1 Chronicles 26:6

Translation
King James Version
Also unto Shemaiah his son were sons born, that ruled throughout the house of their father: for they were mighty men of valour.
Ask
KJV (with Strong's)
Also unto Shemaiah H8098 his son H1121 were sons H1121 born H3205, that ruled H4474 throughout the house H1004 of their father H1: for they were mighty men H1368 of valour H2428.
Ask
Complete Jewish Bible
To his son Sh'ma'yah were born sons who ruled over their father's clan, because they were strong, brave men.
Ask
Berean Standard Bible
Also to his son Shemaiah were born sons who ruled over their families because they were strong, capable men.
Ask
American Standard Version
Also unto Shemaiah his son were sons born, that ruled over the house of their father; for they were mighty men of valor.
Ask
World English Bible Messianic
Also to Shemaiah his son were sons born, who ruled over the house of their father; for they were mighty men of valor.
Ask
Geneva Bible (1599)
And to Shemaiah his sonne, were sonnes borne, that ruled in the house of their father, for they were men of might.
Ask
Young's Literal Translation
And to Shemaiah his son have sons been born, who are ruling throughout the house of their father, for they are mighty of valour.
Ask
See also
Nehemiah 11:142 Samuel 2:71 Chronicles 12:282 Chronicles 26:171 Chronicles 26:82 Timothy 2:3Judges 6:12
In the KJVVerse 11,084 of 31,102

Study This Verse

SUMMARY

First Chronicles 26:6 meticulously details the lineage of Shemaiah, a son of Obed-Edom, emphasizing the exceptional competence and leadership qualities of his own sons. These descendants were not merely numerous but were divinely empowered and recognized as "mighty men of valour," entrusted with significant administrative and security responsibilities within the temple service, thereby continuing a legacy of faithful and effective service within their prominent Levitical clan.

CONTEXT

  • Literary Context: Chapter 26 of 1 Chronicles is part of a larger section (chapters 23-27) that meticulously details King David's extensive organization of the Levitical services for the future temple. Specifically, verses 1-19 of chapter 26 focus on the divisions and duties of the gatekeepers, who were responsible for security, access control, and treasury management within the temple precincts. Our verse, 1 Chronicles 26:6, directly follows the enumeration of Obed-Edom's blessed and numerous family in 1 Chronicles 26:4-5, highlighting the continuation of this divine favor through his son Shemaiah. The mention of Shemaiah's sons "ruling throughout the house of their father" underscores the generational transfer of responsibility and the inherent capability within this particular lineage, demonstrating their fitness for the crucial roles assigned to them in the sacred service.
  • Historical & Cultural Context: The setting for this passage is King David's reign, a pivotal time when the foundations for Israel's organized worship were being laid, anticipating the construction of Solomon's Temple. The Levites, as descendants of Levi, were consecrated for specific service to God, which encompassed a wide range of duties beyond priestly functions, including music, teaching, and, as highlighted here, the vital role of gatekeepers. These "doorkeepers" were not mere sentries; they were highly trusted officials responsible for maintaining the sanctity and order of the tabernacle (and later, the temple), controlling who entered, and safeguarding the temple treasuries. The description "mighty men of valour" (גִּבֹּרֵי חָ֑יִל, gibborim chayil) in this context transcends simple physical strength. It points to a combination of administrative acumen, moral fortitude, courage in upholding sacred boundaries, and overall competence essential for such weighty responsibilities. This designation would have conferred significant honor and trust within the Israelite community, reflecting their indispensable contribution to the national worship.
  • Key Themes: This verse significantly contributes to several overarching themes prevalent throughout 1 Chronicles:
    • Divine Empowerment for Service: The characterization of Shemaiah's sons as "mighty men of valour" is not merely a human assessment but points to a divine enablement for their sacred duties. Their inherent capabilities and fitness for leadership were a manifestation of God's equipping grace, a principle consistently seen in Scripture where God prepares and empowers individuals for the tasks He calls them to, much like He filled Bezalel with the Spirit of God for craftsmanship or appointed leaders with wisdom and understanding. Their strength and competence were a direct blessing from God, enabling them to fulfill their specific roles in the Lord's service with excellence.
    • Competence and Responsibility in Leadership: The phrase "that ruled throughout the house of their father" signifies that these men were entrusted with and effectively managed significant positions of authority within their clan's assigned duties. Their "valour" extended beyond physical prowess to encompass administrative skill, courageous decision-making in their responsibilities, and overall diligence necessary for maintaining order and security at the temple gates. This highlights the profound importance of skill, integrity, and diligence in spiritual service, echoing the biblical call to do all things heartily, as for the Lord and not for men.
    • Generational Faithfulness and Blessing: This verse beautifully illustrates the continuity of spiritual legacy and service from one generation to the next. The sustained blessing and demonstrated capability within Obed-Edom's family, extending to Shemaiah's sons, underscore the importance of raising children in the fear and service of God. This theme resonates with the wisdom found in Proverbs 22:6 about training a child in the way he should go and the promise of God's faithfulness to those who honor Him across generations, ensuring that the work of the Lord continues through successive, well-equipped individuals.

EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

Key Word Analysis

  • Ruled (Hebrew, mimshâl', H4474): This noun (H4474) derives from a root meaning "to rule" or "to have dominion." It signifies authority, governance, or the act of exercising control. In this context, it emphasizes that Shemaiah's sons were not merely present but actively held positions of administrative and leadership authority within their family's sphere of responsibility, indicating their capacity for effective management and oversight.
  • Mighty Men (Hebrew, gibbôwr', H1368): This noun (H1368), appearing in its plural form (גִּבֹּרִים, gibborim), denotes individuals of great strength, power, or courage. It can refer to warriors, champions, or powerful leaders. Here, it underscores the formidable capability and robust nature of Shemaiah's sons, suggesting they possessed the inherent strength and courage necessary for their significant roles in guarding and managing the temple precincts.
  • Valour (Hebrew, chayil', H2428): This noun (H2428) is exceptionally rich in meaning, extending beyond mere physical strength. While it can refer to military force or an army, it broadly encompasses strength, wealth, capability, efficiency, moral virtue, and excellence. It is famously used to describe the "virtuous woman" (אֵשֶׁת־חַיִל, eshet chayil) in Proverbs 31:10. Applied to Shemaiah's sons, chayil emphasizes their comprehensive competence, integrity, and overall fitness for their significant leadership and administrative roles, signifying a holistic excellence that went beyond physical prowess.

Verse Breakdown

  • "Also unto Shemaiah his son were sons born": This opening clause establishes the continuation of the lineage, specifically focusing on Shemaiah, one of Obed-Edom's sons, who himself was part of a divinely blessed and numerous family. It highlights the blessing of progeny, a significant mark of divine favor and continuity in ancient Israel, setting the stage for the description of the next generation's remarkable qualities and roles.
  • "that ruled throughout the house of their father": This phrase indicates that Shemaiah's sons were not passive members of their family but actively held positions of authority and leadership within their extended family unit or clan. "The house of their father" refers to the broader lineage and its associated responsibilities, implying that these sons effectively managed and governed the affairs related to their assigned Levitical duties, demonstrating administrative competence and effective oversight in their service.
  • "for they [were] mighty men of valour": This concluding clause provides the explicit reason and justification for their ability to rule effectively and be entrusted with such significant responsibilities. The description "mighty men of valour" (גִּבֹּרֵי חָ֑יִל) serves as a powerful affirmation of their exceptional qualities—a combination of strength, courage, administrative competence, and moral integrity—which uniquely qualified them for their significant roles in the temple service. It underscores that their leadership was rooted in genuine, God-given capability and character.

Literary Devices

The verse effectively employs several literary devices to convey its message with impact. Emphasis is powerfully placed on the exceptional qualities of Shemaiah's sons through the robust descriptive phrase "mighty men of valour," which serves as a potent commendation and highlights their unique suitability for their roles. This phrase functions as a strong Characterization device, immediately painting a vivid picture of individuals who are not only physically capable but also morally upright and administratively competent. The verse is also an integral part of a larger Genealogy, meticulously tracing the lineage of those appointed to sacred service, a common and significant feature in 1 Chronicles. This genealogical record serves to legitimize their roles, underscore the continuity of divine blessing, and highlight the generational faithfulness within this prominent Levitical line. Furthermore, there is a clear element of Causality implied by the conjunction "for" (KJV), which directly links their inherent, God-given qualities ("mighty men of valour") to their demonstrated ability to "rule throughout the house of their father," thereby establishing their competence as the foundational reason for their entrusted leadership.

THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS

This seemingly simple genealogical note in 1 Chronicles 26:6 carries profound theological weight, revealing God's meticulous care in organizing His worship and His people. It underscores that those entrusted with sacred duties are not merely appointed but are divinely equipped and empowered for their tasks. The concept of "mighty men of valour" extends beyond mere physical prowess to encompass a holistic competence—moral integrity, administrative acumen, and spiritual fortitude—demonstrating that true strength in God's service is multifaceted and deeply rooted in character. It highlights that God not only calls individuals to specific roles but also graciously provides the necessary gifts, abilities, and virtues for them to fulfill their calling with excellence, thereby perpetuating a legacy of faithfulness and effective service across generations. This divine enablement ensures that His work is carried out with diligence and integrity.

