1 Chronicles 15:27

KJV

And David [was] clothed with a robe of fine linen, and all the Levites that bare the ark, and the singers, and Chenaniah the master of the song with the singers: David also [had] upon him an ephod of linen.

KJV (with Strong's)

And David {H1732} was clothed {H3736} with a robe {H4598} of fine linen {H948}, and all the Levites {H3881} that bare {H5375} the ark {H727}, and the singers {H7891}, and Chenaniah {H3663} the master {H8269} of the song {H4853} with the singers {H7891}: David {H1732} also had upon him an ephod {H646} of linen {H906}.

Complete Jewish Bible

David, all the L'vi'im bearing the ark, the singers and K'nanyah the music leader for the singers were all wearing linen cloaks; and David was also wearing a linen ritual vest.

Berean Standard Bible

Now David was dressed in a robe of fine linen, as were all the Levites who were carrying the ark, as well as the singers and Chenaniah, the director of music for the singers. David also wore a linen ephod.

American Standard Version

And David was clothed with a robe of fine linen, and all the Levites that bare the ark, and the singers, and Chenaniah the master of the song with the singers: and David had upon him an ephod of linen.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Chronicles 15:27 meticulously describes the attire worn by King David, the Levites bearing the Ark of the Covenant, the singers, and Chenaniah, the master of the song, during the Ark's procession to Jerusalem. David, despite his royal status, donned a simple robe of fine linen and a linen ephod, mirroring the garments of those involved in the sacred service. This detail underscores the profound humility, reverence, and unified devotion required for approaching God's holy presence, emphasizing that proper worship transcends earthly hierarchy.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within a pivotal narrative in 1 Chronicles 15, detailing King David's second, successful attempt to bring the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem. The preceding chapter, [1 Chronicles 13](/1_chronicles/13 "1 Chronicles 13 - The First Attempt to Move the Ark"), recounts the disastrous first attempt, where Uzzah died due to improper handling of the Ark. Learning from this tragic error, David meticulously prepared for this second, divinely sanctioned endeavor. Chapter [1 Chronicles 15](/1_chronicles/15 "1 Chronicles 15 - David Organizes the Ark's Return") opens with David building houses for himself and preparing a place for the Ark, then summoning the Levites to sanctify themselves and carry the Ark "according to the word of the Lord" ([1 Chronicles 15:15](/1_chronicles/15-15 "1 Chronicles 15:15 - Levites Carry the Ark as Prescribed")). Verses [1 Chronicles 15:16-24](/1_chronicles/15-16 "1 Chronicles 15:16-24 - Appointment of Musicians and Gatekeepers") detail the appointment of musicians and gatekeepers, highlighting the organized and joyous nature of the procession. Verse [1 Chronicles 15:27](/1_chronicles/15-27 "1 Chronicles 15:27 - David's Attire During the Ark's Procession") specifically focuses on the attire, setting the stage for the celebratory entry into Jerusalem described in [1 Chronicles 15:28](/1_chronicles/15-28 "1 Chronicles 15:28 - Joyful Procession of the Ark") and the subsequent worship and sacrifices in [1 Chronicles 16](/1_chronicles/16 "1 Chronicles 16 - David's Song of Thanksgiving and Worship").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Ark of the Covenant was the most sacred object in ancient Israel, representing God's throne and His dwelling presence among His people, as described in [Exodus 25:22](/exodus/25-22 "Exodus 25:22 - The Ark of the Covenant as God's Dwelling"). Its proper handling was governed by strict Mosaic law, emphasizing the holiness of God and the need for ritual purity. Only consecrated Levites from the family of Kohath were permitted to carry it, and then only by poles, never by direct touch. The incident with Uzzah underscored the severe consequences of disregarding these divine protocols. Fine linen, or _shesh_, was a material deeply associated with purity, sanctity, and priestly service in the Old Testament, frequently used for the tabernacle curtains and priestly garments, as seen in [Exodus 28:5](/exodus/28-5 "Exodus 28:5 - Priestly Garments of Fine Linen"). The ephod, while sometimes an elaborate garment for the High Priest, could also be a simpler linen vestment worn by priests or those engaged in sacred service, as worn by Samuel in [1 Samuel 2:18](/1_samuel/2-18 "1 Samuel 2:18 - Samuel Ministering in a Linen Ephod"). David's choice to wear such attire, rather than his royal robes, was a profound cultural statement of humility and identification with the sacred office, acknowledging God's supreme authority over his own kingship.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several key themes within Chronicles and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it highlights **Humility in Leadership**, demonstrating that even a powerful king like David recognized his subordinate role before God. By shedding his royal garments for simple linen, he identified with the Levites and musicians, emphasizing that true leadership in God's presence involves servant-hearted worship. Secondly, it underscores **Reverence and Proper Worship**. David's meticulous attention to attire, following the divine protocols for purity and sanctity, reflects a deep reverence for God's holiness and a commitment to honoring Him in the prescribed manner, a stark contrast to the previous failure. Thirdly, the use of **Purity and Holiness** is central. Fine linen universally symbolized ritual purity, underscoring the necessity of a holy approach to the Ark, which embodied God's presence. This emphasizes that approaching God requires not just outward action but inward consecration. Finally, the shared attire among the king, Levites, and musicians symbolizes **Unity in Worship**. It portrays a collective and unified act of devotion, where all participants, regardless of their societal standing, were united in their sacred duty and shared reverence for God.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Fine linen (Hebrew, שֵׁשׁ, _shēsh_):** This term refers to a high-quality, pure white linen, typically associated with royalty, wealth, and, most significantly, priestly garments and sacred temple furnishings. Its presence here emphasizes the sanctity and solemnity of the occasion. The purity of the white linen symbolized ritual cleanliness and the holiness required for those engaged in divine service, setting a tone of reverence for the Ark's procession.
* **Ephod of linen (Hebrew, אֵפוֹד בַּד, _ʾēphōḏ baḏ_):** While the High Priest wore an elaborate ephod adorned with precious stones and the Urim and Thummim, David's was a simpler "linen ephod." This was a common garment for priests and even some lay people who engaged in sacred service, signifying their active participation in worship. David's choice to wear this, rather than his royal robes, was a deliberate act of humility and identification with the Levites, demonstrating his personal devotion and active role in the sacred procession, rather than usurping the high priestly office. It was a garment of service, not of status.
* **Master of the song (Hebrew, שַׂר הַשִּׁיר, _śar haššîr_):** This title, specifically attributed to Chenaniah, highlights the highly organized and professional nature of the musical worship accompanying the Ark. It indicates a designated leader responsible for the direction and coordination of the singers, ensuring the musical aspect of the procession was executed with skill and reverence. This detail underscores the importance of excellence and order in worship before God.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And David [was] clothed with a robe of fine linen":** This clause immediately establishes King David's personal attire for the sacred event. His choice of a "robe of fine linen," a garment associated with purity and priestly service rather than royal splendor, signifies his profound humility and his desire to approach God not as a monarch, but as a worshiper. It sets the tone for the entire procession, emphasizing reverence over earthly status.
* **"and all the Levites that bare the ark, and the singers, and Chenaniah the master of the song with the singers":** This part of the verse details that the same humble, pure attire was worn by all key participants in the procession. This shared dress among the Ark-bearers, the musicians, and their leader, Chenaniah, underscores a powerful message of unity and equality in sacred service. It highlights that before God, all participants, regardless of their specific role or earthly standing, were united in their shared devotion and commitment to proper worship.
* **"David also [had] upon him an ephod of linen":** This final clause reinforces David's attire, specifically mentioning the "linen ephod." This detail further emphasizes his active and personal participation in the sacred duties. The ephod, a garment of service, solidified his identification with the Levites and his role as a worshiper, rather than merely an observer or a king presiding over a ceremony. It highlights his uninhibited devotion, which would later be famously displayed in his dancing before the Lord ([2 Samuel 6:14](/2_samuel/6-14 "2 Samuel 6:14 - David's Uninhibited Worship")).

#### Literary Devices
The passage employs several literary devices to convey its profound theological message. **Symbolism** is paramount, with "fine linen" and the "linen ephod" serving as potent symbols of purity, holiness, and humility. The pure white linen visually represents the ritual cleanliness and moral uprightness required for approaching the holy God, while the simple ephod symbolizes David's humble identification with the Levites and his role as a servant-worshiper, rather than a king in royal regalia. The **Repetition** of "linen" (robe of fine linen, ephod of linen) serves to emphasize the material's significance and the consistent standard of purity applied to all participants, especially David. Furthermore, there is an implicit **Juxtaposition** between David's usual royal attire and the humble garments he chose for this sacred occasion. This contrast highlights his deliberate act of self-abasement and reverence before God, making his humility even more striking. The detailed enumeration of those wearing the linen (David, Levites, singers, Chenaniah) also creates a sense of **Unity** and collective participation in a sacred, divinely ordered event.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The careful description of attire in 1 Chronicles 15:27 offers profound theological insights into the nature of worship and leadership before a holy God. It teaches that true reverence involves not only external actions but also an internal posture of humility and purity. David, as king, models a leadership that understands its place under divine authority, choosing to identify with those serving God rather than asserting his earthly power. This act foreshadows the New Testament understanding of humility as a core virtue for all believers, especially leaders, and emphasizes that God values a contrite and obedient heart over outward show. The communal wearing of linen underscores the unity of purpose in worship, where all are equal in their need for God's grace and their commitment to His service. This passage, therefore, serves as a timeless reminder that approaching God demands intentionality, purity of heart, and a humble recognition of His supreme holiness.

