Ebi'asaph is a biblical figure mentioned in the genealogies of the Levites, specifically within the lineage of Kohath, one of the three sons of Levi. His name, Ebi'asaph, is understood to mean "The Father has gathered" or "My Father has gathered," reflecting a common practice in Hebrew culture where names often carry significant meanings related to divine actions or familial heritage.

Genealogical Context

Ebi'asaph is identified as a descendant of Kohath, making him part of the Kohathite branch of the Levites. The Kohathites held a special role among the Levites, as they were responsible for the care of the most sacred objects of the tabernacle, including the Ark of the Covenant, the table, the lampstand, the altars, and the sacred utensils used in the sanctuary service (Numbers 4:4-15).

In 1 Chronicles 6:23, Ebi'asaph is listed in the genealogy of the Levites: "Elkanah his son, Ebiasaph his son, Assir his son." This passage places Ebi'asaph within the lineage that would eventually lead to the prophet Samuel, a significant figure in Israel's history. The genealogical records in Chronicles serve to establish the continuity and legitimacy of the Levitical priesthood and its service to the nation of Israel.

Role and Significance

While the Bible does not provide extensive details about the personal life or specific deeds of Ebi'asaph, his inclusion in the genealogical records underscores the importance of lineage and heritage in the biblical narrative. The Levites, and particularly the Kohathites, were entrusted with the sacred duty of maintaining the worship practices of Israel, and Ebi'asaph's place in this lineage highlights the continuity of this divine service.

The genealogies in which Ebi'asaph appears also serve to affirm the faithfulness of God in preserving the priestly line through which He would continue to minister to His people. This continuity is crucial for understanding the unfolding of God's redemptive plan throughout the Old Testament, as the Levitical priesthood played a central role in the sacrificial system that pointed forward to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ.

Biblical References

· 1 Chronicles 6:23 : "Elkanah his son, Ebiasaph his son, Assir his son."
· 1 Chronicles 9:19 : "Shallum son of Kore, the son of Ebiasaph, the son of Korah, and his fellow gatekeepers from his family, the Korahites, were responsible for guarding the thresholds of the Tent just as their fathers had been responsible for guarding the entrance to the dwelling of the LORD."

These references highlight Ebi'asaph's place within the broader context of the Levitical duties and the heritage of service to the Lord. His descendants, including the Korahites, continued to play a significant role in the worship and religious life of Israel, emphasizing the enduring legacy of Ebi'asaph's lineage.Ebi'asaph (3 Occurrences)

1 Chronicles 6:23
Elkanah his son, and Ebiasaph his son, and Assir his son;
(See RSV)

1 Chronicles 6:37
the son of Tahath, the son of Assir, the son of Ebiasaph, the son of Korah;
(See RSV)

1 Chronicles 9:19
And Shallum the son of Kore, the son of Ebiasaph, the son of Korah, and his brethren, of his father's house, the Korahites, were over the work of the service, keepers of the gates of the Tent; and their fathers had been over the camp of the LORD, keepers of the entry;
(See RSV)

Ebi'asaph (3 Occurrences)
Ebi'asaph. Ebiasaph, Ebi'asaph. Ebionism . Multi-Version Concordance
Ebi'asaph (3 Occurrences). 1 Chronicles 6:23 Elkanah his son ...
/e/ebi'asaph.htm - 7k

Ebiasaph (4 Occurrences)

/e/ebiasaph.htm - 8k

Ebionism

/e/ebionism.htm - 34k

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus