peter/2-9 "1 Peter 2:9 - A Royal Priesthood")) to offer spiritual sacrifices of praise and to proclaim His excellencies. Thus, the divine order seen in 1 Chronicles points forward to the perfect, eternal order established by Christ, where all who believe are legitimate and active participants in His kingdom and service.

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

Exodus 6:19

And the sons of Merari; Mahali and Mushi: these [are] the families of Levi according to their generations.

Numbers 3:20

And the sons of Merari by their families; Mahli, and Mushi. These [are] the families of the Levites according to the house of their fathers.

1 Chronicles 6:19

The sons of Merari; Mahli, and Mushi. And these [are] the families of the Levites according to their fathers.

1 Chronicles 23:21

The sons of Merari; Mahli, and Mushi. The sons of Mahli; Eleazar, and Kish.