1 Chronicles 25:4

KJV

Of Heman: the sons of Heman; Bukkiah, Mattaniah, Uzziel, Shebuel, and Jerimoth, Hananiah, Hanani, Eliathah, Giddalti, and Romamtiezer, Joshbekashah, Mallothi, Hothir, [and] Mahazioth:

KJV (with Strong's)

Of Heman {H1968}: the sons {H1121} of Heman {H1968}; Bukkiah {H1232}, Mattaniah {H4983}, Uzziel {H5816}, Shebuel {H7619}, and Jerimoth {H3406}, Hananiah {H2608}, Hanani {H2607}, Eliathah {H448}, Giddalti {H1437}, and Romamtiezer {H7320}, Joshbekashah {H3436}, Mallothi {H4413}, Hothir {H1956}, and Mahazioth {H4238}:

Complete Jewish Bible

Of Heman, the sons of Heman: Bukiyahu, Mattanyahu, 'Uzi'el, Sh'vu'el, Yerimot, Hananyah, Hanani, Eli'atah, Gidalti, Romamti-'ezer, Yoshb'kashah, Maloti, Hotir and Machzi'ot;

Berean Standard Bible

From the sons of Heman: Bukkiah, Mattaniah, Uzziel, Shebuel, Jerimoth, Hananiah, Hanani, Eliathah, Giddalti, Romamti-ezer, Joshbekashah, Mallothi, Hothir, and Mahazioth.

American Standard Version

Of Heman; the sons of Heman: Bukkiah, Mattaniah, Uzziel, Shebuel, and Jerimoth, Hananiah, Hanani, Eliathah, Giddalti, and Romamti-ezer, Joshbekashah, Mallothi, Hothir, Mahazioth.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Chronicles 25:4 meticulously lists the fourteen sons of Heman—Bukkiah, Mattaniah, Uzziel, Shebuel, Jerimoth, Hananiah, Hanani, Eliathah, Giddalti, Romamtiezer, Joshbekashah, Mallothi, Hothir, and Mahazioth. This verse is a precise record within the Old Testament, detailing the lineage of one of the principal Levitical musicians appointed by King David for organized musical service in the tabernacle, which would later transition to the temple. It underscores the profound commitment to structured worship and the generational dedication to sacred duties that characterized David's reign.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within 1 Chronicles 25, a chapter dedicated to the meticulous organization and division of the Levites for musical service in the house of the Lord. Following the broader administrative arrangements for the Levites in [1 Chronicles 23](/1_chronicles/23 "1 Chronicles 23 - Divisions of the Levites") and the priestly divisions in [1 Chronicles 24](/1_chronicles/24 "1 Chronicles 24 - Divisions of the Priests"), chapter 25 specifically focuses on the musicians. King David, along with the commanders of the army, set apart these individuals for "prophesying with lyres, harps, and cymbals" ([1 Chronicles 25:1](/1_chronicles/25-1 "1 Chronicles 25:1 - Organization of Temple Musicians")). Heman, along with Asaph and Jeduthun, were designated as the three chief musicians. Verse 4, by listing Heman's numerous sons, highlights the depth and breadth of this organized worship structure, emphasizing the hereditary nature of these sacred roles and the extensive personnel involved in the temple's musical ministry.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The period of King David's reign (c. 1010-970 BC) was a pivotal time for Israel, marked by the consolidation of the kingdom and the establishment of Jerusalem as both its political and religious capital. Although Solomon would ultimately build the Temple, David meticulously laid the groundwork for its future operations, including the detailed organization of the Levitical services. Music was not merely entertainment in ancient Israel; it was an integral part of worship, prophecy, celebration, and lament. The Levites, as a tribe set apart for temple service, had specific hereditary duties, and music was a preeminent one. The detailed enumeration of names, as seen in this verse, reflects the ancient Near Eastern practice of meticulously recording lineages and official appointments, underscoring the legitimacy and divine sanction of these roles. Each name, often carrying a specific meaning, also served as a testament to the individual's identity and their family's contribution to the nation's spiritual life.
* **Key Themes:** This verse, though a list of names, contributes significantly to several overarching themes in Chronicles. First, it powerfully illustrates the theme of **Divine Order and Organization**, emphasizing that God desires and commands an orderly and excellent approach to worship, as seen in David's meticulous planning for the temple service ([1 Corinthians 14:40](/1_corinthians/14-40 "1 Corinthians 14:40 - God of Order in Worship")). Second, it highlights **Hereditary Service and Legacy**, demonstrating how sacred duties and faithfulness to God were passed down through families, creating a continuous tradition of dedication to the Lord. Third, the primary function of Heman's sons was **Worship and Praise**, underscoring the centrality of music in exalting God and leading the people in spiritual expression. Finally, the detailed listing of each name, even in a long roster, speaks to the **Significance of the Individual within the Collective**, affirming that every person, regardless of their perceived role, is valued and plays a vital part in God's grand design for worship and service, as God knows each of His servants by name ([Exodus 33:17](/exodus/33-17 "Exodus 33:17 - God Knows Moses by Name")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Heman (Hebrew, _Hêmān_):** Meaning "faithful" or "trustworthy," Heman's name aptly reflects his prominent position as one of the three chief musicians appointed by King David. His faithfulness in this significant role, overseeing such a large and influential musical family, was foundational to the organized worship of Israel.
* **Sons (Hebrew, _bānīm_):** This term emphasizes the generational aspect of the Levitical service. The sheer number of Heman's sons (fourteen) highlights the extensive nature of his family's contribution to the temple's musical ministry, signifying a deep and broad commitment passed down through lineage, ensuring continuity of sacred duties.
* **Mahazioth (Hebrew, _Maḥăzîʼôṯ_):** Meaning "visions" or "revelations," this is the last name listed among Heman's sons. Its placement might subtly underscore the prophetic dimension of the music these Levites performed, as described in [1 Chronicles 25:1](/1_chronicles/25-1 "1 Chronicles 25:1 - Prophesying with Music"), suggesting that their musical offerings were not merely artistic but also divinely inspired and revelatory.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Of Heman: the sons of Heman;":** This opening phrase immediately establishes the focus on Heman, one of the three principal musicians, and introduces his direct descendants. It signifies the hereditary nature of the Levitical musical service, where families were designated and trained for specific roles in worship, ensuring a continuous and organized ministry.
* **"Bukkiah, Mattaniah, Uzziel, Shebuel, and Jerimoth, Hananiah, Hanani, Eliathah, Giddalti, and Romamtiezer, Joshbekashah, Mallothi, Hothir, [and] Mahazioth:":** This extensive enumeration of fourteen names—a remarkable number for a single family—underscores the meticulous record-keeping of the Chronicler and the sheer scale of David's organized worship. Each name represents an individual dedicated to the sacred musical ministry, emphasizing that every person, even within a large group, was known and valued in their contribution to Israel's praise and service to God. The list itself is a testament to the depth of the commitment to worship.

