1 Chronicles 15:18

KJV

And with them their brethren of the second [degree], Zechariah, Ben, and Jaaziel, and Shemiramoth, and Jehiel, and Unni, Eliab, and Benaiah, and Maaseiah, and Mattithiah, and Elipheleh, and Mikneiah, and Obededom, and Jeiel, the porters.

KJV (with Strong's)

And with them their brethren {H251} of the second {H4932} degree, Zechariah {H2148}, Ben {H1122}, and Jaaziel {H3268}, and Shemiramoth {H8070}, and Jehiel {H3171}, and Unni {H6042}, Eliab {H446}, and Benaiah {H1141}, and Maaseiah {H4641}, and Mattithiah {H4993}, and Elipheleh {H466}, and Mikneiah {H4737}, and Obededom {H5654}, and Jeiel {H3273}, the porters {H7778}.

Complete Jewish Bible

and with them their second-degree kinsmen Z'kharyahu, Ben, Ya'azi'el, Sh'miramot, Yechi'el, 'Uni, Eli'av, B'nayahu, Ma'aseiyahu, Mattityahu, Elif'lehu, Mikneyahu, with 'Oved-Edom and Ye'i'el the gatekeepers.

Berean Standard Bible

and with them their brothers next in rank: Zechariah, Jaaziel, Shemiramoth, Jehiel, Unni, Eliab, Benaiah, Maaseiah, Mattithiah, Eliphelehu, Mikneiah, and the gatekeepers Obed-edom and Jeiel.

American Standard Version

and with them their brethren of the second degree, Zechariah, Ben, and Jaaziel, and Shemiramoth, and Jehiel, and Unni, Eliab, and Benaiah, and Maaseiah, and Mattithiah, and Eliphelehu, and Mikneiah, and Obed-edom, and Jeiel, the doorkeepers.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Chronicles 15:18 meticulously lists the Levites, including Zechariah, Obed-Edom, and Jeiel, who were appointed as "porters" or gatekeepers, serving alongside their brethren of the "second degree" in the solemn procession to bring the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem. This verse highlights David's renewed commitment to following God's precise instructions for handling sacred objects, ensuring that the Ark, representing divine presence, was transported with the utmost reverence and order by those specifically designated for such holy service.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is embedded within 1 Chronicles 15, which details King David's second, successful attempt to bring the Ark of the Covenant from the house of Obed-Edom to Jerusalem. The preceding chapter, [1 Chronicles 13](/1_chronicles/13 "1 Chronicles 13 - Uzzah and the Ark"), recounts the disastrous first attempt, where Uzzah died for touching the Ark, revealing David's initial failure to adhere to the Mosaic Law regarding its transport. Chapter 15 opens with David's meticulous preparations, including building tents for the Ark and, crucially, gathering the Levites and priests to carry it on poles, as prescribed in [Numbers 4:15](/numbers/4-15 "Numbers 4:15 - Kohathites to carry the Ark"). Verse 18 specifically names some of the Levites appointed as gatekeepers or "porters," emphasizing the highly organized and divinely ordained nature of this sacred procession, a stark contrast to the previous, ill-fated attempt. The detailed listing of names underscores the Chronicler's interest in the proper ordering of worship and the roles of various Levitical families in Israel's religious life.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Ark of the Covenant was the most sacred object in ancient Israel, representing God's throne and presence among His people. Its proper handling was governed by strict Mosaic Law, particularly concerning the Kohathite Levites who were commanded to carry it on poles, not on a cart ([Numbers 7:9](/numbers/7-9 "Numbers 7:9 - Levites carrying the Ark")). David's first attempt to move the Ark on a cart, resulting in Uzzah's death, served as a severe reminder of God's holiness and the necessity of obedience to His commands. In this second attempt, David meticulously followed the prescribed rituals. The "porters" (Hebrew: _sho'arim_) were a recognized class of Levites responsible for guarding the entrances to the Tabernacle and later the Temple, controlling access, and maintaining order during worship. Their inclusion in this procession, even for a seemingly logistical role, highlights the profound reverence and structured approach required for any interaction with God's holy presence in ancient Israelite culture. This event marked a significant step in centralizing Israelite worship in Jerusalem under David's leadership.
* **Key Themes:** The meticulous account in 1 Chronicles 15, including the detailed list in verse 18, profoundly illustrates several key themes. First, **Divine Order and Obedience** are paramount; David's prior failure taught him that God's commands, especially regarding sacred matters, must be followed precisely, not according to human wisdom. This is a central message throughout the Deuteronomic history and the Chronicler's work, emphasizing that blessing follows obedience. Second, the **Importance of Every Role in Sacred Service** is highlighted. The inclusion of "porters" alongside the singers and musicians demonstrates that every position, regardless of its perceived prominence, was vital for the proper execution of worship and the handling of God's holy objects. Each individual named had a specific, God-ordained responsibility in this momentous event, contributing to the overall success and sanctity of the procession, much like the diverse gifts within the body of Christ described in [1 Corinthians 12](/1_corinthians/12 "1 Corinthians 12 - Gifts of the Spirit"). Finally, **Reverence for God's Holiness** permeates the narrative. The careful planning, the specific appointment of individuals, and the adherence to ritual demonstrate the profound awe and respect due to God and His holy presence, a stark contrast to the casual approach that led to tragedy in [1 Chronicles 13:9-10](/1_chronicles/13-9 "1 Chronicles 13:9-10 - Uzzah's Death").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Porters (Hebrew, שֹׁעֲרִים, _sho'arim'_):** This term literally means "gatekeepers" or "doorkeepers." In the context of the Tabernacle and later the Temple, these Levites were responsible for guarding the entrances, controlling access, maintaining security, and ensuring order within the sacred precincts. Their role was crucial for preserving the sanctity of the worship space, preventing unauthorized entry, and facilitating the smooth flow of sacred services. In this procession, their function likely extended to managing the crowd and ensuring the Ark's secure movement, underscoring the comprehensive organization required for such a holy undertaking.
* **Second Degree (Hebrew, מִשְׁנֶה, _mishneh'_):** The phrase "brethren of the second degree" likely refers to a specific rank or grouping within the Levitical families, indicating a structured hierarchy for the temple service. It could denote those who served under the primary leaders or chief musicians, perhaps with a specific set of duties that were secondary in authority but no less essential to the overall function. This detail further emphasizes the highly organized and specialized nature of the Levitical assignments in David's establishment of worship.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And with them their brethren of the second [degree]":** This phrase indicates that the individuals listed are part of a larger group, likely the Levitical musicians and gatekeepers, who were organized into specific divisions or ranks. It highlights a structured, hierarchical approach to sacred service, where various groups had distinct responsibilities.
* **"Zechariah, Ben, and Jaaziel, and Shemiramoth, and Jehiel, and Unni, Eliab, and Benaiah, and Maaseiah, and Mattithiah, and Elipheleh, and Mikneiah, and Obededom, and Jeiel":** This extensive list of names, though seemingly mundane, serves several crucial purposes. It authenticates the historical account, demonstrating the Chronicler's meticulous record-keeping. The inclusion of each name emphasizes the individual responsibility and participation of these Levites in the sacred task. It also underscores the sheer number of personnel involved in the proper worship of God, highlighting the communal and organized nature of Israelite religious life. The repetition of names, especially in the context of the Chronicler's genealogies, often served to establish legitimacy and continuity.
* **"the porters":** This final designation clarifies the specific function of the preceding list of individuals. They were not merely attendees but were specifically appointed as gatekeepers, entrusted with a vital role in the security and order of the procession. This reinforces the theme of specialized service and the importance of every assigned duty in God's work.

