1 Chronicles 15:21

And Mattithiah, Eliphelehu, Mikneiah, Obed-edom, Jeiel, and Azaziah were to lead the music with lyres according to Sheminith.

Study Bible

And Mattithiah, Eliphelehu, Mikneiah, Obed-edom, Jeiel, and Azaziah
These individuals were Levites, a tribe set apart for religious duties in Israel. The Levites were responsible for the care of the tabernacle and later the temple, and they played a crucial role in worship. Obed-edom is notably mentioned earlier in 1 Chronicles 13:14 as the man whose house the Ark of the Covenant was kept, and God blessed his household. This highlights the importance of these men in the religious life of Israel, as they were entrusted with leading worship.

were to lead the music
Music was an integral part of worship in ancient Israel, and these Levites were appointed to lead it. This reflects the organized and intentional approach to worship, emphasizing the importance of music in glorifying God. The role of music in worship is seen throughout the Bible, such as in the Psalms, which were often sung with musical accompaniment.

with lyres
The lyre was a stringed instrument similar to a small harp, commonly used in ancient Israelite worship. Its use in temple worship underscores the cultural and historical significance of music in Israel's religious practices. The lyre is mentioned in various Psalms, indicating its widespread use in worship and its role in expressing praise and devotion to God.

according to Sheminith
Sheminith likely refers to a musical term or style, possibly indicating an octave or a specific tuning. This term is also found in the titles of several Psalms (e.g., Psalm 6 and Psalm 12), suggesting a standardized approach to musical worship. The use of specific musical terms indicates a structured and sophisticated system of worship music in ancient Israel, reflecting the importance of order and excellence in worship.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Mattithiah, Eliphelehu, Mikneiah, Obed-edom, Jeiel, and Azaziah
These individuals were Levites appointed by King David to play harps during the transportation of the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem. Their role was crucial in leading worship and ensuring the proper reverence and joy in the presence of God.

2. Harps tuned to the Sheminith
The Sheminith is a musical term that likely refers to an eight-stringed instrument or a specific musical tuning or style. It indicates the precision and care taken in worship, emphasizing the importance of music in glorifying God.

3. The Ark of the Covenant
The central focus of this event, the Ark represented God's presence among His people. The transportation of the Ark to Jerusalem was a significant event in Israel's history, symbolizing God's blessing and favor.

4. King David
As the leader of Israel, David organized the Levites and musicians, demonstrating his commitment to worship and the proper honor of God.

5. Jerusalem
The destination for the Ark, Jerusalem was becoming the spiritual and political center of Israel, highlighting the importance of worship in the life of the nation.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Order in Worship
God values order and preparation in worship, as seen in the careful organization of musicians and instruments.

The Role of Music in Worship
Music is a powerful tool for worship, capable of leading hearts and minds to focus on God. It should be used thoughtfully and skillfully.

The Significance of Leadership in Worship
Leaders in worship, like the Levites, have a responsibility to guide others into the presence of God with reverence and joy.

The Presence of God in Our Lives
Just as the Ark symbolized God's presence, we should seek to carry His presence with us daily, ensuring our lives are aligned with His will.

Joyful Worship as a Community
Worship is a communal activity that brings believers together in unity and joy, reflecting the collective celebration of God's goodness.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of the Levites in 1 Chronicles 15:21 inform our understanding of leadership in worship today?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our worship, both individually and corporately, is orderly and pleasing to God?

3. How does the use of music in worship enhance our experience and understanding of God's presence?

4. What lessons can we learn from the transportation of the Ark about the importance of following God's instructions in our spiritual practices?

5. How can we cultivate a sense of community and joy in our worship gatherings, similar to the celebration described in 1 Chronicles 15?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Samuel 6
This chapter provides a parallel account of the transportation of the Ark, offering additional details about the event and emphasizing the importance of following God's instructions in worship.

Psalm 150
This psalm underscores the significance of music in worship, encouraging the use of various instruments to praise God, similar to the role of the Levites in 1 Chronicles 15:21.

Colossians 3:16
This New Testament verse highlights the role of music and singing in teaching and admonishing one another, reflecting the communal and instructional aspects of worship seen in 1 Chronicles 15.