1 Chronicles 6:22

KJV

The sons of Kohath; Amminadab his son, Korah his son, Assir his son,

KJV (with Strong's)

The sons {H1121} of Kohath {H6955}; Amminadab {H5992} his son {H1121}, Korah {H7141} his son {H1121}, Assir {H617} his son {H1121},

Complete Jewish Bible

The descendants of K'hat: his son 'Amminadav, his son Korach, his son Asir,

Berean Standard Bible

The descendants of Kohath:

American Standard Version

The sons of Kohath: Amminadab his son, Korah his son, Assir his son,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Chronicles 6:22 meticulously details a segment of the Levitical lineage, specifically tracing the descendants of Kohath, one of Levi's three sons. This verse, part of the extensive genealogies that open the book of 1 Chronicles, serves to establish the legitimate lines for sacred service within the post-exilic Israelite community. Its inclusion of "Korah his son" is particularly profound, highlighting God's sovereign grace and faithfulness in preserving a legitimate branch of a family otherwise infamous for rebellion, demonstrating the continuity of divine purpose even through challenging historical narratives.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** The book of 1 Chronicles commences with nine chapters dedicated to extensive genealogies, a foundational record for the post-exilic Israelite community returning from Babylonian exile. These lists were not mere historical curiosities but vital documents for re-establishing tribal identity, land claims, and, crucially, the legitimate lines for the priesthood and monarchy. Chapter 6 focuses specifically on the tribe of Levi, whose descendants, the Levites, were central to the worship life of Israel, performing various duties in the tabernacle and later the temple. This verse, "The sons of Kohath; Amminadab his son, Korah his son, Assir his son," highlights a specific branch of Kohath, one of Levi’s three sons (alongside Gershon and Merari). The [Kohathites were uniquely responsible for carrying the most sacred articles of the tabernacle](/numbers/4-4 "Numbers 4:4 - Duties of the Kohathites"), underscoring their vital role in Israel's cultic life. The meticulous detail here reinforces the Chronicler's emphasis on the continuity of God's covenant with His people and the established order of worship.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Composed likely in the post-exilic period (around 400-300 BCE), 1 Chronicles addresses a community seeking to re-establish its identity and religious practices after generations of displacement. In ancient Israelite society, genealogies were paramount. They served as legal documents, defining one's place in the community, validating claims to land and inheritance, and, most importantly, establishing eligibility for positions of religious and political authority. The Levites, as the designated tribe for temple service, held a unique and critical role. Their lineage ensured the purity and legitimacy of the sacrificial system and the proper administration of divine worship. The survival and inclusion of specific family lines, even those with controversial pasts like Korah's, spoke volumes about God's faithfulness to His promises and the enduring nature of His chosen structures for worship, providing hope and stability to a people rebuilding their national and spiritual life.
* **Key Themes:** This seemingly simple genealogical entry contributes significantly to several overarching themes in 1 Chronicles. Firstly, **Genealogical Preservation** underscores the ancient Israelite emphasis on meticulous record-keeping for lineage, vital for affirming identity, inheritance, and roles within the community, especially concerning religious service. Secondly, **Continuity of Divine Purpose** is powerfully demonstrated; despite historical upheavals and the exile, these lists show God's faithfulness in maintaining the structure and personnel for His worship, assuring the reader of His enduring plan for His people and the Levites. Finally, **Grace Amidst History** is profoundly evident in the inclusion of "Korah his son." While a figure named Korah is infamous for leading a [major rebellion against Moses and Aaron](/numbers/16-1 "Numbers 16:1 - Korah's Rebellion") during the wilderness wanderings, [Numbers 26:11 explicitly states that the "children of Korah died not"](/numbers/26-11 "Numbers 26:11 - The Children of Korah Did Not Die"). This verse in 1 Chronicles 6:22 confirms the survival of a legitimate branch of Korah's descendants, who continued in the Levitical lineage, often serving as temple musicians or doorkeepers, as seen in [1 Chronicles 9:19](/1_chronicles/9-19 "1 Chronicles 9:19 - Roles of Korah's Descendants"). This highlights God's mercy, His ability to work through imperfect human lines, and the preservation of a remnant even from a line associated with profound rebellion.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Kohath (Hebrew, _Qehat'_):** Meaning "assembly" or "gathering." Kohath was one of the three sons of Levi, and his descendants, the Kohathites, were entrusted with the most sacred duties concerning the tabernacle and its furnishings, including the Ark of the Covenant, the table of showbread, the menorah, and the altars. Their role was critical in the portable sanctuary's journey through the wilderness, underscoring their unique proximity to the holy objects of God's presence.
* **Korah (Hebrew, _Qorach'_):** Meaning "baldness" or "ice." This name carries immense historical weight due to the rebellion led by a Korah against Moses and Aaron, challenging their divinely appointed authority (Numbers 16). The inclusion of "Korah his son" in this legitimate Levitical genealogy is a striking testament to God's selective judgment and enduring grace. While the rebellious Korah and his immediate followers perished, a branch of his family was spared and continued to serve, demonstrating that divine judgment is precise and that God's purposes can transcend human failings.
* **Assir (Hebrew, _'Assir'_):** Meaning "prisoner" or "bound." The name "Assir" might carry a subtle layer of meaning, potentially alluding to the family's past association with rebellion and the subsequent divine judgment, or perhaps to their dedicated service, being "bound" to the service of the Lord. While the primary significance of the name here is its role in tracing the lineage, the etymology adds a unique dimension to this particular branch of the Kohathites.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"The sons of Kohath;":** This opening phrase immediately situates the subsequent names within the larger Levitical framework, specifically identifying the lineage as belonging to Kohath, one of Levi's three primary descendants. It establishes the foundational tribal and familial context, emphasizing the importance of the Kohathite clan in Israel's religious structure.
* **"Amminadab his son,":** This identifies Amminadab as the direct descendant of Kohath in this particular line. The phrase "his son" is a standard genealogical marker, indicating direct paternal descent and maintaining the sequential flow of the lineage. Amminadab serves as the link in the chain leading to the more historically significant figure of Korah.
* **"Korah his son,":** This is the most notable part of the verse. It identifies Korah as the son of Amminadab and a direct descendant of Kohath. The inclusion of Korah here is crucial because it confirms the survival and continuation of a legitimate branch of his family, distinct from the rebellious Korah whose line was cut off in the wilderness. This demonstrates the Chronicler's careful preservation of historical detail and theological nuance.
* **"Assir his son,":** This concludes the immediate sequence presented in this verse, naming Assir as the son of Korah. Assir represents the continuation of this specific branch of the Kohathite lineage, further extending the genealogical record and reinforcing the unbroken chain of descent within the Levitical tribe.

