1 Chronicles 6:29
New International Version
The descendants of Merari: Mahli, Libni his son, Shimei his son, Uzzah his son,

New Living Translation
The descendants of Merari included Mahli, Libni, Shimei, Uzzah,

English Standard Version
The sons of Merari: Mahli, Libni his son, Shimei his son, Uzzah his son,

Berean Standard Bible
The descendants of Merari: Mahli, Libni his son, Shimei his son, Uzzah his son,

Berean Literal Bible
The sons of Merari: Mahli, Libni his son, Shimei his son, Uzzah his son,

King James Bible
The sons of Merari; Mahli, Libni his son, Shimei his son, Uzza his son,

New King James Version
The sons of Merari were Mahli, Libni his son, Shimei his son, Uzzah his son,

New American Standard Bible
The sons of Merari were Mahli, Libni his son, Shimei his son, Uzzah his son,

NASB 1995
The sons of Merari were Mahli, Libni his son, Shimei his son, Uzzah his son,

NASB 1977
The sons of Merari were Mahli, Libni his son, Shimei his son, Uzzah his son,

Legacy Standard Bible
The sons of Merari were Mahli, Libni his son, Shimei his son, Uzzah his son,

Amplified Bible
The sons of Merari: Mahli, Libni his son, Shimei his son, Uzza his son,

Berean Annotated Bible
The descendants of Merari (bitter): Mahli (sick), Libni (white) his son, Shimei (renowned) his son, Uzzah (strength) his son,

Christian Standard Bible
Merari’s sons: Mahli, his son Libni, his son Shimei, his son Uzzah,

Holman Christian Standard Bible
Merari’s sons: Mahli, his son Libni, his son Shimei, his son Uzzah,

American Standard Version
The sons of Merari: Mahli, Libni his son, Shimei his son, Uzzah his son,

English Revised Version
The sons of Merari; Mahli, Libni his son, Shimei his son, Uzzah his son;

GOD'S WORD® Translation
These were Merari's descendants: Merari's son was Mahli. Mahli's son was Libni. Libni's son was Shimei. Shimei's son was Uzzah.

Good News Translation
These are the descendants of Merari from generation to generation: Mahli, Libni, Shimei, Uzzah,

International Standard Version
Merari's descendants included Mahli, his son Libni, his son Shimei, his son Uzzah,

NET Bible
The descendants of Merari: Mahli, his son Libni, his son Shimei, his son Uzzah,

New Heart English Bible
The sons of Merari: Mahli his son, Libni his son, Shimei his son, Uzzah his son,

Webster's Bible Translation
The sons of Merari; Mahli, Libni his son, Shimei his son, Uzza his son,
Majority Text Translations
Majority Standard Bible
The descendants of Merari: Mahli, Libni his son, Shimei his son, Uzzah his son,

World English Bible
The sons of Merari: Mahli, Libni his son, Shimei his son, Uzzah his son,
Literal Translations
Literal Standard Version
Sons of Merari: Mahli, Libni his son, Shimei his son, Uzzah his son,

Berean Literal Bible
The sons of Merari: Mahli, Libni his son, Shimei his son, Uzzah his son,

Young's Literal Translation
Sons of Merari: Mahli, Libni his son, Shimei his son, Uzzah his son,

Smith's Literal Translation
The sons of Merari: Mahli, Libni his son, Shimei his son, Uzza his son,
Catholic Translations
Douay-Rheims Bible
And the sons of Merari, Moholi: Lobni his son, Semei his son, Oza his son,

Catholic Public Domain Version
Now the sons of Merari were: Mahli, Libni his son, Shimei his son, Uzzah his son,

New American Bible
The sons of Merari: Mahli, whose son was Libni, whose son was Shimei, whose son was Uzzah,

New Revised Standard Version
The sons of Merari: Mahli, Libni his son, Shimei his son, Uzzah his son,
Translations from Aramaic
Lamsa Bible
The sons of Merari: Mahli, Libni his son, Shimei his son, Uzza his son,

Peshitta Holy Bible Translated
And the sons of Merari: Makhli his son, Lebni his son
OT Translations
JPS Tanakh 1917
The sons of Merari: Mahli; Libni his son, Shimei his son, Uzzah his son;

Brenton Septuagint Translation
The sons of Merari; Mooli, Lobeni his son, Semei his son, Oza his son;

Additional Translations ...
Audio Bible



Context
The Descendants of Levi
28The sons of Samuel: Joel his firstborn and Abijah his second son. 29The descendants of Merari: Mahli, Libni his son, Shimei his son, Uzzah his son, 30Shimea his son, Haggiah his son, and Asaiah his son.…

Cross References
The descendants of Merari:

1 Chronicles 23:21-23
The sons of Merari: Mahli and Mushi. The sons of Mahli: Eleazar and Kish. / Eleazar died without having any sons; he had only daughters. Their cousins, the sons of Kish, married them. / The sons of Mushi: Mahli, Eder, and Jeremoth—three in all.

