TRV
Translation
King James Version
Moreover the sons of Obededom were, Shemaiah the firstborn, Jehozabad the second, Joah the third, and Sacar the fourth, and Nethaneel the fifth,
Complete Jewish Bible
'Oved-Edom had sons: Sh'ma'yah the firstborn, Y'hozavad the second son, Yo'ach the third, Sakhar the fourth, N'tan'el the fifth,
Berean Standard Bible
And Obed-edom also had sons: Shemaiah the firstborn, Jehozabad the second, Joah the third, Sachar the fourth, Nethanel the fifth,
American Standard Version
And Obed-edom had sons: Shemaiah the first-born, Jehozabad the second, Joah the third, and Sacar the fourth, and Nethanel the fifth,
World English Bible Messianic
Obed-Edom had sons: Shemaiah the firstborn, Jehozabad the second, Joah the third, and Sacar the fourth, and Nethanel the fifth,
Geneva Bible (1599)
And the sonnes of Obed Edom, Shemaiah the eldest, Iehozabad the second, Ioah the third, and Sacar the fourth, and Nethaneel the fift,
Young's Literal Translation
And to Obed-Edom are sons, Shemaiah the first-born, Jehozabad the second, Joah the third, and Sacar the fourth, and Nethaneel the fifth,
In the KJVVerse 11,082 of 31,102
Study This Verse
Commentary on 1 Chronicles 26 verses 1–19
1 ¶ Concerning the divisions of the porters: Of the Korhites was Meshelemiah the son of Kore, of the sons of Asaph.
2 And the sons of Meshelemiah were, Zechariah the firstborn, Jediael the second, Zebadiah the third, Jathniel the fourth,
3 Elam the fifth, Jehohanan the sixth, Elioenai the seventh.
4 Moreover the sons of Obededom were, Shemaiah the firstborn, Jehozabad the second, Joah the third, and Sacar the fourth, and Nethaneel the fifth,
5 Ammiel the sixth, Issachar the seventh, Peulthai the eighth: for God blessed him.
6 Also unto Shemaiah his son were sons born, that ruled throughout the house of their father: for they were mighty men of valour.
7 The sons of Shemaiah; Othni, and Rephael, and Obed, Elzabad, whose brethren were strong men, Elihu, and Semachiah.
8 All these of the sons of Obededom: they and their sons and their brethren, able men for strength for the service, were threescore and two of Obededom.
9 And Meshelemiah had sons and brethren, strong men, eighteen.
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;)
11 Hilkiah the second, Tebaliah the third, Zechariah the fourth: all the sons and brethren of Hosah were thirteen.
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.
13 And they cast lots, as well the small as the great, according to the house of their fathers, for every gate.
14 And the lot eastward fell to Shelemiah. Then for Zechariah his son, a wise counsellor, they cast lots; and his lot came out northward.
15 To Obededom southward; and to his sons the house of Asuppim.
16 To Shuppim and Hosah the lot came forth westward, with the gate Shallecheth, by the causeway of the going up, ward against ward.
17 Eastward were six Levites, northward four a day, southward four a day, and toward Asuppim two and two.
18 At Parbar westward, four at the causeway, and two at Parbar.
19 These are the divisions of the porters among the sons of Kore, and among the sons of Merari.
Observe, I. There were porters appointed to attend the temple, who guarded all the avenues that let to it, opened and shut all the outer gates and attended at them, not only for the state, but for service, to direct and instruct those who were going to worship in the courts of the sanctuary in the decorum they were to observe, to encourage those that were timorous, to send back the strangers and unclean, and to guard against thieves and others that were enemies to the house of God. In allusion to this office, ministers are said to have the keys to the kingdom of heaven committed to them (Mat 16:19), that they may admit, and exclude, according to the law of Christ.
