Mikneiah מִקְנֵיָ֫הוּ

Male H4737 1 book

A Levite musician during David's reign.

Who is Mikneiah in the Bible?

Mikneiah was a Levite musician who served during the reign of King David in ancient Israel. He was appointed by David to play the harp during the sacred procession that brought the ark of the covenant to Jerusalem, as recorded in 1 Chronicles 15:18 and 15:21. Based on his mention as one of the musicians who played the harp "to lead," Mikneiah appears to have held a position of leadership or distinction among the temple musicians. His inclusion in the biblical account underscores the significant role that skilled musicians played in Israel's worship practices and the careful organization David implemented for religious ceremonies.

Biography

Mikneiah is mentioned in the book of 1 Chronicles as a Levite musician who served during the reign of King David (1Ch.15.18,21). When David prepared to bring the ark of the covenant to Jerusalem, he appointed Levites to carry the ark and musicians to accompany the procession with various instruments. Mikneiah was one of the Levites chosen to play the harp (1Ch.15.18). He is specifically mentioned as one of the musicians who played the harp "to lead" (1Ch.15.21), suggesting that he had a leadership role or was skilled in his musical abilities. No further details about Mikneiah's life, family, or other responsibilities as a Levite are provided in the biblical text. His mention serves to document the importance of music in worship and the individuals who were appointed to serve in this capacity during David's reign.

In Scripture

1 biblical book
1 Chronicles 2 verses
  • 1 Chronicles 15:18

    "and with them their brothers next in rank: Zechariah, Jaaziel, Shemiramoth, Jehiel, Unni, Eliab, Benaiah, Maaseiah, Mattithiah, Eliphelehu, Mikneiah, and the gatekeepers Obed-edom and Jeiel."

  • 1 Chronicles 15:21

    "And Mattithiah, Eliphelehu, Mikneiah, Obed-edom, Jeiel, and Azaziah were to lead the music with lyres according to Sheminith."

Names & Aliases

Form Language Script
Named Hebrew מִקְנֵיָ֫הוּ