Book of 1 Chronicles - Chapter 25 - Verse 21

The verse 'The fourteenth to Mattithiah, he, his sons, and his brethren, were twelve:' comes from the Book of Chronicles in the Old Testament. This verse is part of a list detailing the organization of the Levites in the Temple. Mattithiah was assigned the fourteenth lot, and along with his sons and brethren, they were twelve in total. In this context, the term "lot" refers to the method used to allocate specific duties and responsibilities among the Levites. This system ensured that each family within the tribe had a designated role to play in the service of the Temple. The number twelve symbolizes completeness and order in the Bible, as seen in the twelve tribes of Israel and the twelve apostles chosen by Jesus. Therefore, the verse highlights the precise and structured nature of the Levitical priesthood and how each individual and their family played a crucial part in the worship and administration of the Temple.

The verse "The fourteenth to Mattithiah, he, his sons, and his brethren, were twelve:" from 1 Chronicles 25:21 may seem straightforward at first glance, but a closer theological interpretation reveals deeper significance. In this verse, Mattithiah and his family were designated as the fourteenth lot for the service of music in the house of the Lord. The number fourteen is significant in the Bible as it represents double perfection and unity. This could suggest that Mattithiah and his family were chosen to bring a sense of completeness and unity to the worship of God through their musical talents. Furthermore, the inclusion of his sons and brethren in the verse emphasizes the importance of family and community in serving the Lord. Through this verse, we can see the value placed on unity, completeness, and communal worship in the service of God, highlighting the interconnectedness of individuals and their roles in fulfilling the divine purpose.