#### Literary Devices
1 Chronicles 15:18 primarily employs **Listing/Cataloging**, a common literary device in genealogical and historical texts within the Old Testament, particularly in Chronicles. The detailed enumeration of names serves to authenticate the historical record, emphasize the meticulous organization of the Levitical service, and highlight the individual involvement of each participant in this significant event. This **Emphasis through Repetition** of names underscores the Chronicler's focus on the proper ordering of worship and the specific roles assigned to the Levites. The verse also implicitly uses **Symbolism**, as the ordered procession of the Ark, carried by the designated Levites, symbolizes the restoration of proper worship and the re-establishment of God's presence at the heart of Israel's national life, contrasting sharply with the disorder that characterized the previous attempt.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The detailed listing of names in 1 Chronicles 15:18, particularly those designated as "porters" or gatekeepers, carries profound theological weight. It underscores God's demand for order, obedience, and reverence in all matters pertaining to His worship and presence. After the tragic death of Uzzah, David learned that God's holiness is not to be trifled with, and His instructions are not suggestions but divine commands to be meticulously followed. This verse exemplifies the principle that every role, no matter how seemingly humble, is vital in God's economy, and faithful service in any capacity is valued. It teaches that access to God's presence, even in the Old Covenant mediated by the Ark, required careful adherence to His prescribed ways, highlighting the gravity and glory of encountering the Holy One of Israel.

