1 Chronicles 6:29

KJV

The sons of Merari; Mahli, Libni his son, Shimei his son, Uzza his son,

KJV (with Strong's)

The sons {H1121} of Merari {H4847}; Mahli {H4249}, Libni {H3845} his son {H1121}, Shimei {H8096} his son {H1121}, Uzza {H5798} his son {H1121},

Complete Jewish Bible

The descendants of M'rari: Machli, his son Livni, his son Shim'i, his son 'Uzah,

Berean Standard Bible

The descendants of Merari:

American Standard Version

The sons of Merari: Mahli, Libni his son, Shimei his son, Uzzah his son,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Chronicles 6:29 meticulously records a segment of the Merarite lineage, tracing the direct father-to-son succession from Mahli through Libni, Shimei, and Uzza. This verse, embedded within a comprehensive genealogy of the Levites, serves to affirm the legitimate heritage and divine appointment of those responsible for specific duties within the Tabernacle and later the Temple, underscoring God's precise ordering of His people and their roles in worship and service.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** 1 Chronicles 6 is a detailed and extensive genealogy of the Levites, the priestly tribe set apart for sacred service. Following the general genealogies from Adam to the return from exile (Chapters 1-9), Chapter 6 specifically focuses on the three sons of Levi—Gershon, Kohath, and Merari—and their descendants. This chapter meticulously lists the priestly line of Aaron (the Kohathites) and then proceeds to enumerate the other Levitical families, including the Merarites, to whom 1 Chronicles 6:29 belongs. The chronicler’s emphasis on the Levitical lineage highlights the centrality of worship and the structured administration of the sacred rites in post-exilic Israel, reinforcing the legitimacy and continuity of the temple service. The verses immediately preceding 1 Chronicles 6:29 (e.g., [1 Chronicles 6:19](/1_chronicles/6-19 "1 Chronicles 6:19 - Merarite Lineage Introduction")) introduce the Merarite family, with this verse continuing to trace a specific branch of that lineage.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The book of 1 Chronicles was likely written during the post-exilic period (around 450-400 BC), after the return of the Jewish people from Babylonian captivity. At this time, there was a pressing need to re-establish national identity, re-organize religious life, and confirm the legitimate claims to land and priestly roles. Genealogies served as vital legal and social documents, validating tribal affiliations, inheritance rights, and, crucially, the right to serve in the rebuilt Temple. The Levites, particularly the Merarites, had specific, divinely ordained responsibilities in the Tabernacle and Temple. They were not priests but assistants, responsible for the heavy structural components of the Tabernacle, such as the frames, bars, pillars, and bases (as detailed in [Numbers 4:31-32](/numbers/4-31 "Numbers 4:31-32 - Duties of the Merarites")). This detailed record in 1 Chronicles 6:29, therefore, was not merely a list of names but a foundational document affirming the rightful claim of these individuals to their inherited sacred duties within the community.
* **Key Themes:** This verse, as part of the larger Levitical genealogy, contributes to several overarching themes in Chronicles. One prominent theme is **Divine Order and Organization**, showcasing God's meticulous arrangement of His people and their roles, particularly in relation to worship. The precise enumeration of lineages underscores that service in God's house was not arbitrary but divinely appointed and passed down through generations. Another key theme is the **Importance of Lineage and Identity**, as these genealogies provided a crucial sense of continuity and legitimacy for the returned exiles, connecting them to their ancestral heritage and the promises made to Abraham and David. They affirmed who belonged to the covenant community and who was authorized for specific sacred duties. Finally, the chronicler's painstaking effort in recording these names highlights the theme of **Faithfulness in Record-Keeping and Preservation of Heritage**, demonstrating the value placed on historical accuracy and the safeguarding of Israel's sacred traditions and the divine appointments for temple service, which were central to the nation's spiritual life as outlined in [1 Chronicles 9](/1_chronicles/9 "1 Chronicles 9 - Genealogies of the Returned Exiles").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Merari (Hebrew, _m'rārî_):** Meaning "bitter" or "sad," Merari was the third son of Levi (alongside Gershon and Kohath). His descendants, the Merarites, were one of the three main divisions of the Levites, specifically tasked with carrying and assembling the heavier, structural components of the Tabernacle and later serving in the Temple. The naming of his sons here establishes the specific branch of the Levitical family being traced.
* **his son (Hebrew, _b'nô_):** This phrase, repeated after each name (Libni, Shimei, Uzza), is a simple but crucial genealogical marker. It clearly indicates direct patrilineal descent, emphasizing the unbroken chain of succession from father to son. In a context where lineage determined identity, inheritance, and sacred duty, this repetition underscores the legitimacy and continuity of the Merarite line.
* **Uzza (Hebrew, _‘uzzâ_):** Meaning "strength" or "might," Uzza is a common Hebrew name. While the name itself carries a positive connotation, it's important to distinguish this Uzza from the more well-known Uzza who was struck down for touching the Ark of the Covenant (as recounted in [2 Samuel 6:7](/2_samuel/6-7 "2 Samuel 6:7 - Uzza and the Ark of the Covenant")). The Uzza in 1 Chronicles 6:29 is simply one in a long line of Merarite descendants, whose name, like others in genealogies, often reflected hopes or characteristics rather than specific actions.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"The sons of Merari;":** This opening clause establishes the specific branch of the Levitical family that is being enumerated. It signals a transition from other Levitical lines (Gershonites, Kohathites) to focus on the descendants of Merari, Levi's third son. This introduction is essential for contextualizing the subsequent names within the broader Levitical genealogy.
* **"Mahli, Libni his son, Shimei his son, Uzza his son,":** This is a direct, linear enumeration of a specific sub-lineage within the Merarite family. It begins with Mahli, one of Merari's immediate sons (as seen in [1 Chronicles 6:19](/1_chronicles/6-19 "1 Chronicles 6:19 - Sons of Merari")). The subsequent names—Libni, Shimei, and Uzza—are presented in a clear father-to-son sequence, each explicitly identified as "his son." This precise detailing of succession was vital for establishing the legitimacy of individuals for their inherited roles and for maintaining the integrity of tribal and family records in ancient Israel, particularly concerning sacred service.

