Exodus 6:21 (KJV)

What does Exodus 6:21 mean?

Exodus 6:21 lists the sons of Izhar: Korah, Nepheg, and Zichri. This verse is part of a genealogy, recording the family line of Levi as Moses recounts the ancestors of key figures in Israel’s history.

Moses is speaking to the Israelites, relaying God’s instructions and promises while also establishing his own family background. By naming Izhar’s sons, the verse helps trace the lineage of important individuals, especially Korah, who will later play a significant role in the narrative. This genealogy situates Moses, Aaron, and other Levites within the broader story of Israel’s tribes.

The Hebrew behind Exodus 6:21

• בְּנֵי (bənê, H1121): This word means "sons" or "descendants." Its use here emphasizes that the list is about direct male descendants, which was important for tracing tribal and priestly lines in ancient Israel.
• יִצְהָר (Yitzhar, H3324): The name "Izhar" means "shining oil" or "anointing oil," and he is identified as a son of Kohath, grandson of Levi. Mentioning Izhar links these descendants to the priestly tribe.
• קֹרַח (Qorah, H7141): "Korah" is a significant name because he later leads a rebellion against Moses and Aaron. Noting his ancestry here foreshadows his future role.
• נֶפֶג (Nepheg, H5298) and זִכְרִי (Zikhri, H2147): These names are less prominent in the biblical narrative, but their inclusion shows the completeness of the genealogical record and the importance of every branch in the Levite family.

Why Exodus 6:21 matters

• This verse clarifies the family connections among the Levites, which is crucial for understanding later events, especially the story of Korah’s rebellion in Numbers 16.
• By listing these names, Exodus 6:21 helps establish the legitimacy and heritage of Moses and Aaron, showing their place within the tribe of Levi.
• The genealogy underscores the continuity of God’s promises to the patriarchs, connecting the present generation to their ancestors and to God’s unfolding plan for Israel.