What does 1 Chronicles 25:17 mean?
What is the meaning of 1 Chronicles 25:17?

the tenth

- Verses 1 Chronicles 25:8–9 explain that lots were cast “for the small as well as for the great, for the teacher as well as for the pupil,” assigning each family of musicians a specific turn in the temple worship cycle.

- “The tenth” shows that Shimei’s family received the tenth lot in that divinely ordered sequence. The numerical order mattered; it guaranteed that every family, regardless of status, served at a set, fair time (cf. 1 Chronicles 24:31; 1 Corinthians 14:40).

- The Spirit-led lot underscores God’s sovereignty over worship schedules, assuring us that even routine rotations come under His loving direction (Proverbs 16:33).


to Shimei

- Shimei is listed among Heman’s sons (1 Chronicles 25:4), linking him to a prophetic, musical lineage appointed by King David (1 Chronicles 25:1).

- His name attached to the tenth lot signals personal responsibility; leadership in worship was entrusted to identifiable individuals, not anonymous groups (cf. Ezra 2:41).

- God honors and records specific servants, reminding us that He sees every act of worship, whether public or unnoticed (Matthew 6:4).


his sons

- Family participation is emphasized repeatedly in this chapter (1 Chronicles 25:5–6). Sons served alongside their fathers, learning skill and devotion by example (Deuteronomy 6:6–7).

- This pattern affirms the generational transmission of faith: fathers mentoring children in praise prepares the whole community for robust, continuous worship (Psalm 145:4).

- It encourages households today to cultivate shared worship experiences, safeguarding praise from becoming a “professional only” activity (Ephesians 5:19).


and his brothers—12 in all

- “Brothers” likely refers to extended male relatives within Shimei’s clan, indicating teamwork beyond the immediate household (1 Chronicles 25:7).

- “12 in all” echoes the standardized number assigned to every lot in the chapter (vv. 9–31). Twelve repeatedly symbolizes completeness in Scripture (Genesis 49:28; Revelation 21:12).

- The fixed group size ensured balanced musical coverage each week (cf. 1 Chronicles 23:30–31). It also teaches that worship involves coordinated bodies of believers, not isolated individuals (Hebrews 10:24–25).


summary

1 Chronicles 25:17 records that the tenth divinely chosen rotation of temple musicians fell to Shimei. He, his sons, and his extended family—twelve men in total—were slated to lead praise during their appointed time. The verse highlights God’s orderly governance of worship, personal accountability in service, the importance of family involvement, and the completeness of each worship team. Together these truths invite believers to honor God’s precise order, involve our households in praise, and serve joyfully in the roles He assigns.

Why is the mention of 'Hananiah' important in 1 Chronicles 25:16?
Top of Page
Top of Page