1 Chronicles 24:5

Thus were they divided by lot, one sort with another; for the governors of the sanctuary, and governors [of the house] of God, were of the sons of Eleazar, and of the sons of Ithamar.

Thus were they divided {H2505} by lot {H1486}, one sort {H428} with another {H428}; for the governors {H8269} of the sanctuary {H6944}, and governors {H8269} of the house of God {H430}, were of the sons {H1121} of Eleazar {H499}, and of the sons {H1121} of Ithamar {H385}.

They were assigned [periods of service] by lot, the one group equally with the other, since both the descendants of El'azar and the descendants of Itamar had officers of the sanctuary and officers of God.

Thus they were divided by lot, for there were officers of the sanctuary and officers of God among both Eleazar’s and Ithamar’s descendants.

Thus were they divided by lot, one sort with another; for there were princes of the sanctuary, and princes of God, both of the sons of Eleazar, and of the sons of Ithamar.

Commentary

1 Chronicles 24:5 describes a crucial aspect of King David's meticulous organization of the Levitical priesthood for service in the future Temple. This verse highlights the method and the primary priestly families involved in administering the sanctuary.

Context

This verse is part of a larger section (1 Chronicles 23-26) detailing King David’s administrative and religious reforms, particularly the organization of the Levites and priests. David, though not building the Temple himself, prepared extensively for its future operation under Solomon. 1 Chronicles 24:1-4 establishes the two main priestly lines: the descendants of Eleazar and the descendants of Ithamar, both sons of Aaron. Verse 5 explains how these families, destined to be "governors of the sanctuary" and "governors of the house of God," were assigned their roles.

Key Themes

  • Divine Order and Organization: David's detailed structuring of the priesthood reflects a divinely inspired desire for order and efficiency in worship and service. This was not haphazard but a carefully planned system to ensure continuous and proper administration of sacred duties.
  • Fairness and Impartiality: The phrase "divided by lot" underscores a commitment to impartiality. In ancient Israel, casting lots was often seen as a way to discern God's will and ensure an unbiased distribution of responsibilities or inheritances. This method prevented favoritism and ensured that all qualified priests had an equal opportunity for service. Proverbs 16:33 notes that 'The lot is cast into the lap; but the whole disposing thereof is of the LORD.'
  • Hereditary Priesthood: The verse explicitly mentions the "sons of Eleazar, and of the sons of Ithamar," reinforcing the foundational principle of the Aaronic priesthood, where service was passed down through specific family lines. This ensured continuity and adherence to established traditions for the worship of God.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "divided by lot" (Hebrew: גּוֹרָל - goral) indicates a practice common in ancient Israel for making important decisions, distributing land, or assigning duties. It was believed that the outcome, while seemingly random, was ultimately guided by God's hand, ensuring fairness and divine approval for the assigned roles. This method was distinct from human favoritism or political maneuvering.

Practical Application

While we no longer operate under the Levitical priesthood, the principles embedded in this verse remain relevant:

  • Importance of Order in Service: God values order and good stewardship in all areas of life, especially in spiritual service. Whether in church administration or personal spiritual disciplines, structure can facilitate effective ministry.
  • Impartiality in Leadership: The method of casting lots highlights the importance of fair and unbiased processes in assigning roles and responsibilities within a community or organization. Leaders should strive for transparency and equity.
  • Utilizing Gifts and Callings: Every believer has a role to play in the "house of God" today. Just as the priests were organized for specific duties, we are called to use our unique gifts and talents in service to God and others, contributing to the overall health and function of the body of Christ (see 1 Corinthians 12:12-27).
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Cross-References

  • 1 Chronicles 24:31 (3 votes)

    These likewise cast lots over against their brethren the sons of Aaron in the presence of David the king, and Zadok, and Ahimelech, and the chief of the fathers of the priests and Levites, even the principal fathers over against their younger brethren.

  • Joshua 18:10 (2 votes)

    And Joshua cast lots for them in Shiloh before the LORD: and there Joshua divided the land unto the children of Israel according to their divisions.

  • 1 Chronicles 9:11 (2 votes)

    And Azariah the son of Hilkiah, the son of Meshullam, the son of Zadok, the son of Meraioth, the son of Ahitub, the ruler of the house of God;

  • Matthew 27:1 (2 votes)

    ¶ When the morning was come, all the chief priests and elders of the people took counsel against Jesus to put him to death:

  • Jonah 1:7 (2 votes)

    And they said every one to his fellow, Come, and let us cast lots, that we may know for whose cause this evil [is] upon us. So they cast lots, and the lot fell upon Jonah.

  • Acts 4:1 (2 votes)

    ¶ And as they spake unto the people, the priests, and the captain of the temple, and the Sadducees, came upon them,

  • Acts 1:26 (2 votes)

    And they gave forth their lots; and the lot fell upon Matthias; and he was numbered with the eleven apostles.