  • Exodus 18:21 - Moses is advised by Jethro to select "able men, such as fear God, men of truth, hating covetousness," to serve as leaders, directly echoing the qualities of competence, integrity, and moral uprightness seen in Shemaiah's sons.
  • Nehemiah 7:2 - Hananiah is described as "a faithful man, and feared God above many," highlighting that character and reverence for God are paramount qualities for those in leadership, akin to the "valour" of the gatekeepers.
  • Romans 12:6-8 - Paul discusses the diverse spiritual gifts given by God for service within the body of Christ, emphasizing that each believer is uniquely equipped by God's grace for their particular function, whether it be leadership, administration, or acts of service, reflecting God's provision for effective ministry.

REFLECTION AND APPLICATION

The account of Shemaiah's sons in 1 Chronicles 26:6 serves as a powerful reminder that God values and utilizes competence, integrity, and diligence in all forms of service, whether in prominent leadership roles or in seemingly behind-the-scenes capacities. Their "valour" was not merely for physical defense but for faithful administration, courageous decision-making, and the diligent guardianship of sacred space. This narrative profoundly encourages believers today to recognize and cultivate their God-given gifts and strengths, serving with excellence in whatever capacity God has called them, whether in their homes, workplaces, communities, or local churches. It underscores that all our abilities are ultimately from Him and are to be used for His glory, contributing to the flourishing of His kingdom. Furthermore, this verse highlights the profound blessing and lasting impact of a family committed to the Lord's service, inspiring us to intentionally nurture a legacy of faith, devotion, and diligent service within our own households. Understanding that God delights in multi-generational faithfulness, we are called to invest in the spiritual development of successive generations, trusting that He will equip them for His ongoing purposes. Our service, no matter how humble or grand, contributes to the overall order, beauty, and effectiveness of God's work in the world.

Questions for Reflection

  • In what specific ways do I recognize God's empowerment and equipping in my own life and service, and how am I stewarding these gifts?
  • How can I actively cultivate "valour"—encompassing competence, integrity, courage, and diligence—in my daily responsibilities, whether at home, work, or within my faith community?
  • What kind of spiritual legacy am I intentionally building for future generations, and how can I more effectively pass on a deep commitment to faithfulness and service to those who follow me?

FAQ

What does "mighty men of valour" mean in the context of temple gatekeepers, and why is it significant?

Answer: In 1 Chronicles 26:6, the phrase "mighty men of valour" (Hebrew: גִּבֹּרֵי חָ֑יִל, gibborim chayil) signifies a comprehensive set of qualities far beyond mere physical strength. While gibborim suggests strong men or warriors, chayil is a rich and multifaceted term encompassing competence, efficiency, moral virtue, integrity, and overall capability. For temple gatekeepers, this meant they were not simply guards or bouncers; they were highly capable administrators, courageous in upholding the sanctity of God's house, and possessed the integrity and skill necessary to manage the temple's security, control access, and even oversee its treasuries (as further detailed in 1 Chronicles 26:20-28). Their significance lies in demonstrating that God's service requires not only spiritual devotion and faithfulness but also practical excellence, strong character, and administrative skill. These qualities were absolutely essential for maintaining the sanctity, order, and proper functioning of the Lord's house and its sacred operations.

CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT

While 1 Chronicles 26:6 describes the earthly service of Levite gatekeepers, it subtly points to the ultimate "Mighty Man of Valour" in Jesus Christ. The competence, faithfulness, and integrity of Shemaiah's sons in guarding and administering the physical temple foreshadow the perfect and complete work of Christ. He is not merely a gatekeeper but the very "gate" and "door" through whom humanity gains access to salvation and the Father (John 10:7-9). Jesus is the true and ultimate guardian of God's people, the one who perfectly fulfills the role of protecting His flock from spiritual dangers and providing eternal access to God's presence. Unlike the temporary and limited service of the Levitical families, Christ's work establishes an eternal kingdom and inaugurates a new covenant, where believers themselves become a spiritual temple, built of "living stones" (1 Peter 2:5), with Christ Himself as its foundational cornerstone (Ephesians 2:20). His "valour" is supremely demonstrated not in guarding a physical structure, but in His triumphant conquest over sin, death, and the powers of darkness, securing eternal life for all who believe (Colossians 2:15). He perfectly rules over His spiritual house, the Church, ensuring its security and flourishing for all eternity (Hebrews 3:6).

Copy as

Commentary on 1 Chronicles 26 verses 1–19

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.
Copy as
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.
Copy as

Continue studying 1 Chronicles 26:6 across the web’s major study libraries — every link below opens this exact verse, chapter, or book on the destination site.

Read & Compare

Commentaries

Original Language & Research

Sermons, Hymns & Audio

TrulyRandomVerse is not affiliated with these sites and doesn’t control their content. They’re linked because they’re genuinely useful.