1 chronicles 15:20 - and Zechariah, Aziel, Shemiramoth, Jehiel, Unni, Eliab, Maaseiah, and Benaiah, with stringed instruments set to Alamoth;

Generated Verse: 1 chronicles 15:20

What does "1 chronicles 15:20" mean?


This verse describes some of the Levites appointed by David to play music during the Ark of the Covenant's transport to Jerusalem. Let's break it down:

Zechariah, Aziel, Shemiramoth, Jehiel, Unni, Eliab, Maaseiah, and Benaiah: These are the names of eight Levites. The Levites were a tribe in Israel dedicated to religious service, and music was a part of their role.

with stringed instruments: This indicates they played instruments with strings, like lyres or harps (though the exact types aren't specified).

set to Alamoth: This is the key part that needs explaining. "Alamoth" (עֲלָמוֹת) is a Hebrew word, and its precise meaning in this context is debated among scholars. Here are the most common interpretations:

High Pitch/Soprano: The most frequent and widely accepted interpretation is that "Alamoth" refers to a high-pitched vocal range or possibly instruments tuned to a higher register. This would suggest these Levites played music suitable for sopranos or young women's voices (the word shares a root with "young woman" or "virgin"). The instruments might have been specifically designed or tuned for higher tones.

Specific Type of Instrument: Some scholars suggest "Alamoth" could be the name of a specific type of stringed instrument, perhaps one known for its higher pitch. However, there isn't definitive archaeological or textual evidence to confirm this.

Location/Ensemble Designation: A less common theory is that "Alamoth" might refer to a specific location within the temple or a particular ensemble of musicians within the larger Levitical choir.

In Summary:

The verse indicates that these eight Levites were musicians who played stringed instruments. The instruments were tuned to a high pitch or soprano range, or perhaps a specific type of stringed instrument known as 'Alamoth'. Their role was to contribute to the musical accompaniment during the important religious event of bringing the Ark to Jerusalem.

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