This verse simply highlights that Samuel, one of Israel’s greatest spiritual leaders, had two sons: Joel and Abijah.
In 1 Chronicles 6, the chronicler outlines the lineage of the Levites and includes Samuel as one of the notable figures. Embedded in this genealogy is the statement, “And the sons of Samuel were Joel the firstborn, and Abijah the second.” (v.28). Samuel, who lived during the 11th century BC, served as a priest, a prophet, and the last judge of Israel, bridging the gap between the era of the judges and the establishment of the monarchy. He functioned as a spiritual leader at a time when Israel’s worship centered on the tabernacle, which was then located in places such as Shiloh and, later, in the high places before a permanent temple was built. This verse notes his offspring within the larger priestly genealogy, confirming Samuel’s ties to the Levitical tribe and underscoring his pivotal role in Israel’s spiritual history.By naming his two sons—Joel and Abijah—the Chronicler shows the continuation of Samuel’s lineage, an important element for the tribes of Israel. Genealogical records like these were meant to affirm rightful service in the priesthood or other religious functions, especially in a community emerging from exile and reestablishing its identity. The verse highlights how each family within the Levites had distinct responsibilities, often passing them from father to son, preserving traditions of worship and service. Joel, as the firstborn, and Abijah, the second, were heirs to Samuel’s legacy, though later accounts in 1 Samuel 8 reveal that their personal conduct did not always mirror their father’s righteousness.
This single verse, then, contributes both a historical link—rooting Samuel’s ministry in Levi’s lineage—and a reminder that even a revered leader’s heritage can face challenges as faith moves from one generation to the next.
Samuel’s listing here reminds readers that Israel’s priestly duties were sacred trusts, designed to be preserved faithfully throughout the generations.
Samuel’s lineage through Joel and Abijah affirms the continuity of the Levitical line, while illustrating that a godly heritage alone is insufficient without personal adherence to spiritual devotion.
The sons of Samuel recorded in this verse reflect the importance of genealogical faithfulness, even where human frailty may remain.
Set to dark mode
1 Chronicles 6:28 meaning
In 1 Chronicles 6, the chronicler outlines the lineage of the Levites and includes Samuel as one of the notable figures. Embedded in this genealogy is the statement, “And the sons of Samuel were Joel the firstborn, and Abijah the second.” (v.28). Samuel, who lived during the 11th century BC, served as a priest, a prophet, and the last judge of Israel, bridging the gap between the era of the judges and the establishment of the monarchy. He functioned as a spiritual leader at a time when Israel’s worship centered on the tabernacle, which was then located in places such as Shiloh and, later, in the high places before a permanent temple was built. This verse notes his offspring within the larger priestly genealogy, confirming Samuel’s ties to the Levitical tribe and underscoring his pivotal role in Israel’s spiritual history.By naming his two sons—Joel and Abijah—the Chronicler shows the continuation of Samuel’s lineage, an important element for the tribes of Israel. Genealogical records like these were meant to affirm rightful service in the priesthood or other religious functions, especially in a community emerging from exile and reestablishing its identity. The verse highlights how each family within the Levites had distinct responsibilities, often passing them from father to son, preserving traditions of worship and service. Joel, as the firstborn, and Abijah, the second, were heirs to Samuel’s legacy, though later accounts in 1 Samuel 8 reveal that their personal conduct did not always mirror their father’s righteousness.
This single verse, then, contributes both a historical link—rooting Samuel’s ministry in Levi’s lineage—and a reminder that even a revered leader’s heritage can face challenges as faith moves from one generation to the next.
Samuel’s listing here reminds readers that Israel’s priestly duties were sacred trusts, designed to be preserved faithfully throughout the generations.
Samuel’s lineage through Joel and Abijah affirms the continuity of the Levitical line, while illustrating that a godly heritage alone is insufficient without personal adherence to spiritual devotion.
The sons of Samuel recorded in this verse reflect the importance of genealogical faithfulness, even where human frailty may remain.