1 Chronicles 15:9

Translation
King James Version
Of the sons of Hebron; Eliel the chief, and his brethren fourscore:
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KJV (with Strong's)
Of the sons H1121 of Hebron H2275; Eliel H447 the chief H8269, and his brethren H251 fourscore H8084:
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Complete Jewish Bible
from the descendants of Hevron: Eli'el the chief, and eighty of his kinsmen;
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Berean Standard Bible
from the Hebronites, Eliel the chief and 80 of his relatives;
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American Standard Version
of the sons of Hebron, Eliel the chief, and his brethren fourscore;
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World English Bible Messianic
of the sons of Hebron, Eliel the chief, and his brothers eighty;
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Geneva Bible (1599)
Of the sonnes of Hebron, Eliel the chiefe, and his brethren fourescore.
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Young's Literal Translation
Of sons of Hebron: Eliel the chief, and his brethren, eighty.
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See also
Exodus 6:181 Chronicles 23:121 Chronicles 23:191 Chronicles 26:301 Chronicles 26:311 Chronicles 26:23Numbers 26:58
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In the KJVVerse 10,801 of 31,102

Study This Verse

SUMMARY

1 Chronicles 15:9 precisely identifies Eliel, a prominent chief from the Levitical clan of Hebron, along with eighty of his brethren, as designated participants in King David's meticulously organized and divinely instructed second attempt to transport the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem. This concise detail underscores the critical importance of adhering to God's specific commands regarding the handling of sacred objects, a profound lesson learned after the tragic failure of the initial attempt. The verse highlights the ordered nature of the sacred procession and the vital, hereditary role of the Levites in Israel's worship, emphasizing a renewed commitment to divine protocol.

CONTEXT

  • Literary Context: This verse is deeply embedded within 1 Chronicles 15, a pivotal chapter detailing King David's successful, second endeavor to bring the Ark of the Covenant from the house of Obed-Edom to Jerusalem. The Chronicler places significant emphasis on proper worship and the indispensable role of the Levites, often providing greater detail than the parallel account in 2 Samuel. Chapter 15 directly follows the disastrous first attempt to move the Ark, recounted in 1 Chronicles 13 - David's First Attempt to Move the Ark and 2 Samuel 6 - The Ark Brought to Jerusalem. David's initial failure, which resulted in the death of Uzzah for touching the Ark, served as a severe lesson in the necessity of following Yahweh's precise instructions for handling sacred objects. Consequently, 1 Chronicles 15 meticulously details David's consultation with the priests and Levites, emphasizing that the Ark must be carried on poles by the designated Kohathite Levites, as explicitly commanded in the Mosaic Law, such as in Numbers 4:15 - Kohathites' Duty to Carry Holy Vessels. Verse 9, by naming Eliel and his specific contingent, contributes to the Chronicler's overarching theme of meticulous obedience and the re-establishment of proper worship protocols.
  • Historical & Cultural Context: The Ark of the Covenant was the most sacred object in ancient Israel, symbolizing God's tangible presence among His people and serving as the focal point of their worship. Its proper handling was governed by strict Mosaic laws, particularly those found in Numbers 3-4 - Duties of the Levites and Kohathites. The Levites, descendants of Levi, were set apart for service in the tabernacle and, later, the temple. Within the Levites, the Kohathite clan had the specific, hereditary duty of carrying the most holy vessels, including the Ark, on their shoulders by means of poles. The cultural understanding of holiness and the severe consequences for violating sacred space or protocol (as seen with Uzzah's death in 2 Samuel 6:7 - Uzzah Struck Down) underscore the gravity of the task. David's actions in 1 Chronicles 15 reflect a conscious return to these ancient, divinely ordained practices, moving from a more casual, Philistine-influenced method (transporting on a cart) to the prescribed Israelite method (Levitical carriers). The establishment of Jerusalem as the religious and political capital necessitated the Ark's presence there, solidifying David's reign and centralizing Israelite worship.
  • Key Themes: The verse, though brief, contributes significantly to several overarching themes within 1 Chronicles. Firstly, Divine Order and Obedience is paramount; David's prior failure taught him that reverence for God's instructions was non-negotiable. The meticulous listing of leaders and their numbers, such as Eliel and his eighty brethren, demonstrates the importance of following God's prescribed methods for sacred tasks, rather than human innovation or convenience. This commitment to divine protocol is a recurring emphasis throughout the Chronicler's narrative, especially in contrast to the earlier, ill-fated attempt to move the Ark where God's commands were overlooked. Secondly, the Indispensable Role of the Levites is highlighted. This verse underscores the specific and hereditary duty of the Levites, particularly the Kohathites, to handle and transport the most holy articles of the tabernacle. Their unique calling was essential for maintaining the sanctity of God's worship and mediating His presence among the people. Thirdly, Leadership and Organization within Israel's spiritual life is emphasized. The mention of "Eliel the chief" underscores the structured leadership within the Levitical families, where each group had a designated leader responsible for ensuring their contingent fulfilled their duties correctly and reverently. This reflects God's character as a God of order, not of confusion, a principle echoed in 1 Corinthians 14:33 - God is a God of Order.

EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

Key Word Analysis

  • Hebron (Hebrew, Chebrôwn', H2275): From the root meaning "seat of association," Hebron here refers to one of the four clans of the Kohathites, who were themselves a major division of the Levites. The descendants of Hebron, along with the other Kohathite clans (Amram, Izhar, Uzziel), were specifically tasked with carrying the most sacred items of the tabernacle, including the Ark of the Covenant, the Table of Showbread, the Lampstand, the Altars, and the holy vessels, on their shoulders using poles (Numbers 3:31 and Numbers 4:15). Their designation in this verse underscores the precise adherence to the Mosaic Law that David now commanded.
  • Eliel (Hebrew, ʾĔlîyʾêl', H447): This name, meaning "God of (his) God" or "God is my God," was a common and meaningful name among the Israelites, reflecting a personal declaration of faith and devotion. In this context, Eliel is identified as a "chief" (Hebrew, śar), indicating a leader or head person of a family division. His position signifies responsibility and authority within his clan, ensuring the proper execution of their sacred duties in the meticulous transportation of the Ark.
  • Fourscore (Hebrew, shᵉmônîym', H8084): This term refers to the number eighty. The precise number of men, eighty, under Eliel's leadership from the family of Hebron, emphasizes the meticulous organization and the significant number of Levites involved in this sacred procession. It highlights the scale and careful planning of the event, ensuring that sufficient personnel were available for the weighty and sacred task of carrying the Ark according to divine command.

Verse Breakdown

  • "Of the sons of Hebron;": This phrase identifies the specific Levitical lineage from which Eliel and his men originated. The "sons of Hebron" were a sub-clan of the Kohathites, whose hereditary duty was to carry the most sacred furnishings of the tabernacle, including the Ark. Their inclusion confirms that David was now following the precise legal requirements for transporting the Ark, unlike his previous attempt, ensuring the proper lineage was responsible for this holy task.
  • "Eliel the chief,": This identifies a specific individual, Eliel, by name and title. As "the chief" (śar), Eliel was a prominent leader within the Hebronite clan, responsible for organizing and directing his contingent. His mention underscores the structured nature of the Levitical service and the importance of designated leadership in sacred tasks, ensuring accountability and order in the procession.
  • "and his brethren fourscore:": This specifies the exact number of men under Eliel's command from the Hebronite clan—eighty. The precise enumeration highlights the meticulous planning and organization involved in this sacred endeavor. It signifies the collective effort of a significant group of Levites, each playing their part in the reverent transportation of the Ark, demonstrating a commitment to order, sufficiency, and the fulfillment of God's commands.

