King James Version

What Does 1 Chronicles 6:33 Mean?

1 Chronicles 6:33 in the King James Version says “And these are they that waited with their children. Of the sons of the Kohathites: Heman a singer, the son of Joel, the ...” — study this verse from 1 Chronicles chapter 6 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“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”

1 Chronicles 6:33 · KJV

Context

31

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

32

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.

33

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

34

The son of Elkanah, the son of Jeroham, the son of Eliel, the son of Toah,

35

The son of Zuph, the son of Elkanah, the son of Mahath, the son of Amasai,

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Genealogical Significance: This verse appears within the Levitical priesthood and worship section of Chronicles' genealogical framework. The Hebrew term כֹּהֵן (kohen) - priest is central to understanding this passage's purpose. The Chronicler, writing to post-exilic Israel (c. 450-400 BCE), uses these genealogies not merely as historical records but as theological statements about covenant continuity and divine faithfulness.

The genealogical structure serves multiple purposes: (1) establishing Israel's connection to God's creatio n plan from Adam, (2) legitimizing post-exilic community's claim to covenant promises, (3) emphasizing Judah and Levi's special roles in God's redemptive plan, and (4) demonstrating that despite exile, God's covenant purposes continue. The selection and arrangement of names is intentional, highlighting Mediatorial role of priesthood.

Chronicles diverges from Genesis and Samuel-Kings in its genealogical presentation, reflecting the Chronicler's distinct theological agenda. Where earlier texts focus on narrative history, Chronicles emphasizes continuity, legitimacy, and hope for restoration. This verse contributes to the larger argument that the post-exilic community is the rightful heir of God's ancient covenant promises.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Post-Exilic Context: The Chronicler wrote during the Persian period (450-400 BCE) to a community returned from Babylonian exile, struggling with identity and purpose. These genealogies answered crucial questions: Who are we? What is our relationship to ancient Israel? Do God's promises still apply to us?

The historical setting influences the text's emphasis on Levitical genealogies and priestly lines. Ancient Near Eastern cultures valued genealogies for establishing land rights, royal legitimacy, and tribal identity. Chronicles' genealogies served similar functions while adding theological depth. The inclusion of specific names and details reflects the author's access to temple archives, royal records, and earlier biblical texts.

Archaeological evidence from Persian-period Judah shows a small, struggling community centered around Jerusalem and the rebuilt temple. The genealogies reinforced their connection to the glorious past and provided hope for future restoration through God's covenant faithfulness.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does understanding genealogies as theological statements rather than mere historical records change your reading of Chronicles and other biblical genealogies?
  2. What does this verse teach about God's faithfulness across generations, and how does that apply to your own family's spiritual legacy?
  3. How does Mediatorial role of priesthood connect to the New Testament revelation of Jesus Christ as the fulfillment of Old Testament promises?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 11 words
וְאֵ֥לֶּה1 of 11
H428

these or those

הָעֹֽמְדִ֖ים2 of 11

“And these are they that waited”

H5975

to stand, in various relations (literal and figurative, intransitive and transitive)

בֶּן3 of 11

“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

בֶּן4 of 11

“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

הַקְּהָתִ֔י5 of 11

“of the Kohathites”

H6956

a kohathite (collectively) or descendants of kehath

הֵימָן֙6 of 11

“Heman”

H1968

heman, the name of at least two israelites

הַמְשׁוֹרֵ֔ר7 of 11

“a singer”

H7891

to sing

בֶּן8 of 11

“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

יוֹאֵ֖ל9 of 11

“of Joel”

H3100

joel, the name of twelve israelites

בֶּן10 of 11

“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

שְׁמוּאֵֽל׃11 of 11

“of Shemuel”

H8050

shemuel, the name of three israelites

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 6:33 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 6:33 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

1 Chronicles 6:281 Chronicles 15:171 Chronicles 25:1-52 Chronicles 29:141 Chronicles 15:191 Chronicles 16:41-42

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