The sons of Merari; Mahli, and Mushi. The sons of Mahli; Eleazar, and Kish.

1 CHRONICLES 23:21KJV
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1 Chronicles 23:21 (KJV)

What does 1 Chronicles 23:21 mean?

1 Chronicles 23:21 lists the descendants of Merari, one of the sons of Levi, naming his sons Mahli and Mushi, and then naming Mahli’s sons as Eleazar and Kish. This verse is part of a genealogical record that traces the family lines of the Levites, who had special duties in Israel’s worship and temple service.

In this section of 1 Chronicles, the writer is recording the organization of the Levites during King David’s reign. The verse helps establish the family structure within the tribe of Levi, specifically the branch of Merari, which is important for understanding how temple responsibilities were assigned. These names would have been significant for the people of Israel, as they determined roles and inheritance among the Levites.

The Hebrew behind 1 Chronicles 23:21

  • בְּנֵי (bənē, “sons”): This word appears twice in the verse and is used to indicate direct male descendants. Its repetition emphasizes the family structure and lineage being traced.
  • מְרָרִי (Mərārî, “Merari”): Merari is the ancestor whose line is being detailed here. His name identifies which branch of the Levites is under discussion.
  • מַחְלִי (Maḥlî, “Mahli”) and מוּשִׁי (Mûshî, “Mushi”): These are the two sons of Merari, marking the two main sub-families within this Levitical clan.
  • אֶלְעָזָר (El‘āzār, “Eleazar”) and קִישׁ (Qîsh, “Kish”): These are the sons of Mahli, showing the next generation and further dividing the responsibilities among the Levites.

Why 1 Chronicles 23:21 matters

  • This verse clarifies the specific family lines within the Levites, which was crucial for assigning temple duties and maintaining order in worship practices.
  • By naming these descendants, the verse connects later generations to their ancestral roles, helping the Israelites preserve their traditions and responsibilities.
  • The listing of names in this genealogical style highlights the importance of heritage and continuity in Israel’s religious life, showing how each family played a part in the nation’s spiritual service.