King James Version
What Does 1 Chronicles 6:16 Mean?
“The sons of Levi; Gershom, Kohath, and Merari. Gershom: or, Gershon”
Context
14
And Azariah begat Seraiah, and Seraiah begat Jehozadak,
15
And Jehozadak went into captivity, when the LORD carried away Judah and Jerusalem by the hand of Nebuchadnezzar.
16
The sons of Levi; Gershom, Kohath, and Merari. Gershom: or, Gershon
17
And these be the names of the sons of Gershom; Libni, and Shimei.
18
And the sons of Kohath were, Amram, and Izhar, and Hebron, and Uzziel.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(16-19) The three branches of Levi with their main subdivisions. Parallel passages, Exodus 6:16-19; Numbers 3:17-20.
(16) **Gershom.**—See Note on 1Chronicles 6:1. In the Pentateuch, Gershom is son of Moses; Gershon, son of Levi.
(19) **And these are the families of the Levites according to their fathers.**—The word’families” (Heb., *mishpehuth*) does not mean single households, but groups of households, or clans. The sentence concludes the short list of the great Levitical houses, just as at Exodus 6:19. (See also Numbers 3:20, where a like formula appears to introduce what follows.)
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
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 6:16 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 6:16
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge