1 Chronicles 6:47

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

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

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

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

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

Commentary

1 Chronicles 6:47 is a specific detail within a comprehensive genealogical record of the Levites, particularly focusing on the lineage of Merari, one of Levi's three sons. This verse, like many others in 1 Chronicles, highlights the meticulous nature of ancient Israelite record-keeping, essential for establishing tribal identity, inheritance, and, most importantly, legitimate service within the Tabernacle and Temple.

Context

The sixth chapter of 1 Chronicles is dedicated almost entirely to the genealogies of the Levites, the priestly tribe designated by God for service in the sanctuary. It begins with the sons of Levi: Gershon, Kohath, and Merari. Verses 16-30 detail the descendants of these three branches, specifying the lines of those who served as musicians and gatekeepers, as well as the priestly line of Aaron (a descendant of Kohath). Verse 47 specifically traces a direct line within the Merarite clan: Mahli, Mushi, Merari, and ultimately back to Levi. This detailed recording underscored the divine order and the importance of proper lineage for sacred duties, ensuring that only those appointed by God through their heritage could perform specific roles in worship.

Key Themes

  • The Importance of Lineage: In ancient Israel, one's identity, tribal affiliation, and role in society were largely determined by ancestry. For the Levites, this was paramount, as their lineage qualified them for their unique service to God. This emphasis on Biblical genealogies is a recurring theme in Scripture.
  • Divine Order and Structure: The painstaking detail of these genealogies reflects God's meticulous nature and His desire for order within His covenant people. Every role, even seemingly minor ones, was accounted for and had its place within the divine plan for worship.
  • Continuity of Service: By tracing these lines through generations, the chronicler emphasizes the unbroken succession of those called to serve God in the sanctuary, ensuring that the sacred duties continued from one generation to the next. This underscores the faithfulness of God in maintaining His covenant with His people and their designated servants.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "the son of" (Hebrew: ben) is a fundamental genealogical connector, indicating direct descent. While there isn't a complex linguistic nuance in this particular verse beyond its literal meaning, the repetition of "the son of" emphasizes the direct, verifiable, and unbroken chain of ancestry. The proper names themselves (Mahli, Mushi, Merari, Levi) are significant as they represent real individuals who played a part in the history of Israel and the Tabernacle and Temple service.

Practical Application

While 1 Chronicles 6:47 might seem like a mere historical record, it offers several practical insights for believers today:

  • God Values Every Detail: This verse reminds us that God is attentive to every detail, even those we might consider insignificant. Our individual lives and roles, though perhaps not recorded in Scripture, are known and valued by Him.
  • Our Spiritual Heritage: Just as the Israelites valued their physical lineage, believers today can appreciate their spiritual heritage, recognizing how God has worked through generations of faith. Understanding our place within God's larger story provides identity and purpose.
  • Faithfulness in Designated Roles: The Levites were called to specific duties. Similarly, every believer is given gifts and a calling to serve within the body of Christ. This verse subtly encourages faithfulness in whatever role God has assigned, no matter how humble it may seem, as all contribute to the larger work of God's kingdom.
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Cross-References

  • Numbers 4:42 (2 votes)

    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 (2 votes)

    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 (2 votes)

    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 (2 votes)

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

  • Numbers 3:36 (2 votes)

    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 (2 votes)

    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 (2 votes)

    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.