1 Chronicles 6:39
Heman's kinsman was Asaph, who served at his right hand: Asaph the son of Berechiah, the son of Shimea,
Heman
Heman is a significant figure in the biblical narrative, known for his role as a musician in the service of the temple. His name in Hebrew, "הֵימָן" (Heyman), means "faithful" or "trustworthy." This reflects his dedication and reliability in his service to God. Heman is often associated with the Korahites, a group of Levitical singers, and his role underscores the importance of music and worship in the spiritual life of Israel. His faithfulness in his duties serves as an inspiration for believers to use their talents for the glory of God.

was the musician's assistant
This phrase highlights Heman's role in the temple worship. The Hebrew term for "musician" is "מְשׁוֹרֵר" (meshorer), which refers to one who sings or plays music. Being an assistant indicates a position of support and collaboration, essential for the harmonious functioning of temple worship. This role emphasizes the value of teamwork and humility in service, reminding believers that every role in the body of Christ is vital, no matter how seemingly small.

the son of Joel
Joel, meaning "Yahweh is God," is a name that signifies a strong spiritual heritage. Heman's lineage is traced through Joel, indicating the importance of family and generational faithfulness in the biblical narrative. This connection to Joel suggests a legacy of devotion and service to God, encouraging believers to honor their spiritual heritage and pass on their faith to future generations.

the son of Samuel
Samuel, a pivotal figure in Israel's history, was a prophet, judge, and leader. His name means "heard by God," reflecting his mother's prayers and God's response. Samuel's life was marked by obedience and dedication to God's will, and his legacy continued through his descendants. Heman's connection to Samuel highlights the impact of a godly life and the influence one can have on future generations. It serves as a reminder of the importance of living a life that is pleasing to God and leaving a lasting spiritual legacy.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Heman
A prominent Levite musician and seer during the time of King David, known for his role in temple worship.

2. Asaph
A Levite and chief musician, appointed by David to lead worship. He is credited with several Psalms.

3. Berechiah
The father of Asaph, part of the Levitical lineage.

4. Shimea
The grandfather of Asaph, indicating the generational heritage of temple service.

5. Temple Worship
The context in which these individuals served, highlighting the importance of organized worship in Israel.
Teaching Points
The Importance of Worship Leadership
Asaph's role as a leader in worship highlights the significance of those who guide others in praising God. Worship leaders today can draw inspiration from his dedication and service.

Generational Faithfulness
The lineage of Asaph, from Berechiah to Shimea, illustrates the importance of passing down faith and service through generations. Families are encouraged to cultivate a legacy of faithfulness.

The Role of Music in Worship
Asaph's contributions to the Psalms show the power of music in expressing faith and theology. Music remains a vital component of worship, capable of teaching and inspiring believers.

Serving with Excellence
Asaph's position at Heman's right hand signifies a place of honor and responsibility. Believers are called to serve God with excellence and integrity in their respective roles.

Collaboration in Ministry
The partnership between Heman and Asaph demonstrates the effectiveness of collaborative ministry. Working together in unity enhances the worship experience and strengthens the community of faith.
Bible Study Questions
1. How does the role of Asaph as a worship leader in the temple inform our understanding of the importance of music in church today?

2. In what ways can families today ensure that their faith and service to God are passed down through generations, as seen in Asaph's lineage?

3. What can we learn from Asaph's contributions to the Psalms about the role of creativity and artistry in expressing our faith?

4. How can we apply the principle of serving with excellence, as demonstrated by Asaph, in our own areas of ministry or service?

5. What are some practical ways we can foster collaboration and unity in our church or ministry settings, following the example of Heman and Asaph's partnership?
Connections to Other Scriptures
1 Chronicles 15:17-19
This passage lists the musicians appointed by David, including Asaph, emphasizing the organized structure of worship.

Psalm 50 and 73-83
These Psalms are attributed to Asaph, reflecting his role as a spiritual leader and his contributions to Israel's worship.

