1 Chronicles 6:10

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

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}:)

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

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

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

Commentary

1 Chronicles 6:10 is part of a lengthy and significant genealogy in the book of Chronicles, specifically tracing the lineage of the Levites and the priestly family of Aaron. This verse highlights Azariah, a descendant of Aaron, and his crucial role in Israelite worship.

Context

The Book of 1 Chronicles meticulously details the genealogies from Adam through the various tribes of Israel, paying particular attention to the royal line of David and the priestly line of Levi. Chapter 6 focuses exclusively on the descendants of Levi, emphasizing their roles in temple service, particularly the line of Aaron, from whom the high priests were drawn. This detailed record served to legitimize the returning exiles' claims to their ancestral lands and, more importantly, to affirm the continuity and divine appointment of the priesthood. Azariah's mention here is not just a name in a list but marks a significant figure in the history of the First Temple period in Jerusalem.

Key Themes

  • Continuity of Priesthood: The verse underscores the unbroken succession of the priestly office, vital for the spiritual life of Israel. The Chronicler emphasizes that even through generations, God maintained a line of those appointed to minister before Him.
  • Faithful Service: Azariah is noted for actively "executed the priest's office." This isn't merely a title but denotes diligent and responsible performance of sacred duties within the Temple, a central theme for the Chronicler who valued proper worship and service.
  • Significance of the Temple: By explicitly stating Azariah served "in the temple that Solomon built in Jerusalem," the verse highlights the central role of this sacred structure as the dwelling place of God's presence and the hub of Israelite worship and sacrifice. This temple was the spiritual heart of the nation for centuries.

Historical and Cultural Context

The priesthood in ancient Israel was hereditary, passed down through the male line of Aaron. The high priest, in particular, held immense spiritual and political authority, responsible for leading national worship, mediating between God and the people, and performing critical rituals such as those on 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. This period was a golden age for Israel, marked by centralized worship and national identity tied to the Temple in Jerusalem. His role would have involved overseeing daily sacrifices, maintaining the sacred vessels, and instructing the people in God's law.

Practical Application

This brief verse, though part of a genealogy, offers important lessons:

  • Valuing Legacy and Faithfulness: It reminds us of the importance of spiritual legacy and the faithful transmission of truth from one generation to the next. Just as Azariah continued a sacred lineage, believers today are called to pass on the faith.
  • Diligence in Calling: Azariah "executed" his office, implying active and dedicated service. This encourages believers to be diligent and faithful in whatever roles or callings God has given them, whether in family, work, or ministry.
  • The Centrality of Worship: The emphasis on the Temple reminds us that authentic worship and a focus on God's dwelling among His people remain foundational to spiritual life, even if the forms of worship have changed with the new covenant established through Christ.
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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.
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