1 Chronicles 26:16

KJV

To Shuppim and Hosah [the lot came forth] westward, with the gate Shallecheth, by the causeway of the going up, ward against ward.

KJV (with Strong's)

To Shuppim {H8206} and Hosah {H2621} the lot came forth westward {H4628}, with the gate {H8179} Shallecheth {H7996}, by the causeway {H4546} of the going up {H5927}, ward {H4929} against {H5980} ward {H4929}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Shupim and Hosah were allotted the west gate and the Shallekhet Gate at the highway that goes up, with corresponding guards.

Berean Standard Bible

The lots for the West Gate and the Shallecheth Gate on the ascending highway fell to Shuppim and Hosah. There were guards stationed at every watch.

American Standard Version

To Shuppim and Hosah westward, by the gate of Shallecheth, at the causeway that goeth up, watch against watch.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Chronicles 26:16 provides a meticulous detail in the account of King David's organizational efforts for the future Temple in Jerusalem, specifically assigning Shuppim and Hosah as gatekeepers to the western gate, known as Shallecheth, situated by the causeway of the going up. This verse, part of a larger administrative record, highlights the precise allocation of duties through divine lot, ensuring a structured and divinely sanctioned system for maintaining order, security, and proper access to the sacred precincts of the Lord's house.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is embedded within 1 Chronicles 26, a chapter dedicated to the detailed organization and assignment of the Levitical gatekeepers for the future Temple. Following the broader accounts of David's preparations for the Temple, including the census of Levites (1 Chronicles 23) and the division of priests and musicians (1 Chronicles 24-25), chapter 26 focuses on the crucial role of the "porters" or "gatekeepers." The preceding verses (specifically [1 Chronicles 26:1-12](/1_chronicles/26-1 "1 Chronicles 26:1-12 - Divisions of Gatekeepers")) list the heads of the gatekeepers' families, and [1 Chronicles 26:13](/1_chronicles/26-13 "1 Chronicles 26:13 - Assignment by Lot") explicitly states that the assignments for each gate were determined by casting lots, indicating divine oversight in this meticulous administration. Our verse, [1 Chronicles 26:16](/1_chronicles/26-16 "1 Chronicles 26:16 - Assignment of Western Gatekeepers"), specifies one such assignment, illustrating the granular level of David's foresight and the Chronicler's emphasis on proper, ordered worship.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Israel, gates were far more than mere entrances; they were vital centers of civic life, commerce, and security. Temple gates, in particular, served as critical points of control, regulating access to sacred spaces and ensuring the purity and sanctity of worship. Gatekeepers, therefore, held positions of significant responsibility, acting as guards, treasurers (storing offerings), and even judges. David's meticulous organization of these roles, even before the Temple's construction, reflects a deep understanding of the need for order in religious service, mirroring the structured administration common in ancient Near Eastern temples. The "westward" direction and the "causeway of the going up" suggest a prominent and perhaps elevated approach to the Temple complex, emphasizing the strategic importance of this specific gate. The system of "ward against ward" points to a sophisticated and continuous watch system, vital for a structure as significant as the Temple.

