1 Chronicles 6:10

KJV

And Johanan begat Azariah, (he [it is] that executed the priest's office in the temple that Solomon built in Jerusalem:)

KJV (with Strong's)

And Johanan {H3110} begat {H3205} Azariah {H5838},(he {H1931} it is that executed the priest's office {H3547} in the temple {H1004} that Solomon {H8010} built {H1129} in Jerusalem {H3389}:)

Complete Jewish Bible

and Yochanan fathered 'Azaryah. He functioned as cohen in the house that Shlomo built in Yerushalayim.

Berean Standard Bible

Johanan was the father of Azariah, who served as priest in the temple that Solomon built in Jerusalem,

American Standard Version

and Johanan begat Azariah (he it is that executed the priest’s office in the house that Solomon built in Jerusalem),

Commentary

### SUMMARY
First Chronicles 6:10 is a pivotal verse within the extensive Levitical genealogy, specifically tracing the priestly line of Aaron. It highlights Azariah, a descendant of Aaron, who is uniquely noted for actively executing the priest's office in the Temple constructed by King Solomon in Jerusalem. This parenthetical note elevates Azariah from a mere name in a list to a significant figure, underscoring the continuity and divine appointment of the priesthood during a foundational period of Israelite worship.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** First Chronicles 6 is dedicated entirely to the lineage of Levi, emphasizing their crucial role in the temple service and the continuity of worship in Israel. Following the genealogies of other tribes in chapters 1-5, chapter 6 meticulously details the descendants of Levi, particularly focusing on the priestly line of Aaron (1 Chronicles 6:1-15) and the Levitical musicians (1 Chronicles 6:31-47). The Chronicler's purpose in presenting these detailed genealogies is not merely historical record-keeping but theological affirmation. For the post-exilic community, these lists legitimized claims to land, tribal identity, and, most importantly, the divinely ordained priesthood. The parenthetical remark about Azariah in [1 Chronicles 6:10](/1_chronicles/6-10 "1 Chronicles 6:10 - Azariah's Priestly Service") serves to highlight a specific, notable individual within this lineage, emphasizing the active and faithful performance of priestly duties during the era of the First Temple, thereby reinforcing the Chronicler's overarching theme of proper worship and covenant faithfulness.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The priesthood in ancient Israel was a hereditary office, exclusively reserved for the male descendants of Aaron, as established by Mosaic Law (e.g., [Exodus 28:1](/exodus/28-1 "Exodus 28:1 - Appointment of Aaron and Sons")). The high priest, in particular, held immense spiritual authority, serving as the chief mediator between God and the people, responsible for leading national worship, overseeing sacrifices, and performing critical rituals, most notably on the Day of Atonement ([Leviticus 16:1-34](/leviticus/16 "Leviticus 16 - The Day of Atonement")). Azariah's specific mention signifies a high-ranking or particularly notable priestly figure during the era of the Temple built by King Solomon in Jerusalem. This period, often considered a golden age for Israel, was characterized by centralized worship and a strong national identity intrinsically linked to the Temple as the singular dwelling place of God's presence. Azariah's role would have encompassed the daily administration of sacrifices, maintenance of sacred vessels, instruction of the people in God's law, and ensuring the purity of worship according to Mosaic stipulations.
* **Key Themes:** The verse, though brief, contributes to several significant themes prevalent in the Chronicler's work. It powerfully underscores the **Continuity of Priesthood**, emphasizing the unbroken succession of the priestly office, which was vital for the spiritual and national life of Israel. The Chronicler meticulously records this lineage to demonstrate that, despite challenges and exiles, God maintained a divinely appointed line of those called to minister before Him. Furthermore, Azariah is noted for actively "executed the priest's office," highlighting the theme of **Faithful Service**. This is not merely a titular acknowledgment but denotes diligent, responsible, and active performance of sacred duties within the Temple. The Chronicler consistently values proper worship and dedicated service, presenting figures like Azariah as exemplars. Finally, by explicitly stating Azariah served "in the temple that Solomon built in Jerusalem," the verse reinforces the **Significance of the Temple**. This sacred structure was the spiritual heart of the nation for centuries, symbolizing God's dwelling among His people and serving as the exclusive hub for Israelite worship and sacrifice, central to the covenant relationship (see [1 Kings 8:1-66](/1_kings/8 "1 Kings 8 - Dedication of Solomon's Temple")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **executed (עָמַד, _'amad'_):** This Hebrew verb literally means "to stand," but in this context, it carries the strong connotation of "to stand in service," "to minister," or "to perform an office." It implies an active, authorized, and diligent performance of duties, rather than merely holding a title. Azariah was not just a priest by lineage; he actively fulfilled the responsibilities of his sacred calling.
* **priest's office (כְּהֻנָּה, _kəhunnāh'_):** This noun refers to the priestly function, the sacred ministry, or the priesthood itself. It encompasses all the duties, responsibilities, and privileges associated with serving God in the tabernacle or temple, including offering sacrifices, teaching the Law, and mediating for the people.
* **temple (הֵיכָל, _hêkāl'_):** This term refers to the sacred dwelling or palace, specifically the central sanctuary built by Solomon in Jerusalem. It was the physical manifestation of God's presence among His people, the place where sacrifices were offered, and the focal point of Israelite worship. The explicit mention of "Solomon built" anchors Azariah's service to a specific, foundational period in Israel's history.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And Johanan begat Azariah,"**: This clause establishes the genealogical progression, a standard formula within the Chronicler's extensive lists. It places Azariah within the direct lineage of Aaron, ensuring his legitimacy for the priestly office.
* **"(he [it is] that executed the priest's office":** This parenthetical phrase is crucial. It singles out Azariah from the long list of names, highlighting his active and significant role. The phrase "executed the priest's office" emphasizes that he was not merely a descendant but a functional, active priest who diligently performed his sacred duties. The KJV's "he [it is]" further stresses his identity as the specific individual who held this notable position.
* **"in the temple that Solomon built in Jerusalem:)"**: This final part of the parenthetical note provides the specific context for Azariah's service. By linking him to "the temple that Solomon built," the Chronicler connects Azariah to the foundational period of Israel's centralized worship and the pinnacle of its national glory. This detail grounds Azariah's historical significance and reinforces the importance of the Temple as the center of Israel's spiritual life.

