1 Chronicles 24:2

But Nadab and Abihu died before their father, and had no children: therefore Eleazar and Ithamar executed the priest's office.

But Nadab {H5070} and Abihu {H30} died {H4191} before {H6440} their father {H1}, and had no children {H1121}: therefore Eleazar {H499} and Ithamar {H385} executed the priest's office {H3547}.

But Nadav and Avihu died before their father and had no children; therefore El'azar and Itamar functioned as the cohanim.

But Nadab and Abihu died before their father did, and they had no sons; so Eleazar and Ithamar served as priests.

But Nadab and Abihu died before their father, and had no children: therefore Eleazar and Ithamar executed the priest’s office.

Commentary

This verse from 1 Chronicles 24:2 provides crucial historical context for the organization of the priestly divisions, a primary focus of this chapter. It explains the lineage of the High Priesthood following Aaron, the first High Priest, and sets the stage for the detailed lists of priestly families and their assigned duties under King David.

Context

The verse immediately references a significant event from earlier in Israel's history: the death of Nadab and Abihu, two of Aaron's four sons. Their demise is tragically recounted in Leviticus 10:1-2, where they offered "strange fire" before the Lord, an act of disobedience that resulted in their immediate death by divine judgment. This incident underscored the absolute holiness of God and the strict requirements for those who ministered in His presence.

The phrase "died before their father, and had no children" is vital. It highlights the premature and childless nature of their death, which directly impacted the line of succession for the priestly office. Because they left no heirs, the priestly duties and the continuation of Aaron's lineage fell entirely upon his two remaining sons, Eleazar and Ithamar. This verse in 1 Chronicles serves as a concise summary of this foundational event, explaining why the subsequent priestly divisions were structured around the houses of Eleazar and Ithamar.

Key Themes

  • Divine Holiness and Judgment: The fate of Nadab and Abihu serves as a stark reminder of God's perfect holiness and the severe consequences of disobedience, especially for those in positions of sacred service. It emphasizes that approaching God requires reverence, obedience, and adherence to His prescribed ways.
  • Succession and Divine Order: Despite the tragic loss of two of Aaron's sons, God's plan for the priesthood continued seamlessly. The verse demonstrates God's faithfulness to His covenant with Aaron and His commitment to maintaining an orderly system for worship and service, ensuring continuity through Eleazar and Ithamar. This highlights God's sovereign control over His purposes and His provision for His people.
  • Accountability in Service: The incident with Nadab and Abihu is a powerful lesson on the high standard of accountability for those who minister before God. It underscores that spiritual authority comes with great responsibility and the necessity of humility and strict adherence to divine commands.

Practical Application

The account of Nadab and Abihu, referenced here, continues to offer profound lessons for believers today. It calls us to reflect on:

  • Reverence and Awe for God: We are reminded that God is holy and must be approached with reverence and respect for His commands. While believers under the New Covenant have direct access to God through Christ, the principle of honoring His character remains paramount. This echoes the warning in Hebrews 12:29 that "our God is a consuming fire".
  • Obedience in Ministry: For those in any form of spiritual leadership or service, the verse underscores the importance of obedience to God's Word and a humble submission to His will, rather than relying on human wisdom or innovation.
  • God's Unchanging Purpose: Even through human failure and tragedy, God's overarching plan for His people and for worship remains steadfast. He always provides a way for His purposes to be fulfilled and for His work to continue.
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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

  • Leviticus 10:2

    And there went out fire from the LORD, and devoured them, and they died before the LORD.

  • Numbers 26:61

    And Nadab and Abihu died, when they offered strange fire before the LORD.

  • Numbers 3:4

    And Nadab and Abihu died before the LORD, when they offered strange fire before the LORD, in the wilderness of Sinai, and they had no children: and Eleazar and Ithamar ministered in the priest's office in the sight of Aaron their father.

  • Exodus 24:1

    ¶ And he said unto Moses, Come up unto the LORD, thou, and Aaron, Nadab, and Abihu, and seventy of the elders of Israel; and worship ye afar off.

  • Exodus 24:9

    ¶ Then went up Moses, and Aaron, Nadab, and Abihu, and seventy of the elders of Israel:

  • Numbers 16:39

    And Eleazar the priest took the brasen censers, wherewith they that were burnt had offered; and they were made broad [plates for] a covering of the altar:

  • Numbers 16:40

    [To be] a memorial unto the children of Israel, that no stranger, which [is] not of the seed of Aaron, come near to offer incense before the LORD; that he be not as Korah, and as his company: as the LORD said to him by the hand of Moses.
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