What is the meaning of 1 Chronicles 6:20? Of Gershom “Of Gershom:” (1 Chronicles 6:20) • Gershom (also spelled Gershon) is listed in Genesis 46:11 and Exodus 6:16 as the firstborn of Levi. • Numbers 3:17; 3:25-26 assigns Gershom’s descendants the care of the tabernacle’s curtains, coverings, and entryway—a reminder that God values faithful, behind-the-scenes service just as much as public ministry. • 1 Chronicles 6 is recalling this heritage so Israel, back from exile, remembers that worship is rooted in a real, traceable history. The accuracy of the genealogies underscores the reliability of every promise God makes (Psalm 105:8-10). • Practical takeaway: our spiritual service, however ordinary, anchors future generations to truth. Libni his son “Libni his son,” (1 Chronicles 6:20) • Exodus 6:17 records Libni (sometimes Libneh) as the first of Gershom’s two sons, showing immediate continuity in the priestly line. • Numbers 3:18; 3:21-24 groups the Libnites within the Gershonites, confirming their assigned camp position on the west side of the tabernacle—physically surrounding God’s dwelling. • This placement illustrates how God positions His people to guard His presence and uphold His word (Deuteronomy 33:10). • Even one brief name in a genealogy testifies that God sees individuals and families, not just crowds (Luke 12:7). Jahath his son “Jahath his son,” (1 Chronicles 6:20) • Jahath reappears in 1 Chronicles 23:10-11, where David organizes Levites for temple duties. The repetition proves the line remained intact through centuries. • The name shows up again in 2 Chronicles 34:12 when Josiah’s reformers oversee temple repairs. Jahath’s descendants are still dependable craftsmen of worship, evidencing generational faithfulness. • Take note: a consistent family testimony can influence national revival. Each link in the chain matters (Psalm 78:5-7). • Our own steady obedience today can set the stage for renewal tomorrow. Zimmah his son “Zimmah his son,” (1 Chronicles 6:20) • 2 Chronicles 29:12 lists a later Zimmah among those who help Hezekiah purify the temple. The recurrence of the name in the same clan strengthens the credibility of the genealogy and highlights ongoing availability for service. • 2 Chronicles 31:13 shows Zimmah’s offspring helping distribute offerings faithfully. God tracks and remembers every act done for His house (Hebrews 6:10). • The brief mention in 1 Chronicles 6:20 therefore isn’t filler; it whispers, “God hasn’t forgotten you or your labor in the Lord” (1 Corinthians 15:58). • Legacy lesson: small, steadfast acts accumulate into a heritage of honor. summary 1 Chronicles 6:20 strings together Gershom, Libni, Jahath, and Zimmah to affirm a real, uninterrupted Levitical line. Each name anchors Israel’s worship in verifiable history, showcases God’s meticulous record-keeping, and invites us to see our everyday obedience as part of a larger story God is writing through the generations. |