King James Version

What Does 1 Chronicles 25:13 Mean?

1 Chronicles 25:13 in the King James Version says “The sixth to Bukkiah, he, his sons, and his brethren, were twelve :” — study this verse from 1 Chronicles chapter 25 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“The sixth to Bukkiah, he, his sons, and his brethren, were twelve :”

1 Chronicles 25:13 · King James Version

Context

11

The fourth to Izri, he, his sons, and his brethren, were twelve :

12

The fifth to Nethaniah, he, his sons, and his brethren, were twelve :

13

The sixth to Bukkiah, he, his sons, and his brethren, were twelve :

14

The seventh to Jesharelah, he, his sons, and his brethren, were twelve :

15

The eighth to Jeshaiah, he, his sons, and his brethren, were twelve :

Read 1 Chronicles 25 full chapter

Commentaries3 scholars

KJV Study CommentaryPublic Domain
Theological Analysis: This passage falls within the section on Musical divisions - worship leaders organized. The Hebrew term שִׁיר (shir) - song/singing is theologically significant here, pointing to Music as integral to worship. The Chronicler's narrative, while paralleling Samuel-Kings in places, offers a distinct theological perspective emphasizing temple worship, Levitical service, and covenant faithfulness.

Chronicles presents David not primarily as warrior-king but as worship organizer and temple planner. This verse contributes to that portrait by highlighting the spiritual dimensions of Israel's national life. The text demonstrates that true prosperity comes through proper worship and covenant obedience rather than merely military or political success.

Doctrinally, this passage teaches about Music as integral to worship. Cross-references throughout Chronicles connect David's reign to the broader redemptive narrative, showing how God's covenant promises advance through faithful human leadership while ultimately depending on divine grace and power. The messianic implications are profound: New song of redemption in Christ.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Historical Background: This section describes events from David's reign (c. 1010-970 BCE) but was written centuries later during the Persian period (c. 450-400 BCE). The Chronicler's selectivity in retelling David's story serves his theological purposes—he omits David's sins (Bathsheba, Absalom's rebellion) while emphasizing David's worship reforms and temple preparations.

The historical setting of Musical divisions - worship leaders organized occurred during Israel's united monarchy, when the nation reached its territorial and political zenith. Archaeological evidence from this period shows significant building projects and administrative development. However, the Chronicler writes for a much smaller, struggling post-exilic community, using David's golden age to inspire hope for restoration.

Ancient Near Eastern parallels show that temple construction and royal sponsorship of worship were common across cultures. However, Israel's understanding of worship centered on covenant relationship with the one true God rather than manipulation of capricious deities. This theological distinctiveness shapes the Chronicler's presentation.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does this verse's emphasis on Music as integral to worship challenge or affirm your current spiritual priorities and practices?
  2. What does New song of redemption in Christ teach you about Jesus Christ and His redemptive work?
  3. In what practical ways can you apply the principles of covenant faithfulness and proper worship demonstrated in this passage?

Compare 3 commentaries from different scholars and time periods for a richer understanding.

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 6 words
הַשִּׁשִּׁ֣י1 of 6

“The sixth”

H8345

sixth, ordinal or (feminine) fractional

בֻקִּיָּ֔הוּ2 of 6

“to Bukkiah”

H1232

bukkijah, an israelite

בָּנָ֥יו3 of 6

“he his sons”

H1121

a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or

וְאֶחָ֖יו4 of 6

“and his brethren”

H251

a brother (used in the widest sense of literal relationship and metaphorical affinity or resemblance [like h0001])

שְׁנֵ֥ים5 of 6

“were twelve”

H8147

two; also (as ordinal) twofold

עָשָֽׂר׃6 of 6
H6240

ten (only in combination), i.e., -teen; also (ordinal) -teenth

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of 1 Chronicles. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

1 Chronicles 25:13 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

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