Maha'zi-oth is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically within the context of the Levitical musicians appointed by King David. The name Maha'zi-oth appears in the genealogical and organizational records of the Levites, who were set apart for the service of the tabernacle and later the temple in Jerusalem.

Biblical Reference:

Maha'zi-oth is mentioned in 1 Chronicles 25:4, where he is listed among the sons of Heman, one of the three chief musicians appointed by David to prophesy with lyres, harps, and cymbals. The verse reads: "From the sons of Heman: Bukkiah, Mattaniah, Uzziel, Shubael, Jerimoth, Hananiah, Hanani, Eliathah, Giddalti, Romamti-ezer, Joshbekashah, Mallothi, Hothir, and Maha'zi-oth."

Role and Significance:

Maha'zi-oth, as a descendant of Heman, was part of a significant Levitical family dedicated to the musical worship in the temple. Heman, along with Asaph and Jeduthun, was appointed by King David to lead the musical aspect of worship, which was an integral part of the religious life of Israel. The sons of Heman, including Maha'zi-oth, were involved in this sacred duty, contributing to the spiritual and liturgical life of the nation.

The role of the musicians was not merely to provide background music but to lead the people in worship and to prophesy through music. This indicates that their service was both artistic and spiritual, serving as a means of communication between God and His people. The inclusion of Maha'zi-oth in this list underscores the importance of family lineage and the hereditary nature of Levitical duties.

Etymology and Interpretation:

The name Maha'zi-oth is of Hebrew origin, and while its exact meaning is not definitively known, it is often interpreted as "visions" or "seeing." This interpretation aligns with the prophetic role of the musicians, who were believed to have a special insight or vision into the divine will through their music.

Cultural and Historical Context:

During the time of King David, the organization of the temple musicians was a reflection of the structured and ordered worship that characterized the Israelite religious system. The Levites, including the family of Heman, were set apart for specific roles, and their service was considered a high calling. The detailed genealogies and lists of duties found in the Chronicles highlight the importance of maintaining a continuous and faithful worship practice, which was central to the identity and spiritual life of Israel.

Maha'zi-oth's inclusion in the biblical record, though brief, serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Levitical musicians and their contribution to the worship and religious heritage of the Jewish people.Maha'zi-oth (2 Occurrences)

1 Chronicles 25:4
Of Heman: the sons of Heman: Bukkiah, Mattaniah, Uzziel, Shebuel, and Jerimoth, Hananiah, Hanani, Eliathah, Giddalti, and Romamti-ezer, Joshbekashah, Mallothi, Hothir, Mahazioth;
(See RSV)

1 Chronicles 25:30
For the three and twentieth to Mahazioth, his sons and his brethren, twelve;
(See RSV)

Maha'zi-oth (2 Occurrences)
Maha'zi-oth. Mahazioth, Maha'zi-oth. Maher . Multi-Version Concordance
Maha'zi-oth (2 Occurrences). 1 Chronicles 25:4 Of Heman: the ...
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Mahazioth (2 Occurrences)

/m/mahazioth.htm - 7k

Maher (1 Occurrence)

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