Jump to: Hitchcock's • Smith's • ATS • ISBE • Easton's • Concordance • Thesaurus • Greek • Hebrew • Library • Subtopics • Terms Topical Encyclopedia Asaph is a significant figure in the Bible, known primarily for his role as a musician and a seer during the reigns of King David and King Solomon. He is recognized as one of the chief musicians appointed by David to lead worship in the tabernacle and later in the temple. Asaph's contributions to the worship practices of Israel and his role in the composition of several Psalms highlight his importance in biblical history.Role and Duties Asaph was a Levite, a member of the tribe set apart for religious duties, and he served as one of the leaders of the choir in the tabernacle. According to 1 Chronicles 6:39, Asaph was appointed by David to be the chief musician, alongside Heman and Ethan. His responsibilities included leading the singing and playing of cymbals during worship services. Asaph's role was not only musical but also prophetic, as he is referred to as a "seer" in 2 Chronicles 29:30, indicating that he had a role in receiving and conveying divine messages. Psalms of Asaph Asaph is credited with authoring several Psalms, specifically Psalms 50 and 73-83. These Psalms are characterized by their deep theological insights and reflections on God's justice, the prosperity of the wicked, and the faithfulness of God to His people. For example, Psalm 73 begins with Asaph's struggle to understand why the wicked prosper while the righteous suffer, but it concludes with a reaffirmation of God's ultimate justice and goodness: "Yet I am always with You; You hold my right hand. You guide me with Your counsel, and later receive me in glory" (Psalm 73:23-24). Legacy and Influence Asaph's influence extended beyond his lifetime, as his descendants continued to serve as temple musicians. The "sons of Asaph" are mentioned in several passages, including 1 Chronicles 25:1-2, where they are listed among those appointed by David to prophesy with lyres, harps, and cymbals. This indicates that Asaph's legacy was not only in his compositions but also in the musical and prophetic traditions he established. Theological Themes The Psalms attributed to Asaph often explore themes of divine justice, the sovereignty of God, and the importance of worship. Asaph's writings reflect a deep concern for the moral and spiritual state of the nation of Israel, as well as a profound trust in God's ultimate plan. In Psalm 50, Asaph emphasizes the importance of sincere worship and obedience over mere ritual: "Offer to God a sacrifice of thanksgiving, and fulfill your vows to the Most High" (Psalm 50:14). Historical Context Asaph's ministry took place during a time of significant religious and political development in Israel. Under King David, the Ark of the Covenant was brought to Jerusalem, and worship was centralized in the city. Asaph played a crucial role in this transition, helping to establish a tradition of worship that would continue in the temple built by Solomon. His contributions to the Psalter and his leadership in worship were instrumental in shaping the spiritual life of Israel. Conclusion Asaph remains a revered figure in biblical history, known for his musical talents, prophetic insights, and enduring contributions to the worship practices of ancient Israel. His Psalms continue to be a source of inspiration and reflection for believers, offering profound insights into the nature of God and the life of faith. Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary AsaphSmith's Bible Dictionary Asaph(collector of the people).
ATS Bible Dictionary Asaph1. Assembler, a celebrated musician in David's time, and one of the leaders of the temple music. 1 Chronicles 16:5 25:1,2. This service appears to have been hereditary in his family, Nehemiah 7:44 11:22. He is also called a seer, 2 Chronicles 29:30; and his name is prefixed to twelve Psalms, (Psalm 50:1-23 73:1-83:18) but whether they were written by him, or for him or his family to sing, is unknown. See MUSIC. 