Asaph

Asaph is a Hebrew given name meaning “collector” or “gatherer,” derived from the root asaf, to gather.

In the Hebrew Bible, Asaph is a prominent Levitical figure described as a seer and musician appointed by King David as chief of the singers in the temple. He and his descendants headed a guild of temple musicians, known collectively as the sons of Asaph, who provided musical leadership during David’s reign and afterwards as part of Israel’s liturgical system.

Several biblical psalms are attributed to Asaph or to the Asaphic choir. In many editions, these are labeled “Of Asaph” and include Psalm 50 and Psalms 73–83. The Asaphic psalms are noted for their liturgical focus, reflections on divine justice, the fate of the wicked, and worship within the sanctuary. The precise authorship of some items remains debated, but the tradition associates these works with Asaph and his guild.

The lineage of Asaph continued in the Levitical order, with references to the sons of Asaph in Chronicles and later temple lists, indicating enduring musical and liturgical roles in the post-kingdom eras.

As a given name, Asaph has seen use within Jewish and Christian communities. In modern times it appears primarily as a historical or biblical name, sometimes borne by individuals in religious or scholarly contexts.