Aphses is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically within the genealogical and priestly records. The name "Aphses" appears in the context of the divisions of the priests during the reign of King David, as recorded in the First Book of Chronicles.

Biblical Reference:

Aphses is mentioned in 1 Chronicles 24:15, which details the organization of the priestly divisions. The verse states: "the seventeenth to Hezir, the eighteenth to Happizzez" . The name "Happizzez" is often understood to be a variant or transliteration of "Aphses," depending on the manuscript or translation consulted.

Priestly Divisions:

The division of the priesthood into twenty-four courses was established by King David to ensure the orderly conduct of temple services. This system allowed for a structured rotation, with each division serving in the temple for a specific period. Aphses, as part of this system, would have been responsible for performing sacred duties and rituals in the house of the Lord during his appointed time.

Historical and Religious Context:

The division of the priesthood was a significant development in the religious life of ancient Israel. It reflected the importance of maintaining a continuous and organized worship practice, as well as the need for a dedicated priestly class to mediate between God and the people. The priests were descendants of Aaron, the brother of Moses, and were tasked with various religious functions, including sacrifices, offerings, and maintaining the sanctity of the temple.

Name Significance:

The name "Aphses" itself does not carry a specific meaning in the biblical text, and little is known about the individual beyond his inclusion in the priestly courses. However, the mention of his name in the genealogical records underscores the importance of lineage and heritage in the priestly tradition.

Theological Implications:

From a theological perspective, the mention of Aphses and the other priestly divisions highlights the continuity and faithfulness of God's covenant with Israel. The structured priesthood served as a reminder of the order and holiness required in worship and the centrality of the temple in the life of the nation. It also points to the broader biblical theme of God's desire for a holy people set apart for His purposes.

Conclusion:

While Aphses is a relatively obscure figure in the biblical narrative, his inclusion in the priestly divisions of 1 Chronicles serves as a testament to the detailed organization of Israel's religious practices and the enduring legacy of the Levitical priesthood.Aphses

(the dispersion), chief of the 15th of the 24 courses in the service of the temple. (1 Chronicles 24:15)

APHSES

af'-sez: the King James Version form for the Revised Version (British and American) HAPPIZZEZ (1 Chronicles 24:15).

Aphses (1 Occurrence)
...APHSES. af'-sez: the King James Version form for the Revised Version (British and
American) HAPPIZZEZ (1 Chronicles 24:15). ...Aphses (1 Occurrence). ...
/a/aphses.htm - 6k

Apiece (12 Occurrences)

/a/apiece.htm - 10k

Aphrah (1 Occurrence)

/a/aphrah.htm - 6k

Hezer (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Hezer (1 Occurrence). 1 Chronicles 24:15 The
seventeenth to Hezer, the eighteenth to Aphses, (WBS). ...
/h/hezer.htm - 6k

Happizzez (1 Occurrence)
... hap'-i-zez (ha-pitstsets; the King James Version, Aphses): A priest on whom fell
the lot for the 18th of the 24 courses which David appointed for the temple ...
/h/happizzez.htm - 7k

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