1 Chronicles 6:23

KJV

Elkanah his son, and Ebiasaph his son, and Assir his son,

KJV (with Strong's)

Elkanah {H511} his son {H1121}, and Ebiasaph {H43} his son {H1121}, and Assir {H617} his son {H1121},

Complete Jewish Bible

his son Elkanah, his son Evyasaf, his son Asir,

Berean Standard Bible

Amminadab his son, Korah his son, Assir his son, Elkanah his son, Ebiasaph his son, Assir his son,

American Standard Version

Elkanah his son, and Ebiasaph his son, and Assir his son,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Chronicles 6:23 is a concise yet profoundly significant entry within the extensive genealogical records that open the book of 1 Chronicles. It precisely enumerates three generations—Elkanah, Ebiasaph, and Assir—meticulously tracing a direct paternal line within the revered lineage of the Levites, specifically the Kohathite branch. This verse, while seemingly a simple listing of names, powerfully underscores the divine preservation of heritage, the meticulous order God establishes for His people, and the foundational importance of legitimate descent for sacred service in ancient Israel.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** The book of 1 Chronicles commences with an expansive nine-chapter genealogical record, tracing humanity from Adam through the patriarchs, culminating in a detailed focus on the tribes of Israel, particularly Judah and Levi. Chapter 6 specifically dedicates itself to the intricate lineage of Levi, the tribe divinely appointed for priestly and temple service, meticulously detailing the descendants of his three sons: Gershom, Kohath, and Merari. Verse 23 is situated within the detailed record of the Kohathite branch, a highly prominent family within the Levitical structure entrusted with the most sacred duties. This meticulous recording served a critical purpose for the post-exilic community to whom Chronicles was primarily addressed: to establish and validate the legitimate lines of those authorized for temple service, ensuring proper order and continuity in worship.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The compilation of 1 Chronicles is generally dated to the post-exilic period (approximately 450-400 BC), following the return of the Jewish people from Babylonian captivity. For a community striving to re-establish its national identity, land claims, and, most critically, its religious institutions (the rebuilt temple and its sacrificial system), precise genealogies were indispensable. These lists functioned as authoritative legal and historical documents, validating tribal affiliations, confirming land inheritances, and, paramountly, establishing the eligibility of individuals for priestly and Levitical duties. The Kohathites, to whom Elkanah, Ebiasaph, and Assir belonged, bore the solemn responsibility of caring for and transporting the most sacred articles of the tabernacle, including the Ark of the Covenant, as detailed in [Numbers 3:27-31](/numbers/3-27-31 "Numbers 3:27-31 - Duties of the Kohathites"). Their inclusion in these genealogies was not mere historical trivia but a vital affirmation of their legitimate and continuous role in Israel's worship life, ensuring a seamless link from the wilderness generation through the temple era.
* **Key Themes:** This verse, and the broader genealogical framework it inhabits, contributes significantly to several overarching themes present in 1 Chronicles and the wider biblical narrative. Firstly, it powerfully highlights **Lineage and Continuity**, emphasizing God's unwavering faithfulness in preserving the generations of His chosen servants, particularly those set apart for sacred functions. The unbroken chain of "his son" underscores the enduring nature of God's covenant promises and the profound importance of heritage in biblical thought. Secondly, it profoundly reflects **Divine Order and Structure**, showcasing the meticulous organization God established for His people, especially concerning the tabernacle and temple worship. Every individual, even those in seemingly minor genealogical entries, had a divinely appointed place and purpose within God's grand design for Israel, as seen in the detailed assignments for Levites in [1 Chronicles 9:26-32](/1_chronicles/9-26-32 "1 Chronicles 9:26-32 - Duties of the Gatekeepers and Temple Servants"). Finally, these genealogies serve as a crucial **Historical and Legal Record**, providing a foundational framework for the nation of Israel, confirming identity, validating claims to priestly or Levite service, and demonstrating the faithfulness of God through generations, even through periods of exile and restoration.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **son (Hebrew, בֵּן, _bên_):** The repeated phrase "his son" (בְּנוֹ, _bĕnô_) is the operative linguistic element in this verse. Derived from the root meaning "to build," _bên_ signifies direct paternal descent, establishing a clear and unbroken line of succession. This repetition serves to affirm the legitimacy and continuity of the lineage, which was crucial for the Levites whose roles were hereditary. It emphasizes the direct, unadulterated transmission of identity and, by extension, the right to perform sacred duties. The consistent use of "his son" here highlights a precise, direct family tree, unlike some genealogies that might skip generations or list broader descendants.
* **Elkanah (Hebrew, אֶלְקָנָה, _ʼElqânâh_):** This name literally means "God has obtained" or "God has created/possessed." The etymology itself carries theological weight, suggesting divine providence and ownership over the individual and, by extension, the lineage. In the context of the Levites, it subtly reinforces the idea that their very existence and position were divinely ordained and purposed, not merely a matter of human choice or chance.
* **Assir (Hebrew, אַסִּיר, _ʼAççîyr_):** Meaning "prisoner" or "bound," this name presents an intriguing contrast to the divine freedom implied by "Elkanah." While the specific circumstances of this individual are not detailed, the name could potentially reflect a historical reality of the time, or perhaps a symbolic representation of being "bound" to service. In the context of a Levitical lineage, it might even subtly allude to being bound or committed to the service of God, a form of sacred "imprisonment" to divine duty.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Elkanah his son":** This clause introduces Elkanah, identified as the direct son of the preceding individual in the broader genealogy (Assir, according to 1 Chronicles 6:22 in the KJV context, though the verse itself only states "his son" implying the previous entry). Elkanah is a significant name within the Kohathite lineage, notably appearing as the father of the prophet Samuel in [1 Samuel 1:1](/1_samuel/1-1 "1 Samuel 1:1 - Elkanah, Father of Samuel"). His inclusion here establishes a vital link in the chain of descent, affirming the continuity and legitimacy of the Levitical line.
* **"and Ebiasaph his son":** Ebiasaph is presented as the direct son of Elkanah. The conjunction "and" seamlessly connects these generations, reinforcing the continuous flow of the lineage. Ebiasaph is also a name found in other significant Levitical lists (e.g., [Exodus 6:24](/exodus/6-24 "Exodus 6:24 - Sons of Korah")), indicating his established place within the Kohathite family tree and its historical significance for the priestly and temple service.
* **"and Assir his son":** This final clause in the verse names Assir as the direct son of Ebiasaph, completing the three-generation sequence. The consistent repetition of "his son" for each entry underscores the meticulous nature of the record, leaving no ambiguity about the direct paternal relationship. While the individual deeds of these men are not detailed here, their very inclusion signifies their essential role in the ongoing priestly and Levitical heritage, serving to validate the legitimacy of the line for future generations and for the post-exilic community.