Numbers 4:29-33
As for the sons of Merari, you are to number them by their clans and families, / from thirty to fifty years old, counting everyone who comes to serve in the work of the Tent of Meeting. / This is the duty for all their service at the Tent of Meeting: to carry the frames of the tabernacle with its crossbars, posts, and bases, …

Exodus 6:16
These were the names of the sons of Levi according to their records: Gershon, Kohath, and Merari. Levi lived 137 years.
Mahli,

Exodus 6:19
The sons of Merari were Mahli and Mushi. These were the clans of the Levites according to their records.

1 Chronicles 24:26
The sons of Merari: Mahli and Mushi. The son of Jaaziah: Beno.

Numbers 3:33
From Merari came the clans of the Mahlites and Mushites; these were the Merarite clans.
Libni his son,

Exodus 6:17
The sons of Gershon were Libni and Shimei, by their clans.

Numbers 3:21
From Gershon came the Libnite clan and the Shimeite clan; these were the Gershonite clans.
Shimei his son,

Numbers 3:18
These were the names of the sons of Gershon by their clans: Libni and Shimei.

1 Chronicles 23:9-11
The sons of Shimei: Shelomoth, Haziel, and Haran—three in all. These were the heads of the families of Ladan. / And the sons of Shimei: Jahath, Zina, Jeush, and Beriah. These were the sons of Shimei—four in all. / Jahath was the first and Zizah was the second; but Jeush and Beriah did not have many sons, so they were counted as one family and received a single assignment.
Uzzah his son,

1 Chronicles 13:9-10
When they came to the threshing floor of Chidon, Uzzah reached out and took hold of the ark, because the oxen had stumbled. / And the anger of the LORD burned against Uzzah, and He struck him down because he had put his hand on the ark. So he died there before God.

2 Samuel 6:6-7
When they came to the threshing floor of Nacon, Uzzah reached out and took hold of the ark of God, because the oxen had stumbled. / And the anger of the LORD burned against Uzzah, and God struck him down on the spot for his irreverence, and he died there beside the ark of God.
Numbers 3:17-20
These were the sons of Levi by name: Gershon, Kohath, and Merari. / These were the names of the sons of Gershon by their clans: Libni and Shimei. / The sons of Kohath by their clans were Amram, Izhar, Hebron, and Uzziel. …

Numbers 26:57-59
Now these were the Levites numbered by their clans: The Gershonite clan from Gershon, the Kohathite clan from Kohath, and the Merarite clan from Merari. / These were the families of the Levites: The Libnite clan, the Hebronite clan, the Mahlite clan, the Mushite clan, and the Korahite clan. Now Kohath was the father of Amram, / and Amram’s wife was named Jochebed. She was also a daughter of Levi, born to Levi in Egypt. To Amram she bore Aaron, Moses, and their sister Miriam.

Exodus 2:1-2
Now a man of the house of Levi married a Levite woman, / and she conceived and gave birth to a son. When she saw that he was a beautiful child, she hid him for three months.

Numbers 18:1-7
So the LORD said to Aaron, “You and your sons and your father’s house must bear the iniquity involving the sanctuary. And you and your sons alone must bear the iniquity involving your priesthood. / But bring with you also your brothers from the tribe of Levi, the tribe of your father, that they may join you and assist you and your sons before the Tent of the Testimony. / And they shall attend to your duties and to all the duties of the Tent; but they must not come near to the furnishings of the sanctuary or the altar, or both they and you will die. …


Treasury of Scripture

The sons of Merari; Mahli, Libni his son, Shimei his son, Uzza his son,

Mahli.

1 Chronicles 6:19
The sons of Merari; Mahli, and Mushi. And these are the families of the Levites according to their fathers.

Numbers 3:33
Of Merari was the family of the Mahlites, and the family of the Mushites: these are the families of Merari.

Jump to Previous
Descendants Libni Mahli Merari Merar'i Shimei Shim'e-I Uzza Uzzah
Jump to Next
Descendants Libni Mahli Merari Merar'i Shimei Shim'e-I Uzza Uzzah
1 Chronicles 6
1. The sons of Levi.
4. The line of Eleazar unto the captivity.
16. The families of Gershom, Kohath, and Merari.
49. The office of Aaron, and his line unto Ahimaaz.
54. The cities of the priests and Levites.












