King James Version

What Does 1 Chronicles 6:31 Mean?

“And these are they whom David set over the service of song in the house of the LORD, after that the ark had rest.”

Context

The sons of Merari; Mahli, Libni his son, Shimei his son, Uzza his son,

Shimea his son, Haggiah his son, Asaiah his son.

And these are they whom David set over the service of song in the house of the LORD, after that the ark had rest.

And they ministered before the dwelling place of the tabernacle of the congregation with singing, until Solomon had built the house of the LORD in Jerusalem: and then they waited on their office according to their order.

And these are they that waited with their children. Of the sons of the Kohathites: Heman a singer, the son of Joel, the son of Shemuel, waited: Heb. stood

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(31) **Set over the service of song.**—Literally, *made stand by the sides *(*hands*)* of song,* as if to minister to the sacred music. (Comp. 1Chronicles 25:2-3, where the same peculiar phrase recurs, and Psalm 123:2, “as the eyes of slaves are unto the hand of their Lord.” Comp. also the common heading of the Psalms, “to the conductor or precentor;” Authorised Version, “chief musician.”) **In the house of the Lord.**—In David’s time, a tent, as next verse declares. **After that the ark had rest.**—Perhaps locative: *at the restin-place of the Ark* (comp. Genesis 8:9). From the time of its capture by the Philistines (2Samuel 6:17), the Ark had no certain dwelling till it was lodged in the tent which David spread for it on Mount Zion.

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 6:31 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.