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Kushaiah

biblical_proper_name theological_term standard

A minor Old Testament personal name, best known as the father of Ethan, a Levite musician in David’s worship service.

At a Glance

Old Testament proper name; father of Ethan the Levite musician.

Key Points

Description

Kushaiah is best understood as an Old Testament proper name. The name appears in the historical account of David’s appointment of Levites for worship, where Ethan is identified as the son of Kushaiah. Because the figure is otherwise obscure, the entry functions as a brief biblical name article rather than a doctrinal or thematic discussion. Its value lies mainly in identifying the person and locating him within the wider narrative of Levitical service and temple-style worship preparation.

Biblical Context

In 1 Chronicles 15, David prepares for the transportation of the ark and organizes Levites for worship. Within that setting, Ethan is identified as the son of Kushaiah. The name therefore belongs to the historical and genealogical framework of Israel’s worship life rather than to a theological category.

Historical Context

The reference belongs to the period of David’s consolidation of worship in Jerusalem. Chronicles often preserves names of Levites, singers, and temple servants to emphasize ordered worship and covenant continuity. Kushaiah is part of that larger historical picture, though no further biography is given.

Jewish and Ancient Context

In the world of ancient Israel, genealogical notices helped identify families, tribal roles, and worship responsibilities. A name such as Kushaiah is significant mainly because it anchors a known Levite family member within the organized worship life of the nation.

Primary Key Texts

Secondary Key Texts

Original Language Note

The Hebrew form is a personal name transliterated into English as Kushaiah. The meaning is uncertain from the available context and is not necessary for identification.

Theological Significance

Kushaiah has no direct doctrinal significance. His importance is historical: he is part of the named personnel connected with the orderly worship of God under David.

Philosophical Explanation

This entry illustrates the difference between a proper name and a theological concept. Not every biblical term functions as a doctrine-bearing idea; some simply identify people who appear in salvation history.

Interpretive Cautions

Do not treat Kushaiah as a doctrinal category or attach speculative meaning to the name beyond the biblical text. The figure is mentioned briefly and should be kept within the limits of the passage.

Major Views

There are no major interpretive views to note. The main issue is identification of the person and his place in the Chronicler’s historical record.

Doctrinal Boundaries

Kushaiah should not be used to build doctrine. The entry should remain descriptive, textual, and historical.

Practical Significance

Even minor names in Scripture remind readers that God’s purposes are worked out through real people and ordered worship, not only through major figures.

Related Entries

See Also

Data

Machine-readable JSON for Kushaiah

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