Zechariah זְכַרְיָהוּ
Levite gatekeeper and musician during David's reign
Who is Zechariah in the Bible?
Zechariah was a Levite who served during King David's reign as both a gatekeeper and musician at the tabernacle, with his duties documented in 1 Chronicles 9:21, 15:18-20, and 26:2-14. He was appointed by David to play the lyre and harp during the transportation of the ark of the covenant to Jerusalem, demonstrating his skill and trustworthiness. As a member of the priestly tribe of Levi, Zechariah participated in sacred musical celebrations and was responsible for guarding the tabernacle entrance. His service reflects the important role that skilled musicians and gatekeepers played in Israel's worship during the early monarchy, helping to establish the formal structure of religious practice that would continue through Solomon's temple.
Biography
Zechariah was a Levite who lived during the reign of King David. He held various responsibilities related to the tabernacle and its service. Zechariah is mentioned as one of the gatekeepers who guarded the entrance to the tabernacle. He was also a skilled musician and was appointed by David to play the lyre and harp during the transportation of the ark of the covenant to Jerusalem.
Zechariah's musical abilities were recognized, and he was among the Levites chosen to lead the music and singing when the ark was brought into the tent David had pitched for it. He also participated in the musical celebration when the ark was finally brought into the temple built by Solomon.
In addition to his musical duties, Zechariah was entrusted with the responsibility of distributing the offerings and tithes among his fellow Levites. He was known for his integrity and fairness in this role.
Zechariah's descendants continued to serve as gatekeepers in the temple, with his son Meshelemiah being appointed as the chief gatekeeper during David's reign. The faithful service of Zechariah and his family in the tabernacle and temple highlights the important role the Levites played in maintaining the worship and service of God.
Family
Siblings
- Jediael MaleDavid's warriorOne of David's mighty men from the tribe of ManassehView full profile →
- Zebadiah MaleDavid's warriorGadite warrior who joined DavidView full profile →
- Jathniel Tribe of LeviSon of MeshelemiahLevite gatekeeper during David's reignView full profile →
- Elam Tribe of LeviSon of MeshelemiahA temple gatekeeper during David's reignView full profile →
- Jehohanan Tribe of LeviSon of MeshelemiahLevite gatekeeper during the reign of DavidView full profile →
- Eliehoenai Tribe of LeviSon of MeshelemiahSon of Meshelemiah, a gatekeeper in David's timeView full profile →
In Scripture
1 biblical book1 Chronicles 5 verses
- 1 Chronicles 9:21
"Zechariah son of Meshelemiah was the gatekeeper at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting."
- 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 15:20
"Zechariah, Aziel, Shemiramoth, Jehiel, Unni, Eliab, Maaseiah, and Benaiah were to play the harps according to Alamoth."
- 1 Chronicles 15:24
"Shebaniah, Joshaphat, Nethanel, Amasai, Zechariah, Benaiah, and Eliezer—the priests—were to blow the trumpets before the ark of God. Obed-edom and Jehiah were also to be guardians of the ark."
- 1 Chronicles 16:5
"Asaph was the chief, Zechariah was second, then Jeiel, Shemiramoth, Jehiel, Mattithiah, Eliab, Benaiah, Obed-edom, and Jeiel. They were to play the harps and lyres, while Asaph sounded the cymbals"
Names & Aliases
| Form | Language | Script |
|---|---|---|
| Named | Hebrew | זְכַרְיָהוּ |