1 Chronicles 6:26 (KJV)

What does 1 Chronicles 6:26 mean?

1 Chronicles 6:26 lists part of a family line, stating that Elkanah had sons named Zophai and Nahath. This verse is part of a genealogy, showing the descendants of Elkanah.

The book of 1 Chronicles is recording the ancestry of the Levites, the tribe responsible for temple duties in Israel. This verse specifically traces the lineage of Elkanah, who is known elsewhere as the father of Samuel, a key figure in Israel’s history. The verse simply names two of his sons, placing them in the wider context of the tribe’s family tree.

The Hebrew behind 1 Chronicles 6:26

• אֶלְקָנָה (Elqanah, transliterated "Elkanah") means “God has created” or “God has possessed.” This name is significant because Elkanah is a notable figure in Israel’s history, especially as the father of Samuel.
• בֵּן (ben, transliterated "ben") means “son.” This word is used repeatedly in genealogies to show direct descent, emphasizing the family line.
• צוֹפַי (Tsophai, transliterated "Zophai") and נַחַת (Nachath, transliterated "Nahath") are personal names. Their inclusion here helps preserve the specific branches of Elkanah’s lineage, which mattered for roles and inheritance among the Levites.

Why 1 Chronicles 6:26 matters

• This verse clarifies the specific line of Elkanah within the Levite tribe, which is important for understanding the family background of Samuel and the priestly duties assigned to his descendants.
• By listing these names, the verse helps connect later biblical figures to their ancestral roots, which was crucial for establishing legitimacy and roles in Israelite society.
• The genealogy in this chapter shows the careful record-keeping of the Levites, highlighting the importance of heritage and continuity in Israel’s religious life.