1 Chronicles 25:1

ΒΆ Moreover David and the captains of the host separated to the service of the sons of Asaph, and of Heman, and of Jeduthun, who should prophesy with harps, with psalteries, and with cymbals: and the number of the workmen according to their service was:

Moreover David {H1732} and the captains {H8269} of the host {H6635} separated {H914} to the service {H5656} of the sons {H1121} of Asaph {H623}, and of Heman {H1968}, and of Jeduthun {H3038}, who should prophesy {H5012}{H5030} with harps {H3658}, with psalteries {H5035}, and with cymbals {H4700}: and the number {H4557} of the workmen {H582}{H4399} according to their service {H5656} was:

For the service, David and the army commanders selected some of the descendants of Asaf, of Heman and of Y'dutun to prophesy with lyres, lutes and cymbals. The list of those doing this work, according to the type of work performed was:

Additionally, David and the commanders of the army set apart some of the sons of Asaph, Heman, and Jeduthun to prophesy with the accompaniment of lyres, harps, and cymbals. The following is the list of the men who performed this service:

Moreover David and the captains of the host set apart for the service certain of the sons of Asaph, and of Heman, and of Jeduthun, who should prophesy with harps, with psalteries, and with cymbals: and the number of them that did the work according to their service was:

Commentary

1 Chronicles 25:1 introduces us to King David's meticulous organization of musical worship in the temple, specifically designating certain Levites for prophetic service through instruments. This verse sets the stage for a detailed list of musicians and their roles, emphasizing the importance of ordered and inspired worship in ancient Israel.

Context

This chapter is part of a larger section in 1 Chronicles (chapters 23-27) that details King David's extensive organization of temple worship and administration before his death. Having prepared vast resources for the building of the temple, David also established the structure for its future operation. He systematically divided the Levites into courses for various duties, including gatekeepers, treasurers, judges, and, as seen here, musicians. This organization reflects David's deep commitment to establishing a proper and perpetual system of worship for the Lord, ensuring that every aspect of service was ordained and executed with excellence.

Key Themes

  • Organized Worship: David, under divine inspiration, did not leave worship to chance but meticulously planned and assigned roles. This highlights the biblical principle of intentionality and order in serving God.
  • Musical Prophecy: A unique aspect of this verse is the mention of Levites who "should prophesy with harps, with psalteries, and with cymbals." This indicates that music was not merely entertainment but a powerful vehicle for divine utterance, praise, and instruction, often leading to spiritual revelation or an outpouring of the Spirit. This form of prophetic music was integral to Israel's worship.
  • Levitical Service: The sons of Asaph, Heman, and Jeduthun were prominent Levitical families specifically chosen for their musical gifts and leadership in worship. Their service was dedicated to God, underscoring the sacred nature of their calling. Their roles were not arbitrary but "according to their service," implying a specific, divinely appointed purpose for each individual.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word translated "prophesy" is naba (נָבָא), which means to speak under divine inspiration. While it often refers to foretelling future events, in this context, it primarily signifies speaking forth God's truth, praise, or instruction, often in an ecstatic or Spirit-filled manner. This suggests that the music was not just skilled performance but an act of spiritual communion, where the musicians were conduits for God's message. The instruments mentioned (harps, psalteries, cymbals) were standard in ancient Israelite worship, creating a rich and vibrant soundscape for their devotion.

Practical Application

1 Chronicles 25:1 reminds us of the profound value of intentional and Spirit-led worship. It teaches that:

  • Excellence in Service: God desires our best in worship, whether through musical talent, administrative gifts, or any form of service. David's organization emphasizes diligence and preparation.
  • Music's Spiritual Power: Music can be a powerful tool for connecting with God and expressing spiritual truths. It can uplift, inspire, and even facilitate a prophetic or Spirit-filled experience, guiding hearts toward God.
  • Using Our Gifts: Like the sons of Asaph, Heman, and Jeduthun, we are called to use our unique talents and gifts in service to God and for the edification of His people (see 1 Corinthians 12:4-11).

This verse encourages believers today to approach worship with reverence, preparation, and an openness to the Holy Spirit, recognizing that our acts of praise can carry profound spiritual significance.

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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated β€” the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • 1 Chronicles 6:33

    And these [are] they that waited with their children. Of the sons of the Kohathites: Heman a singer, the son of Joel, the son of Shemuel,

  • 2 Kings 3:15

    But now bring me a minstrel. And it came to pass, when the minstrel played, that the hand of the LORD came upon him.

  • 1 Samuel 10:5

    After that thou shalt come to the hill of God, where [is] the garrison of the Philistines: and it shall come to pass, when thou art come thither to the city, that thou shalt meet a company of prophets coming down from the high place with a psaltery, and a tabret, and a pipe, and a harp, before them; and they shall prophesy:

  • 1 Chronicles 6:39

    And his brother Asaph, who stood on his right hand, [even] Asaph the son of Berachiah, the son of Shimea,

  • Nehemiah 12:27

    ΒΆ And at the dedication of the wall of Jerusalem they sought the Levites out of all their places, to bring them to Jerusalem, to keep the dedication with gladness, both with thanksgivings, and with singing, [with] cymbals, psalteries, and with harps.

  • Revelation 15:2

    And I saw as it were a sea of glass mingled with fire: and them that had gotten the victory over the beast, and over his image, and over his mark, [and] over the number of his name, stand on the sea of glass, having the harps of God.

  • Revelation 15:4

    Who shall not fear thee, O Lord, and glorify thy name? for [thou] only [art] holy: for all nations shall come and worship before thee; for thy judgments are made manifest.
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