Old Testament
1 Chronicles 25:16
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this passage, we learn about the organization of musicians in ancient Israel.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Ezra
- Written
- Around 430 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Post-exilic Jews
The 9th went to Mattaniah, along with his sons and brothers — 12 in all.
The ninth to Mattaniah, he, his sons, and his brethren, were twelve:
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, we learn about the organization of musicians in ancient Israel. Specifically, it mentions Mattaniah, who is part of a group designated for musical duties. He is accompanied by his sons and brothers, making a total of twelve individuals. This highlights the importance of family and community in fulfilling roles within the temple. Music played a significant role in worship, and having a dedicated group ensured that the spiritual atmosphere was vibrant and engaging. The number twelve often symbolizes completeness and divine order, suggesting that this group was well-prepared to serve. By recognizing the contributions of each member, the passage emphasizes teamwork and collaboration. It reminds us that every role, no matter how small, is vital in a larger purpose. This organization of musicians reflects a structured approach to worship, showing that preparation and dedication are essential in any community endeavor. Overall, this verse illustrates how collective efforts can enhance spiritual experiences and foster a sense of belonging.
Related Bible verses
How to apply 1 Chronicles 25:16 to your life
Consider how you can contribute to your community, just like Mattaniah and his family did. Every role matters, whether big or small. Engage with others and find ways to support collective efforts, enhancing the experiences of those around you. Your involvement can make a significant difference in creating a positive environment for everyone involved.
Curated for this public verse page. 1 Chronicles Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 1 Chronicles 25:16 mean?
1 Chronicles 25:16 describes the organization of musicians in ancient Israel, specifically highlighting Mattaniah and his family who were designated for musical duties in the temple. This verse emphasizes the importance of community and teamwork in worship.
What is the significance of the number twelve in 1 Chronicles 25:16?
The number twelve in 1 Chronicles 25:16 symbolizes completeness and divine order. It indicates that Mattaniah, along with his sons and brothers, formed a well-prepared group for their musical responsibilities in the temple.
Who is Mattaniah in 1 Chronicles 25:16?
Mattaniah is a key figure mentioned in 1 Chronicles 25:16, identified as a leader among the musicians responsible for temple worship. He is accompanied by his sons and brothers, highlighting the role of family in serving the community.
How does 1 Chronicles 25:16 relate to teamwork?
1 Chronicles 25:16 showcases teamwork by illustrating how Mattaniah and his family worked together as a group of twelve to fulfill their musical duties in the temple. This reflects the idea that every individual's contribution is important in achieving a common goal.

The Book of 1 Chronicles
Genealogies (Chs 1–9)
The record begins with the line from Adam to Noah and his sons: Shem, Ham, and Japheth. The descendants of Japheth are listed, followed by the descendants of Ham, which include Nimrod, a mighty one in the earth, and the ancestors of the Philistines. The line of Shem is traced down to Abram, who is Abraham. The sons of Abraham—Ishmael and Isaac—are named, along with the sons of Abraham’s concubine Keturah. The generations of Ishmael are listed, followed by the descendants of Isaac’s son Esau, including the dukes and early kings of Edom.
Unlock the full 1 Chronicles summary
Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.
The complete summary of 1 Chronicles — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 29 chapters.
What you get
Every chapter of 1 Chronicles summarized in clear, modern English
How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points
Permanent access — read anytime, on any device
Best value • Save over 90%
One-time purchase • Access anytime
ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.
Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.