The Hebrew name qûwshâyâhûw, represented by H6984, identifies an Israelite named Kushaiah. The name's definition is "entrapped of Jah." It appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the Bible, connecting him to the Levitical musicians.
The sole appearance of H6984 occurs within a list of Levites designated for musical service. In 1 Chronicles 15:17, the Levites H3881 appointed H5975 key individuals for this sacred duty. Kushaiah H6984 is mentioned specifically as the father of Ethan H387, who was chosen from among the sons H1121 of Merari H4847 to serve alongside Heman H1968 and Asaph H623.
Kushaiah's identity is established through his connection to other significant figures and groups involved in temple worship:
- H3881 Lêvîyîy (a Levite): This identifies Kushaiah as a descendant of Levi. The Levites were the tribe set apart for religious service and the duties of the sanctuary.
- H4847 Mᵉrârîy (Merari): Kushaiah and his son belonged to the Merarite branch of the Levites, one of the three main Levitical families. This places him within a specific lineage tasked with sacred responsibilities 1 Chronicles 15:17.
- H387 ʼÊythân (Ethan): Meaning "permanent," Ethan is identified as the son of Kushaiah. He was one of the three chief musicians appointed to lead worship 1 Chronicles 15:17.
- H1121 bên (son): This word, defined as "a son (as a builder of the family name)," is used to establish the direct genealogical link between Kushaiah and the prominent musician Ethan.
The theological weight of H6984 is derived entirely from its context within the organization of formal worship.
- Ordered Worship: Kushaiah's mention is part of a detailed account of the Levites H3881 appointing H5975 specific people for specific roles. This highlights the biblical principle of structured and intentional worship before God.
- Levitical Heritage: The name appears in the context of the sons H1121 of Merari H4847, underscoring the importance of lineage and inherited responsibility in serving God. Kushaiah's role as a father contributed to the fulfillment of this Levitical calling.
- Foundation of Praise: By being named as the father of Ethan H387, Kushaiah is recorded as part of the foundation for one of Israel's primary worship leaders. This genealogy validates the authority of those chosen to lead the nation in praise 1 Chronicles 15:17.
In summary, qûwshâyâhûw H6984 is the name of an individual, Kushaiah, whose significance is tied directly to his son, the musician Ethan. His single mention in scripture serves to establish the lineage of one of the key Levites appointed for sacred musical worship. The name is therefore embedded in the biblical themes of structured service, Levitical duty, and the generational continuity of praise to God.
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