II. Of several of those that were called to this service, it is taken notice of that they were mighty men of valour (Ch1 26:6), strong men (Ch1 26:7), able men (Ch1 26:8), and one of them that he was a wise counsellor (Ch1 26:14), who probably, when he had used this office of a deacon well and given proofs of more than ordinary wisdom, purchased to himself a good degree, and was preferred from the gate to the council-board, Ti1 3:13. As for those that excelled in strength of body, and courage and resolution of mind, they were thereby qualified for the post assigned them; for whatever service God calls men to he either finds them fit or makes them so.
III. The sons of Obed-edom were employed in this office, sixty-two of that family. This was he that entertained the ark with reverence and cheerfulness; and see how he was rewarded for it. 1. He had eight sons (Ch1 26:5), for God blessed him. The increase and building up of families are owing to the divine blessing; and a great blessing it is to a family to have many children, when like these they are able for, and eminent in, the service of God. 2. His sons were preferred to places of trust in the sanctuary. They had faithfully attended the ark in their own house, and now were called to attend it in God's house. He that is trusty in little shall be trusted with more. He that keeps God's ordinances in his own tent is fit to have the custody of them in God's tabernacle, Ti1 3:4, Ti1 3:5. I have kept thy law, says David, and this I had because I kept thy precepts, Psa 119:55, Psa 119:56.
IV. It is said of one here that though he was not the first-born his father made him the chief (Ch1 26:10), either because he was very excellent, or because the elder son was very weak. He was made chief, perhaps not in inheriting the estate (for that was forbidden by the law, Deu 21:16, Deu 21:17), but in this service, which required personal qualifications.
V. The porters, as the singers, had their post assigned them by lot, so many at such a gate, and so many at such a one, that every one might know his post and make it good, Ch1 26:13. It is not said that they were cast into twenty-four courses, as before; but here are the names of about twenty-four (Ch1 26:1-11), and the posts assigned are twenty-four, Ch1 26:17, Ch1 26:18. We have therefore reason to think they were distributed into as many companies. Happy are those who dwell in God's house: for, as they are well fed, well taught, and well employed, so they are well guarded. Men attended at the gates of the temple, but angels attend at the gates of the New Jerusalem, Rev 21:12.
Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 1–19. Public domain.
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Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.
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SUMMARY
1 Chronicles 26:4 meticulously details the initial five sons of Obed-Edom: Shemaiah, Jehozabad, Joah, Sacar, and Nethaneel, presented in their precise birth order. This verse is an integral part of King David's extensive organization of the Levites for the future Temple service, specifically highlighting the lineage of Obed-Edom's family. Their prominence, particularly in the crucial role of gatekeepers, serves as a profound testament to God's enduring blessing upon their ancestor, who faithfully housed the Ark of the Covenant.
CONTEXT
Literary Context: This verse is intricately woven into 1 Chronicles 23-26, a comprehensive record of King David's systematic arrangement of the Levites into various divisions for the anticipated Temple service. While chapters 23-24 delineate the duties of priests and general Levites, chapters 25-26 specifically focus on the divisions of musicians and gatekeepers, respectively. Within this framework, 1 Chronicles 26 is dedicated to the gatekeepers, and verse 4 introduces the distinguished family of Obed-Edom. Their lineage and subsequent responsibilities are further elaborated in the verses that follow, notably in 1 Chronicles 26:8, which describes their numerous and capable descendants. This detailed inclusion directly follows the historical account of God's extraordinary blessing upon Obed-Edom for his faithful stewardship of the Ark of the Covenant, as recorded in 2 Samuel 6:11-12.
Historical & Cultural Context: King David, though divinely prohibited from constructing the Temple himself, dedicated immense effort to preparing for its eventual building and operation. This included establishing a highly organized and hereditary system for the Levites, transitioning Israelite worship from the more mobile tabernacle to a planned, fixed, and centralized sanctuary in Jerusalem. In ancient Israel, gatekeepers were far more than mere guards; they occupied positions of significant trust and authority, controlling access to sacred spaces, managing temple treasuries, and occasionally serving as judicial or administrative figures. The emphasis on lineage and birth order in this verse profoundly reflects the paramount importance of tribal and family identity within ancient Israelite society, especially concerning the hereditary nature of priestly and Levitical roles, ensuring continuity and proper succession.
