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Book of 1 Chronicles - Chapter 9 - Verse 9

9:9
And their brethren, according to their generations, nine hundred and fifty and six. All these men were chief of the fathers in the house of their fathers.

Meaning

The verse 'And their brethren, according to their generations, nine hundred and fifty and six. All these men were chief of the fathers in the house of their fathers.' from the book of 1 Chronicles is a genealogical record providing details about the descendants of the tribe of Levi. In this verse, it mentions the specific number of family members who were leaders of their clan. The mention of 956 individuals emphasizes the large number of people involved in maintaining the heritage and traditions of their ancestors.

It is important to note that in biblical times, genealogy played a crucial role in establishing one's identity, inheritance rights, and religious significance. The mention of the "chief of the fathers" highlights the leadership and authority these individuals held within their community. They were responsible for upholding the customs and rituals of their forefathers, ensuring the continuity of their lineage for future generations.

Understanding the significance of genealogy in the Bible provides a deeper insight into the cultural and social structures of ancient Israel. It also serves as a reminder of the importance of honoring one's heritage and ancestry in preserving the values and teachings passed down through the generations.

Theological Overview

When examining the verse "And their brethren, according to their generations, nine hundred and fifty and six. All these men were chief of the fathers in the house of their fathers," it is important to delve into the theological interpretation and significance of the numbers mentioned. In this verse, the number 956 is given as the total count of the descendants of the brethren. In biblical numerology, the number nine symbolizes divine completeness and represents the fruits of the Holy Spirit. The number five is often associated with God's grace and favor, while the number six is seen as the number of man. Therefore, the combination of these numbers in this verse could be interpreted as emphasizing the completeness of God's grace and favor upon the descendants of these brethren, who were all leaders in their respective families. Furthermore, the mention of the fathers and their fathers highlights the importance of lineage and family heritage in biblical times, indicating the continuity of leadership and responsibility within the community.

American Standard Version

and their brethren, according to their generations, nine hundred and fifty and six. All these men were heads of fathers' [houses] by their fathers' houses.
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