And these are they whom David set over the service of song in the house of the LORD, after that the ark had rest.

1 CHRONICLES 6:31KJV
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1 Chronicles 6:31 (KJV)

What does 1 Chronicles 6:31 mean?

1 Chronicles 6:31 describes how King David appointed certain people to be in charge of the music in the temple after the ark of the covenant was settled in its resting place. This verse highlights the organization of worship in Israel, showing that music and song were important parts of serving God in the temple.

The book of 1 Chronicles is written to record the history and lineage of Israel, and here it lists those whom David put in charge of the "service of song" in the house of the LORD. The verse comes after the ark, which represented God's presence, was brought to a permanent location, making it possible to establish regular worship practices. This verse sets the stage for the following verses, which name the musicians and their roles.

The Hebrew behind 1 Chronicles 6:31

  • "Service" (יָד, yad): While often meaning "hand," here it refers to the work or duty assigned to the musicians, emphasizing their active role in worship.
  • "Song" (שִׁיר, shir): This word specifically means "song" or "music," showing that organized singing was a formal part of temple service.
  • "Rest" (מְנוּחָה, menuchah): This word means "rest" or "settling down," indicating that the ark was no longer moving from place to place, allowing for stable worship practices.

Why 1 Chronicles 6:31 matters

  • This verse clarifies that music was not a casual addition but a structured, assigned part of Israel’s worship, overseen by leaders appointed by David.
  • It marks a turning point in Israel’s history, when worship could become more regular and organized because the ark had a permanent home.
  • The verse connects the role of music in worship directly to the presence of God, showing that song was considered a fitting response to God’s dwelling among His people.

Where else these words appear

“rest” Hebrew H4494 · used in 7 verses

  • Genesis 8:9 But the dove found no rest for the sole of her foot, and she returned unto him into the ark, for the waters were on the face of the whole earth: then he put forth his hand, and took her, and pulled her in unto him into the ark.
  • Ruth 3:1 Then Naomi her mother in law said unto her, My daughter, shall I not seek rest for thee, that it may be well with thee?
  • Isaiah 34:14 The wild beasts of the desert shall also meet with the wild beasts of the island, and the satyr shall cry to his fellow; the screech owl also shall rest there, and find for herself a place of rest.

“song” Hebrew H7892 · used in 87 verses

  • Genesis 31:27 Wherefore didst thou flee away secretly, and steal away from me; and didst not tell me, that I might have sent thee away with mirth, and with songs, with tabret, and with harp?
  • Psalms 28:7 The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusted in him, and I am helped: therefore my heart greatly rejoiceth; and with my song will I praise him.
  • Psalms 127:1 A Song of degrees for Solomon. Except the LORD build the house, they labour in vain that build it: except the LORD keep the city, the watchman waketh but in vain.