1 Chronicles 26:31

Among the Hebronites [was] Jerijah the chief, [even] among the Hebronites, according to the generations of his fathers. In the fortieth year of the reign of David they were sought for, and there were found among them mighty men of valour at Jazer of Gilead.

Among the Hebronites {H2276} was Jerijah {H3404} the chief {H7218}, even among the Hebronites {H2276}, according to the generations {H8435} of his fathers {H1}. In the fortieth {H705} year {H8141} of the reign {H4438} of David {H1732} they were sought {H1875} for, and there were found {H4672} among them mighty men {H1368} of valour {H2428} at Jazer {H3270} of Gilead {H1568}.

Yeriyah was chief of the Hevroni according to their generations by clans. In the fortieth year of David's reign the Hevroni were sought out, and there were found among them strong, brave men at Ya'zer in Gil'ad.

As for the Hebronites, Jerijah was the chief of the Hebronites, according to the genealogies of his ancestors. In the fortieth year of David’s reign the records were searched, and strong, capable men were found among the Hebronites at Jazer in Gilead.

Of the Hebronites was Jerijah the chief, even of the Hebronites, according to their generations by fathers’ houses. In the fortieth year of the reign of David they were sought for, and there were found among them mighty men of valor at Jazer of Gilead.

Commentary

1 Chronicles 26:31 is part of a detailed record of the divisions and duties of the Levites, particularly those appointed as gatekeepers, treasurers, and officers and judges throughout Israel during King David's reign.

Context

This verse specifically highlights the Hebronite clan of Levites, descendants of Kohath (one of Levi's sons), who were assigned various administrative and oversight roles rather than direct temple service like the priests. The broader context of 1 Chronicles chapters 23-26 describes King David's meticulous organization of the Levites into various divisions and responsibilities as he prepared for the building of the Temple by his son, Solomon. This comprehensive structuring occurred in the fortieth and final year of David's reign, demonstrating his foresight and dedication to establishing a lasting framework for worship and governance.

Key Themes

  • Divine Order and Preparation: David's extensive organization of the Levites underscores the importance of order and preparation in serving God. He didn't leave the future of the Temple's administration to chance but diligently arranged for its proper functioning.
  • Unexpected Capabilities: The description of these Hebronite Levites as "mighty men of valour" (Hebrew: gibborim chayil) is significant. While often used for warriors, in this context, it speaks to their exceptional capability, strength, and leadership potential in administrative and judicial roles. They were not merely spiritual leaders but capable and strong individuals fit for significant responsibility.
  • Geographic Reach: The mention of "Jazer of Gilead" indicates that these capable Levites were identified even in territories east of the Jordan River, showing the extensive reach of David's administration and the widespread distribution of qualified individuals.
  • Importance of Lineage and Service: The phrase "according to the generations of his fathers" emphasizes the hereditary nature of Levitical service, but also the continuous identification and deployment of qualified individuals from these established lines.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew phrase translated "mighty men of valour" is gibborim chayil (גִּבֹּרִים חַיִל). While gibborim often refers to warriors or strong men, chayil can denote strength, wealth, virtue, or capability. In this administrative context, it strongly suggests men of significant competence, integrity, and effectiveness, suitable for positions of authority and responsibility in the kingdom's governance and religious oversight.

Practical Application

This verse reminds us that God uses individuals with diverse strengths and talents for His purposes. Just as the Hebronites, known for their spiritual lineage, were also found to be "mighty men of valour" suitable for administrative duties, so too can believers today discover and utilize unexpected skills in service to God and their communities. It highlights the importance of diligence in identifying and empowering capable leaders, even in unconventional places, and the value of preparing for the future with wisdom and foresight. Reflect on how your unique abilities can contribute to the larger body of Christ, just as David sought out and employed the specific strengths of these Levites. For more on David's administrative wisdom, consider 1 Chronicles 28:1-10.

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Cross-References

  • 1 Chronicles 23:19 (5 votes)

    Of the sons of Hebron; Jeriah the first, Amariah the second, Jahaziel the third, and Jekameam the fourth.

  • Joshua 21:39 (3 votes)

    Heshbon with her suburbs, Jazer with her suburbs; four cities in all.

  • Isaiah 16:9 (2 votes)

    Therefore I will bewail with the weeping of Jazer the vine of Sibmah: I will water thee with my tears, O Heshbon, and Elealeh: for the shouting for thy summer fruits and for thy harvest is fallen.

  • 1 Kings 2:11 (2 votes)

    And the days that David reigned over Israel [were] forty years: seven years reigned he in Hebron, and thirty and three years reigned he in Jerusalem.

  • 1 Chronicles 6:81 (2 votes)

    And Heshbon with her suburbs, and Jazer with her suburbs.

  • 1 Chronicles 29:27 (2 votes)

    And the time that he reigned over Israel [was] forty years; seven years reigned he in Hebron, and thirty and three [years] reigned he in Jerusalem.