#### Literary Devices
The Chronicler employs several literary devices in this brief verse to achieve his theological and historical aims. The most prominent is **Genealogy**, which serves as the overarching framework of 1 Chronicles. Far from being mere lists, these genealogies function to establish legitimacy, demonstrate divine faithfulness in maintaining covenant lines (royal and priestly), and provide a historical continuity for the post-exilic community. Within this genealogical structure, the use of a **Parenthetical Remark** ("he [it is] that executed the priest's office in the temple that Solomon built in Jerusalem") is a key technique. This parenthetical statement acts as a form of **Emphasis** or **Highlighting**, drawing the reader's attention to Azariah specifically. It elevates him from an anonymous name in a list to a significant figure whose active service in the Temple is deemed worthy of special mention, underscoring the Chronicler's value for faithful and diligent performance of sacred duties. This also serves as a historical anchor, linking the priestly line to a tangible, well-known historical landmark and era.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The specific mention of Azariah's active service in Solomon's Temple within the priestly genealogy of 1 Chronicles 6:10 underscores profound theological principles. It highlights God's faithfulness in maintaining a divinely appointed line of mediators for His people, emphasizing the continuity of His covenant promises and the means by which Israel could approach Him. The diligent execution of the priestly office was not merely a ritualistic duty but a vital act of worship and intercession, signifying the necessary mediation between a holy God and a sinful people. This verse, therefore, points to the enduring importance of proper, authorized worship and the sanctity of the place where God chose to dwell among His people. It implicitly teaches that divine calling requires faithful and active response, and that God honors those who diligently serve Him in their appointed roles.

* [Exodus 28:1](/exodus/28-1 "Appointment of Aaron and Sons")
* [Numbers 3:10](/numbers/3-10 "Priestly Responsibilities")
* [Hebrews 7:11](/hebrews/7-11 "Need for a New Priesthood")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
First Chronicles 6:10, though a single line in a genealogy, offers rich lessons for contemporary believers. Azariah's specific mention for "executing the priest's office" reminds us that our spiritual heritage is not merely a matter of lineage or title, but of active, diligent, and faithful service. Just as Azariah upheld a sacred trust, we are called to be faithful stewards of the gospel and the gifts God has given us, whether in our families, workplaces, or ministries. This verse encourages us to value the continuity of faith passed down through generations and to contribute to that legacy through our own devoted service. Furthermore, the emphasis on the Temple as the center of worship reminds us of the centrality of God's presence in our lives and the importance of gathering for corporate worship. While the physical Temple no longer stands, the principle of intentional, reverent engagement with God remains foundational to spiritual vitality. Our call is to embody the diligent service of Azariah, recognizing that our lives are a continuous act of worship.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the emphasis on Azariah's active service challenge my own approach to my spiritual calling or responsibilities?**
* **What aspects of my spiritual heritage am I called to faithfully "execute" or pass on to the next generation?**
* **In what ways do I recognize and honor God's presence as central to my life and community, similar to the Temple's role for ancient Israel?**

### FAQ

**Why are genealogies so important in the Book of Chronicles?**

Answer: Genealogies in Chronicles serve multiple critical purposes for the post-exilic community. Firstly, they establish **legitimacy** for the returning exiles, affirming their tribal identity, land claims, and, crucially, the continuity of the Davidic monarchy and the Aaronic priesthood. This provided a sense of belonging and divine authorization after a period of displacement. Secondly, they highlight **divine faithfulness**, demonstrating how God preserved His covenant lines despite human failures and exile. Thirdly, they provide a **framework for instruction**, often pausing to highlight key individuals (like Azariah) or significant events, thereby teaching lessons about obedience, worship, and the consequences of sin. They underscore the Chronicler's overarching themes of proper worship, the centrality of the Temple, and the importance of covenant fidelity.