#### Literary Devices
The primary literary device at play in 1 Chronicles 25:4 is **Enumeration** or **List/Genealogy**. This is not merely a dry roster but a deliberate and purposeful recording. The detailed listing of Heman's fourteen sons serves to underscore the meticulous organization of the temple worship under King David, demonstrating the breadth and depth of the Levitical musical ministry. It provides historical continuity, validates the legitimacy of these divisions, and emphasizes the hereditary nature of the service. Furthermore, the sheer number of names, particularly from one family, highlights the significant contribution of specific lineages to the collective worship of Israel. The device of **Repetition**, though subtle in this verse ("Of Heman: the sons of Heman"), reinforces the familial connection and the passing down of a sacred calling from father to son.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The detailed listing of names in 1 Chronicles 25:4, far from being a mere historical footnote, carries profound theological weight. It speaks to God's meticulous nature and His desire for order and excellence in worship. The fact that each name is recorded signifies that every individual, no matter how seemingly small their role, is known and valued by God within His grand plan. This commitment to organized, generational service for divine praise foreshadows the New Testament understanding of the church as a body where each member has a unique, divinely appointed function, all contributing to the glory of God. It underscores the enduring importance of corporate worship and the legacy of faithfulness passed down through generations.

* [Exodus 28:1](/exodus/28-1 "Priestly Consecration")
* [Psalm 150:3-5](/psalm/150-3 "Instruments of Praise")
* [Ephesians 4:11-12](/ephesians/4-11 "Gifts for the Church's Edification")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Even seemingly mundane lists of names in Scripture, like 1 Chronicles 25:4, are imbued with profound spiritual lessons for believers today. This verse reminds us that God is a God of order, who delights in organized and dedicated service. The meticulous record of Heman's sons underscores that every individual, regardless of how prominent or obscure their role may seem, is valued and has a vital part to play in the grand symphony of God's kingdom. It challenges us to consider our own unique gifts and callings within the body of Christ, encouraging us to contribute faithfully and wholeheartedly to the collective worship and work of God. The legacy of Heman's family also speaks to the enduring power of generational faithfulness, inspiring us to cultivate a spiritual heritage that can be passed down, fostering a continuous dedication to serving the Lord in our families and communities. Our service, like theirs, should be an act of worship, done "heartily, as for the Lord and not for men" ([Colossians 3:23](/colossians/3-23 "Colossians 3:23 - Work Heartily for the Lord")).

