1 Chronicles 6:8

And Ahitub begat Zadok, and Zadok begat Ahimaaz,

And Ahitub {H285} begat {H3205} Zadok {H6659}, and Zadok {H6659} begat {H3205} Ahimaaz {H290},

Achituv fathered Tzadok, Tzadok fathered Achima'atz,

Ahitub was the father of Zadok, Zadok was the father of Ahimaaz,

and Ahitub begat Zadok, and Zadok begat Ahimaaz,

Commentary

Commentary on 1 Chronicles 6:8 (KJV)

1 Chronicles 6:8 KJV: "And Ahitub begat Zadok, and Zadok begat Ahimaaz,"

Context

This verse is part of a lengthy and detailed genealogy found in 1 Chronicles, specifically within chapter 6, which meticulously traces the lineage of the Levites and, more importantly, the priestly line descended from Aaron. For the post-exilic community, for whom the book of Chronicles was written, these genealogies were crucial for establishing identity, land rights, and, most significantly, the legitimacy of the priesthood and the Temple service. Verse 8 continues the direct succession of high priests, highlighting key figures who played significant roles in Israel's history.

Key Figures and Their Significance

  • Ahitub: He is mentioned as a high priest in the continuous line descending from Aaron through Eleazar and Phinehas. His inclusion here underscores the unbroken chain of the priestly office leading up to more prominent figures, as seen in 1 Chronicles 6:4-7.
  • Zadok: The most significant figure in this verse. Zadok emerged as a pivotal high priest during the reigns of King David and King Solomon. He distinguished himself through his unwavering loyalty to King David, notably during Absalom's rebellion, where he remained faithful even when others faltered (2 Samuel 15:29). Later, he played a crucial role in anointing Solomon as king (1 Kings 1:39). Solomon subsequently appointed Zadok as the sole high priest, solidifying his lineage as the primary priestly line in Jerusalem (1 Kings 2:35). His descendants continued in this esteemed office for generations.
  • Ahimaaz: Son of Zadok, known for his swiftness and loyalty. He served as an important messenger for David, particularly during Absalom's revolt, demonstrating courage and dedication (2 Samuel 18:27).

Key Themes

  • Continuity of Priesthood: The meticulous record of "begats" emphasizes the unbroken and divinely ordained chain of the Levitical priesthood. This continuity was vital for Israel to ensure legitimate worship and access to God through established channels.
  • Divine Faithfulness: The preservation of the priestly line through various historical periods, including times of national upheaval, demonstrates God's enduring faithfulness to His covenant promises and His careful orchestration of history.
  • Historical Legitimacy: For the returning exiles, these genealogies provided crucial historical and religious legitimacy, connecting them back to the foundational institutions of Israel and assuring them of their heritage.

Linguistic Insight

The Hebrew verb translated "begat" is yalad (Χ™ΧœΧ“), which simply means "to bear," "to bring forth," or "to beget." In the context of genealogies, it signifies direct father-to-son succession, underscoring the biological and legal continuity of the family line and, in this specific case, the transmission of the priestly office from one generation to the next.

Practical Application

While we no longer trace physical priestly lines in the same way, this verse reminds us of the profound importance of spiritual heritage and the passing down of faith from one generation to the next. It highlights that every individual, even those simply listed in a genealogy, plays a part in God's overarching plan and the unfolding of His redemptive history. It also speaks to God's careful orchestration of history, ensuring that key figures like Zadok are raised up at the right time to fulfill His divine purposes, demonstrating His sovereignty over all generations.

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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated β€” the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • 2 Samuel 15:27 (5 votes)

    The king said also unto Zadok the priest, [Art not] thou a seer? return into the city in peace, and your two sons with you, Ahimaaz thy son, and Jonathan the son of Abiathar.

  • 2 Samuel 8:17 (5 votes)

    And Zadok the son of Ahitub, and Ahimelech the son of Abiathar, [were] the priests; and Seraiah [was] the scribe;

  • 1 Kings 1:44 (3 votes)

    And the king hath sent with him Zadok the priest, and Nathan the prophet, and Benaiah the son of Jehoiada, and the Cherethites, and the Pelethites, and they have caused him to ride upon the king's mule:

  • 1 Kings 2:35 (3 votes)

    ΒΆ And the king put Benaiah the son of Jehoiada in his room over the host: and Zadok the priest did the king put in the room of Abiathar.

  • 1 Kings 1:34 (3 votes)

    And let Zadok the priest and Nathan the prophet anoint him there king over Israel: and blow ye with the trumpet, and say, God save king Solomon.

  • 1 Kings 1:8 (2 votes)

    But Zadok the priest, and Benaiah the son of Jehoiada, and Nathan the prophet, and Shimei, and Rei, and the mighty men which [belonged] to David, were not with Adonijah.

  • 2 Samuel 17:15 (2 votes)

    ΒΆ Then said Hushai unto Zadok and to Abiathar the priests, Thus and thus did Ahithophel counsel Absalom and the elders of Israel; and thus and thus have I counselled.