* [Numbers 4:15](/numbers/4-15 "Numbers 4:15 - Kohathites to carry the Ark")
* [1 Corinthians 12:27](/1_corinthians/12-27 "1 Corinthians 12:27 - Many members, one body")
* [Romans 12:4-5](/romans/12-4-5 "Romans 12:4-5 - Different gifts, one body")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The seemingly simple list of names in 1 Chronicles 15:18 offers rich lessons for contemporary believers. It reminds us that God is a God of order, and His work is to be approached with intentionality, reverence, and obedience, not casual presumption. Just as the porters had a specific, vital role in safeguarding the Ark and ensuring the smooth flow of the procession, every member of God's church today has a unique and indispensable function within the body of Christ. No task is too small or insignificant in God's eyes, and faithful service in any capacity contributes to the overall health and effectiveness of the community of faith. This verse calls us to embrace our God-given roles with diligence, humility, and a deep understanding that our service, whether visible or behind the scenes, is ultimately an act of worship directed towards a holy God. It challenges us to prepare our hearts and minds for worship and service, ensuring we honor God in all we do, learning from David's costly lesson about the importance of divine instruction.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does David's meticulous preparation for moving the Ark, including the detailed assignment of roles, challenge my approach to service and worship today?**
* **In what ways might I be tempted to approach God's work with human wisdom or convenience rather than strict obedience to His revealed will?**
* **What "porter" or "gatekeeper" roles, seemingly less prominent but vital, exist within my church or community, and how can I better value and support those who serve in them?**
* **How can the reverence shown for the Ark, symbolizing God's presence, inform my personal and corporate worship of God today?**

### FAQ

**Why is there such a detailed list of names in this verse?**

Answer: The detailed listing of names in 1 Chronicles 15:18 serves several important purposes. First, it authenticates the historical account, demonstrating the Chronicler's meticulous record-keeping and emphasis on the proper ordering of Israelite worship. Second, it highlights the individual responsibility and participation of these Levites in the sacred task of transporting the Ark, underscoring that specific individuals were chosen and consecrated for this holy work. Third, it emphasizes the sheer number of personnel involved in the proper worship of God, illustrating the communal and organized nature of Israelite religious life under David's leadership. This attention to detail reinforces the theme of divine order and the importance of every person's role in God's plan, contrasting with the previous, less organized attempt to move the Ark described in [1 Chronicles 13](/1_chronicles/13 "1 Chronicles 13 - Uzzah's Death and the Ark").

**What does "brethren of the second degree" mean in this context?**

Answer: The phrase "brethren of the second degree" (KJV) or "second rank" (NIV) likely refers to a specific hierarchical grouping or class within the Levitical families, particularly among the musicians and gatekeepers. It suggests an organized structure of service where different groups had distinct responsibilities, some perhaps having a primary leadership role and others serving under them or with specific, designated duties. This detail further illustrates the highly organized and specialized nature of the Levitical assignments established by David for the proper functioning of worship, ensuring that all aspects of the sacred service were covered by designated personnel. It speaks to the comprehensive planning involved in bringing the Ark to Jerusalem with due reverence and order.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The meticulous detail and emphasis on proper order in 1 Chronicles 15:18, particularly concerning the handling of the Ark—God's dwelling place among His people—finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The Old Testament system, with its specific roles for Levites like the porters, its sacred objects, and its prescribed rituals, pointed forward to a greater reality. Jesus is the true Ark of the Covenant, the very presence of God dwelling among humanity ([John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word became flesh")). Through His perfect obedience and ultimate sacrifice, Christ has not only opened the way to God's presence but has become the new and living way ([Hebrews 10:19-20](/hebrews/10-19-20 "Hebrews 10:19-20 - The New and Living Way")). No longer do we need human porters to guard access to a physical dwelling, for Christ Himself is our High Priest who grants direct access to the Father ([Hebrews 4:14-16](/hebrews/4-14-16 "Hebrews 4:14-16 - Jesus, Our Great High Priest")). The Church, as the body of Christ, becomes the new temple, indwelt by the Holy Spirit ([1 Corinthians 3:16](/1_corinthians/3-16 "1 Corinthians 3:16 - You are God's Temple")), and every believer, regardless of perceived status, is a priest in God's spiritual house ([1 Peter 2:5](/1_peter/2-5 "1 Peter 2:5 - Living Stones, Holy Priesthood")), called to offer spiritual sacrifices through Him. Thus, the Old Testament's emphasis on ordered, reverent service is transformed and fulfilled in the New Covenant, where all believers are united in Christ and participate in His ongoing ministry, serving a God who is both holy and intimately accessible through His Son.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

1 Chronicles 26:4

Moreover the sons of Obededom [were], Shemaiah the firstborn, Jehozabad the second, Joah the third, and Sacar the fourth, and Nethaneel the fifth,

1 Chronicles 25:2

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.

1 Chronicles 25:6

All these [were] under the hands of their father for song [in] the house of the LORD, with cymbals, psalteries, and harps, for the service of the house of God, according to the king's order to Asaph, Jeduthun, and Heman.

1 Chronicles 16:38

And Obededom with their brethren, threescore and eight; Obededom also the son of Jeduthun and Hosah [to be] porters:

1 Chronicles 26:8

All these of the sons of Obededom: they and their sons and their brethren, able men for strength for the service, [were] threescore and two of Obededom.

1 Chronicles 25:9

Now the first lot came forth for Asaph to Joseph: the second to Gedaliah, who with his brethren and sons [were] twelve:

1 Chronicles 25:31

The four and twentieth to Romamtiezer, [he], his sons, and his brethren, [were] twelve.