King James Version

What Does 1 Chronicles 25:2 Mean?

1 Chronicles 25:2 in the King James Version says “Of the sons of Asaph; Zaccur, and Joseph, and Nethaniah, and Asarelah, the sons of Asaph under the hands of Asaph, which...” — study this verse from 1 Chronicles chapter 25 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“Of the sons of Asaph; Zaccur, and Joseph, and Nethaniah, and Asarelah, the sons of Asaph under the hands of Asaph, which prophesied according to the order of the king. Asarelah: otherwise called Jesharelah according: Heb. by the hands of the king”

1 Chronicles 25:2 · KJV

Context

1

Moreover David and the captains of the host separated to the service of the sons of Asaph, and of Heman, and of Jeduthun, who should prophesy with harps, with psalteries, and with cymbals: and the number of the workmen according to their service was:

2

Of the sons of Asaph; Zaccur, and Joseph, and Nethaniah, and Asarelah, the sons of Asaph under the hands of Asaph, which prophesied according to the order of the king. Asarelah: otherwise called Jesharelah according: Heb. by the hands of the king

3

Of Jeduthun: the sons of Jeduthun; Gedaliah, and Zeri, and Jeshaiah, Hashabiah, and Mattithiah, six, under the hands of their father Jeduthun, who prophesied with a harp, to give thanks and to praise the LORD. Zeri: or, Izri

4

Of Heman: the sons of Heman; Bukkiah, Mattaniah, Uzziel, Shebuel, and Jerimoth, Hananiah, Hanani, Eliathah, Giddalti, and Romamtiezer, Joshbekashah, Mallothi, Hothir, and Mahazioth: Uzziel: also called, Azareel, ver.18. Shebuel: also called, Shubael, ver.20.

Read 1 Chronicles 25 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
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.

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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?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 15 words
בְּנֵ֣י1 of 15

“Of the 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

אָסָ֔ף2 of 15

“of Asaph”

H623

asaph, the name of three israelites, and of the family of the first

זַכּ֧וּר3 of 15

“Zaccur”

H2139

zakkur, the name of seven israelites

וְיוֹסֵ֛ף4 of 15

“and Joseph”

H3130

joseph, the name of seven israelites

וּנְתַנְיָ֥ה5 of 15

“and Nethaniah”

H5418

nethanjah, the name of four israelites

וַֽאֲשַׂרְאֵ֖לָה6 of 15

“and Asarelah”

H841

asarelah, an israelite

בְּנֵ֣י7 of 15

“Of the 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

אָסָ֔ף8 of 15

“of Asaph”

H623

asaph, the name of three israelites, and of the family of the first

עַ֚ל9 of 15
H5921

above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications

יְדֵ֥י10 of 15

“according to the order”

H3027

a hand (the open one [indicating power, means, direction, etc.], in distinction from h3709, the closed one); used (as noun, adverb, etc.) in a great v

אָסָ֔ף11 of 15

“of Asaph”

H623

asaph, the name of three israelites, and of the family of the first

הַנִּבָּ֖א12 of 15

“which prophesied”

H5012

to prophesy, i.e., speak (or sing) by inspiration (in prediction or simple discourse)

עַל13 of 15
H5921

above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications

יְדֵ֥י14 of 15

“according to the order”

H3027

a hand (the open one [indicating power, means, direction, etc.], in distinction from h3709, the closed one); used (as noun, adverb, etc.) in a great v

הַמֶּֽלֶךְ׃15 of 15

“of the king”

H4428

a king

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 25:2 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to 1 Chronicles 25:2 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

1 Chronicles 25:61 Chronicles 16:51 Chronicles 25:1Psalms 83:1Psalms 73:1Psalms 78:1

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