1 Chronicles 24:21 (KJV)

What does 1 Chronicles 24:21 mean?

1 Chronicles 24:21 states that among the descendants of Rehabiah, the first son was Isshiah. This verse is part of a genealogical listing, identifying Isshiah as the leading or first-named son in Rehabiah’s family line.

This verse appears in a section where the chronicler is recording the divisions of the Levites for temple service during King David’s time. The focus here is on the family of Rehabiah, a descendant of Levi, and the verse simply names Isshiah as his first son, helping to establish the order and structure of the Levite families for their assigned duties.

The Hebrew behind 1 Chronicles 24:21

• רְחַבְיָה (Rechavyah): This is the name Rehabiah, meaning "Yahweh has enlarged." The verse repeats this name to clarify the specific family line being discussed among the Levites.
• בֵּן (ben): This word means "son." It highlights the genealogical relationship, showing Isshiah as the direct male descendant of Rehabiah.
• רֹאשׁ (rosh): Translated as "first" or "chief," this word indicates Isshiah’s position as the leading or primary son, which could have implications for inheritance or leadership within the family.
• יִשִּׁיָּה (Yishshiyah): This is the name Isshiah, meaning "Yahweh will lend" or "Yahweh exists." Naming him as the first son gives him a place of importance in the family record.

Why 1 Chronicles 24:21 matters

• This verse clarifies the family structure among the Levites, which was important for assigning temple duties and maintaining order in worship practices.
• By naming Isshiah as the first son, the chronicler establishes the line of succession and leadership within Rehabiah’s descendants, which could affect later genealogies and roles.
• The verse connects to the larger passage that details how King David organized the Levites, showing the care taken to record each family’s role in Israel’s religious life.