Key Themes: The verse significantly contributes to several overarching themes prevalent throughout the book of Chronicles. Firstly, it powerfully underscores the theme of Divine Blessing and Legacy, illustrating how God's favor, initially bestowed upon Obed-Edom for his faithfulness, profoundly extended across generations to his descendants, elevating them to esteemed positions within the temple service. Secondly, it highlights the theme of Order and Organization in worship, demonstrating David's meticulous planning, which ensured that every role, from the most prominent to the seemingly minor, was precisely accounted for and filled by specific individuals. This meticulous arrangement reflects God's inherent character as a God of perfect order. Thirdly, it subtly reinforces the principle of Faithfulness Rewarded, as Obed-Edom's initial act of obedience paved the way for his family's enduring service and prominence within the Levitical structure. The detailed listing of names, reminiscent of other genealogical records such as Numbers 1, further emphasizes the importance of individual identity and accountability within the communal covenant with God.
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
The primary literary device prominently featured in 1 Chronicles 26:4 is Enumeration or List-Making. This device is a hallmark of the Chronicler's writing style, particularly evident in the early chapters where extensive genealogies and detailed organizational structures are presented. The precise listing of names and their corresponding birth order serves to emphasize the systematic and thorough nature of King David's preparations for the Temple, highlighting the importance of every individual within the divine plan for worship and service. This meticulous Record-Keeping also lends an air of authenticity and historical reliability to the account, reinforcing the legitimacy of the Levitical appointments. While seemingly dry, the detailed listing implicitly carries an Implicit Narrative of divine blessing and generational faithfulness, directly connecting the current esteemed roles of Obed-Edom's descendants to the earlier account of God's extraordinary favor upon their ancestor. The device of Repetition ("the firstborn," "the second," "the third," etc.) further reinforces the structured and orderly presentation of the family lineage, underscoring the methodical approach to the Temple's organization.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This seemingly straightforward genealogical listing in 1 Chronicles 26:4 carries profound theological weight, affirming God's meticulous care, His unwavering faithfulness to those who honor Him, and the enduring principle of generational blessing. The elevation of Obed-Edom's family to positions of significant trust within the Temple service—a direct consequence of their ancestor's brief yet profoundly faithful stewardship of the Ark—illustrates that God remembers and richly rewards obedience, often extending His favor and provision to future generations. This verse powerfully underscores the idea that every role in God's house, even that of a gatekeeper, is vital, esteemed, and purposeful in His eyes, reflecting His divine order and the indispensable importance of every individual contribution to the advancement of His kingdom. It serves as a poignant reminder that God is a God of intricate detail, who intimately knows His servants by name and assigns them specific, meaningful tasks within His grand redemptive design.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
While 1 Chronicles 26:4 is primarily a genealogical record, it offers timeless and profound principles for contemporary believers, transcending its historical context. It serves as a powerful reminder that God is a God of order, purpose, and intentionality, who meticulously plans and sovereignly equips His people for service. Just as each son of Obed-Edom had a specific place and a vital responsibility within the Temple's intricate structure, so too does every member of the body of Christ possess a unique and indispensable role, regardless of its perceived prominence or visibility. No task is insignificant when undertaken for the Lord with faithfulness, diligence, and a heart devoted to His service. Furthermore, this verse powerfully illustrates the profound concept of generational impact: Obed-Edom's faithfulness in a seemingly small, yet profoundly significant, act of hospitality for the Ark of the Covenant resulted in lasting blessings and esteemed service for his descendants. This truth profoundly encourages us to live lives of integrity, obedience, and devotion today, understanding that our faithfulness can lay a robust spiritual foundation and leave a positive, enduring legacy for those who come after us, impacting not only our immediate families but also the broader community of faith for generations.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why is this detailed list of names included in the Bible?
