1 Chronicles 23:4

Of which, twenty and four thousand [were] to set forward the work of the house of the LORD; and six thousand [were] officers and judges:

Of which {H428}, twenty {H6242} and four {H702} thousand {H505} were to set forward {H5329} the work {H4399} of the house {H1004} of the LORD {H3068}; and six {H8337} thousand {H505} were officers {H7860} and judges {H8199}:

Of these, 24,000 were to oversee the work on the house of ADONAI, while 6,000 were officials and judges

“Of these,” said David, “24,000 are to oversee the work of the house of the LORD, 6,000 are to be officers and judges,

Of these, twenty and four thousand were to oversee the work of the house of Jehovah; and six thousand were officers and judges;

Commentary

1 Chronicles 23:4 provides a detailed glimpse into King David’s meticulous organization of the Levites, preparing them for their crucial roles in the service of the future temple. This verse specifies the numerical breakdown of two significant groups: those directly involved in the temple’s work and those serving in administrative and judicial capacities.

Context

This verse is part of David's comprehensive plan for the future Solomon's Temple, even though he would not build it himself. Recognizing his approaching death, David devoted considerable effort to ensuring a smooth transition and a well-ordered system for temple worship. Having numbered the Levites from thirty years old and upward (as noted in 1 Chronicles 23:3), David assigned them specific duties, ensuring a well-structured and efficient workforce for the house of the LORD. This foresight established a lasting framework for sacred service.

Key Themes

  • Divine Order and Organization: David's detailed structuring of the Levite service highlights the importance of order, planning, and preparation in serving God. The precise division of labor reflects a divine principle of good management and stewardship within the community.
  • Dedicated Service to God: A significant number—twenty-four thousand Levites—were dedicated solely to the direct work of the temple. This emphasizes the centrality of worship, maintenance, and the sacred duties associated with the house of the LORD, underscoring the value of focused, consecrated effort.
  • Diverse Ministerial Roles: The inclusion of six thousand Levites as "officers and judges" demonstrates that service to God extends beyond ritual and worship to encompass administration, governance, and the upholding of justice among the people. These roles were crucial for the smooth functioning of the religious and civil life of Israel, reflecting the integrated nature of their society under God's law. This echoes the concept of diverse gifts for the common good found later in the New Testament.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV terms "officers" (Hebrew: shoterim) and "judges" (Hebrew: shophetim) refer to distinct but often overlapping roles within ancient Israelite society. The shoterim were typically scribes, administrators, or overseers, responsible for maintaining records, managing logistics, and enforcing commands. The shophetim were those appointed to administer justice, settle disputes, and lead the people in righteousness, a role vital for maintaining fairness and order within the community (as commanded in Deuteronomy 16:18).

Practical Application

For believers today, 1 Chronicles 23:4 reminds us that God values organized, dedicated service. Whether our role is direct spiritual work, administration, or leadership, every function contributes to the overall health and effectiveness of God's people. It underscores the need for preparation, accountability, and the recognition that all service, even seemingly "secular" roles like administration and justice, can be performed for the glory of God. This verse encourages us to identify and faithfully fulfill our unique contributions within the body of Christ, working together in unity and order for the advancement of God's kingdom.

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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • 2 Chronicles 19:8

    Moreover in Jerusalem did Jehoshaphat set of the Levites, and [of] the priests, and of the chief of the fathers of Israel, for the judgment of the LORD, and for controversies, when they returned to Jerusalem.

  • Deuteronomy 16:18

    ¶ Judges and officers shalt thou make thee in all thy gates, which the LORD thy God giveth thee, throughout thy tribes: and they shall judge the people with just judgment.

  • 1 Chronicles 23:28

    Because their office [was] to wait on the sons of Aaron for the service of the house of the LORD, in the courts, and in the chambers, and in the purifying of all holy things, and the work of the service of the house of God;

  • 1 Chronicles 23:32

    And that they should keep the charge of the tabernacle of the congregation, and the charge of the holy [place], and the charge of the sons of Aaron their brethren, in the service of the house of the LORD.

  • Deuteronomy 17:8

    ¶ If there arise a matter too hard for thee in judgment, between blood and blood, between plea and plea, and between stroke and stroke, [being] matters of controversy within thy gates: then shalt thou arise, and get thee up into the place which the LORD thy God shall choose;

  • Deuteronomy 17:10

    And thou shalt do according to the sentence, which they of that place which the LORD shall choose shall shew thee; and thou shalt observe to do according to all that they inform thee:

  • 1 Chronicles 26:29

    ¶ Of the Izharites, Chenaniah and his sons [were] for the outward business over Israel, for officers and judges.
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