What is the meaning of 1 Chronicles 24:28? From Mahli • 1 Chronicles 24:28 opens with “From Mahli,” anchoring us in the line of Merari, one of Levi’s three sons (Numbers 3:17). Mahli is first mentioned in Numbers 3:20 as a grandson of Levi. • Throughout the Chronicler’s record (1 Chronicles 6:19; 23:21), Mahli’s branch is highlighted to show how every Levitical family contributed to worship in the temple. • By repeating Mahli’s name here, the text underscores God’s faithfulness to preserve even lesser-known clans for His service (compare Exodus 6:16–19, where each Levitical line is noted). Eleazar • The phrase then focuses: “Eleazar.” This Eleazar is a descendant of Mahli, distinct from Eleazar the son of Aaron (Numbers 3:4). • His inclusion illustrates that every individual within the Levitical genealogy mattered for temple duties (1 Chronicles 15:2). • Through this single name, the text reminds readers that service to God is not limited to the well-known; even seemingly obscure figures are recorded in Scripture for eternal remembrance (Malachi 3:16). who had no sons • The verse concludes, “who had no sons,” noting a break in male succession. Earlier, 1 Chronicles 23:22 records, “Eleazar died without sons, but only daughters; their cousins, the sons of Kish, married them.” • Significance: – It explains why Eleazar’s branch does not appear among the rotational temple divisions established in this chapter (1 Chronicles 24:30–31). – It shows God’s provision: marriage within the tribe kept inheritance and responsibilities within the Levitical family, echoing the principle first set for Zelophehad’s daughters (Numbers 27:7–8; 36:6–9). – It highlights that, while priestly and Levitical service was normally passed through sons, God still honored Eleazar’s line, recording his daughters and ensuring their care (Psalm 68:5). • By pointing out the absence of sons, the text subtly emphasizes reliance on God rather than on human lineage to sustain worship (Jeremiah 17:5–8). summary 1 Chronicles 24:28 briefly states, “From Mahli: Eleazar, who had no sons,” yet each phrase carries weight. It situates us in Mahli’s Levitical line, singles out Eleazar as a valued servant, and explains why his branch did not add a division to temple service—he left only daughters. Even so, Scripture records his name, proving that God remembers every servant and preserves His worship according to His perfect design. |
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