Literary Devices

The Chronicler's inclusion of 1 Chronicles 15:9, with its specific details, employs several literary devices. Enumeration is evident in the precise mention of "fourscore" men, a specific number that underscores the meticulous organization and the sheer number of Levites involved in this sacred task. This detailed listing reinforces the theme of order and adherence to divine instruction, contrasting sharply with the previous, less organized attempt. The phrase "sons of Hebron" functions as a form of Synecdoche, where a part (the clan of Hebron) represents the whole (a specific division of Kohathite Levites), highlighting their inherited and crucial role in handling the Ark. Furthermore, the verse contributes to the Chronicler's use of Emphasis through Detail, where the careful recording of names, lineages, and numbers serves to underscore the gravity and sanctity of the event. By providing such specific information, the text implicitly contrasts this divinely ordered procession with the previous, ill-fated attempt, thereby emphasizing the importance of proper worship and absolute obedience to God's commands.

THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS

1 Chronicles 15:9, though seemingly a mere administrative detail, carries profound theological weight. It serves as a testament to the principle that God demands not only worship but worship conducted according to His revealed will. The meticulous selection and enumeration of the "sons of Hebron" under Eliel's leadership reflect God's character as a God of order and holiness, who is to be approached with reverence and precision, not human expediency. The Ark of the Covenant, representing God's very presence, required a specific, consecrated handling that foreshadowed the holiness required to stand before a holy God. David's prior failure with Uzzah served as a stark reminder that good intentions do not supersede divine commands; obedience is paramount. This verse, therefore, highlights the restoration of proper worship protocols, emphasizing that true reverence involves humble submission to God's prescribed ways, recognizing His sovereignty and sanctity.

REFLECTION AND APPLICATION

The detailed account in 1 Chronicles 15, including the specific mention of Eliel and his eighty brethren, offers timeless principles for contemporary believers. While we no longer transport a physical Ark of the Covenant, the underlying message about approaching God and His work with reverence, order, and obedience remains profoundly relevant. This verse challenges us to consider the intentionality and preparation we bring to our spiritual lives and corporate worship. It reminds us that God is not indifferent to how we serve Him; rather, He desires our service to be marked by faithfulness to His revealed Word and a deep respect for His holiness. Just as every Levite had a specific, vital role in the Ark's transportation, every member of the body of Christ has a unique calling and gift, and the collective work of the church thrives when each part functions according to God's design, under godly leadership. Our service, whether in leadership or in humble support, should reflect the same meticulous care and reverence demonstrated by Eliel and his brethren, recognizing that every act of worship and service is an encounter with a holy God.

Questions for Reflection

  • How does the meticulous detail in this verse challenge our approach to spiritual duties today, both individually and corporately?
  • In what ways can we ensure our service to God is marked by reverence and obedience to His Word, learning from David's initial error with the Ark?
  • How do we recognize and value the diverse roles and contributions within the body of Christ, echoing the specific duties of the Levitical clans in this sacred task?

FAQ

Why is such a specific detail about Eliel and his eighty brethren included?

Answer: The inclusion of such specific detail serves multiple purposes. Firstly, it underscores the Chronicler's emphasis on historical accuracy and the meticulous adherence to divine law that characterized this second, successful attempt to move the Ark. Unlike the previous, disastrous attempt where the Ark was transported improperly on a cart, this time David ensured every detail of the Mosaic Law was followed, including the specific Levites designated for the task. Secondly, it highlights the importance of every participant in God's sacred work, no matter how seemingly small their role. Eliel and his "fourscore" brethren represent a specific, organized contingent, demonstrating that the task was not left to chance or casual handling, but involved precise numbers and designated leaders. This detail reinforces the theme of divine order and the necessity of obedience to God's prescribed methods for worship and service, as seen throughout the Law.

What was the significance of the "sons of Hebron" among the Levites?

