1 Chronicles 6:33

And these [are] they that waited with their children. Of the sons of the Kohathites: Heman a singer, the son of Joel, the son of Shemuel,

And these are they that waited {H5975} with their children {H1121}. Of the sons {H1121} of the Kohathites {H6956}: Heman {H1968} a singer {H7891}, the son {H1121} of Joel {H3100}, the son {H1121} of Shemuel {H8050},

Those who carried out these tasks and their descendants were - starting with descendants of the K'hati - Heman the singer, the son of Yo'el the son of Sh'mu'el,

These are the men who served, together with their sons. From the Kohathites:

And these are they that waited, and their sons. Of the sons of the Kohathites: Heman the singer, the son of Joel, the son of Samuel,

Commentary

1 Chronicles 6:33 introduces Heman, a significant figure in the temple music, as part of the Levitical lineage. This verse is embedded within a detailed genealogy of the Levites, particularly those appointed for musical service in the tabernacle and later the Temple.

Context

The book of 1 Chronicles meticulously records the genealogies of Israel, with a particular emphasis on the tribe of Levi, the priesthood, and the establishment of legitimate worship practices under David. This specific chapter, 1 Chronicles 6, provides a comprehensive list of the descendants of Levi, highlighting their various roles and duties, especially in the sacred music. The Chronicler's purpose was to underscore the continuity of God's covenant and the proper order of worship for the post-exilic community. Heman's lineage from the Kohathites, one of the three main Levitical clans, reinforces his hereditary right to serve.

Key Themes

  • Hereditary Service and Dedication: The phrase "waited with their children" emphasizes the generational dedication of the Levites to their sacred duties. This service was not temporary but a lifelong commitment passed down through families, ensuring continuity in the Lord's house.
  • The Importance of Worship Music: Heman is explicitly identified as "a singer," highlighting the crucial role of music in ancient Israelite worship. He, along with Asaph and Ethan/Jeduthun, were the chief musicians appointed by King David, responsible for leading the musical praise before the Lord. You can read more about his role in 1 Chronicles 25:1.
  • Significant Lineage: Heman's ancestry is traced back to Samuel (Shemuel), the renowned prophet and judge. This connection not only adds prestige to Heman's position but also underscores the divine appointment and spiritual heritage associated with those serving in the temple.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word translated "waited" ('amad) carries the sense of "to stand," "to stand ready," "to attend," or "to serve." In this context, it signifies a posture of constant readiness and active service before the Lord. It implies a dedicated, enduring presence in their assigned roles, particularly in the tabernacle and later the Temple, ensuring that the worship and duties were consistently performed.

Significance and Application

1 Chronicles 6:33 reminds us of the value of dedicated, generational service within the community of faith. Just as Heman and his family were set apart for the vital ministry of worship through music, believers today are called to use their gifts to serve God and His people. The verse encourages us to recognize the importance of passing on our faith and commitment to the next generation, fostering a legacy of service and devotion. It also underscores that seemingly "behind-the-scenes" roles, like detailed genealogies or musical leadership, are integral to God's plan and worship.

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Cross-References

  • 1 Chronicles 6:28 (4 votes)

    And the sons of Samuel; the firstborn Vashni, and Abiah.

  • 1 Chronicles 15:17 (3 votes)

    So the Levites appointed Heman the son of Joel; and of his brethren, Asaph the son of Berechiah; and of the sons of Merari their brethren, Ethan the son of Kushaiah;

  • 1 Samuel 1:28 (2 votes)

    Therefore also I have lent him to the LORD; as long as he liveth he shall be lent to the LORD. And he worshipped the LORD there.

  • 1 Samuel 1:20 (2 votes)

    Wherefore it came to pass, when the time was come about after Hannah had conceived, that she bare a son, and called his name Samuel, [saying], Because I have asked him of the LORD.

  • 2 Chronicles 5:12 (2 votes)

    Also the Levites [which were] the singers, all of them of Asaph, of Heman, of Jeduthun, with their sons and their brethren, [being] arrayed in white linen, having cymbals and psalteries and harps, stood at the east end of the altar, and with them an hundred and twenty priests sounding with trumpets:)

  • Psalms 88:1 (2 votes)

    ¶ A Song [or] Psalm for the sons of Korah, to the chief Musician upon Mahalath Leannoth, Maschil of Heman the Ezrahite. O LORD God of my salvation, I have cried day [and] night before thee:

  • 1 Chronicles 16:41 (2 votes)

    And with them Heman and Jeduthun, and the rest that were chosen, who were expressed by name, to give thanks to the LORD, because his mercy [endureth] for ever;