The "sons of Asaph" refers to a group of Levitical singers and musicians in the Old Testament, who were descendants of Asaph, a prominent figure in the musical worship of ancient Israel. Asaph himself was appointed by King David as one of the chief musicians to minister before the Ark of the Covenant, and his descendants continued this legacy in the temple worship.

Asaph's Role and Legacy

Asaph was a Levite from the family of Gershon and is recognized as one of the three chief musicians appointed by David, alongside Heman and Jeduthun (1 Chronicles 6:39). He played a significant role in the musical aspect of worship, particularly in the service of song in the house of the LORD. Asaph is credited with several psalms, including Psalms 50 and 73-83, which are attributed to him or his descendants.

The Sons of Asaph in Temple Worship

The sons of Asaph were part of the organized structure of temple worship established by David. They were responsible for leading the congregation in song and music, a tradition that continued through the reigns of subsequent kings. In 1 Chronicles 25:1-2, David and the commanders of the army set apart the sons of Asaph, along with the sons of Heman and Jeduthun, for the ministry of prophesying with lyres, harps, and cymbals. The passage states: "David and the commanders of the army set apart for service some of the sons of Asaph, Heman, and Jeduthun, who were to prophesy with lyres, harps, and cymbals. The list of men who performed this service was: From the sons of Asaph: Zaccur, Joseph, Nethaniah, and Asharelah; the sons of Asaph were under the supervision of Asaph, who prophesied under the king’s supervision."

Role During the Reigns of Kings

The sons of Asaph continued their service during the reigns of various kings of Judah. During the reign of King Hezekiah, they were involved in the purification and rededication of the temple (2 Chronicles 29:13-15). They also played a role in the reforms of King Josiah, as recorded in 2 Chronicles 35:15: "The musicians, the descendants of Asaph, were in their places according to the command of David, Asaph, Heman, and Jeduthun the king’s seer. The gatekeepers at each gate did not need to leave their posts, because their fellow Levites made the preparations for them."

Post-Exilic Period

After the Babylonian exile, the sons of Asaph were among those who returned to Jerusalem to help rebuild the temple and restore worship. Ezra 2:41 and Nehemiah 7:44 mention the sons of Asaph as part of the group of singers who returned with Zerubbabel. Nehemiah 11:22 further notes their continued role in the temple service: "The chief officer of the Levites in Jerusalem was Uzzi son of Bani, the son of Hashabiah, the son of Mattaniah, the son of Mica, of the descendants of Asaph, the singers responsible for the service of the house of God."

Significance in Worship

The sons of Asaph were integral to the worship life of Israel, serving as musicians and singers who led the people in praise and worship. Their role was not merely musical but also prophetic, as they were involved in prophesying through their music. This highlights the importance of music in the spiritual life of Israel and the belief that music could convey divine messages and inspire the people in their faith.

The legacy of the sons of Asaph underscores the enduring role of music in worship and the importance of maintaining a tradition of praise and prophecy through song, a practice that has continued throughout the history of Judeo-Christian worship.