* **Key Themes:**
* **Order and Administration:** David's detailed planning for the Temple, including the precise assignment of gatekeepers, underscores the biblical emphasis on divine order and meticulous administration in spiritual matters. This foresight ensures that the worship of God is conducted with reverence and efficiency, reflecting God's own character as a God of order, not confusion, as seen in [1 Corinthians 14:33](/1_corinthians/14-33 "1 Corinthians 14:33 - God is a God of Order").
* **Divine Appointment:** The use of lots for assigning duties (as mentioned in [1 Chronicles 26:13](/1_chronicles/26-13 "1 Chronicles 26:13 - Assignment by Lot")) highlights the belief that God was sovereignly overseeing the placement of individuals in their specific roles. This practice, affirmed in [Proverbs 16:33](/proverbs/16-33 "Proverbs 16:33 - The Lot is Cast into the Lap, but its Decision is from the Lord"), signifies that every position, no matter how seemingly mundane, was divinely sanctioned and purposed.
* **Faithfulness in Specific Roles:** The detailed attention given to the gatekeepers' assignments emphasizes that every task within God's service is important. Even guarding a gate was a vital contribution to the overall functioning and sanctity of the Temple. This theme resonates with the New Testament teaching that all members of the body of Christ have unique and valuable functions, and faithfulness in any role is esteemed by God ([1 Corinthians 12:18](/1_corinthians/12-18 "1 Corinthians 12:18 - God Arranged the Members in the Body")).
* **Security and Access:** The primary function of the gatekeepers was to control access to the sacred Temple precincts, ensuring both security against unauthorized entry and proper, reverent access for those permitted to enter. This dual role protected the holiness of God's dwelling place while facilitating the prescribed worship.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Shallecheth (Hebrew, שַׁלֶּכֶת, _Shallekheth_):** This name literally means "casting down" or "felling." While its precise origin for a gate name is debated, it could refer to a location where refuse was cast out from the Temple area, possibly into the Kidron Valley, or where trees were felled for construction or fuel. Alternatively, some scholars suggest it might relate to a place where people "cast themselves down" in worship or supplication. Its specific mention here identifies a distinct and known geographical feature within the Temple complex, likely a significant entrance or exit point on the western side.
* **causeway of the going up (Hebrew, מְסִלָּה מַעֲלָה, _mesillah ma'alah_):** This phrase describes an elevated road, ramp, or processional way leading up to the Temple. The term _mesillah_ often refers to a highway or raised road, while _ma'alah_ signifies "going up" or "ascent." This suggests a prominent and possibly uphill approach to the Temple, perhaps indicating a main thoroughfare for pilgrims or for the transport of offerings and supplies. Its presence highlights the architectural and logistical planning involved in the Temple's design and access.
* **ward against ward (Hebrew, מִשְׁמָר לְעֻמַּת מִשְׁמָר, _mishmar l'ummat mishmar_):** This idiomatic expression denotes a system of continuous watch, alternating shifts, or corresponding duties. _Mishmar_ refers to a "watch," "guard," or "post." The repetition with _l'ummat_ ("opposite," "corresponding to") indicates a structured and synchronized guarding system where one watch group was positioned in conjunction with or opposite another, ensuring comprehensive and uninterrupted coverage. This speaks to the high level of organization and vigilance required for the security of the Temple.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"To Shuppim and Hosah [the lot came forth] westward":** This clause identifies two specific individuals or, more likely, families/clans of Levite gatekeepers, Shuppim and Hosah, who were assigned their post by lot. The direction "westward" pinpoints their specific area of responsibility within the Temple complex, indicating a precise geographical allocation of duties. The parenthetical "[the lot came forth]" clarifies the divine method of assignment, emphasizing God's sovereign hand in their placement.
* **"with the gate Shallecheth":** This specifies the particular gate that Shuppim and Hosah were assigned to guard. The gate's unique name, "Shallecheth," provides a precise landmark, distinguishing it from other gates and underscoring the detailed nature of David's administrative plan for the Temple's security and access points.
* **"by the causeway of the going up":** This phrase further describes the location of the gate Shallecheth, placing it adjacent to or as part of an elevated approach or ramp leading to the Temple. This detail not only helps to visualize the physical layout but also implies the strategic importance of this particular entrance, likely a significant access route for people or goods.
* **"ward against ward":** This final phrase describes the operational method of the gatekeepers' duty at this location. It signifies a continuous, synchronized, or alternating system of watch. This suggests that the gatekeepers were organized into shifts or complementary teams, ensuring constant vigilance and accountability, thereby providing robust security for the Temple's western approach.

#### Literary Devices
The Chronicler's account in 1 Chronicles 26:16 employs several literary devices to convey its message. **Precision** is paramount, evident in the specific naming of individuals (Shuppim and Hosah), the exact geographical direction ("westward"), the unique gate name ("Shallecheth"), and the detailed description of its location ("by the causeway of the going up"). This meticulous detail underscores the divine order and thoroughness expected in the service of God. The phrase "ward against ward" is an example of **Repetition** or **Parallelism**, specifically a form of **Merism** or **Idiom**, which emphasizes the comprehensive and continuous nature of the guard duty, implying a complete and unbroken watch. Furthermore, the gate itself functions as **Symbolism**, representing not only a physical entrance but also a point of control, security, and regulated access to the sacred. The careful management of these gates symbolizes the importance of maintaining the holiness and purity of God's presence, ensuring that only those permitted could enter and that all activities were conducted according to divine protocol.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The meticulous organization of the Temple gatekeepers, as detailed in 1 Chronicles 26:16, profoundly illustrates God's character as a God of order, precision, and holiness. It reveals that even seemingly mundane or "behind-the-scenes" tasks are integral to the sacred worship of God and are valued by Him. The divine assignment by lot underscores the theological truth that God sovereignly places individuals in their roles for His purposes, and faithfulness in these specific assignments contributes to the overall flourishing of His house. This Old Testament principle foreshadows the New Testament understanding of the church as God's spiritual Temple, where every believer is a "living stone" with a unique, divinely appointed function, contributing to the body's health and mission.

