1 Chronicles 25:21 (KJV) reads: "The fourteenth to Mattithiah, he, his sons, and his brethren, were twelve."

This verse comes from the book of 1 Chronicles, which is a part of the Hebrew Bible and the Christian Old Testament. The book of 1 Chronicles is primarily a historical account of the lineage of the Israelites, starting with Adam and Eve and continuing through the establishment of the monarchy. This particular verse is part of a section that describes the organization of the Levitical musicians, who were responsible for leading the music and worship in the temple.

In this specific verse, the focus is on Mattithiah and his family. Mattithiah was one of the Levites appointed to serve in the temple, and he was given the fourteenth position in the order of rotation for leading the music and worship. It is notable that the verse also mentions that Mattithiah had twelve sons and brethren, indicating a large family.

From a contextual standpoint, this verse provides insight into the meticulous organization and structure of the worship practices in the temple. The Levites were divided into groups, each with specific responsibilities and rotations for their service. This level of detail and precision in the organization of the temple worship demonstrates the importance that the Israelites placed on honoring and glorifying God through their worship.

From a thematic perspective, this verse speaks to the concepts of order, duty, and family. The organization of the Levitical musicians reflects the orderly nature of the Israelite society and their commitment to fulfilling their duties within the religious context. Additionally, the emphasis on Mattithiah's family highlights the importance of familial ties and the role of lineage in the Israelite culture.

Symbolically, this verse can be seen as representing the idea of each individual having a specific role and responsibility within the broader community. The appointment of Mattithiah and his family members to their respective positions within the temple reflects the value of individual contributions to the collective worship of the community.

Furthermore, the number twelve, which is mentioned in the verse, holds significance in biblical numerology as a symbol of completeness and perfection. The fact that Mattithiah had twelve sons and brethren may be interpreted as a symbol of the completeness and wholeness of his family unit, as well as the broader community of Israel.

In conclusion, 1 Chronicles 25:21 serves as a testament to the meticulous organization and structure of the temple worship, as well as the importance of individual contributions to the collective worship of the community. Through the appointment of Mattithiah and the mention of his family, the verse highlights the concepts of order, duty, and family within the Israelite society. Symbolically, the verse represents the idea of each individual having a specific role and responsibility within the broader community, as well as the completeness and wholeness of the Israelite people.