1 Chronicles 6:26

As for Elkanah: the sons of Elkanah; Zophai his son, and Nahath his son,

1 Chronicles 6:26 (KJV)

Context

This verse belongs to a long genealogical record of the Levites, the tribe set apart for service in the tabernacle and later the temple. The line of Kohath, one of Levi’s three sons, is traced here (1 Chronicles 6:2-3). The Kohathites carried the most sacred objects of the tabernacle, so their family records were carefully preserved.

The immediate lines around this verse continue the same family list. The preceding line names Amasai and Ahimoth as sons of Elkanah, and the following line names Eliab, Jeroham, and another Elkanah. Together these lines place 1 Chronicles 6:26 within its exact literary sequence.

Meaning

The verse names Elkanah, then his sons Zophai and Nahath. It preserves relationships and identities without adding motives or character judgments. The wording moves from “As for Elkanah” to “the sons of Elkanah” and then to the two named sons, and these clauses should be read as one unit.

Zophai and Nahath are otherwise little-known figures in Scripture. Their inclusion shows that God values and records the names of those who served Him, even when those names appear nowhere else.

Biblical connections

The genealogies in 1 Chronicles 6 trace the lineage of those who ministered before the Lord, including later temple musicians and officials. This verse connects to that larger purpose: it documents the ancestry of the Kohathite line that served in God’s house for generations.

Application

Such records establish continuity across generations and locate families within Israel’s history. Their brevity does not make them dispensable; their value lies in the accuracy of the names and relationships preserved.

A faithful response is careful attention. Readers should receive the record as written, avoid inventing details beyond it, and allow the surrounding genealogy to explain each person’s place.

Reflection

God remembers those who serve Him faithfully, even when their service is not publicly recognized. The careful listing of names like Zophai and Nahath reminds readers that every person in God’s household matters to Him.