* [Exodus 28:5](/exodus/28-5 "Exodus 28:5 - Priestly Garments of Fine Linen")
* [1 Samuel 22:18](/1_samuel/22-18 "1 Samuel 22:18 - Priests Wearing the Ephod")
* [2 Samuel 6:14](/2_samuel/6-14 "2 Samuel 6:14 - David's Uninhibited Worship in a Linen Ephod")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
David's intentional choice to wear a simple linen ephod and robe, identifying with the Levites and musicians, offers a powerful paradigm for contemporary believers and leaders. It challenges the notion that status or worldly position grants special privilege in the presence of God. Instead, it calls us to cultivate a profound humility, recognizing that our highest honor is to be a servant and worshiper of the Lord. This passage encourages us to approach worship, both individually and corporately, with intentionality and reverence, considering what attitudes and preparations truly honor God. Just as David learned from past mistakes to meticulously follow God's instructions, we are reminded of the importance of aligning our lives and worship practices with biblical truth. Furthermore, the shared attire symbolizes the unity that should characterize the body of Christ. In our diverse roles within the church, we are called to be united in purpose and devotion, recognizing that our common identity in Christ transcends all earthly distinctions. Our worship should not be a performance but a sincere, humble offering from a pure heart, reflecting our deep reverence for God's holiness and our joy in His presence.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does David's choice of attire challenge our understanding of spiritual leadership and humility in the church today?**
* **In what ways can we cultivate a deeper sense of reverence and intentionality in our personal and corporate worship, moving beyond mere routine?**
* **How does the shared attire of David and the Levites speak to the importance of unity and shared purpose in the body of Christ, regardless of individual roles?**

### FAQ
**Why did David wear a "linen ephod" and not his royal robes?**

Answer: David's choice to wear a "linen ephod" and a robe of fine linen instead of his royal garments was a deliberate and profound act of humility and reverence. Royal robes would have signified his kingly authority and status. By contrast, the linen ephod was a simple garment typically worn by priests and those engaged in sacred service, like the Levites and Samuel ([1 Samuel 2:18](/1_samuel/2-18 "1 Samuel 2:18 - Samuel Ministering in a Linen Ephod")). This choice allowed David to identify himself not as a king presiding over a ceremony, but as a participant, a worshiper, and a servant alongside those bearing the Ark. It demonstrated his understanding that before God's holy presence, earthly status was secondary to spiritual humility and obedience to divine protocol, especially after the previous disastrous attempt to move the Ark ([1 Chronicles 13](/1_chronicles/13 "1 Chronicles 13 - The First Attempt to Move the Ark")).

**What was the significance of "fine linen" in this context?**

Answer: "Fine linen" (Hebrew: _shesh_) held significant symbolic meaning in ancient Israel. It was a material associated with purity, holiness, and priestly service. It was used extensively in the construction of the Tabernacle and for the garments of the priests, as detailed in [Exodus 28:5](/exodus/28-5 "Exodus 28:5 - Priestly Garments of Fine Linen"). Its pure white color symbolized ritual cleanliness and moral uprightness. For David and all those involved in the sacred procession of the Ark, wearing fine linen underscored the necessity of purity and reverence when approaching the Ark, which represented the very presence of God. It was a visual declaration of their consecrated state and their commitment to honoring God according to His prescribed ways.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
1 Chronicles 15:27, with its emphasis on David's humble attire and the purity required for approaching God's presence, powerfully foreshadows the person and work of Jesus Christ. David, a king, lays aside his royal splendor to identify with those serving God, embodying a king-priest figure who leads in worship. This points to Jesus, the true King of Kings, who "though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant" ([Philippians 2:6-7](/philippians/2-6 "Philippians 2:6-7 - Christ's Humility")). Christ, our Great High Priest, did not come in earthly pomp but in humility, clothed in the "fine linen" of perfect righteousness and sinlessness, offering Himself as the ultimate sacrifice. The Ark, representing God's dwelling among His people, finds its ultimate fulfillment in Christ, for in Him "the Word became flesh and dwelt among us" ([John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Incarnation of Jesus")). The meticulous preparation and the need for purity to approach the Ark point to the reality that access to God's presence is only possible through Christ's perfect sacrifice and His imputed righteousness. He is the new and living way, the only means by which we can draw near to the Father ([John 14:6](/john/14-6 "John 14:6 - Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life")). Thus, David's humble linen garments anticipate the divine humility and perfect purity of the Lamb of God, through whom all believers are clothed in righteousness and granted access to God's holy presence.

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

2 Samuel 6:14

And David danced before the LORD with all [his] might; and David [was] girded with a linen ephod.

1 Samuel 2:18

But Samuel ministered before the LORD, [being] a child, girded with a linen ephod.