#### Literary Devices
The primary literary device at play in 1 Chronicles 6:23, and indeed throughout the extensive genealogical sections of the book, is **Repetition**. The phrase "his son" is repeated for each successive name, creating a rhythmic and emphatic affirmation of direct paternal descent. This repetition serves to underscore the unbroken continuity of the lineage, which was paramount for establishing the legitimacy of the Levites' hereditary roles and their authorization for sacred service. Beyond simple listing, the very act of **Genealogy** itself functions as a profound literary device. It is not merely a dry record but a narrative technique that establishes identity, validates claims to land and office, and provides a historical and theological backbone for the entire nation. It implicitly conveys a powerful sense of divine faithfulness in preserving a chosen people and their designated servants through centuries. Furthermore, the **Conciseness** and unadorned nature of the listing draw attention to the names themselves, highlighting their individual importance within the larger, divinely ordained structure, emphasizing that each link in the chain is significant.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This seemingly simple genealogical entry profoundly connects to core theological truths about God's character and His interaction with humanity. It speaks to God's meticulous care and sovereign design, demonstrating that even the most minute details of His plan for His people are purposeful and preserved. The continuity of these Levitical lines underscores God's unwavering covenant faithfulness, showing His commitment to maintaining the structures necessary for worship and the spiritual well-being of Israel. It reminds us that God works through generations, honoring the heritage of faith and calling individuals to specific roles within His larger redemptive narrative. The emphasis on legitimate lineage for sacred service foreshadows the ultimate need for proper authorization in all divine appointments, culminating in Christ's perfect and eternal priesthood, which transcends all earthly genealogies.