The descendants of Merari:
Merari was one of the three sons of Levi, making him a grandson of Jacob. The Levites were set apart for religious duties, and Merari's descendants were responsible for the care of the tabernacle's structural components, such as the frames, bars, pillars, and bases. This role highlights the importance of each family within the tribe of Levi in maintaining the worship practices of Israel. The division of labor among the Levites underscores the organized and communal nature of Israelite worship.

Mahli:
Mahli is one of the sons of Merari. His name appears in several genealogical records, emphasizing the continuity and preservation of the Levitical line. The name Mahli means "sick" or "weak," which may reflect the challenges faced by his descendants or the humility required in their service. Mahli's lineage is mentioned in other parts of the Bible, such as in the book of Ezra, indicating the enduring legacy of his family in the post-exilic community.

Libni his son:
Libni, also known as Libnah in some translations, is a descendant of Mahli. His name means "white" or "purity," which could symbolize the purity required of those serving in the tabernacle. The mention of Libni in the genealogies serves to trace the faithful transmission of duties and responsibilities through generations. This continuity is crucial for understanding the stability and order within the Levitical priesthood.

Shimei his son:
Shimei is another descendant in the line of Merari. The name Shimei means "heard" or "famous," suggesting that his family may have been well-regarded or that they played a significant role in the community. Shimei's inclusion in the genealogy highlights the importance of each generation in maintaining the worship and service traditions of Israel. The name also appears in other contexts in the Bible, indicating its common use and the potential for multiple individuals with this name.

Uzzah his son:
Uzzah, meaning "strength," is noted as a descendant of Shimei. The name is famously associated with the man who touched the Ark of the Covenant and was struck down by God, though this Uzzah is a different individual. The name's meaning reflects the strength and support that the Merarites provided in their service, as they were responsible for the heavy lifting and transportation of the tabernacle's components. This role required physical strength and dedication, symbolizing the spiritual strength needed to uphold God's commands.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Merari
One of the three sons of Levi, the patriarch of the Levites. The Merarites were responsible for the care of the frames of the tabernacle, its bars, pillars, bases, and all its equipment.

2. Mahli
A descendant of Merari, Mahli is often mentioned in genealogies as a significant figure in the Levitical line.

3. Libni
The son of Mahli, continuing the Levitical lineage. His name is sometimes spelled as "Libnah" in other translations.

4. Shimei
The son of Libni, furthering the genealogical line of the Merarites.

5. Uzzah
The son of Shimei, part of the Levitical genealogy. Not to be confused with the Uzzah who touched the Ark of the Covenant.
Teaching Points
The Importance of Genealogy in Scripture
Genealogies in the Bible serve to connect God's promises through generations, showing His faithfulness and the continuity of His covenant.

The Role of the Levites
The Levites, including the Merarites, had specific roles in worship and the maintenance of the tabernacle, illustrating the importance of service and order in worship.

Faithfulness in Service
The detailed records of the Levites' duties remind us of the value of faithfulness in our own roles, no matter how seemingly small or behind-the-scenes.

God's Sovereignty in Lineage
The preservation of these genealogies demonstrates God's sovereignty and purpose in family lines, encouraging us to trust in His plan for our own families.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1. What is the meaning of 1 Chronicles 6:29?

2. How does 1 Chronicles 6:29 emphasize the importance of genealogies in Scripture?

3. What role do family lineages play in understanding God's covenant promises?

4. How can we apply the value of heritage in our Christian walk today?

5. How does this verse connect to God's faithfulness throughout biblical history?

6. What lessons can we learn about God's plan from the genealogies in Chronicles?

7. What is the significance of 1 Chronicles 6:29 in the genealogy of the Levites?

8. How does 1 Chronicles 6:29 contribute to understanding the Levitical priesthood's role in Israel?

9. Why is the genealogy in 1 Chronicles 6:29 important for biblical history?

10. What are the top 10 Lessons from 1 Chronicles 6?

11. Who was Shimei in the Bible?

12. In 1 Chronicles 15:29, Michal criticizes David's dance--does this episode conflict with the portrayal of Michal in 2 Samuel, creating an inconsistency in her character and motives?

13. Why does 1 Chronicles 6:16-30 list names that differ from other biblical genealogies (compare Exodus 6:16-19), and how can these discrepancies be reconciled?

14. How do we verify the legitimacy of David's authorship of prayers like the one in 1 Chronicles 29:10-13 when external corroboration is lacking?
What Does 1 Chronicles 6:29 Mean
The descendants of Merari

1 Chronicles 6:29 records: “The descendants of Merari: Mahli, Libni his son, Shimei his son, Uzzah his son.”

• Merari is one of Levi’s three sons (Genesis 46:11; Exodus 6:16).

• God set Merari’s line apart for tabernacle duty; they transported and maintained the heavy structural pieces—the frames, crossbars, posts, and bases (Numbers 3:36-37; 4:29-33).