**Is this Azariah the same as other Azariahs mentioned in the Bible?**

Answer: It is unlikely that this Azariah is the same as the more famous Azariahs, such as the high priest who confronted King Uzziah ([2 Chronicles 26:17-20](/2_chronicles/26-17 "2 Chronicles 26:17-20 - Azariah Confronts Uzziah")) or the companion of Daniel (Abednego). The Bible contains many individuals named Azariah, which means "Yahweh has helped." The Azariah in 1 Chronicles 6:10 is placed within a specific genealogical sequence that traces the high priestly line from Aaron through the era of Solomon's Temple. While the exact historical context for this particular Azariah is not explicitly detailed beyond this verse, his placement suggests he was a significant figure in the early First Temple period, distinct from those who lived much later.

**What was the significance of Solomon's Temple for ancient Israel?**

Answer: Solomon's Temple was the spiritual and national epicenter for ancient Israel. Its significance was multifaceted:
* **God's Dwelling Place:** It was believed to be the physical dwelling place of God's presence (the Shekinah glory), symbolizing His covenant relationship with His people ([1 Kings 8:10-11](/1_kings/8-10 "1 Kings 8:10-11 - The Glory of the Lord Fills the Temple")).
* **Center of Worship:** It was the sole authorized place for sacrifices, offerings, and national festivals, centralizing Israelite worship as commanded by the Law ([Deuteronomy 12:5-7](/deuteronomy/12-5 "Deuteronomy 12:5-7 - The Chosen Place of Worship")).
* **Symbol of National Identity:** The Temple served as a powerful symbol of Israel's unique identity as God's chosen people and the stability of the Davidic kingdom.
* **Place of Prayer and Intercession:** It was seen as a house of prayer for all peoples, where God would hear petitions ([1 Kings 8:27-53](/1_kings/8-27 "1 Kings 8:27-53 - Solomon's Prayer of Dedication")). Its destruction was a profound theological and national trauma, highlighting its immense importance.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The Old Testament priesthood, exemplified by figures like Azariah faithfully executing his office in Solomon's Temple, served as a vital shadow pointing to the ultimate reality found in Jesus Christ. The Aaronic priests mediated between God and humanity through sacrifices and intercession, but their work was imperfect and had to be continually repeated because of their own sin and the ongoing sin of the people ([Hebrews 7:27](/hebrews/7-27 "Hebrews 7:27 - Christ's Perfect Sacrifice")). Jesus, however, fulfills and transcends this Old Covenant priesthood. He is our Great High Priest, not of the order of Aaron, but of the superior order of Melchizedek, whose priesthood is eternal and unchangeable ([Hebrews 4:14](/hebrews/4-14 "Hebrews 4:14 - Jesus Our Great High Priest") and [Hebrews 7:17](/hebrews/7-17 "Hebrews 7:17 - A Priest Forever After the Order of Melchizedek")). His single, perfect sacrifice on the cross was a once-for-all atonement for sin, rendering the daily temple sacrifices obsolete ([Hebrews 9:11-14](/hebrews/9-11 "Hebrews 9:11-14 - Christ's Superior Sacrifice")). Furthermore, while Azariah served in a physical temple built by human hands, Christ's body became the true temple ([John 2:19-21](/john/2-19 "John 2:19-21 - Jesus Predicts His Resurrection")), and through Him, believers are now incorporated into a spiritual temple, the Church, where the Holy Spirit dwells ([Ephesians 2:19-22](/ephesians/2-19 "Ephesians 2:19-22 - The Church as God's Dwelling")). We, as believers, are now a "royal priesthood," called to offer spiritual sacrifices of praise and service, having direct access to God through our High Priest, Jesus Christ ([1 Peter 2:9](/1_peter/2-9 "1 Peter 2:9 - A Royal Priesthood")).

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 Kings 6:1

¶ And it came to pass in the four hundred and eightieth year after the children of Israel were come out of the land of Egypt, in the fourth year of Solomon's reign over Israel, in the month Zif, which [is] the second month, that he began to build the house of the LORD.

1 Kings 6:7

And the house, when it was in building, was built of stone made ready before it was brought thither: so that there was neither hammer nor axe [nor] any tool of iron heard in the house, while it was in building.

2 Chronicles 3:1

¶ Then Solomon began to build the house of the LORD at Jerusalem in mount Moriah, where [the LORD] appeared unto David his father, in the place that David had prepared in the threshingfloor of Ornan the Jebusite.

2 Chronicles 3:4

And the porch that [was] in the front [of the house], the length [of it was] according to the breadth of the house, twenty cubits, and the height [was] an hundred and twenty: and he overlaid it within with pure gold.

2 Chronicles 26:17

And Azariah the priest went in after him, and with him fourscore priests of the LORD, [that were] valiant men:

2 Chronicles 26:20

And Azariah the chief priest, and all the priests, looked upon him, and, behold, he [was] leprous in his forehead, and they thrust him out from thence; yea, himself hasted also to go out, because the LORD had smitten him.