* [Numbers 3:27](/numbers/3-27 "Numbers 3:27 - The Kohathite Families and Their Duties")
* [Exodus 6:24](/exodus/6-24 "Exodus 6:24 - Sons of Korah, Assir, Elkanah, and Ebiasaph")
* [Ezra 2:62](/ezra/2-62 "Ezra 2:62 - Exclusion from the Priesthood Due to Unverified Genealogy")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
While 1 Chronicles 6:23 lists names from a distant past, it offers enduring lessons for contemporary believers. It quietly testifies to God's meticulous attention to detail, reminding us that every person and every role, no matter how seemingly small or unheralded, has profound significance in His grand design. Just as the Levites were called to faithful service within a divinely ordained structure, so too are we called to serve faithfully in our unique vocations within the body of Christ. This verse encourages us to appreciate our spiritual heritage, recognizing the "cloud of witnesses" who have faithfully served before us, and to understand that our present faithfulness contributes to the ongoing story of God's kingdom. It challenges us to embrace our place, whether prominent or hidden, trusting that God sees and values our obedience within His perfect order, knowing that even our seemingly small contributions are woven into His magnificent tapestry of redemption.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does this seemingly simple verse reveal God's meticulous care for His people and His plans, even in what might appear to be "minor" details?**
* **In what ways can understanding our spiritual heritage—the faithfulness of those who came before us—strengthen our own faith journey and sense of purpose today?**
* **How does the concept of "every role matters" apply to your own service within the body of Christ, even in seemingly small or unheralded ways?**

### FAQ
**Why are genealogies so important in the Bible, especially in Chronicles?**

Answer: Genealogies in the Bible are far more than mere family trees; they are crucial theological and historical documents. In Chronicles, written for the post-exilic community, they served several vital purposes. They established and validated tribal identity, particularly for land claims upon return to Israel. Crucially, they confirmed the legitimacy of individuals for specific roles, especially for the priesthood and Levitical service, which were hereditary. For instance, [Ezra 2:62](/ezra/2-62 "Ezra 2:62 - Exclusion from the Priesthood Due to Unverified Genealogy") illustrates how those who could not prove their lineage were disqualified from the priesthood. Beyond legal and social functions, genealogies also underscored God's covenant faithfulness, demonstrating His preservation of chosen lines (like the royal line of David and the priestly line of Levi) through generations, ultimately pointing towards the Messiah and His rightful claim to the throne.

**Are the names Elkanah, Ebiasaph, and Assir found elsewhere in Scripture?**

Answer: Yes, these names, particularly Elkanah and Ebiasaph, appear in other significant Levitical genealogies, confirming their established place within the Kohathite lineage. For example, [Exodus 6:24](/exodus/6-24 "Exodus 6:24 - Sons of Korah") lists "Assir, Elkanah, and Ebiasaph" as sons of Korah, a prominent Kohathite family. While the precise relationship can sometimes be complex due to the nature of ancient genealogies (which sometimes skip generations or list prominent ancestors), their consistent appearance across different biblical books underscores their importance in the Levitical heritage. These repetitions reinforce the historical accuracy and the deep-seated significance of these families for Israel's religious structure, particularly their role as descendants of Kohath, who were responsible for the most sacred duties related to the tabernacle, as outlined in [Numbers 3:27-31](/numbers/3-27-31 "Numbers 3:27-31 - Duties of the Kohathites").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While 1 Chronicles 6:23 meticulously traces a Levitical lineage, its deeper significance finds profound Christ-centered fulfillment. The very emphasis on a divinely preserved and legitimate lineage, essential for service in the Old Covenant, points to the ultimate and perfect lineage of Jesus Christ. He is the true and eternal Priest, not according to the Levitical order dependent on human descent, but according to the superior order of Melchizedek, established by divine oath and an indestructible life ([Hebrews 7:11-17](/hebrews/7-11-17 "Hebrews 7:11-17 - A Priest Like Melchizedek")). The meticulous care God took in preserving the Levitical lines foreshadows His even greater meticulousness in preparing the way for the Messiah, through whom all true spiritual service and access to God would come. Jesus' perfect obedience and faithful service unto death ([Philippians 2:8](/philippians/2-8 "Philippians 2:8 - Obedience to Death")) fulfill the essence of all faithful service hinted at in these genealogies. Through Him, believers are no longer defined by physical lineage but by spiritual birth, becoming children of God by faith in Christ Jesus ([Galatians 3:26-29](/galatians/3-26-29 "Galatians 3:26-29 - Children of God by Faith")). We are now part of a new, eternal priesthood, a "royal priesthood" ([1 Peter 2:9](/1_peter/2-9 "1 Peter 2:9 - A Chosen Race, a Royal Priesthood")), finding our Head, High Priest, and the very source of our spiritual identity and purpose in Christ alone.

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.