1 Chronicles 26:6

Also unto Shemaiah his son were sons born, that ruled throughout the house of their father: for they [were] mighty men of valour.

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}.

To his son Sh'ma'yah were born sons who ruled over their father's clan, because they were strong, brave men.

Also to his son Shemaiah were born sons who ruled over their families because they were strong, capable men.

Also unto Shemaiah his son were sons born, that ruled over the house of their father; for they were mighty men of valor.

Commentary

This verse, 1 Chronicles 26:6, continues the detailed account of the Levite gatekeepers, specifically focusing on the lineage of Obed-Edom and his son Shemaiah. It highlights the divine blessing and remarkable competence within this family, who were entrusted with significant responsibilities in the sacred service of the tabernacle/temple.

Context

Chapter 26 of 1 Chronicles meticulously lists the divisions and duties of the Levite gatekeepers and treasurers. This particular verse expands on the family of Obed-Edom, who was blessed with many sons and grandsons, all serving in various capacities related to the temple gates. Shemaiah, as one of Obed-Edom's sons, is noted here for his own capable offspring, who rose to positions of authority within their family's assigned roles, demonstrating the generational faithfulness and strength of this prominent Levitical line.

Key Themes

  • Divine Empowerment for Service: The description of Shemaiah's sons as "mighty men of valour" underscores that their capability and fitness for leadership were not merely coincidental but part of God's equipping for their sacred duties. This principle is seen throughout Scripture, where God enables individuals for the tasks He calls them to, much like He filled Bezalel with the Spirit of God for craftsmanship.
  • Competence and Responsibility: The phrase "ruled throughout the house of their father" indicates that these men held positions of authority and managed the affairs of their clan effectively. Their "valour" extended beyond physical strength to include administrative skill, courage in their duties, and overall competence necessary for maintaining order and security at the temple gates.
  • Generational Faithfulness: This verse beautifully illustrates the passing down of spiritual legacy and service from one generation to the next. The continued blessing and capability within Obed-Edom's family highlight the importance of raising children in the service of God, echoing the wisdom found in Proverbs 22:6 about training a child in the way he should go.

Linguistic Insight

The KJV phrase "mighty men of valour" translates the Hebrew ื’ึดึผื‘ึนึผืจึตื™ ื—ึธึ‘ื™ึดืœ (gibborim chayil). While gibborim (ืžึดึผื‘ึนึผืจึดื™ื) refers to strong men or warriors, the term chayil (ื—ึธึ‘ื™ึดืœ) is rich in meaning. It can denote strength, wealth, capability, efficiency, and moral virtue. It's the same word used to describe the "virtuous woman" (ืึตืฉึถืืชึพื—ึทื™ึดืœ, eshet chayil) in Proverbs 31:10. In this context, it emphasizes that Shemaiah's sons were not just physically strong but were also highly capable, competent, and virtuous individuals, perfectly suited for their significant roles as leaders and gatekeepers.

Practical Application

This verse serves as a reminder that God uses and blesses competence and dedication in all forms of service, whether in prominent leadership or seemingly behind-the-scenes roles. It encourages believers to cultivate their gifts and strengths, serving with excellence in whatever capacity God has called them. Furthermore, it highlights the profound blessing and impact of a family committed to the Lord's service, inspiring us to nurture a legacy of faith and devotion within our own households, much like Joshua's declaration that he and his house would serve the Lord.

Note: If the commentary doesnโ€™t appear instantly, please allow 2โ€“5 seconds for it to load. It is generated by Gemini 2.5 Flash using a prompt focused on Biblical fidelity over bias. While the insights have been consistently reliable, we encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit.

Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated โ€” the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Nehemiah 11:14

    And their brethren, mighty men of valour, an hundred twenty and eight: and their overseer [was] Zabdiel, the son of [one of] the great men.

  • 2 Samuel 2:7

    Therefore now let your hands be strengthened, and be ye valiant: for your master Saul is dead, and also the house of Judah have anointed me king over them.

  • 1 Chronicles 12:28

    And Zadok, a young man mighty of valour, and of his father's house twenty and two captains.

  • 2 Chronicles 26:17

    And Azariah the priest went in after him, and with him fourscore priests of the LORD, [that were] valiant men:

  • 1 Chronicles 26:8

    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.

  • 2 Timothy 2:3

    Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.

  • Judges 6:12

    And the angel of the LORD appeared unto him, and said unto him, The LORD [is] with thee, thou mighty man of valour.
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