1 Chronicles 24:27 (KJV)

What does 1 Chronicles 24:27 mean?

1 Chronicles 24:27 lists the sons of Merari, specifically those descended from Jaaziah: Beno, Shoham, Zaccur, and Ibri. This verse is part of a genealogical record detailing the family lines of the Levites, who were responsible for duties in the temple.

The book of 1 Chronicles was written to document the organization of Israel’s priestly and Levitical families. In this section, the writer is recording the descendants of Merari, one of Levi’s sons, to show how temple service roles were divided among his descendants. The verse highlights the importance of each family branch within the tribe of Levi.

The Hebrew behind 1 Chronicles 24:27

• מְרָרִי (Merari): This name refers to one of Levi’s sons, whose descendants formed one of the main Levitical clans. Mentioning Merari here clarifies which branch of the Levites is being discussed.
• יַעֲזִיָּה (Jaaziah): Jaaziah is listed as an ancestor within Merari’s line. Including his name shows the specific sub-family among the Merarites.
• בְּנוֹ (Beno): This word can mean “his son” or be taken as a proper name, Beno. In this context, it is treated as a name, but some translations note the ambiguity.
• שֹׁהָם (Shoham), זַכּוּר (Zaccur), עִבְרִי (Ibri): These are the names of Jaaziah’s sons, each representing a family group within the Merarite Levites. Naming them shows the detailed care in recording every branch of the Levitical service.

Why 1 Chronicles 24:27 matters

• This verse helps clarify the structure of the Levite families, which was crucial for assigning temple duties in ancient Israel.
• The mention of Jaaziah and his sons shows that even smaller or less prominent family branches were recognized and given a place in the temple service.
• Understanding these genealogies helps modern readers see the careful organization and inclusiveness of Israel’s religious community, as every family line was accounted for in the nation’s worship life.