Question 1

What does 1 Chronicles 6:46 mean?

Accepted Answer

1 Chronicles 6:46 lists part of a genealogy, stating that someone was the son of Amzi, who was the son of Bani, who was the son of Shamer. This verse is one link in a longer family line, tracing the ancestry of certain Levites. This verse appears in a section where the writer of 1 Chronicles is recording the descendants of Levi, the tribe responsible for religious duties in ancient Israel. The names mentioned—Amzi, Bani, and Shamer—are part of a careful record showing the priestly lineage, which was important for temple service and leadership.

Question 2

The Hebrew behind 1 Chronicles 6:46

Accepted Answer

The word "son" (בֵּן, ben, H1121) is used repeatedly here. In Hebrew genealogies, "ben" can mean a direct son or a more distant male descendant, so the list may skip generations. "Amzi" (אַמְצִי, Amtsi, H557), "Bani" (בָּנִי, Bani, H1137), and "Shamer" (שָׁמֵר, Shamer, H8106) are personal names. Each name in this list represents a real person from the tribe of Levi, and their inclusion signals their family's role in Israel's religious history.

Question 3

Why 1 Chronicles 6:46 matters

Accepted Answer

This verse helps clarify the continuity of the Levitical priesthood by showing exactly how certain families were connected, which was crucial for temple service eligibility. By preserving these names, the Chronicler emphasizes the importance of heritage and faithful record-keeping in Israel’s worship life. Understanding these genealogies helps readers see how the Old Testament roots the story of Israel in real families and historical continuity, not just abstract ideas.

1 Chronicles 6:46 (KJV)