Asaph
“Gatherer or collector”
Summary
A prominent Levitical musician appointed by David to lead worship, to whom twelve psalms are attributed.
☩Chief Musician
Asaph was a Levite, son of Berechiah, appointed by David as one of the three chief musicians to lead the worship before the ark. He was the leader of his division and played the cymbals. When the ark was brought to Jerusalem, Asaph led the praise. His position was one of the most honored in Israel's worship, and he is called a 'seer' or prophet.
☩The Psalms of Asaph
Twelve psalms bear Asaph's name in their titles: Psalm 50 and Psalms 73-83. These psalms address themes of divine judgment, Israel's history, and the problem of the prosperity of the wicked. Psalm 73 is particularly famous for its resolution of the apparent injustice of the righteous suffering while the wicked prosper. Asaph's psalms were sung in temple worship for generations.
☩Descendants
The 'sons of Asaph' became a permanent guild of temple musicians. They served under Solomon, during the reforms of Hezekiah and Josiah, and returned from Babylonian exile to resume their musical ministry. They were still serving in Nehemiah's time, demonstrating the enduring legacy of Asaph's appointment.
Related Verses37 mentions
References
- 1.John McClintock and James Strong, "Asaph," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. I (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).
- 2.James Orr (ed.), "Asaph," in International Standard Bible Encyclopedia, vol. I (Howard-Severance Company, 1915).