Answer: The "sons of Hebron" were a specific clan within the Kohathite division of the Levites. According to the Mosaic Law, particularly in Numbers 3 - The Sons of Levi and Numbers 4 - Duties of the Kohathites, Gershonites, and Merarites, the Kohathites were uniquely responsible for carrying the most sacred items of the tabernacle, including the Ark of the Covenant, the Table of Showbread, the Lampstand, and the Altars. They were to carry these items on their shoulders using poles, never touching the holy objects directly. The mention of the "sons of Hebron" specifically indicates that David was now meticulously following these ancient, divinely ordained instructions, entrusting the Ark to the very lineage God had appointed for its transportation, thereby restoring proper reverence and order to the process.

How does this verse relate to the earlier, failed attempt to move the Ark?

Answer: 1 Chronicles 15:9 stands in stark contrast to the earlier, failed attempt to move the Ark described in 1 Chronicles 13 - David's First Attempt to Move the Ark and 2 Samuel 6 - The Ark Brought to Jerusalem. In the first attempt, David, though well-intentioned, transported the Ark on a new cart, a method not prescribed by God, leading to Uzzah's death when he touched the Ark to steady it (2 Samuel 6:6-7 - Uzzah Struck Down). This verse, by detailing the specific Levitical clan (sons of Hebron) and their chief (Eliel) with a precise number of men, exemplifies David's profound learning from that tragedy. It signifies a conscious and obedient return to God's explicit instructions for handling the Ark, demonstrating a renewed commitment to holiness, reverence, and the meticulous observance of divine law. It shows that David understood that God's ways must be followed precisely, not just generally, for true worship.

CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT

The meticulous obedience and specific roles detailed in 1 Chronicles 15:9, particularly concerning the handling of the Ark of the Covenant, find their ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The Ark symbolized God's veiled presence among His people, a presence accessible only through strict adherence to Levitical law and the mediation of consecrated priests, foreshadowing the holiness required to approach a holy God. In Christ, the ultimate reality of God's presence is fully revealed; He is Immanuel, God with us, the Word made flesh who dwelt among us. The perfect obedience of Eliel and his brethren in carrying the Ark points to Christ's own perfect obedience to the Father's will, an obedience that qualified Him to be our High Priest (Hebrews 4:14-15 - Our Great High Priest) and the ultimate sacrifice for sin (Hebrews 9:26 - Christ's Sacrifice). Through His atoning work, the veil that separated humanity from God was torn, and we now have bold access to the throne of grace not by our own merit or specific lineage, but through His blood (Hebrews 10:19-22 - Access to God Through Christ). Christ Himself is the ultimate "chief," gathering His "brethren" (the church) not to carry a physical Ark, but to embody and proclaim the very presence of God in the world, as we are now the temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19 - Your Body is a Temple of the Holy Spirit) and living stones in a spiritual house (1 Peter 2:5 - A Spiritual House). Thus, the meticulous order and reverence seen in 1 Chronicles 15:9 are spiritually fulfilled in the new covenant, where Christ's perfect work grants us intimate access to God, and our worship is now in spirit and truth, empowered by His indwelling Spirit (John 4:24 - Worship in Spirit and Truth).

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Commentary on 1 Chronicles 15 verses 1–24