2 Chronicles 29:30
Asaph is mentioned alongside David as a composer of songs, underscoring his lasting influence on worship practices.
Priesthood and ServiceF. Whitfield 1 Chronicles 6:31-48
Religious WorshipJ. Wolfendale.1 Chronicles 6:31-48
The Ministry of SongJ. Wolfendale.1 Chronicles 6:31-48
Religious CultureW. Clarkson 1 Chronicles 6:32-81
On the Genealogical TablesR. Glover 1 Chronicles 1-6
GenealogiesJ.R. Thomson 1 Chronicles 1-9
People
Aaron, Abdi, Abdon, Abiah, Abihu, Abijah, Abishua, Adaiah, Ahimaaz, Ahimoth, Ahitub, Alemeth, Amariah, Amasai, Amaziah, Amminadab, Amram, Amzi, Anathoth, Aner, Asaiah, Asaph, Asher, Assir, Azariah, Baaseiah, Bani, Benjamin, Berachiah, Berechiah, Bezer, Bukki, Caleb, Dan, David, Debir, Ebiasaph, Eleazar, Eliab, Eliel, Elkanah, Eshtemoa, Ethan, Ethni, Gad, Gershom, Gershomites, Gershon, Gibeon, Haggiah, Hashabiah, Heman, Hilkiah, Iddo, Israelites, Issachar, Ithamar, Izhar, Jahath, Jeaterai, Jehozadak, Jephunneh, Jeroham, Joah, Joel, Johanan, Kishi, Kohath, Kohathites, Korah, Levi, Levites, Libni, Mahath, Mahli, Malchiah, Malchijah, Malluch, Manasseh, Meraioth, Merari, Merarites, Michael, Miriam, Mushi, Nadab, Nahath, Naphtali, Nebuchadnezzar, Phinehas, Rehob, Reuben, Samuel, Saul, Seraiah, Shallum, Shamer, Shaul, Shemer, Shemuel, Shimea, Shimei, Simeon, Solomon, Tahath, Toah, Uriel, Uzza, Uzzah, Uzzi, Uzziah, Uzziel, Vashni, Zadok, Zebulun, Zephaniah, Zerah, Zerahiah, Zimmah, Zophai, Zuph
Places
Abdon, Aijalon, Alemeth, Anathoth, Anem, Aner, Ashan, Ashtaroth, Assyria, Bashan, Beth-horon, Beth-shemesh, Bezer, Bileam, Daberath, Debir, Eshtemoa, Galilee, Gath-rimmon, Geba, Gezer, Gibeon, Gilead, Golan, Hammon, Hebron, Heshbon, Hilen, Hukok, Jahzah, Jattir, Jazer, Jericho, Jerusalem, Jokmeam, Jordan River, Kedemoth, Kedesh, Kiriathaim, Libnah, Mahanaim, Mashal, Mephaath, Most Holy Place, Ramoth, Rehob, Shechem, Tabor
Topics
Asaph, Associate, Berachiah, Berechiah, Berechi'ah, Berekiah, Brother, Heman's, Namely, Served, Shimea, Shim'e-a, Standing, Stood
Dictionary of Bible Themes
1 Chronicles 6:39

     5156   hand

1 Chronicles 6:31-47

     5422   musicians

1 Chronicles 6:31-49

     7390   Levites

Library
David's Choristers
'They stood in their office, according to their order.'--1 CHRON. vi. 32 (R.V. margin). This brief note is buried in the catalogue of the singers appointed by David for 'the service of song in the house of the Lord.' The waves of their choral praise have long ages since ceased to eddy round the 'tabernacle of the tent of meeting,' and all that is left of their melodious companies is a dry list of names, in spite of which the dead owners of them are nameless. But the chronicler's description of them
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

Nob. Bahurim.
That Nob was placed in the land of Benjamin, not far from Jerusalem, whence Jerusalem also might be seen,--the words of the Chaldee paraphrast, upon Isaiah 10:32, do argue. For so he speaks; "Sennacherib came and stood in Nob, a city of the priests, before the walls of Jerusalem; and said to his army, 'Is not this the city of Jerusalem, against which I have raised my whole army, and have subdued all the provinces of it? Is it not small and weak in comparison of all the fortifications of the Gentiles,
John Lightfoot—From the Talmud and Hebraica

In Galilee at the Time of Our Lord
"If any one wishes to be rich, let him go north; if he wants to be wise, let him come south." Such was the saying, by which Rabbinical pride distinguished between the material wealth of Galilee and the supremacy in traditional lore claimed for the academies of Judaea proper. Alas, it was not long before Judaea lost even this doubtful distinction, and its colleges wandered northwards, ending at last by the Lake of Gennesaret, and in that very city of Tiberias which at one time had been reputed unclean!
Alfred Edersheim—Sketches of Jewish Social Life

Chronicles
The comparative indifference with which Chronicles is regarded in modern times by all but professional scholars seems to have been shared by the ancient Jewish church. Though written by the same hand as wrote Ezra-Nehemiah, and forming, together with these books, a continuous history of Judah, it is placed after them in the Hebrew Bible, of which it forms the concluding book; and this no doubt points to the fact that it attained canonical distinction later than they. Nor is this unnatural. The book
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament

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