And Zechariah, and Aziel, and Shemiramoth, and Jehiel, and Unni, and Eliab, and Maaseiah, and Benaiah, with psalteries on Alamoth;

1 CHRONICLES 15:20KJV
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1 Chronicles 15:20 (KJV)

What does 1 Chronicles 15:20 mean?

1 Chronicles 15:20 lists several Levites—Zechariah, Aziel, Shemiramoth, Jehiel, Unni, Eliab, Maaseiah, and Benaiah—who were assigned to play "psalteries on Alamoth" as part of the music for bringing the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem. This verse highlights their specific musical role in the ceremony.

This verse is part of a detailed account where King David organizes the Levites for a major religious procession. The Levites named here are musicians, and their assignment to play "psalteries on Alamoth" points to the careful planning and variety of musical expression used in worship as the Ark is moved to Jerusalem.

The Hebrew behind 1 Chronicles 15:20

  • Psalteries (נֵבֶל, nevel): This word refers to a stringed instrument, often understood as a type of harp or lyre. The mention of "psalteries" shows that different instruments were used for specific musical effects during the procession.
  • Alamoth (עֲלָמוֹת, alamoth): This term is often understood as a musical direction, possibly indicating a high-pitched or soprano part, or perhaps a tune associated with young women. Its use here suggests that the music played by these Levites had a distinctive sound or style, adding to the richness of the celebration.

Why 1 Chronicles 15:20 matters

  • This verse shows the importance of organization and skill in worship, with specific Levites assigned to particular instruments and musical roles.
  • The mention of "Alamoth" hints at the diversity and sophistication of ancient Israelite music, reminding readers that worship involved careful artistry.
  • By naming the musicians, the verse honors their contribution and shows that every role in worship, even those behind the scenes, was valued in the community.

Where else these words appear

“Alamoth” Hebrew H5961 · used in 2 verses

  • Psalms 46:1 To the chief Musician for the sons of Korah, A Song upon Alamoth. God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.

“Unni” Hebrew H6042 · used in 3 verses

  • 1 Chronicles 15:18 And with them their brethren of the second degree, Zechariah, Ben, and Jaaziel, and Shemiramoth, and Jehiel, and Unni, Eliab, and Benaiah, and Maaseiah, and Mattithiah, and Elipheleh, and Mikneiah, and Obededom, and Jeiel, the porters.
  • Nehemiah 12:9 Also Bakbukiah and Unni, their brethren, were over against them in the watches.

“Shemiramoth” Hebrew H8070 · used in 4 verses

  • 1 Chronicles 15:18 And with them their brethren of the second degree, Zechariah, Ben, and Jaaziel, and Shemiramoth, and Jehiel, and Unni, Eliab, and Benaiah, and Maaseiah, and Mattithiah, and Elipheleh, and Mikneiah, and Obededom, and Jeiel, the porters.
  • 1 Chronicles 16:5 Asaph the chief, and next to him Zechariah, Jeiel, and Shemiramoth, and Jehiel, and Mattithiah, and Eliab, and Benaiah, and Obededom: and Jeiel with psalteries and with harps; but Asaph made a sound with cymbals;
  • 2 Chronicles 17:8 And with them he sent Levites, even Shemaiah, and Nethaniah, and Zebadiah, and Asahel, and Shemiramoth, and Jehonathan, and Adonijah, and Tobijah, and Tobadonijah, Levites; and with them Elishama and Jehoram, priests.

“Jehiel” Hebrew H3171 · used in 14 verses

  • 1 Chronicles 15:18 And with them their brethren of the second degree, Zechariah, Ben, and Jaaziel, and Shemiramoth, and Jehiel, and Unni, Eliab, and Benaiah, and Maaseiah, and Mattithiah, and Elipheleh, and Mikneiah, and Obededom, and Jeiel, the porters.
  • 1 Chronicles 29:8 And they with whom precious stones were found gave them to the treasure of the house of the LORD, by the hand of Jehiel the Gershonite.
  • 2 Chronicles 35:8 And his princes gave willingly unto the people, to the priests, and to the Levites: Hilkiah and Zechariah and Jehiel, rulers of the house of God, gave unto the priests for the passover offerings two thousand and six hundred small cattle, and three hundred oxen.