1 Chronicles 6:38

KJV

The son of Izhar, the son of Kohath, the son of Levi, the son of Israel.

KJV (with Strong's)

The son {H1121} of Izhar {H3324}, the son {H1121} of Kohath {H6955}, the son {H1121} of Levi {H3878}, the son {H1121} of Israel {H3478}.

Complete Jewish Bible

the son of Yitz'har, the son of K'hat, the son of Levi, the son of Isra'el.

Berean Standard Bible

the son of Izhar, the son of Kohath, the son of Levi, the son of Israel.

American Standard Version

the son of Izhar, the son of Kohath, the son of Levi, the son of Israel.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Chronicles 6:38 provides a concise yet profoundly significant segment of the extensive genealogical record of the Levites, specifically tracing a portion of the lineage of Heman, one of King David's chief temple musicians. This verse meticulously connects Heman's ancestry through Izhar and Kohath back to Levi, the progenitor of the priestly and service tribe, and ultimately to Israel, the patriarch Jacob. It underscores the foundational importance of heritage and divine order in ancient Israelite society, establishing identity, tribal affiliation, and the qualifications for sacred service within God's covenant community.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within the expansive genealogical records of [1 Chronicles 1-9](/1_chronicles/1 "1 Chronicles 1-9 - The Genealogies"), which serve as a foundational introduction to the Chronicler's work. Specifically, [1 Chronicles 6](/1_chronicles/6 "1 Chronicles 6 - The Genealogies of the Levites") details the lineage of the Levites, the tribe designated for temple service. Verses 31-48 focus on the three chief musicians appointed by David—Heman, Asaph, and Ethan (or Jeduthun)—and their respective genealogies. Verse 38 provides a direct ancestral link for Heman, tracing his descent through his father's line, ensuring his qualification and legitimacy for his vital role in temple worship. The meticulous nature of these lists emphasizes continuity, divine appointment, and the preservation of sacred roles within the post-exilic community for whom the Chronicler was writing, offering assurance of God's enduring covenant with His people.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Israel, genealogies were far more than mere family trees; they were vital documents establishing identity, tribal affiliation, land rights, and qualifications for specific societal and religious roles. For the Levites, their lineage directly determined their right to serve in the Tabernacle and later the Temple. The tribe of Levi was set apart by God for priestly and liturgical duties, with various families assigned specific tasks. The Kohathites, mentioned in this verse, were a prominent Levitical family entrusted with the sacred duty of transporting the most holy items of the Tabernacle, including the Ark of the Covenant, as detailed in [Numbers 4:15](/numbers/4-15 "Numbers 4:15 - Kohathite Duties"). The Chronicler, writing after the Babylonian exile, meticulously records these genealogies to reinforce the continuity of God's covenant with Israel, to re-establish proper worship practices, and to provide hope for the restoration of the community around the Temple, demonstrating that God's plan persisted despite national upheaval.
* **Key Themes:** 1 Chronicles 6:38, though brief, contributes to several overarching themes in the book of Chronicles. Firstly, it highlights the paramount importance of **Lineage and Heritage**, demonstrating how one's identity and role in God's plan were intrinsically tied to their ancestry. This meticulous record-keeping reflects God's **Divine Order and Faithfulness**, assuring the post-exilic community that God's promises and structures, particularly concerning the priesthood and worship, remained intact despite the disruption of exile. The verse also underscores the theme of **Levitical Service**, emphasizing the unique and essential role of the Levites in Israel's worship life, as seen in their appointment for service in [Numbers 3:6](/numbers/3-6 "Numbers 3:6 - Appointment of Levites for Service"). By tracing Heman's lineage back to Levi and Israel, the Chronicler reinforces the legitimacy and divine sanction of the temple worship system, which was central to Israel's national and spiritual identity, providing a foundation for renewed hope and worship.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **son (Hebrew, _bên_):** This common Hebrew term (H1121), appearing four times in this short verse, literally means "son of" but functions as a genealogical indicator, signifying direct descent or membership within a lineage. Derived from a root meaning "to build," it suggests a "builder of the family name." Its repetition emphasizes the unbroken chain of generations, highlighting the meticulous nature of the record and the importance of precise ancestry for identity and qualification in Israelite society.
* **Levi (Hebrew, _Lêvîy_):** The third son of Jacob and Leah, Levi (H3878) is the progenitor of the Levitical tribe, which was uniquely set apart by God for sacred service in the Tabernacle and later the Temple. The name itself means "attached" or "joined." His descendants, the Levites, were not given an inheritance of land but were sustained by tithes and offerings, dedicating their lives to the worship of God, as outlined in [Numbers 18:21-24](/numbers/18-21-24 "Numbers 18:21-24 - Levitical Inheritance"). This verse grounds Heman's musical service firmly within this divinely appointed tribe.
* **Israel (Hebrew, _Yisrâʼêl_):** This is the new name given by God to Jacob (H3478) after his wrestling match at Peniel ([Genesis 32:28](/genesis/32-28 "Genesis 32:28 - Jacob's Name Change to Israel")). It means "he will rule as God" or "God strives." As the patriarch from whom the twelve tribes descended, "Israel" here represents the entire nation, signifying the ultimate origin of Heman's lineage within God's chosen covenant people, emphasizing their unique relationship with the Divine.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"The son of Izhar,"**: This phrase identifies the immediate ancestor in this segment of the lineage. Izhar was one of the four sons of Kohath, a grandson of Levi ([Exodus 6:18](/exodus/6-18 "Exodus 6:18 - Sons of Kohath")). His descendants, the Izharites, were a specific family within the Kohathite clan, highlighting the precise familial branch being traced and underscoring the granular detail of the Chronicler's record.
* **"the son of Kohath,"**: Kohath was one of the three sons of Levi ([Genesis 46:11](/genesis/46-11 "Genesis 46:11 - Sons of Levi")). The Kohathites were a significant Levitical clan entrusted with the sacred duty of carrying the Tabernacle's holy furnishings, including the Ark of the Covenant ([Numbers 3:31](/numbers/3-31 "Numbers 3:31 - Kohathite Responsibilities")). This connection highlights the prestigious and sacred nature of Heman's ancestral line, linking him to those with primary responsibility for the holiest items of Israelite worship.
* **"the son of Levi,"**: This clause traces the lineage back to Levi, the tribal patriarch from whom all Levites descended. This connection is crucial as it establishes the divine legitimacy and qualification for any individual serving in the Tabernacle or Temple, as only descendants of Levi were permitted to perform these sacred duties. It underscores the foundational identity of the individual within the tribe set apart for God's service, emphasizing their unique role in the covenant community.
* **"the son of Israel."**: This final phrase connects the entire lineage back to Jacob, whose name was changed to Israel by God. This ultimate link signifies that Heman's ancestry is rooted in the very foundation of the nation of Israel, God's chosen covenant people, emphasizing the national and spiritual significance of his role and the divine origin of his heritage within God's redemptive plan for humanity.

