1 Chronicles 25:20 (KJV)

What does 1 Chronicles 25:20 mean?

1 Chronicles 25:20 records that the thirteenth group of musicians, led by Shubael, along with his sons and relatives, totaled twelve members. This verse is part of a list organizing the temple musicians into groups for their service.

The book of 1 Chronicles is describing how King David assigned specific families to serve as musicians in the temple. Here, the focus is on Shubael’s family, who were given the thirteenth position in the order. Each group, including Shubael’s, had twelve members, showing a structured and organized approach to temple worship.

The Hebrew behind 1 Chronicles 25:20

• שְׁלֹשָׁה עָשָׂר (sheloshah asar, "thirteenth"): This combines the words for "three" and "ten" to mean "thirteenth," marking Shubael’s group as the thirteenth in the sequence. The numbering shows careful order in assigning duties.
• שוּבָאֵל (Shubael): This is the personal name of the group leader. Including his name highlights the individual responsibility and recognition given to each family leader.
• בֵּן (ben, "sons"): This word points to Shubael’s direct descendants, showing that temple service was often a family responsibility.
• אָח (ach, "brethren"): This refers to Shubael’s brothers or close relatives, making it clear that the group included extended family, not just sons.
• שְׁנֵים עָשָׂר (shnayim asar, "twelve"): This phrase means "twelve," specifying the exact number in each group, which reflects the importance of equal representation and order.

Why 1 Chronicles 25:20 matters

• This verse highlights the careful organization and fairness in assigning temple duties, with each group given equal numbers and a clear place in the order.
• Naming Shubael and including both his sons and brethren shows the importance of family and community in worship roles.
• The verse fits into a larger passage that emphasizes the structured, communal nature of temple worship in ancient Israel, helping readers see the value placed on both order and participation.