1 Chronicles 25:5

All these [were] the sons of Heman the king's seer in the words of God, to lift up the horn. And God gave to Heman fourteen sons and three daughters.

All these were the sons {H1121} of Heman {H1968} the king's {H4428} seer {H2374} in the words {H1697} of God {H430}, to lift up {H7311} the horn {H7161}. And God {H430} gave {H5414} to Heman {H1968} fourteen {H702}{H6240} sons {H1121} and three {H7969} daughters {H1323}.

all these sons of Heman, the king's seer in matters pertaining to God, were there to exalt [God]. God gave Heman fourteen sons and three daughters.

All these sons of Heman the king’s seer were given him through the promises of God to exalt him, for God had given Heman fourteen sons and three daughters.

All these were the sons of Heman the king’s seer in the words of God, to lift up the horn. And God gave to Heman fourteen sons and three daughters.

Commentary

1 Chronicles 25:5 highlights the prominent role of Heman, a chief musician and spiritual leader during King David's reign, emphasizing his divine calling and God's blessing upon his large family.

Context of 1 Chronicles 25:5

This verse is part of a larger section in 1 Chronicles (chapters 23-27) detailing King David's meticulous organization of the Levites for temple service, particularly focusing on the roles of priests, gatekeepers, and musicians. Chapter 25 specifically outlines the divisions of the temple musicians, led by Heman, Asaph, and Jeduthun. This organization underscores the importance of structured worship and praise in ancient Israel, as seen in David's comprehensive arrangements for the Levites.

Key Themes

  • Divine Appointment and Ministry: Heman is described as "the king's seer in the words of God," indicating he was not merely a musician but also a prophet or an inspired individual who received divine revelation. His musical ministry was deeply intertwined with God's word and purpose.
  • The Centrality of Worship: The elaborate organization of musicians, including Heman's 14 sons and 3 daughters who also served, demonstrates the vital role of music and praise in the worship life of Israel. The phrase "to lift up the horn" refers to the use of musical instruments, likely trumpets or horns, in the temple service, symbolizing praise and proclamation.
  • God's Blessing on Faithfulness: The mention of Heman's large family (fourteen sons and three daughters) is presented as a direct result of God's favor. This large progeny, all involved in the musical service, signifies God's blessing on Heman's devoted and inspired ministry, reflecting the ancient understanding that children are a heritage and reward from the Lord.

Linguistic Insights

The term "seer" (Hebrew: chozeh) denotes one who sees visions or receives divine communication, elevating Heman's role beyond a mere musical conductor to that of an inspired prophet. His service was "in the words of God," implying that his music and prophecy were directly guided by divine inspiration, making his contribution to worship profound and authoritative.

Practical Application

1 Chronicles 25:5 reminds us that God calls and equips individuals with diverse gifts for His service, including artistic talents like music. It encourages us to use our abilities, whether in leadership, creative arts, or other ministries, with faithfulness and an ear for God's word. Moreover, it highlights that God blesses those who serve Him diligently, not always with large families, but always with His favor and purpose. This verse also underscores the importance of intentional and inspired worship in the life of believers and the community, a legacy that can be passed through generations.

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Cross-References

  • 1 Chronicles 21:9 (4 votes)

    And the LORD spake unto Gad, David's seer, saying,

  • 2 Samuel 24:11 (3 votes)

    For when David was up in the morning, the word of the LORD came unto the prophet Gad, David's seer, saying,

  • Isaiah 8:18 (3 votes)

    Behold, I and the children whom the LORD hath given me [are] for signs and for wonders in Israel from the LORD of hosts, which dwelleth in mount Zion.

  • 1 Chronicles 28:5 (3 votes)

    And of all my sons, (for the LORD hath given me many sons,) he hath chosen Solomon my son to sit upon the throne of the kingdom of the LORD over Israel.

  • 1 Samuel 9:9 (3 votes)

    (Beforetime in Israel, when a man went to enquire of God, thus he spake, Come, and let us go to the seer: for [he that is] now [called] a Prophet was beforetime called a Seer.)

  • Psalms 127:3 (3 votes)

    Lo, children [are] an heritage of the LORD: [and] the fruit of the womb [is his] reward.

  • Genesis 33:5 (2 votes)

    ¶ And he lifted up his eyes, and saw the women and the children; and said, Who [are] those with thee? And he said, The children which God hath graciously given thy servant.