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the meticulous organization of temple worship under David challenge or inspire my approach to worship today, both personally and corporately?**
* **In what ways am I, or my family, actively contributing to a legacy of faithful service and worship to God for future generations?**
* **Considering the value God places on each name in this detailed list, how does this inform my understanding of my own unique role and significance in God's kingdom and the church?**

### FAQ

**Why does the Bible include such long lists of names, like those in 1 Chronicles 25:4?**

Answer: Such detailed lists serve multiple crucial purposes. First, they provide a meticulous historical record, validating lineages and official appointments, which was vital for establishing legitimacy and continuity in ancient Israel. For example, the genealogies in [Numbers 1](/numbers/1 "Numbers 1 - Census of Israel") or [Matthew 1](/matthew/1 "Matthew 1 - Genealogy of Jesus") serve similar functions. Second, they underscore God's attention to detail and His desire for order in His house and service. Third, they highlight the importance of every individual, demonstrating that each person, even within a large collective, is known and valued by God. Finally, these lists often emphasize the generational aspect of God's covenant and the passing down of faith and responsibility through families, showcasing the continuity of God's plan across time.

**What was the significance of music in ancient Israelite worship, as exemplified by Heman's sons?**

Answer: Music in ancient Israelite worship was far more than mere entertainment; it was a profound and integral spiritual discipline. It served as a powerful medium for expressing praise, thanksgiving, lament, and prophecy. Musicians like Heman and his sons were not just performers but were often seen as ministers who facilitated a deeper encounter with God. Music could inspire courage before battle ([2 Chronicles 20:21](/2_chronicles/20-21 "2 Chronicles 20:21 - Singers Leading the Army")), accompany prophetic utterances ([2 Kings 3:15](/2_kings/3-15 "2 Kings 3:15 - Elisha and the Musician")), and create an atmosphere conducive to divine presence. The Psalms themselves are largely a collection of songs and prayers, demonstrating the centrality of musical expression in their spiritual lives ([Psalm 33:2-3](/psalm/33-2 "Psalm 33:2-3 - Praise with Music")). Their dedicated service ensured that worship was vibrant, orderly, and deeply spiritual.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The meticulous organization of temple worship under King David, including the detailed roles of musicians like Heman and his sons, finds its ultimate fulfillment and deeper meaning in Jesus Christ. The Old Testament tabernacle and temple, with their elaborate rituals and dedicated personnel, were shadows pointing to the reality found in Christ. He is the ultimate High Priest ([Hebrews 4:14](/hebrews/4-14 "Hebrews 4:14 - Jesus, Our Great High Priest")) who offered the perfect, once-for-all sacrifice, rendering the daily temple sacrifices obsolete. Moreover, Jesus declared Himself to be the true Temple, whose body would be destroyed and raised in three days ([John 2:19-21](/john/2-19 "John 2:19-21 - Jesus Predicts His Resurrection")), signifying that in Him, God's presence dwells fully among humanity. The musical praise offered by Heman's sons foreshadows the eternal worship of God and the Lamb in heaven, where a new song is sung by those redeemed by Christ's blood ([Revelation 5:9-10](/revelation/5-9 "Revelation 5:9-10 - The New Song")). In Christ, all believers become part of a "royal priesthood" and a "holy nation" ([1 Peter 2:9](/1_peter/2-9 "1 Peter 2:9 - A Chosen Race, a Royal Priesthood")), called to offer spiritual sacrifices of praise and thanksgiving ([Hebrews 13:15](/hebrews/13-15 "Hebrews 13:15 - Offering Sacrifices of Praise")). The detailed enumeration of Heman's sons, each with a specific role, beautifully prefigures the New Testament church, the body of Christ, where every member is uniquely gifted and called by the Spirit to serve for the edification of the whole, with Christ as the head orchestrating all service in perfect harmony and love ([Ephesians 4:16](/ephesians/4-16 "Ephesians 4:16 - The Body Built Up in Love")).

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

1 Chronicles 16:41

And with them Heman and Jeduthun, and the rest that were chosen, who were expressed by name, to give thanks to the LORD, because his mercy [endureth] for ever;

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 88:1

¶ A Song [or] Psalm for the sons of Korah, to the chief Musician upon Mahalath Leannoth, Maschil of Heman the Ezrahite. O LORD God of my salvation, I have cried day [and] night before thee:

1 Chronicles 24:30

The sons also of Mushi; Mahli, and Eder, and Jerimoth. These [were] the sons of the Levites after the house of their fathers.

1 Chronicles 15:17

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;

1 Chronicles 25:20

The thirteenth to Shubael, [he], his sons, and his brethren, [were] twelve:

1 Chronicles 15:19

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