1 Chronicles 6:47

KJV

The son of Mahli, the son of Mushi, the son of Merari, the son of Levi.

KJV (with Strong's)

The son {H1121} of Mahli {H4249}, the son {H1121} of Mushi {H4187}, the son {H1121} of Merari {H4847}, the son {H1121} of Levi {H3878}.

Complete Jewish Bible

the son of Machli, the son of Mushi, the son of M'rari, the son of Levi.

Berean Standard Bible

the son of Mahli, the son of Mushi, the son of Merari, the son of Levi.

American Standard Version

the son of Mahli, the son of Mushi, the son of Merari, the son of Levi.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Chronicles 6:47 meticulously details a segment of the Levitical genealogy, specifically tracing a lineage within the clan of Merari, one of Levi's three sons. This verse, like many others in the Chronicler's comprehensive record, underscores the profound significance of established ancestry for tribal identity, inheritance rights, and, crucially, the legitimate performance of sacred duties within Israel's divinely ordained worship system, emphasizing the continuity and order God established for His covenant people.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** The sixth chapter of 1 Chronicles is almost entirely devoted to the meticulous genealogies of the Levites, the tribe divinely appointed for service in the Tabernacle and later the Temple. The chapter begins by listing the three sons of Levi—Gershon, Kohath, and Merari—from whom all Levitical clans descended. Verses 16-30 detail the descendants of these three branches, specifying the lines of those who served as musicians, gatekeepers, and especially the priestly line of Aaron, who descended from Kohath. This verse specifically traces a direct line within the Merarite clan: Mahli, Mushi, Merari, and ultimately back to Levi. This detailed recording served to underscore the divine order and the paramount importance of proper lineage for sacred duties, ensuring that only those appointed by God through their heritage could perform specific roles in worship, thereby maintaining the purity and legitimacy of Israel's covenant relationship with Yahweh.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Israel, especially during the post-exilic period when 1 Chronicles was likely compiled, genealogies served as far more than mere family trees; they were vital legal and social documents. They established tribal identity, land rights, and, critically for the Levites, legitimacy for service in the rebuilt Temple. After the Babylonian exile, there was a profound need to re-establish the covenant community and its divinely ordained worship practices. The meticulous recording of Levitical lines, such as the one in [1 Chronicles 6](/1_chronicles/6 "1 Chronicles 6 - Genealogies of the Levites"), ensured that only those with verified lineage could resume their sacred duties, preventing unauthorized individuals from profaning the sanctuary. This emphasis reflected a cultural understanding where one's identity and role were inextricably linked to their ancestry and adherence to the Mosaic Law.
* **Key Themes:** The detailed genealogical records, including this verse, contribute to several overarching themes within 1 Chronicles and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, the **Importance of Lineage** is paramount, as it determined identity, tribal affiliation, and the right to sacred service, echoing the significance of ancestry seen from [Genesis 5](/genesis/5 "Genesis 5 - The Generations of Adam") onwards. Secondly, these meticulous records highlight **Divine Order and Structure**, reflecting God's precise nature and His desire for an organized, consecrated people. Every role, from the high priest to the gatekeeper, was accounted for within His intricate plan for worship, as prescribed in texts like [Exodus 28](/exodus/28 "Exodus 28 - Priestly Garments and Consecration"). Finally, the emphasis on tracing lines through generations underscores the **Continuity of Service** and God's faithfulness in maintaining His covenant with Israel, ensuring an unbroken succession of those called to minister in the sanctuary, thereby preserving the integrity of Israel's worship and national identity.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Son of (Hebrew, _ben'_):** This recurring phrase, "ben" in Hebrew, is the fundamental genealogical connector, literally meaning "son of" but often encompassing "descendant of" or "belonging to the clan of." Its repetitive use in this verse and throughout the genealogies of 1 Chronicles emphasizes a direct, verifiable, and unbroken chain of ancestry. It serves to establish legitimacy and continuity, ensuring that each individual's place within the tribal and functional structure of Israel is precisely defined and affirmed.
* **Levi (Hebrew, _levi'_):** As the progenitor of the Levitical tribe, Levi's name signifies the entire lineage dedicated to sacred service. His descendants, including Merari, were set apart by God to assist the Aaronic priests in the Tabernacle and Temple, bearing the holy vessels, maintaining the sanctuary, and overseeing various aspects of worship. The mention of Levi anchors this specific lineage within the broader divine mandate for the tribe, highlighting their unique and indispensable role in Israel's covenant relationship with God.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"The son of Mahli":** This phrase introduces Mahli, one of the two sons of Merari ([Exodus 6:19](/exodus/6-19 "Exodus 6:19 - Sons of Merari")). The Chronicler is tracing a specific line or prominent branch of the Merarite clan that descended through Mahli, indicating its significance within the Levitical service.
* **"the son of Mushi":** Mushi was the other son of Merari, and thus the brother of Mahli ([Numbers 3:20](/numbers/3-20 "Numbers 3:20 - Sons of Merari")). The repetitive use of "the son of" in this context, where Mahli and Mushi are brothers rather than father-son, suggests that the verse is either listing two distinct, prominent branches of Merari's descendants (the Mahlites and the Mushites) or using "son of" in a broader sense of "descendant of" or "belonging to the clan of." This highlights the Chronicler's intent to meticulously account for the major divisions within the Merarite lineage.
* **"the son of Merari":** This phrase anchors the preceding names directly to Merari, one of the three foundational sons of Levi. Merari's descendants (the Merarites) were specifically responsible for the oversight and transport of the Tabernacle's heavy components, such as the frames, bars, pillars, and bases ([Numbers 3:36-37](/numbers/3-36 "Numbers 3:36-37 - Duties of the Merarites")). This connection emphasizes the specific functional role of this lineage within the Levitical structure.
* **"the son of Levi":** The ultimate progenitor in this chain, Levi, was the third son of Jacob and Leah, and the tribal head from whom all Levites descended. This final connection establishes the divine appointment of the entire tribe for sacred service, tracing the lineage back to its source and reinforcing the legitimacy and sanctity of their unique role in Israel's worship and covenant life, as outlined from [Exodus 6:16](/exodus/6-16 "Exodus 6:16 - The Sons of Levi") onwards.

