1 Chronicles 26:1

¶ Concerning the divisions of the porters: Of the Korhites [was] Meshelemiah the son of Kore, of the sons of Asaph.

Concerning the divisions {H4256} of the porters {H7778}: Of the Korhites {H7145} was Meshelemiah {H4920} the son {H1121} of Kore {H6981}, of the sons {H1121} of Asaph {H623}.

The divisions of the gatekeepers: Of the Korchim: Meshelemyahu the son of Kore, of the descendants of Asaf.

These were the divisions of the gatekeepers: From the Korahites: Meshelemiah son of Kore, one of the sons of Asaph.

For the courses of the doorkeepers: of the Korahites, Meshelemiah the son of Kore, of the sons of Asaph.

Commentary

1 Chronicles 26:1 introduces the detailed organizational structure of the Levites, specifically focusing on the divisions of the temple gatekeepers, also known as porters. This verse begins the list by identifying Meshelemiah, a Korhite, as a prominent figure among them.

Context of 1 Chronicles 26:1

This verse is part of a larger section (1 Chronicles 23-26) that meticulously records King David's preparations for the future Temple, which his son Solomon would build. David, inspired by God, took great care to organize the various functions of the Levites: the priests, musicians, officers, judges, and here, the gatekeepers. The detailed listing of families and their assigned roles underscores the importance of order and dedicated service in the worship of God. The mention of "Korhites" is significant, as they were a branch of the Levites, descendants of Kohath, and historically associated with carrying sacred vessels, but also notably connected to Korah's rebellion against Moses and Aaron. Their inclusion in this vital temple service demonstrates God's grace and restoration, showing that even a lineage tied to past rebellion could be redeemed for honorable service.

Key Themes in 1 Chronicles 26:1

  • Divine Order and Preparation: The verse highlights David's foresight and God's desire for an organized and structured approach to sacred service. Every role, from the most visible to the seemingly minor, was carefully planned and assigned, reflecting God's nature of order.
  • Faithful Service: The porters (Hebrew: sho'arim) were responsible for security, maintaining reverence, and controlling access to the holy areas. Their role required diligence, trustworthiness, and faithfulness, ensuring the sanctity of the Temple. This emphasizes that all tasks performed for God are significant.
  • Levitical Duties: This chapter further elaborates on the extensive duties of the Levites beyond just priestly and musical roles, showcasing their comprehensive involvement in the maintenance and operation of the spiritual center of Israel.

Linguistic Insights

The term "porters" (Hebrew: sho'arim) literally means "gatekeepers." Their responsibility was not merely to open and close gates, but to manage entry, ensure security, and maintain order within the sacred precincts, akin to guardians of the Lord's house. The "Korhites" were a specific family within the Levites, descendants of Kohath, whose lineage is meticulously traced here, showing the importance of tribal and family identity in ancient Israelite administration and the continuity of service within designated lines.

Practical Application

1 Chronicles 26:1 reminds us that in God's kingdom, every role is valuable and necessary. Just as the gatekeepers played a crucial part in the temple's operation, so too does every believer have a unique and vital function within the body of Christ. This verse encourages faithfulness and diligence in whatever capacity we are called to serve, recognizing that God values order, preparation, and dedicated service in all things. It underscores the truth that there are no insignificant roles in serving the Lord, only significant service performed with a willing heart.

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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

  • 1 Chronicles 15:23 (2 votes)

    And Berechiah and Elkanah [were] doorkeepers for the ark.

  • 1 Chronicles 15:24 (2 votes)

    And Shebaniah, and Jehoshaphat, and Nethaneel, and Amasai, and Zechariah, and Benaiah, and Eliezer, the priests, did blow with the trumpets before the ark of God: and Obededom and Jehiah [were] doorkeepers for the ark.

  • 1 Chronicles 15:18 (2 votes)

    And with them their brethren of the second [degree], Zechariah, Ben, and Jaaziel, and Shemiramoth, and Jehiel, and Unni, Eliab, and Benaiah, and Maaseiah, and Mattithiah, and Elipheleh, and Mikneiah, and Obededom, and Jeiel, the porters.

  • 2 Chronicles 23:19 (2 votes)

    And he set the porters at the gates of the house of the LORD, that none [which was] unclean in any thing should enter in.

  • Psalms 49:1 (2 votes)

    ¶ To the chief Musician, A Psalm for the sons of Korah. Hear this, all [ye] people; give ear, all [ye] inhabitants of the world:

  • 1 Chronicles 6:37 (2 votes)

    The son of Tahath, the son of Assir, the son of Ebiasaph, the son of Korah,

  • Numbers 26:9 (2 votes)

    And the sons of Eliab; Nemuel, and Dathan, and Abiram. This [is that] Dathan and Abiram, [which were] famous in the congregation, who strove against Moses and against Aaron in the company of Korah, when they strove against the LORD: