Nehemiah 12:46 - For in the days of David and Asaph of old there was a chief of the singers, and songs of praise and thanksgiving to God.

Generated Verse: Nehemiah 12:46

What does "Nehemiah 12:46" mean?


Nehemiah 12:46 essentially states that during the reigns of King David and Asaph, there was a structured and organized system of music and worship within the temple, characterized by a leader and specific types of songs.

Here's a breakdown of the meaning:

"For in the days of David and Asaph of old..." This refers to a past golden age of worship and music in Israel. King David, known as the "sweet psalmist of Israel," and Asaph, a prominent musician and prophet in David's court, established a system of temple music. The phrase "of old" emphasizes the historical significance and established nature of this tradition.

"...there was a chief of the singers..." This indicates that there was a designated leader or director responsible for overseeing and coordinating the musicians and singers in the temple. This person would have likely been responsible for training, rehearsals, song selection, and overall artistic direction of the temple music.

"...and songs of praise and thanksgiving to God." The verse specifies the nature of the music performed in the temple. It wasn't just any kind of music, but specifically songs intended to glorify God. "Praise" focuses on extolling God's attributes and greatness, while "thanksgiving" expresses gratitude for God's blessings and provision.

In Summary:

The verse in Nehemiah 12:46 highlights the historical precedent for organized and meaningful worship through music in the temple. It emphasizes that the practice of having a leader for the singers and using music to praise and thank God was not a new invention but a tradition established by David and Asaph long ago. The reference to David and Asaph served as a model and inspiration for Nehemiah and his contemporaries as they sought to restore the temple worship in their own time. The point is that this was a well-established and revered practice that they were now continuing.

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