What is the meaning of 1 Chronicles 23:21? The sons of Merari “The sons of Merari…” (1 Chronicles 23:21) • Merari is the third son of Levi (Exodus 6:16), and his descendants—the Merarites—were set apart for specific duties in God’s sanctuary. Numbers 3:33-37 and 4:29-33 assign them the transport and care of the heavy framework of the tabernacle. • By the time of David, the Levites are being organized for permanent temple service (1 Chronicles 23:1-6). Mentioning Merari here confirms that every Levitical branch is still represented and responsible. • God’s meticulous preservation of this lineage shows His faithfulness in keeping covenant promises to Levi (Deuteronomy 10:8; 1 Chronicles 6:19). Mahli and Mushi “…Mahli and Mushi.” (1 Chronicles 23:21) • Merari had two sons, forming two distinct clans (Numbers 3:20; 26:58; 1 Chronicles 6:19). – Mahli’s line would later have fewer males, but it remained essential to temple work (1 Chronicles 24:26-30). – Mushi’s line provided additional servants, balancing what was lacking in Mahli’s branch. • Their names, though easy to overlook, remind us that God values every servant, great or small (1 Corinthians 12:18-22). The sons of Mahli: Eleazar and Kish “The sons of Mahli: Eleazar and Kish.” (1 Chronicles 23:21) • Mahli’s two sons ensure that his clan continues into David’s generation. Verse 22 tells us Eleazar “had no sons, only daughters, and their cousins, the sons of Kish, married them,” preserving the inheritance within the tribe—just as Numbers 36:6-9 directed for Zelophehad’s daughters. • Kish’s willingness to marry within the clan safeguards both family property and ministerial duty. The line of Mahli stays intact, allowing the clan to keep serving in the temple (1 Chronicles 24:28-29). • This small detail showcases God’s concern for generational faithfulness and orderly worship (Psalm 145:4; 1 Corinthians 14:40). summary 1 Chronicles 23:21 records Merari’s descendants—Mahli, Mushi, Eleazar, and Kish—to affirm that every Levitical family still stands ready for its God-given tasks. The verse highlights God’s precision in preserving lineage, inheritance, and ministry, assuring believers that He notices and values each person who serves Him. |
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