Answer: The inclusion of this detailed list of names in 1 Chronicles 26:4 serves several crucial and interconnected purposes within the biblical narrative. Firstly, it underscores the Chronicler's profound emphasis on divine order and meticulous organization within the Levitical service, demonstrating how King David, under divine inspiration, meticulously prepared for the future Temple. Every individual, even those in seemingly less prominent roles like gatekeepers, was accounted for and had a specific, vital place in God's house. Secondly, it highlights the paramount importance of lineage and heredity in ancient Israel, particularly for the Levitical roles, ensuring the continuity, legitimacy, and proper succession of the Temple staff. Thirdly, and perhaps most significantly, it stands as a powerful testament to God's extraordinary blessing and unwavering faithfulness to Obed-Edom. As recorded in 2 Samuel 6:11, God greatly blessed Obed-Edom's household because he faithfully housed the Ark of the Covenant. This verse, along with 1 Chronicles 26:8, vividly illustrates that this blessing extended across generations, elevating his numerous and capable descendants to positions of significant trust and responsibility within the Temple administration.
What was the significance of Obed-Edom's family in the context of the Temple service?
Answer: Obed-Edom's family held a uniquely significant and esteemed position in the Temple service primarily due to the extraordinary divine blessing bestowed upon their ancestor. Obed-Edom, a Gittite, was chosen to house the Ark of the Covenant for three months after Uzzah's tragic death, and during this period, God "blessed the house of Obed-Edom and all that belonged to him" (2 Samuel 6:11). This remarkable blessing resulted in a large and exceptionally capable family, as explicitly highlighted in 1 Chronicles 26:8, where it states that all his descendants were "mighty men of strength for service." Consequently, King David, recognizing this divine favor and their inherent capabilities, entrusted them with highly responsible roles as gatekeepers for the Temple. These gatekeepers were not mere guards but held critical administrative functions, overseeing the entrances, exits, and often the treasuries of the Temple, ensuring both order and security for the sacred space. Their appointment was a direct and powerful manifestation of God's faithfulness in rewarding obedience and extending His favor through successive generations.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The meticulous organization of the Levitical service, profoundly exemplified by the detailed listing of Obed-Edom's sons in 1 Chronicles 26:4, serves as a powerful Old Testament shadow, pointing to the perfect order, divine wisdom, and purposeful design of God's redemptive plan, which finds its ultimate culmination and fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The Old Testament Temple, with its intricate divisions of priests, musicians, and gatekeepers, was a tangible foreshadowing of the spiritual reality of God's dwelling among His people in the New Covenant. Obed-Edom's family was blessed for faithfully housing the physical Ark, which symbolized God's holy presence, profoundly foreshadowing the ultimate and eternal blessing found in Christ, who is the true dwelling place of God's presence among humanity, the Word made flesh who "dwelt among us" (John 1:14). Just as the gatekeepers ensured proper and reverent access to the earthly sanctuary, Jesus declares Himself to be the "door" or "gate" (John 10:9), through whom all believers gain direct access to the Father and eternal life. The diverse roles and responsibilities assigned to Obed-Edom's descendants prefigure the diverse spiritual gifts and ministries within the New Testament church, which is the spiritual temple built upon Christ as the foundational cornerstone, where every member, from the most visible to those serving "behind-the-scenes," contributes indispensably to the building up and edification of the body of Christ (Ephesians 2:19-22; Ephesians 4:11-16). The generational blessing experienced by Obed-Edom's family finds its ultimate, eternal, and universal fulfillment in the spiritual inheritance and abundant blessings available to all who are "in Christ" (Ephesians 1:3), a blessing that transcends earthly lineage and is freely given through faith to all who believe.