Semakiah is a biblical figure mentioned in the genealogical records of the Old Testament. His name appears in the context of the Levitical families, specifically within the lineage of the Levites, who were set apart for religious duties and the service of the Tabernacle and later the Temple in Jerusalem.

Biblical References:

Semakiah is mentioned in 1 Chronicles 26:4, where he is listed as one of the sons of Obed-Edom. The passage reads: "The sons of Obed-Edom: Shemaiah the firstborn, Jehozabad the second, Joah the third, Sacar the fourth, Nethanel the fifth, Ammiel the sixth, Issachar the seventh, and Peullethai the eighth. For God had blessed Obed-Edom."

Genealogical Context:

Semakiah is part of the genealogical record that highlights the descendants of Obed-Edom, a significant figure in the history of the Ark of the Covenant. Obed-Edom is noted for having housed the Ark in his home for three months, during which time the Lord blessed him and his household (2 Samuel 6:11). This blessing is reflected in the prosperity and prominence of his descendants, including Semakiah.

Role and Significance:

The genealogical listing in 1 Chronicles 26 is part of a broader section detailing the divisions of the gatekeepers, a role of considerable importance in the administration and protection of the Temple. The gatekeepers were responsible for maintaining the sanctity and security of the Temple, ensuring that only those who were ceremonially clean could enter. As a descendant of Obed-Edom, Semakiah would have been part of this honored Levitical tradition, contributing to the religious life and order of ancient Israel.

Theological Implications:

The mention of Semakiah, though brief, underscores the theme of divine blessing and faithfulness. The record of his lineage serves as a testament to God's continued favor upon the house of Obed-Edom, illustrating the biblical principle that God's blessings extend through generations to those who honor Him. This genealogical account also highlights the importance of family heritage and the transmission of faith and duty within the Levitical community.

Cultural and Historical Context:

In the cultural and historical context of ancient Israel, genealogies were crucial for establishing identity, inheritance rights, and religious duties. The Levites, as a tribe set apart for the service of God, held a unique position within the Israelite community. The detailed genealogies in Chronicles reflect the chronicler's intent to preserve the history and legacy of the Levitical families, emphasizing their role in the spiritual and communal life of Israel.

Semakiah's inclusion in this record, though limited in detail, contributes to the broader narrative of God's covenantal relationship with His people and the enduring legacy of those who serve Him faithfully.Semakiah (1 Occurrence)

1 Chronicles 26:7
The sons of Shemaiah: Othni, and Rephael and Obed and Elzabad his brethren, valiant men; Elihu also, and Semachiah.
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Semakiah (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Semakiah (1 Occurrence). 1 Chronicles 26:7 The
sons of Shemaiah: Othni, and Rephael and Obed and Elzabad ...
/s/semakiah.htm - 6k

Semblance (4 Occurrences)

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Semachi'ah (1 Occurrence)
Semachi'ah. Semachiah, Semachi'ah. Semakiah . Multi-Version Concordance ... (See
RSV). Semachiah, Semachi'ah. Semakiah . Reference Bible.
/s/semachi'ah.htm - 6k

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