1 Chronicles 6:16 (KJV)

What does 1 Chronicles 6:16 mean?

1 Chronicles 6:16 lists the three sons of Levi: Gershom, Kohath, and Merari. This verse introduces the main family lines within the tribe of Levi, whose descendants would later serve special roles in Israel’s religious life.

The book of 1 Chronicles was written to record the genealogies and history of Israel, especially focusing on the priestly and Levitical lines. In this verse, the writer is setting out the family structure of Levi, one of the twelve sons of Jacob, to show the origins of the Levites who were given duties related to worship and the temple.

The Hebrew behind 1 Chronicles 6:16

• לֵוִי (Levi; transliteration: Levi): This is the name of the ancestor whose descendants are being listed. Levi’s tribe was set apart for religious service in Israel.
• גֵּרְשֹׁם (Gershom; transliteration: Gershom): The first son named, whose descendants had specific Levitical responsibilities.
• קְהָת (Kohath; transliteration: Kohath): The second son, from whom the priestly line of Aaron would come.
• מְרָרִי (Merari; transliteration: Merari): The third son, whose descendants also served in the temple but with different duties.

Why 1 Chronicles 6:16 matters

• This verse clarifies the three main family branches within the tribe of Levi, which is important for understanding later lists of temple duties and priestly roles.
• By naming these sons, the verse sets up the structure for the following genealogies, helping readers trace the lineages of priests and temple workers.
• The verse connects the Levites’ special status in Israel directly to their ancestor Levi, grounding their roles in family history rather than personal achievement.