Abda is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament. He is identified as the father of Adoniram, who was in charge of the forced labor under King Solomon. The reference to Abda can be found in 1 Kings 4:6: "Adoniram son of Abda was in charge of the forced labor." The name Abda means "servant" or "servant of Yahweh," reflecting a common practice of the time to incorporate the name of God into personal names. Abda's role is primarily genealogical, serving to establish the lineage and responsibilities of his son, Adoniram, within the administrative structure of Solomon's kingdom.

Shammua

Shammua is a name that appears multiple times in the Old Testament, referring to different individuals:

1. Shammua the Spy: One of the twelve spies sent by Moses to explore the land of Canaan. Shammua represented the tribe of Reuben. His mention is found in Numbers 13:4: "These were their names: from the tribe of Reuben, Shammua son of Zaccur."

2. Shammua, Son of David: Another Shammua is listed as a son of King David, born to him in Jerusalem. This reference is found in 1 Chronicles 14:4: "These are the names of the children born to him in Jerusalem: Shammua, Shobab, Nathan, and Solomon."

3. Shammua the Priest: A Levite mentioned in Nehemiah 11:17, where he is involved in the musical and liturgical services of the temple: "Mattaniah son of Mica, the son of Zabdi, the son of Asaph, the director who led in thanksgiving and prayer; Bakbukiah, second among his associates; and Abda son of Shammua, the son of Galal, the son of Jeduthun."

Galal

Galal is a lesser-known biblical figure, primarily mentioned in the genealogical and Levitical records. He is identified as a Levite and is associated with the temple musicians. Galal is mentioned in 1 Chronicles 9:15: "Bakbakkar, Heresh, Galal, and Mattaniah son of Mica, the son of Zichri, the son of Asaph." His lineage connects him to the musical traditions of the temple, indicating his role in the worship practices of ancient Israel.

Jeduthun

Jeduthun is a significant figure in the musical and worship traditions of ancient Israel. He is often associated with the Levitical musicians and is mentioned in several contexts:

1. Chief Musician: Jeduthun is identified as one of the chief musicians appointed by King David to lead worship in the temple. His role is highlighted in 1 Chronicles 16:41-42: "With them were Heman and Jeduthun and the rest of those chosen and designated by name to give thanks to the LORD, for 'His loving devotion endures forever.' Heman and Jeduthun had with them trumpets and cymbals for the music and instruments for the songs of God."

2. Psalms: Several psalms are attributed to or associated with Jeduthun, indicating his influence on the worship and musical traditions of Israel. For example, Psalm 39, Psalm 62, and Psalm 77 include references to Jeduthun in their titles.

3. Family Lineage: Jeduthun's descendants continued his musical legacy, as seen in Nehemiah 11:17, where his lineage is mentioned in connection with temple service: "Mattaniah son of Mica, the son of Zabdi, the son of Asaph, the director who led in thanksgiving and prayer; Bakbukiah, second among his associates; and Abda son of Shammua, the son of Galal, the son of Jeduthun."

Jeduthun's contributions to the worship practices of Israel highlight the importance of music and praise in the spiritual life of the community. His legacy is preserved through the psalms and the ongoing service of his descendants in the temple.