#### Literary Devices
The primary literary device at play in 1 Chronicles 6:38 is **Genealogy** itself, which functions as a purposeful literary form. Genealogies in biblical texts are not mere lists; they are purposeful narratives that establish legitimacy, demonstrate continuity, underscore divine faithfulness, and highlight key individuals within a historical and theological framework. The repetitive structure, using **Anaphora** with the phrase "the son of," creates a rhythmic, cumulative effect, emphasizing the unbroken chain of descent and the meticulous record-keeping. This repetition serves to reinforce the authority and authenticity of the lineage, assuring the reader of the individual's rightful place within the community and their qualification for sacred service. The concise nature of the verse, a form of **Conciseness**, allows it to function as a building block within a much larger, intricate structure of family trees, contributing to the Chronicler's overarching goal of demonstrating God's faithfulness through history and providing a stable foundation for the post-exilic community.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This seemingly simple genealogical entry carries profound theological weight, underscoring God's meticulous attention to detail in His covenant dealings with Israel. It speaks to the divine order established for worship and service, where lineage was not merely a matter of human record but a reflection of God's sovereign design for His people. The preservation of these lines, especially for the Levites, demonstrates God's faithfulness in maintaining the structures necessary for His presence among His people and for the continuation of proper worship. This verse reminds us that God works through generations, fulfilling His promises through specific individuals and families chosen for particular purposes within His grand redemptive narrative, ensuring continuity and purpose even through periods of upheaval and exile.

* [Exodus 6:16-20](/exodus/6-16-20 "Exodus 6:16-20 - Genealogy of Levi's Descendants")
* [Numbers 1:47-53](/numbers/1-47-53 "Numbers 1:47-53 - Levites Set Apart for Tabernacle Service")
* [Ezra 2:61-63](/ezra/2-61-63 "Ezra 2:61-63 - Exclusion from Priesthood Due to Unverified Genealogy")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
While 1 Chronicles 6:38 is a historical record of lineage, its underlying principles offer timeless insights for contemporary believers. It invites us to consider the significance of our own spiritual heritage, recognizing that through faith in Christ, we are grafted into a divine family, becoming children of God and co-heirs with Christ. Just as Heman's lineage qualified him for sacred service, our identity in Christ empowers us for spiritual service within His body, the Church. This verse encourages us to appreciate God's meticulous care, acknowledging that every detail of our lives—our heritage, our gifts, and our calling—is known and purposed by Him. It challenges us to live in a manner worthy of our spiritual inheritance, faithfully fulfilling the unique roles God has prepared for us, contributing to the larger narrative of His kingdom with diligence, devotion, and a profound sense of belonging.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does understanding the importance of ancient genealogies, like the one in 1 Chronicles 6:38, deepen your appreciation for God's meticulous planning and faithfulness throughout history?**
* **In what ways does your spiritual heritage in Christ provide you with identity, purpose, and qualification for service in God's kingdom today?**
* **Considering the Levites' dedication to temple service, how can you more fully dedicate your own gifts and time to serving God and His people in your community and the wider world?**

