Topical Encyclopedia Kushaiah is a biblical figure mentioned in the genealogical records of the tribe of Levi, specifically within the context of the Levitical musicians appointed for service in the house of the Lord. His name appears in the Old Testament, and he is recognized as an ancestor of one of the prominent Levitical families involved in temple worship.Biblical References: 1. 1 Chronicles 15:17 : "So the Levites appointed Heman son of Joel; from his relatives, Asaph son of Berechiah; and from their relatives the Merarites, Ethan son of Kushaiah." This verse places Kushaiah in the lineage of the Merarites, one of the three main divisions of the Levites. His son Ethan is noted as one of the chief musicians appointed by King David to lead the musical worship during the transportation of the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem. 2. 1 Chronicles 6:44 : "From the sons of Merari, their brothers, were Ethan son of Kushaiah, and from the sons of Ethan, Heman." This passage further confirms Kushaiah's role as the father of Ethan, who was a significant figure among the Levitical musicians. The genealogy underscores the hereditary nature of the Levitical duties and the importance of family lineage in the service of the temple. Role and Significance: Kushaiah's mention in the genealogical records highlights the structured organization of the Levitical families and their specific roles in the worship practices of ancient Israel. The Levites were set apart for religious duties, and music played a crucial role in the worship and ceremonial life of the Israelites. As the father of Ethan, Kushaiah is part of the lineage that contributed to the rich musical tradition in the temple, which was integral to the spiritual life of the nation. The appointment of Ethan, Kushaiah's son, as a chief musician by King David signifies the trust and responsibility placed upon this family line. The Levites, including the descendants of Kushaiah, were tasked with maintaining the worship practices that honored God and facilitated the people's connection to Him through music and song. Cultural and Theological Context: In the broader context of Israelite worship, the role of the Levites, including the descendants of Kushaiah, was to ensure that the worship of Yahweh was conducted according to divine instructions. The emphasis on music and the arts in worship reflects the holistic approach to honoring God, engaging not only the mind and spirit but also the senses and emotions. The genealogical records, such as those mentioning Kushaiah, serve to remind readers of the continuity and faithfulness of God's people throughout generations. They also highlight the importance of each individual's contribution to the collective worship and service of the community, underscoring the value of heritage and tradition in the life of faith. Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary KushaiahSmith's Bible Dictionary Kushaiah(bow of Jehovah), the same as Kish or Kishi, the father of Ethan the Merarite. (1 Chronicles 15:17) International Standard Bible Encyclopedia KUSHAIAHku-sha'-ya, ku-shi'-a (qushayahu, "bow of Yah"): A Merarite Levite (1 Chronicles 15:17), called in 1 Chronicles 6:44 KISHI (which see). Strong's Hebrew 6984. Qushayahu -- a Levite... 6983, 6984. Qushayahu. 6985 . a Levite. Transliteration: Qushayahu Phonetic Spelling: (koo-shaw-yaw'-hoo) Short Definition: Kushaiah. ... Kushaiah. ... /hebrew/6984.htm - 6k Thesaurus Kushaiah (1 Occurrence)... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia KUSHAIAH. ku-sha'-ya, ku ... which see). Multi-Version Concordance Kushaiah (1 Occurrence). 1 Chronicles ... /k/kushaiah.htm - 7k Kusha'iah (1 Occurrence) Kishi (1 Occurrence) Kumkum (1 Occurrence) Jo'el (19 Occurrences) Ethan (9 Occurrences) Merar'i (32 Occurrences) Merarites (7 Occurrences) Berechi'ah (11 Occurrences) Berechiah (12 Occurrences) Resources Who was Ethan the Ezrahite in the Psalms? | GotQuestions.orgBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Kushaiah (1 Occurrence)1 Chronicles 15:17 Subtopics Related Terms |