Preparation is here made for the bringing of the ark home to the city of David from the house of Obed-edom. It is here owned that in the former attempt, though it was a very good work and in it they sought God, yet they sought him, not after the due order, Ch1 15:13. "We did not go about our work considerately; and therefore we sped so ill." Note, It is not enough that we do that which is good, but we must do it well - not enough that we seek God in a due ordinance, but we must seek after him, in a due order. Note, also, When we have suffered for our irregularities we must learn thereby to be more regular; then we answer the end of chastisement. Let us see how the matter was mended. 1. David now prepared a place for the reception of the ark, before he brought it to him; and thus he sought in the due order. He had not time to build a house, but he pitched a tent for it (Ch1 15:1), probably according to the pattern shown to Moses in the mount, or as near it as might be, of curtains and boards. Observe, When he made houses for himself in the city of David he prepared a place for the ark. Note, Wherever we build for ourselves, we must be sure to make room for God's ark, for a church in the house. 2. David now ordered that the Levites or priests should carry the ark upon their shoulders. Now he bethought himself of that which he could not but know before, that, none ought to carry the ark but the Levites, Ch1 15:2. The Kohathites carried it in their ordinary marches, and therefore had no wagons allotted them, because their work was to bear upon their shoulders, Num 7:9. But upon extraordinary occasions, as when they passed Jordan and compassed Jericho, the priests carried it. This rule was express, and yet David himself forgot it, and put the ark upon a cart. Note, Even those that are very knowing in the word of God, yet have it not always so ready to them as were to be wished when they have occasion to use it. Wise and good men may be guilty of an oversight, which, as soon as they are aware of, they will correct. David did not go about to justify what had been done amiss, nor to lay the blame on others, but owned himself guilty, with others, of not seeking God in a due order, and now took care not only to summon the Levites to the solemnity, as he did all Israel (Ch1 15:3), and had done before (Ch1 13:2), but to see that they assembled (Ch1 15:4), especially the sons of Aaron, Ch1 15:11. To them he gives the solemn charge (Ch1 15:12): You are the chief of the fathers of the Levites, therefore do you bring up the ark of the Lord. It is expected that those who are advanced above others in dignity should go before others in duty. "You are the chief, and therefore more is expected from you than from others, both by way of service yourselves and influence on the rest. You did it not at first, neither did your duty yourselves nor took care to instruct us, and we smarted for it: The Lord made a breach upon us; we have all smarted for your neglect; this has been by your means (see Mal 1:9): therefore sanctify yourselves, and mind your business." When those that have suffered for doing ill thus learn to do better the correction is well bestowed. 3. The Levites and priests sanctified themselves (Ch1 15:14) and were ready to carry the ark on their shoulders, according to the law, Ch1 15:15. Note, Many that are very remiss in their duty, if they were but faithfully told of it, would reform and do better. The breach upon Uzza made the priests more careful to sanctify themselves, that is, to cleanse themselves from all ceremonial pollution and to compose themselves for the solemn service of God, so as to strike a reverence upon the people. Some are made examples, that others may be made exemplary and very cautious. 4. Officers were appointed to be ready to bid the ark welcome, with every possible expression of joy, Ch1 15:16. David ordered the chief of the Levites to nominate those that they knew to be proficients for this service. Heman, Asaph, and Ethan, were now first appointed, Ch1 15:17. They undertook to sound with symbols (Ch1 15:19), others with psalteries (Ch1 15:20), others with harps, on the Sheminith, or eighth, eight notes higher or lower than the rest, according to the rules of the concert, Ch1 15:21. Some that were priests blew with the trumpet (Ch1 15:24), as was usual at the removal of the ark (Num 10:8) and at solemn feasts, Psa 81:3. And one was appointed for song (Ch1 15:22), for he was skilful in it, could sing well himself and instruct others. Note, As every man has received the gift, so he ought to minister the same, Pe1 4:10. And those that excel in any endowment should not only use it for the common good themselves, but teach others also, and not grudge to make others as wise as themselves. This way of praising God by musical instruments had not hitherto been in use. But David, being a prophet, instituted it by divine direction, and added it to the other carnal ordinances of that dispensation, as the apostle calls them, Heb 9:10. The New Testament keeps up singing of psalms, but has not appointed church-music. Some were appointed to be porters (Ch1 15:18), others door-keepers for the ark (Ch1 15:23, Ch1 15:24), and one of these was Obed-edom, who reckoned it no doubt a place of honour, and accepted it as recompence for the entertainment he had given to the ark. He had been for three months housekeeper to the ark, and indeed its landlord. But, when he might not be so any longer, such an affection had he for it that he was glad to be its door-keeper.

Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 1–24. Public domain.
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Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.
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