#### Literary Devices
While 1 Chronicles 6:47 is primarily a record, it employs several subtle **Literary Devices** that serve its overarching purpose. The most prominent is **Repetition**, specifically the recurring phrase "the son of." This insistent repetition not only emphasizes the direct, unbroken chain of descent but also lends a rhythmic, almost chant-like quality to the genealogical record, reinforcing the idea of an established, divinely ordered succession. Furthermore, the entire section functions as a **Genealogy**, which itself is a powerful literary and theological device in biblical literature. Genealogies are not mere lists; they establish identity, legitimacy, inheritance, and covenant continuity. They serve to connect the present community to its past, rooting it in divine promises and historical precedents. In this context, the genealogy acts as a foundational document, validating the Levitical priesthood and their right to service. The precise **Enumeration** of names, though seemingly dry, conveys a sense of divine meticulousness and human accountability, demonstrating that God cares about every detail of His covenant people and their roles.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The meticulous detailing of lineages in 1 Chronicles 6:47 carries significant theological weight, extending beyond mere historical record-keeping. It underscores the biblical principle that God works through specific individuals and families to accomplish His redemptive purposes. The emphasis on the Levites' ancestry highlights the concept of a divinely appointed and consecrated people, set apart for sacred service. This demonstrates God's faithfulness in maintaining His covenant promises and providing a structured means for His people to approach Him in worship. The precise record ensures legitimacy and accountability, reflecting a God who values order, purity, and the integrity of His worship. It teaches that every role within God's kingdom, even those seemingly mundane, contributes to the larger divine tapestry and is rooted in His sovereign design.

* [Genesis 10:32](/genesis/10-32 "Genesis 10:32 - The Families of the Sons of Noah")
* [Numbers 3:12](/numbers/3-12 "Numbers 3:12 - The Levites Given to Aaron")
* [Hebrews 7:14](/hebrews/7-14 "Hebrews 7:14 - Christ's Tribe and Priesthood")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
While 1 Chronicles 6:47 might initially appear as a dry list of names, it offers profound insights for contemporary believers. It reminds us that God is a God of order and intention, who values every detail of His creation and His redemptive plan. Just as the Levites' identity and service were rooted in their physical lineage, believers today find their identity and purpose in their spiritual lineage, being "in Christ" and part of God's family. This verse subtly encourages faithfulness in our own God-given roles and callings, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant they may appear. Every part of the body of Christ is essential, contributing to the overall health and mission of the church. Understanding our place within God's grand narrative provides a sense of belonging, purpose, and the assurance that our lives, like those meticulously recorded genealogies, are known and cherished by our sovereign God.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does understanding God's attention to detail in genealogies encourage you about His care for your own life?**
* **In what ways do you recognize your "spiritual lineage" in Christ, and how does that shape your identity and purpose?**
* **What specific role or calling has God given you, and how can you serve faithfully in it, knowing its significance in His larger plan?**