2. A recorder of King Hezekiah, 2 Kings 18:18 Isaiah 36:3 3. Keeper of forests under Artaxerxes, Nehemiah 2:8. Easton's Bible Dictionary Convener, or collector. (1.) A Levite; one of the leaders of David's choir (1 Chronicles 6:39). Psalms 50 and 73-83 inclusive are attributed to him. He is mentioned along with David as skilled in music, and a "seer" (2 Chronicles 29:30). The "sons of Asaph," mentioned in 1 Chronicles 25:1, 2 Chronicles 20:14, and Ezra 2:41, were his descendants, or more probably a class of poets or singers who recognized him as their master. (2.) The "recorder" in the time of Hezekiah (2 Kings 18:18, 37). (3.) The "keeper of the king's forest," to whom Nehemiah requested from Artaxerxes a "letter" that he might give him timber for the temple at Jerusalem (Nehemiah 2:8). International Standard Bible Encyclopedia ASAPHa'-saf ('acaph): Is the name of three men in the Old Testament, of whom one is the reputed author of Psalms 50 and 73-83. He was one of David's three chief musicians, the other two being Heman, and Ethan or Jeduthun, and we first hear of him when the ark was taken to Jerusalem (1 Chronicles 15:16-19). He conducted with cymbals the music performed in the tent where the ark was housed (1 Chronicles 16:4, 5, 7, 37), while his two coadjutors discharged the same office at Gibeon (1 Chronicles 16:41, 42). In 1 Chronicles 25:1 we are told that four of his sons were appointed to conduct under him detachments of the great chorus, the families of Heman and Jeduthun also furnishing leaders, and all took part at the dedication of the temple (2 Chronicles 5:12). A., H., and J. were called the king's seers (1 Chronicles 25 2 Chronicles 35:15), no doubt an official title of rank or dignity. The "Sons of Asaph" are mentioned in later times. They formed a guild, and played a prominent part at each revival of the national religion. See MUSIC; PSALMS. Greek 760. Asaph -- Asa, a king of Judah ... 759, 760. Asaph. 761 . ... Word Origin of Hebrew origin, cf. Asaph and Asa Definition Asa, a king of Judah NASB Word Usage Asa (2). Asa. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/760.htm - 6k 2498. Iosaphat -- Jehoshaphat, an Israelite Strong's Hebrew 623. Asaph -- "gatherer," the name of several Israelites... 622, 623. Asaph. 624 . "gatherer," the name of several Israelites. Transliteration: Asaph Phonetic Spelling: (aw-sawf') Short Definition: Asaph. ... /hebrew/623.htm - 6k 622. asaph -- to gather, remove 841. Asarelah -- a son of Asaph 3480. Yesarelah -- a son of Asaph 2979. Yeatheray -- an ancestor of Asaph 627. asuppah -- a collection 628. asaphsuph -- a collection, rabble 23. Abiasaph -- "my father has gathered," an Israelite name 625. oseph -- a gathering 626. asephah -- a collecting, gathering Library Psalm LXXXI. Psalm LXXVIII. A Question for a Questioner Private Thoughts Upon a Christian Life Psalm LXXXIII. The Two Awakings Psalm LXXX. Introduction. A Prophet who Saved a Great City Bibliographical Introduction. Thesaurus Asaph (47 Occurrences)... The "sons of Asaph," mentioned in 1 Chronicles 25:1, 2 Chronicles 20:14, and Ezra 2:41, were his descendants, or more probably a class of poets or singers who ... /a/asaph.htm - 24k Asaph's (2 Occurrences) Eli'asaph (6 Occurrences) Ebi'asaph (3 Occurrences) Abi'asaph (1 Occurrence) Jeduthun (15 Occurrences) Cymbals (15 Occurrences) Mattaniah (16 Occurrences) Sons (2429 Occurrences) Zaccur (10 Occurrences) Resources Who was Jeduthun in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about how to find purpose in life? | GotQuestions.org Who were the sons of Korah in the Old Testament? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Asaph (47 Occurrences)2 Kings 18:18 2 Kings 18:37 1 Chronicles 6:39 1 Chronicles 9:15 1 Chronicles 15:17 1 Chronicles 15:19 1 Chronicles 16:5 1 Chronicles 16:7 1 Chronicles 16:37 1 Chronicles 25:1 1 Chronicles 25:2 1 Chronicles 25:6 1 Chronicles 25:9 1 Chronicles 26:1 2 Chronicles 5:12 2 Chronicles 20:14 2 Chronicles 29:13 2 Chronicles 29:30 2 Chronicles 35:15 Ezra 2:41 Ezra 3:10 Nehemiah 2:8 Nehemiah 7:44 Nehemiah 11:17 Nehemiah 11:22 Nehemiah 12:35 Nehemiah 12:46 Psalms 49:20 Psalms 50:1 Psalms 73:1 Psalms 74:1 Psalms 74:23 Psalms 75:1 Psalms 76:1 Psalms 77:1 Psalms 77:20 Psalms 78:1 Psalms 79:1 Psalms 79:13 Psalms 80:1 Psalms 80:19 Psalms 81:1 Psalms 82:1 Psalms 82:8 Psalms 83:1 Isaiah 36:3 Isaiah 36:22 Subtopics Apointed to Sound the Cymbals in the Temple Choir Asaph: A Composer of Sacred Lyrics Asaph: A Levite, Whose Descendants Lived in Jerusalem After the Exile Asaph: Descendants of, in the Temple Choir Related Terms |
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