Of the sons of Asaph; Zaccur, and Joseph, and Nethaniah, and Asarelah, the sons of Asaph under the hands of Asaph, which prophesied according to the order of the king.
Which prophesied - i:e., in this connection, played with instruments. This metaphorical application of the term "prophesy" most probably originated in the practice of the prophets, who endeavoured to rouse their prophetic spirit by the animating influence of music (see the note at 2 Kings 3:15). It is said that Asaph did this 'according to David's order,' because by royal appointment he officiated in the tabernacle on Zion (1 Chronicles 16:37-41), while other leaders of the sacred music were stationed at Gibeon.
According to the order of the King, х `al (H5921) yªdeey (H3027) hamelek (H4428)] - by the hands of the king; i:e., according to the king's order, under the personal superintendence of Asaph and his colleagues.