#### Literary Devices
The primary literary device at play in 1 Chronicles 6:22, and indeed throughout the initial chapters of 1 Chronicles, is **Genealogy**. This is not merely a list of names but a structured literary form designed to establish historical continuity, confirm identity, and validate claims of legitimacy, particularly for religious and royal offices. The repetitive use of "his son" serves as a form of **Anaphora** and **Repetition**, emphasizing the unbroken chain of descent and the meticulous nature of the record-keeping. Furthermore, the very presence of Korah's name, given its infamous biblical background, introduces a subtle **Irony** or **Paradox**, highlighting God's grace and selective judgment. The Chronicler, by including this detail, subtly communicates a theological message about redemption and the enduring nature of God's covenant purposes, even amidst human rebellion.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
1 Chronicles 6:22, though a simple genealogical entry, powerfully underscores God's meticulous care for His covenant people and His unwavering faithfulness to His promises. The preservation of specific lineages, especially the Levitical line, speaks to the divine commitment to maintain the structures necessary for worship and the perpetuation of His relationship with Israel. The inclusion of Korah's descendants, despite the infamous rebellion, serves as a profound testament to God's sovereign grace and mercy, demonstrating that divine judgment is precise and that a remnant can be preserved for His purposes. This verse implicitly teaches that God's plan is not thwarted by human sin, and His capacity for redemption extends even to those from a lineage marked by significant failings. It reminds us that our past does not necessarily dictate our future in God's economy.

* [Numbers 26:11](/numbers/26-11 "Numbers 26:11 - The Children of Korah Did Not Die")
* [Psalm 84](/psalm/84 "Psalm 84 - Longing for God's House")
* [Exodus 6:18](/exodus/6-18 "Exodus 6:18 - Lineage of Kohath")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
While a seemingly dry list of names, 1 Chronicles 6:22 offers profound insights into God's character and His dealings with humanity. It reminds us that God is a God of meticulous detail, who cares about every individual and every thread in the tapestry of history. Just as He preserved the lineage for His sacred service, He is intimately involved in the details of our lives, orchestrating circumstances and maintaining His purposes across generations. The survival of Korah's legitimate line, despite the infamous rebellion, serves as a powerful testament to God's grace and His ability to bring forth good even from challenging histories. It encourages us to embrace our own spiritual heritage, recognizing that we are part of a larger story of God's faithfulness, and that even when our past or our family's past may be marked by sin or struggle, God can still use and bless us for His glory. This verse calls us to trust in God's redemptive power and to recognize that His grace can transform any legacy.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the meticulous nature of biblical genealogies, like this one, challenge or affirm your understanding of God's attention to detail in your own life?**
* **What does the preservation of Korah's lineage teach us about God's grace and mercy in the face of human rebellion or sin?**
* **In what ways does understanding your own spiritual or family heritage inform your walk of faith today?**
* **How might this verse encourage someone who feels their past or family background disqualifies them from God's service or blessing?**

