Of the sons of Asaph; Zaccur. — Literally, To the sons of Asaph belonged Zaccur. In 1 Chronicles 25:2-7 the term “sons” appears to mean trained members of the musical guilds, of which the three chiefs, Asaph, Heman, and Jeduthun, were masters.
Asarelah. — This singular name is spelt “Jesharelah” in 1 Chronicles 25:14. Ewald identifies it with “Israel,” the unaccented ending ah having the force belonging to — literally, towards, unto — so that Jesharelah is in effect the modern Jewish surname Israels. (Comp. “Jaakobah,” 1 Chronicles 4:36, to Jacob, i.e., Jacobs.)
Under the hands of Asaph. — Rather, at the hand of Asaph. It is implied that the four leaders here named were subordinate to Asaph, and under his direction. (Comp. 1 Chronicles 25:3; 1 Chronicles 25:6; 2 Chronicles 23:18; 2 Chronicles 29:27; Ezra 3:10.)
Which prophesied according to the order of the king. — Literally (Asaph), who prophesied (or should prophesy, the participle, as in 1 Chronicles 25:1) at the hands of the king: that is, either according to the royal arrangements (2 Chronicles 23:18), under David’s own appointment, or under the royal direction.
Prophesied. — That is, made music. (See 1 Chronicles 25:1.)