1 Chronicles 15:9

KJV

Of the sons of Hebron; Eliel the chief, and his brethren fourscore:

KJV (with Strong's)

Of the sons {H1121} of Hebron {H2275}; Eliel {H447} the chief {H8269}, and his brethren {H251} fourscore {H8084}:

Complete Jewish Bible

from the descendants of Hevron: Eli'el the chief, and eighty of his kinsmen;

Berean Standard Bible

from the Hebronites, Eliel the chief and 80 of his relatives;

American Standard Version

of the sons of Hebron, Eliel the chief, and his brethren fourscore;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Chronicles 15:9 precisely identifies Eliel, a chief from the Levitical clan of Hebron, along with eighty of his brethren, as 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 importance of adherence to God's specific commands regarding the handling of sacred objects, a lesson profoundly 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.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is 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 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](/1_chronicles/13 "1 Chronicles 13 - David's First Attempt to Move the Ark") and [2 Samuel 6](/2_samuel/6 "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 ([Numbers 4:15](/numbers/4-15 "Numbers 4:15 - Kohathites' Duty to Carry Holy Vessels")). Verse 9, by naming Eliel and his specific contingent, contributes to the Chronicler's 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 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](/numbers/3 "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) 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 (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. 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. 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 ([1 Corinthians 14:33](/1_corinthians/14-33 "1 Corinthians 14:33 - God is a God of Order")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Hebron (Hebrew, _Ḥeḇrôn'_):** 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; 4:15). Their designation in this verse underscores the precise adherence to the Mosaic Law that David now commanded.
* **Eliel (Hebrew, _ʾĔlîʾēl'_):** This name, meaning "God is my God" or "God of 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 of a family division. His position signifies responsibility and authority within his clan, ensuring the proper execution of their sacred duties.
* **Fourscore (English, _fourscore'_):** An archaic English term meaning eighty (4 x 20). 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.

#### 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.
* **"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.
* **"and his brethren fourscore:":** This specifies the 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 and sufficiency in carrying out 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. 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 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.

* [Numbers 4:15](/numbers/4-15 "Numbers 4:15 - Kohathites' Duty to Carry Holy Vessels")
* [Deuteronomy 10:8](/deuteronomy/10-8 "Deuteronomy 10:8 - Levites Set Apart for Service")
* [Hebrews 12:28](/hebrews/12-28 "Hebrews 12:28 - Worship with Reverence and Awe")

### 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.

#### 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.

**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](/numbers/3 "Numbers 3 - The Sons of Levi") and [Numbers 4](/numbers/4 "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](/1_chronicles/13 "1 Chronicles 13 - David's First Attempt to Move the Ark") and [2 Samuel 6](/2_samuel/6 "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. 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.

### 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 presence among His people, a presence that was veiled and accessible only through strict adherence to Levitical law, 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](/matthew/1-23 "Matthew 1:23 - Immanuel"), the Word made flesh who [tabernacled among us](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh"). 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 and the ultimate 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](/hebrews/4-16 "Hebrews 4:16 - Approach the Throne of Grace with Confidence") not by our own merit or specific lineage, but through His blood ([Hebrews 10:19-22](/hebrews/10-19 "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](/1_corinthians/6-19 "1 Corinthians 6:19 - Your Body is a Temple of the Holy Spirit")). 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](/john/4-24 "John 4:24 - Worship in Spirit and Truth")).

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.