1 Chronicles Chapter 6 — The Lineage and Cities of the Levites
This chapter details the descendants of Levi, the high priestly line of Aaron, the temple singers appointed by David, and the specific cities given to the Levites.
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Notable Verses
1 Chronicles 6:31
“These are they whom David set over the service of song in the LORD’s house after the ark came to rest there.”
This verse marks the formal organization of musical ministry in the history of Israel's worship.
1 Chronicles 6:49
“But Aaron and his sons offered on the altar of burnt offering, and on the altar of incense, for all the work of the most holy place, and to make atonement for Israel, according to all that Moses the servant of God had commanded.”
It defines the unique and exclusive role of the priests within the larger tribe of Levi.
Chapter Summary
1 Chronicles 6 provides a comprehensive record of the tribe of Levi, highlighting their central role in the spiritual life of Israel. The chapter begins with the high priestly genealogy, tracing the line from Aaron through Eleazar to Jehozadak, who went into the Babylonian captivity. It then identifies the three main branches of the Levites—Gershon, Kohath, and Merari—and their descendants. A significant portion of the text is dedicated to those David appointed to lead musical worship, including Heman, Asaph, and Ethan. The chapter distinguishes the duties of Aaron’s descendants, who served as priests performing sacrifices, from the general Levites who maintained the tabernacle. Finally, the chapter lists the specific cities and pasture lands allocated to the Levite families across the territories of the other tribes, including the designated cities of refuge.
Frequently Asked Questions
The three main branches were the descendants of Levi's sons: Gershon, Kohath, and Merari. Each group was assigned specific duties and different cities throughout the land of Israel.
David appointed Heman, Asaph, and Ethan to lead the service of song. They and their families were responsible for ministering with music before the tabernacle and eventually in Solomon's temple.
The Levites did not receive a single large territory like other tribes; instead, they were given 48 cities spread across Israel. This allowed them to live among all the people to provide spiritual guidance and serve in their designated roles.
Study Note
The high priestly genealogy in this chapter is specifically designed to show continuity from the time of Aaron through the traumatic event of the Babylonian exile.
Related Chapters
Numbers 35
Numbers 35 describes the original command for the Levites to receive specific cities and pasture lands.
Joshua 21
Joshua 21 details the actual distribution of these cities after the conquest of Canaan.
2 Samuel 6
This chapter records David bringing the ark to Jerusalem, which led to the appointment of the singers mentioned here.
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