Book of 1 Chronicles - Chapter 9 - Verse 14

Within the book of Nehemiah in the Bible, this particular verse lists the lineage of Shemaiah the Levite, tracing his ancestry back through his family line. The Levites were an ancient Israelite tribe that served as priests and assistants in the religious ceremonies of the Israelites. Shemaiah's lineage is provided to establish his credibility and authority as a Levite and to highlight his importance and significance within the religious community. By identifying his familial connections, the verse emphasizes the hereditary nature of the Levitical priesthood and the importance of maintaining ancestral traditions and roles within the religious hierarchy. This verse serves as a reminder of the historical and cultural significance of lineage and ancestry in the context of the Israelite community and the role of the Levites in religious practices.

In this verse, we encounter a lineage of Levites, specifically Shemaiah. The name Shemaiah means "Yahweh has heard" in Hebrew, and this name is significant as it reflects the Levites' role as the tribe dedicated to serving in the temple and offering prayers to God. The mention of Shemaiah's ancestry, from Hasshub, Azrikam, and Hashabiah, underscores the importance of lineage and heritage in the Levitical priesthood. These names also reveal the faithfulness of God throughout generations, as each ancestor's name carries a specific meaning that may tie back to God's promises or actions. The lineage of Shemaiah belonging to the tribe of Merari further emphasizes the divine selection and calling of the Levites to fulfill a sacred duty. Through theological interpretation and word studies, we can delve deeper into the rich symbolism and significance of this verse, uncovering layers of meaning that highlight God's sovereignty and faithfulness in establishing the priesthood.