### FAQ

**Why are genealogies so important in the Bible, especially in books like 1 Chronicles?**

Answer: Genealogies in the Bible are far more than mere lists; they are foundational to the biblical narrative and theological understanding. In 1 Chronicles, written for a post-exilic community, genealogies served several crucial purposes. They re-established tribal identity and land claims for a people returning to their homeland. More importantly, they validated the legitimacy of the priesthood and the monarchy, ensuring that those serving in sacred roles or ruling the nation were from the divinely appointed lines. They also demonstrated God's faithfulness to His covenant promises, showing the unbroken continuity of His plan through generations, even amidst periods of exile and disruption. For the Chronicler, these lists underscored the enduring nature of God's relationship with Israel and the importance of proper worship.

**How could Korah's descendants survive and serve after his infamous rebellion against Moses and Aaron?**

Answer: The account of Korah's rebellion in [Numbers 16](/numbers/16 "Numbers 16 - Korah's Rebellion") describes a severe divine judgment where the earth swallowed Korah, Dathan, and Abiram, along with their households. However, [Numbers 26:11 explicitly states, "But the children of Korah died not."](/numbers/26-11 "Numbers 26:11 - The Children of Korah Did Not Die") This indicates that not all of Korah's lineage perished; a specific branch was spared. This act of divine selectivity highlights God's justice in punishing the rebellious leaders while also demonstrating His mercy in preserving a remnant. This preserved line of Korah's descendants went on to serve faithfully within the Levitical order, notably as temple doorkeepers and, most famously, as composers of several psalms (e.g., [Psalm 42](/psalm/42 "Psalm 42 - As the Deer Pants for Water"), [Psalm 84](/psalm/84 "Psalm 84 - Longing for God's House")). Their continued service is a powerful testament to God's redemptive grace, showing that His purposes can transcend human failure and that He can use those from a challenging past for His glory.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While 1 Chronicles 6:22 focuses on the Levitical lineage, its themes find profound Christ-centered fulfillment. The meticulous preservation of the Kohathite line, including the surprising survival of Korah's descendants, foreshadows God's ultimate faithfulness in bringing forth the promised Messiah through a specific, divinely ordained lineage. Just as the genealogies of 1 Chronicles establish legitimacy for the Levitical priesthood, the genealogies of Jesus in [Matthew 1:1-17](/matthew/1-1-17 "Matthew 1:1-17 - The Genealogy of Jesus Christ") and [Luke 3:23-38](/luke/3-23-38 "Luke 3:23-38 - The Genealogy of Jesus Christ") confirm His rightful claim as the Son of David and the Son of God, the ultimate King and High Priest. The Levitical priesthood, though divinely instituted, was imperfect and temporary, requiring a continuous succession. Christ, however, is the perfect and eternal High Priest, not according to the Levitical order, but "according to the order of Melchizedek" ([Hebrews 7:11-17](/hebrews/7-11-17 "Hebrews 7:11-17 - A Priest Like Melchizedek")). His sacrifice was once for all ([Hebrews 9:11-14](/hebrews/9-11-14 "Hebrews 9:11-14 - Christ's Superior Sacrifice")), superseding the need for the Levitical system. Furthermore, the grace shown in preserving Korah's line, despite rebellion, is a powerful type of the boundless grace found in Christ, who extends forgiveness and new life to all who believe, regardless of their past. Through Him, believers are adopted into God's family, becoming "children of God" ([John 1:12](/john/1-12 "John 1:12 - Children of God")) and part of a spiritual lineage that transcends earthly tribal distinctions, fulfilling God's ultimate redemptive purpose in a way far grander than any earthly genealogy.

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

Exodus 6:24

And the sons of Korah; Assir, and Elkanah, and Abiasaph: these [are] the families of the Korhites.

1 Chronicles 6:18

And the sons of Kohath [were], Amram, and Izhar, and Hebron, and Uzziel.

1 Chronicles 6:2

And the sons of Kohath; Amram, Izhar, and Hebron, and Uzziel.

Exodus 6:21

And the sons of Izhar; Korah, and Nepheg, and Zichri.