### FAQ

**Why are genealogies so prevalent and important in biblical texts like 1 Chronicles?**

Answer: Genealogies in the Bible serve multiple crucial purposes beyond simply listing family trees. They establish legitimacy and authority, particularly for kings, priests, and prophets, ensuring their right to hold specific offices or roles. They demonstrate the continuity of God's covenant promises, showing how His plans unfold through generations, such as the lineage leading to the Messiah. Genealogies also preserve tribal and family identity, which was vital for land inheritance, social structure, and maintaining the distinctiveness of the Israelite people. For the post-exilic community, as was the case for the Chronicler's audience, these records provided a sense of continuity with their past and a basis for rebuilding their national and religious life, reinforcing that God's covenant with Israel remained intact despite the exile, as seen in the careful records of those returning to Jerusalem in [Ezra 2:59-63](/ezra/2-59-63 "Genealogical Records for Priestly Claims").

**What is the significance of Heman's lineage being traced back to Levi and Israel in this verse?**

Answer: Tracing Heman's lineage back to Levi is paramount because it establishes his qualification and legitimacy for his role as a chief temple musician. Only descendants of Levi were permitted to serve in the Tabernacle and Temple, performing the sacred duties of worship. This lineage confirms that Heman, a Kohathite, was part of the divinely appointed tribe for service. Connecting him further back to "Israel" (Jacob) roots his identity and service within the very foundation of God's chosen nation. It signifies that Heman's ministry was not merely a human appointment but part of God's larger, historical plan for His covenant people, emphasizing the sacred and national importance of his work in temple worship, as highlighted by David's careful organization of these roles in [1 Chronicles 6:31-32](/1_chronicles/6-31-32 "David's Appointment of Musicians").

**How does this verse, part of a seemingly "dry" list, offer spiritual nourishment?**

Answer: While a genealogical list may appear dry, 1 Chronicles 6:38 offers profound spiritual nourishment by revealing God's character and His meticulous engagement with humanity. It demonstrates God's faithfulness in preserving lineages and fulfilling His promises across generations. It highlights the divine order in His kingdom, where every individual has a place and purpose, just as Heman's specific lineage qualified him for his vital role in worship. This verse reminds us that God cares about details and that our own lives, our heritage, and our calling are part of His grand, unfolding narrative. It encourages us to find our identity and purpose not in human achievements alone, but in our connection to God's eternal plan, much like the Israelites found theirs in their divinely ordained heritage. This resonates with the New Testament truth that we are "God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do" ([Ephesians 2:10](/ephesians/2-10 "God's Workmanship")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While 1 Chronicles 6:38 meticulously details a Levitical lineage for temple service, its ultimate fulfillment and deeper meaning are found in Jesus Christ. The meticulous preservation of genealogies in the Old Testament, including those of the Levites, ultimately points to the faithfulness of God in preparing the way for the Messiah. Although Jesus did not descend from Levi but from the tribe of Judah ([Hebrews 7:14](/hebrews/7-14 "Christ from Judah")), He fulfills and transcends the Levitical priesthood. As our Great High Priest, Jesus offers a perfect, once-for-all sacrifice, unlike the repeated sacrifices of the Levitical system ([Hebrews 9:11-14](/hebrews/9-11-14 "Christ's Superior Sacrifice")). He is the true Temple ([John 2:19-21](/john/2-19-21 "Jesus, the Temple")), the ultimate place where God dwells and where humanity can meet Him, making physical lineage for access to God obsolete. Furthermore, through Christ, believers are grafted into a new, spiritual lineage, becoming children of God by faith ([Galatians 3:26-29](/galatians/3-26-29 "Children of God by Faith")) and a "royal priesthood" ([1 Peter 2:9](/1_peter/2-9 "A Royal Priesthood")), fulfilling the purpose of the Old Testament priesthood in a new and greater way by enabling all believers to draw near to God. Thus, the emphasis on lineage and qualification for service in 1 Chronicles 6:38 finds its perfect and eternal culmination in the person and work of Jesus, who makes all believers part of His holy nation, called to proclaim His excellencies.

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 16:1

¶ So they brought the ark of God, and set it in the midst of the tent that David had pitched for it: and they offered burnt sacrifices and peace offerings before God.

Numbers 3:19

And the sons of Kohath by their families; Amram, and Izehar, Hebron, and Uzziel.