### FAQ
**Why are biblical genealogies, like 1 Chronicles 6:47, so detailed and seemingly repetitive?**

Answer: Biblical genealogies are far more than mere historical records; they serve crucial theological and practical purposes. They establish identity, tribal affiliation, and legitimate claims to land or sacred office, particularly vital for the Levites and priests in the post-exilic community. They also demonstrate God's faithfulness in preserving His covenant lines, such as the lineage of Abraham ([Genesis 12:1-3](/genesis/12-1 "Genesis 12:1-3 - The Call of Abram")) and David ([2 Samuel 7:12-16](/2_samuel/7-12 "2 Samuel 7:12-16 - The Davidic Covenant")), through whom the Messiah would come. The repetition emphasizes the unbroken continuity and divine order, assuring the community of their rightful place within God's plan and the legitimacy of their worship practices.

**What was the specific role of the Merarites within the Levitical service?**

Answer: The Merarites, descendants of Merari, one of Levi's three sons, had specific responsibilities in the Tabernacle and later the Temple. As detailed in [Numbers 3:36-37](/numbers/3-36 "Numbers 3:36-37 - Duties of the Merarites"), their primary duty was the oversight and transport of the heavier, structural components of the Tabernacle: its frames, bars, pillars, and bases. This was a physically demanding but essential role, ensuring the proper assembly and movement of the sacred dwelling place of God. Their meticulous work underscored the importance of every part of God's sanctuary and the designated roles within it.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While 1 Chronicles 6:47 meticulously traces a human lineage for sacred service, it ultimately points forward to the ultimate and perfect High Priest, Jesus Christ. The Levitical priesthood, with its reliance on genealogical purity and succession, served as a temporary shadow of the eternal reality found in Christ. Unlike the Levitical priests who inherited their office through birth and died, Christ's priesthood is "after the order of Melchizedek," not dependent on human lineage but on an indestructible life ([Hebrews 7:16](/hebrews/7-16 "Hebrews 7:16 - Christ's Indestructible Priesthood")). He fulfills the need for perfect mediation, offering a single, definitive sacrifice that forever perfects those who are being made holy ([Hebrews 10:14](/hebrews/10-14 "Hebrews 10:14 - Christ's One Sacrifice")). In Christ, the emphasis shifts from a physical lineage to a spiritual one; believers are now "a chosen race, a royal priesthood" ([1 Peter 2:9](/1_peter/2-9 "1 Peter 2:9 - A Royal Priesthood")), not by birthright but by faith in Him. Thus, the meticulous records of the Old Covenant priesthood find their glorious and complete fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus, who is both our perfect High Priest and the ultimate Lamb of God ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")).

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

Numbers 4:42

And those that were numbered of the families of the sons of Merari, throughout their families, by the house of their fathers,

1 Chronicles 23:28

Because their office [was] to wait on the sons of Aaron for the service of the house of the LORD, in the courts, and in the chambers, and in the purifying of all holy things, and the work of the service of the house of God;

Joshua 21:7

The children of Merari by their families [had] out of the tribe of Reuben, and out of the tribe of Gad, and out of the tribe of Zebulun, twelve cities.

Numbers 3:33

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

Numbers 3:36

And [under] the custody and charge of the sons of Merari [shall be] the boards of the tabernacle, and the bars thereof, and the pillars thereof, and the sockets thereof, and all the vessels thereof, and all that serveth thereto,

Joshua 21:34

And unto the families of the children of Merari, the rest of the Levites, out of the tribe of Zebulun, Jokneam with her suburbs, and Kartah with her suburbs,

Joshua 21:40

So all the cities for the children of Merari by their families, which were remaining of the families of the Levites, were [by] their lot twelve cities.