• This genealogy reminds us that every generation in this clan was expected to keep serving (1 Chronicles 23:6, 21-23). Through these names the Spirit underscores the continuity of worship that God requires.


Mahli

• Mahli is Merari’s first-listed son (Exodus 6:19). His line provided able-bodied men for hauling the boards and bars of the tabernacle.

• Later, when David reorganized temple worship, Mahli’s descendants still carried distinct responsibilities (1 Chronicles 24:26-30).

• The verse shows that faithfulness is more than a moment; it is meant to be handed on, just as Mahli handed duties to his son Libni.


Libni

• Libni (called “Libnites” collectively in Numbers 26:58) inherits Mahli’s task.

• In Moses’ day the tribe camped to the north of the tabernacle, ready to move at the signal (Numbers 3:33-37).

• By the time of David, Libni’s offspring were woven into the Levitical choir and gatekeeping rotations (1 Chronicles 9:14-17), proving that obedience in practical matters can expand into broader ministry.


Shimei

• Shimei is Libni’s son and keeps the same line of service.

• During the temple dedication under Solomon, Shimei’s branch likely participated in the unprecedented worship described in 2 Chronicles 5:12-14.

• The appearance of his name confirms that God traces faithfulness down to individual households (Psalm 112:1-2).


Uzzah

• Not the Uzzah who touched the ark (2 Samuel 6:6-8) but a different man, this Uzzah rounds out four straight generations named in 1 Chronicles 6:29.

• His inclusion assures us that God notices even the final link in a quiet chain of servants. Nothing done for Him is overlooked (Hebrews 6:10).

• Uzzah’s position at the end of the list points forward: the responsibility to guard and support God’s dwelling will pass again, calling the next generation.


summary

1 Chronicles 6:29 is more than a roll call; it displays a living relay of Levitical duty from Merari through Mahli, Libni, Shimei, and Uzzah. Each name marks a generation that faithfully shouldered the physical burdens of worship so Israel could draw near to the LORD. The verse teaches that God values continuity, honors every unseen act of service, and expects each new generation to pick up the work of sustaining true worship.

(29, 30) A short list of Merarite names. (Comp. Numbers 3:20, and 1Chronicles 6:14, supra, for the two sons of Merari, Mahli and Mushi, after whom the clans of the Merarites were designated. The present list traces the line of Mahli to the seventh generation; all the names are alike unknown. Below, 1Chronicles 6:44-47, we have another line going back to Mushi, brother of Mahli. Why has the chronicler preserved the three lists of 1Chronicles 6:19-30? The process from Levi to the worthless sons of Samuel, and the utterly unknown names of Jeaterai and Asaiah, reads like an anti-climax. But it is not to be forgotten that these no longer significant fragments are genuine relics of ancient family registers, and as such may have had more than a merely antiquarian value in the days of the chronicler.

1Chronicles 6:31-32 are a prelude to the pedigrees of Heman, Asaph, and Ethan, the three great masters of David's choirs (33-48). The nature, time, and place of their special duties are described.

Verses 29, 30. - (C) In ver. 19 the two sons of Merari, viz. Mahli and Mushi, are given. Here one of them, Mahli, is repeated, with six descendants, of no one of whom have we any other information. From comparison of Numbers 3:20 and Numbers 26:58 there can be no doubt that Mahli and Mushi were brothers, each of whom founded a family. The descending line of Mushi, unalluded to here, comes to the surface in vers. 44-47.

Parallel Commentaries ...


Hebrew
The sons
בְּנֵ֥י (bə·nê)
Noun - masculine plural construct
Strong's 1121: A son

of Merari:
מְרָרִ֖י (mə·rā·rî)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 4847: Merari -- a son of Levi

Mahli,
מַחְלִ֑י (maḥ·lî)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 4249: Mahli -- a Levite, also a son of Mushi

Libni
לִבְנִ֥י (liḇ·nî)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 3845: Libni -- two Levites

his son,
בְנ֛וֹ (ḇə·nōw)
Noun - masculine singular construct | third person masculine singular
Strong's 1121: A son

Shimei
שִׁמְעִ֥י (šim·‘î)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 8096: Shimei -- the name of a number of Israelites

his son,
בְנ֖וֹ (ḇə·nōw)
Noun - masculine singular construct | third person masculine singular
Strong's 1121: A son

Uzzah
עֻזָּ֥ה (‘uz·zāh)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 5798: Uzza -- four Israelites

his son,
בְנֽוֹ׃ (ḇə·nōw)
Noun - masculine singular construct | third person masculine singular
Strong's 1121: A son


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OT History: 1 Chronicles 6:29 The sons of Merari: Mahli Libni his (1 Chron. 1Ch iCh i Ch 1 chr 1chr)
1 Chronicles 6:28
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