1 Chronicles 24:26 (KJV)

What does 1 Chronicles 24:26 mean?

1 Chronicles 24:26 lists some descendants of Merari, one of the sons of Levi, naming his sons Mahli and Mushi, and then mentioning the sons of Jaaziah, including Beno. This verse is part of a genealogical record that organizes the Levite families for their roles in the temple.

The book of 1 Chronicles was written to document the history and organization of Israel, especially focusing on the priestly and Levitical families. Here, the writer is cataloging the family lines of Merari, one of the three main Levitical clans, to show how temple duties were divided among their descendants. The verse helps clarify the structure and lineage of those responsible for serving in the temple during King David’s time.

The Hebrew behind 1 Chronicles 24:26

• "sons" (בְּנֵי, bənê): This word means "sons" or "descendants." It is used repeatedly in this verse to show the family relationships and the passing down of duties through generations.
• "Merari" (מְרָרִי, mərārî): Merari is one of Levi’s sons, and his descendants formed one of the major Levitical divisions. This name marks a specific branch of the Levite tribe.
• "Mahli" (מַחְלִי, maḥlî) and "Mushi" (מוּשִׁי, mûshî): These are personal names, identifying the main family lines within the Merarite clan.
• "Jaaziah" (יַעֲזִיָּה, ya‘ăzîyāh): Another descendant in the Merarite line, showing a further branching of the family.
• "Beno" (בְּנוֹ, bənô): This word can mean "his son," but here it is treated as a proper name, likely indicating a specific individual in Jaaziah’s line.

Why 1 Chronicles 24:26 matters

• This verse helps clarify the organization of the Levites, showing how temple responsibilities were divided among different family branches.
• By naming specific descendants, the verse emphasizes the importance of lineage and proper order in Israel’s worship practices.
• Understanding these genealogies helps make sense of later passages that refer to Levite duties and shows the care taken to preserve family roles in temple service.