* [1 Corinthians 14:33](/1_corinthians/14-33 "1 Corinthians 14:33 - God is a God of Order")
* [Ephesians 2:19-22](/ephesians/2-19 "Ephesians 2:19-22 - The Church as God's Dwelling")
* [Colossians 3:23-24](/colossians/3-23 "Colossians 3:23-24 - Working Heartily for the Lord")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
This verse, though rooted in ancient Temple administration, offers timeless principles for believers today. It reminds us that God is a God of order, and He values diligent, faithful service in every sphere of life, especially within His church. Just as the gatekeepers had a specific, divinely appointed role crucial to the Temple's function, so too does every believer have a unique place and purpose within the body of Christ. No task is too small or insignificant if it contributes to the glory of God and the building up of His kingdom. We are called to serve heartily, as unto the Lord, recognizing that our work, whether public or hidden, is seen and honored by Him. This passage encourages us to embrace our God-given responsibilities with diligence, recognizing that our faithfulness in specific roles ensures the spiritual security, order, and effective access for others to God's presence.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does understanding the meticulous organization of the Temple challenge our view of "small" or "unseen" tasks within the church or our daily lives?**
* **In what ways do we, like the gatekeepers, serve as "guardians" of spiritual truth, access, or order in our communities or families?**
* **How can we discern God's specific placement for us in service, recognizing His sovereign hand in our roles and responsibilities?**

### FAQ
**Who were Shuppim and Hosah, and why are their names mentioned here?**

Answer: Shuppim and Hosah were Levite gatekeepers, likely heads of families or clans, who were assigned specific duties for the Temple. Their names are mentioned here to provide precise detail within the meticulous administrative records of King David's preparations for the Temple. The Chronicler's emphasis on individual names and family lineages underscores the importance of each designated role and the divine precision with which these responsibilities were allocated, often through the casting of lots, as mentioned in [1 Chronicles 26:13](/1_chronicles/26-13 "1 Chronicles 26:13 - Assignment of Gatekeepers by Lot"). Their inclusion highlights that even seemingly minor positions were divinely appointed and crucial for the overall functioning and sanctity of God's house.

**What was the significance of the "gate Shallecheth" and the "causeway of the going up"?**

Answer: The "gate Shallecheth" was a specific entrance on the western side of the Temple complex. Its name, meaning "casting down" or "felling," might suggest it was a place where refuse was discarded, or perhaps related to the felling of trees. Regardless of its exact etymological origin, its specific mention signifies a known and important access point. The "causeway of the going up" describes an elevated road or ramp leading to the Temple, indicating a prominent and possibly main approach. Both details emphasize the strategic importance of this location for security, access, and perhaps even ceremonial processions. The meticulous naming of these architectural features reflects the Chronicler's concern for historical accuracy and the detailed nature of David's preparations for the Temple, ensuring that every aspect of its operation was thoughtfully planned and executed.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The meticulous organization of the Temple gates and the appointment of gatekeepers in 1 Chronicles 26:16 find their ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ. While the Old Testament Temple gates regulated physical access to God's presence, Jesus declares Himself to be the ultimate "Gate" or "Door" through whom humanity gains access to God. As He states in [John 10:9](/john/10-9 "John 10:9 - Jesus, the Door"), "I am the door; if anyone enters through Me, he will be saved." He is the exclusive means by which we enter into a relationship with God and find true pasture. Furthermore, Jesus is the "causeway of the going up," the very "Way, the Truth, and the Life" ([John 14:6](/john/14-6 "John 14:6 - Jesus, the Way, Truth, and Life")), who provides the only ascent to the Father. His sacrificial death on the cross tore the veil, opening a new and living way into the Most Holy Place, granting us direct access to God's presence with confidence ([Hebrews 10:19-22](/hebrews/10-19 "Hebrews 10:19-22 - Access Through Christ's Blood")). The "gate Shallecheth," possibly a place of "casting down" refuse, foreshadows Christ's work in "casting down" sin and death through His atoning sacrifice, cleansing us and making us fit for God's presence. In Christ, the meticulous order of the Old Covenant Temple is transcended and perfected, as He Himself is the Chief Cornerstone of the new, spiritual Temple—the Church—where every believer is a living stone ([1 Peter 2:5](/1_peter/2-5 "1 Peter 2:5 - Living Stones in a Spiritual House")), serving under Him, the one who "opens and no one can shut, and shuts and no one can open" ([Revelation 3:7](/revelation/3-7 "Revelation 3:7 - Jesus, Who Holds the Key of David")).

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.

Cross-References

1 Chronicles 26:10

Also Hosah, of the children of Merari, had sons; Simri the chief, (for [though] he was not the firstborn, yet his father made him the chief;)

1 Chronicles 26:12

Among these [were] the divisions of the porters, [even] among the chief men, [having] wards one against another, to minister in the house of the LORD.

1 Kings 10:5

And the meat of his table, and the sitting of his servants, and the attendance of his ministers, and their apparel, and his cupbearers, and his ascent by which he went up unto the house of the LORD; there was no more spirit in her.

1 Chronicles 25:8

¶ And they cast lots, ward against [ward], as well the small as the great, the teacher as the scholar.

Nehemiah 12:24

And the chief of the Levites: Hashabiah, Sherebiah, and Jeshua the son of Kadmiel, with their brethren over against them, to praise [and] to give thanks, according to the commandment of David the man of God, ward over against ward.

2 Chronicles 9:4

And the meat of his table, and the sitting of his servants, and the attendance of his ministers, and their apparel; his cupbearers also, and their apparel; and his ascent by which he went up into the house of the LORD; there was no more spirit in her.