#### Literary Devices
The primary literary device at play in 1 Chronicles 6:29, and indeed throughout much of 1 Chronicles, is **Genealogy**. This is a systematic recording of ancestral lines, serving not only as a historical record but also as a theological statement about God's faithfulness in preserving His covenant people and the specific lines chosen for leadership and sacred service. The meticulous nature of this genealogy emphasizes God's divine order and the importance of legitimate succession. Furthermore, the repeated phrase "**his son**" functions as a form of **Repetition**, which in this context serves to reinforce the direct, unbroken patrilineal descent, lending authority and clarity to the lineage. This repetition also contributes to the overall sense of **Enumeration**, where names are systematically listed to create a comprehensive and authoritative record. The dry, list-like nature of the verse belies its profound significance in establishing identity, validating roles, and connecting the present community to its historical and divinely ordained past.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
1 Chronicles 6:29, though a simple list of names, powerfully reinforces several profound theological truths. It speaks to God's meticulous attention to detail and His sovereign ordering of creation and covenant community. Just as every part of the Tabernacle was essential, so too was every family and individual within Israel, particularly those designated for sacred service. The chronicler’s careful preservation of these lineages underscores the divine value placed on identity, heritage, and the faithful transmission of responsibilities across generations. This verse reminds us that God sees and values every role, even those that might appear less prominent or "behind the scenes," like the Merarites' task of carrying heavy components. It points to a God who is intimately involved in the details of His people's lives and their service, ensuring that His purposes are fulfilled through an organized and legitimate priesthood and Levitical structure.

* [Numbers 3:20](/numbers/3-20 "Numbers 3:20 - Sons of Merari") – This verse from Numbers identifies Mahli and Mushi as the sons of Merari, providing the foundational lineage that 1 Chronicles 6:29 builds upon.
* [Numbers 4:31-32](/numbers/4-31 "Numbers 4:31-32 - Merarites' Specific Duties") – These verses detail the specific, physically demanding duties of the Merarites in transporting the Tabernacle, highlighting the practical importance of their lineage.
* [Romans 12:4-5](/romans/12-4 "Romans 12:4-5 - Many Members, One Body") – Paul's teaching on the body of Christ echoes the principle of diverse but equally vital roles, where every "member" (or lineage, in the OT context) contributes to the whole, just as the Merarites contributed to the Tabernacle's structure.

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The seemingly mundane list of names in 1 Chronicles 6:29 offers rich soil for spiritual reflection and practical application today. It reminds us that God is a God of order, purpose, and intentionality, even in the details that might escape our notice. Just as the Merarites had a specific, vital, albeit often unseen, role in maintaining the structure of the Tabernacle, so too does every believer have a unique and indispensable place within the body of Christ. This verse challenges us to consider our own calling and responsibilities, no matter how "ordinary" they may seem, recognizing that faithfulness in small things is highly valued by God. It also speaks to the profound importance of generational faithfulness—the passing down of spiritual heritage, values, and a commitment to God's service from one generation to the next. Our diligence in stewarding our spiritual inheritance, whether through teaching, modeling, or simply living out our faith, contributes to a legacy that extends beyond ourselves. Ultimately, this passage encourages us to embrace our God-given roles with diligence and humility, trusting that every act of service, no matter how hidden, contributes to God's grand design.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways does God's meticulous attention to detail in genealogies encourage or challenge your own approach to life and service?**
* **How can you identify and embrace the "behind-the-scenes" roles or responsibilities God has given you, recognizing their vital importance in His kingdom?**
* **What spiritual heritage are you receiving from previous generations, and what legacy are you intentionally building to pass on to the next?**
* **How does the concept of divine order and specific roles in the Old Testament Tabernacle relate to the functioning of the church today?**

### FAQ

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

Answer: Genealogies in the Bible, particularly in Chronicles, serve multiple crucial purposes. They establish historical continuity, connecting the present community to its past and to God's covenant promises, such as those made to Abraham and David (e.g., [1 Chronicles 1:1-4](/1_chronicles/1-1 "1 Chronicles 1:1-4 - Adam to Noah")). For the post-exilic community to whom Chronicles was written, genealogies were vital for re-establishing national identity, confirming tribal affiliations, validating land claims, and, most importantly, authenticating the legitimate lines for the priesthood and Levitical service (as seen throughout [1 Chronicles 6](/1_chronicles/6 "1 Chronicles 6 - Genealogy of the Levites")). They demonstrated God's faithfulness in preserving His people and fulfilling His plans through specific families and individuals, ensuring the proper continuation of worship and governance.

**What was the specific role of the Merarites among the Levites?**

Answer: The Merarites were one of the three main divisions of the Levites, descended from Merari, Levi's third son. While the Kohathites were responsible for the holy vessels and the Gershonites for the curtains and coverings of the Tabernacle, the Merarites had the physically demanding task of transporting and assembling the heavy, structural components of the Tabernacle. This included the frames, bars, pillars, and bases (as detailed in [Numbers 4:31-32](/numbers/4-31 "Numbers 4:31-32 - Duties of the Merarites")). Their role was foundational and essential, providing the stability and structure for the portable sanctuary, underscoring that every part of God's dwelling and service was vital, even the less glamorous, heavy-lifting tasks.

**Is the Uzza in this verse the same as the one who died for touching the Ark of the Covenant?**

Answer: No, the Uzza mentioned in 1 Chronicles 6:29 is not the same individual as the Uzza who was struck dead for touching the Ark of the Covenant during its transport (recorded in [2 Samuel 6:6-7](/2_samuel/6-6 "2 Samuel 6:6-7 - Uzza and the Ark") and [1 Chronicles 13:9-10](/1_chronicles/13-9 "1 Chronicles 13:9-10 - Uzza's Death")). "Uzza" was a relatively common Hebrew name, meaning "strength" or "might." The Uzza in 1 Chronicles 6:29 is part of a specific Merarite lineage, living much earlier than the Uzza involved with the Ark, who was a contemporary of King David. This distinction highlights the importance of context in biblical genealogies and narratives.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The meticulous recording of lineages, like that of the Merarites in 1 Chronicles 6:29, finds its ultimate fulfillment and deepest meaning in Jesus Christ. The Old Testament emphasis on perfect lineage and legitimate succession for priestly and kingly roles points directly to Christ, who alone possesses the flawless genealogy to be both our perfect High Priest (as seen in [Hebrews 7:26-28](/hebrews/7-26 "Hebrews 7:26-28 - Christ Our Perfect High Priest")) and the eternal King from the line of David (as affirmed in [Matthew 1:1-17](/matthew/1-1 "Matthew 1:1-17 - Genealogy of Jesus") and [Luke 3:23-38](/luke/3-23 "Luke 3:23-38 - Genealogy of Jesus")). The Merarites' humble yet essential service in bearing the heavy structural components of the Tabernacle foreshadows Christ's own humble service and ultimate sacrifice, bearing the weight of the world's sin on the cross (as described in [Isaiah 53:4-6](/isaiah/53-4 "Isaiah 53:4-6 - The Suffering Servant")). He is the true strength and stability for God's new spiritual temple, the Church (referenced in [Ephesians 2:20-22](/ephesians/2-20 "Ephesians 2:20-22 - Christ as the Cornerstone")). Through Christ, the need for a physical, hereditary priesthood is fulfilled and transcended, as all believers are now part of a spiritual lineage, a "royal priesthood" (as declared in [1 Peter 2:9](/1_peter/2-9 "1 Peter 2:9 - A Royal Priesthood")), called to serve God in every aspect of their lives, empowered by the Holy Spirit. The meticulousness of the Old Testament records ultimately testifies to God's faithfulness in bringing about His redemptive plan through His Son, Jesus, the one in whom all promises and genealogies find their "Yes" and "Amen" (as in [2 Corinthians 1:20](/2_corinthians/1-20 "2 Corinthians 1:20 - God's Promises in Christ")).

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 Chronicles 6:19

The sons of Merari; Mahli, and Mushi. And these [are] the families of the Levites according to their fathers.

Numbers 3:33

Of Merari [was] the family of the Mahlites, and the family of the Mushites: these [are] the families of Merari.