TRV
Translation
King James Version
The sons of Shemaiah; Othni, and Rephael, and Obed, Elzabad, whose brethren were strong men, Elihu, and Semachiah.
Complete Jewish Bible
The sons of Sh'ma'yah: 'Otni, Refa'el and his brothers 'Oved and Elzavad, valiant men; also Elihu and S'makhyahu.
Berean Standard Bible
Shemaiah’s sons were Othni, Rephael, Obed, and Elzabad; his brothers were Elihu and Semachiah, also capable men.
American Standard Version
The sons of Shemaiah: Othni, and Rephael, and Obed, Elzabad, whose brethren were valiant men, Elihu, and Semachiah.
World English Bible Messianic
The sons of Shemaiah: Othni, and Rephael, and Obed, Elzabad, whose brothers were valiant men, Elihu, and Semachiah.
Geneva Bible (1599)
The sonnes of Shemaiah were Othni, and Rephael, and Obed, Elzabad and his brethren, strong men: Elihu also, and Semachiah.
Young's Literal Translation
Sons of Shemaiah are Othni, and Rephael, and Obed, Elzabad; his brethren are sons of valour, Elihu and Semachiah,
In the KJVVerse 11,085 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 26:7 meticulously details a specific branch of the Levitical gatekeepers, identifying the sons of Shemaiah—Othni, Rephael, Obed, Elzabad, Elihu, and Semachiah—and notably describing their brethren as "strong men." This verse is embedded within King David's extensive administrative reforms for the temple service, highlighting the meticulous divine order established for the tabernacle's security, access, and treasury management, underscoring the importance of capable and dedicated individuals in sacred service. It emphasizes the hereditary nature of these crucial roles and the specific qualities required for those entrusted with the sanctity and functionality of God's dwelling place.
CONTEXT
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
The primary literary device at play in 1 Chronicles 26:7 is Enumeration, a hallmark of the Chronicler's historical narrative, particularly in these administrative chapters. The precise listing of names—Othni, Rephael, Obed, Elzabad, Elihu, and Semachiah—serves to legitimize the roles and responsibilities assigned to these individuals and their families, grounding them in established lineage and divine appointment. This detailed Genealogy is not merely for record-keeping but profoundly underscores the hereditary nature of Levitical service and the continuity of covenantal duties across generations. Furthermore, the phrase "whose brethren [were] strong men" employs a subtle form of Emphasis or Characterization, highlighting a specific quality deemed essential for their sacred duties. This descriptive detail elevates the individuals from mere names on a list to capable, reliable, and valorous servants, underscoring the high standards required for those entrusted with the security and administration of God's house.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The meticulous organization of the Levites in 1 Chronicles 26:7 reflects a profound theological truth: God is a God of order, not chaos. The detailed assignments for gatekeepers and treasurers underscore that every role in His service, no matter how seemingly mundane or behind-the-scenes, contributes to the sacredness and functionality of His dwelling. The emphasis on "strong men" transcends mere physical prowess, pointing to the spiritual and moral fortitude, competence, and reliability required for faithful stewardship. This principle applies universally, reminding believers that God calls for our best abilities—our strength, diligence, integrity, and spiritual gifts—to be fully consecrated to His purposes, whether in overt ministry or in the quiet, foundational tasks that uphold the community of faith. It teaches that faithfulness in specific, often unseen, roles is vital for the overall health, security, and purity of God's people and His work.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
While 1 Chronicles 26:7 lists ancient gatekeepers, its principles resonate deeply with contemporary believers, offering timeless lessons on service and stewardship. It reminds us that every member of God's household has a vital, divinely appointed role, regardless of its perceived prominence. Just as the gatekeepers ensured order, security, and proper access to God's house, each of us is called to be a faithful steward of God's truth, His resources, and His community, using our unique strengths—be they intellectual, relational, physical, or spiritual—for His glory. The "strong men" were reliable, capable, and steadfast, prompting us to consider whether we are offering our best to God, not just our leftovers or what is convenient. This verse encourages diligence, faithfulness, and a humble embrace of our specific calling, recognizing that even seemingly ordinary tasks, when done for Christ and for the good of His kingdom, contribute significantly to the flourishing of His church and the purity of His witness. It challenges us to value the unseen work and to serve with integrity, knowing that God sees and honors every faithful effort.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why does the Bible include such detailed lists of names and lineages, like in 1 Chronicles 26:7?
Answer: The inclusion of detailed lists, genealogies, and administrative records in books like 1 Chronicles serves several crucial purposes. Firstly, it underscores the divine order and meticulous planning behind God's work, demonstrating that every aspect of the temple service was carefully orchestrated and not left to chance. Secondly, these lists provide historical legitimacy and continuity, establishing the rightful lineage and authority of those appointed to sacred roles, particularly for the Levites and priests. This was vital for the post-exilic community to re-establish proper worship according to God's commands. Thirdly, it highlights the importance of individual accountability and participation within the larger covenant community, showing that even seemingly small or administrative roles contribute significantly to the whole. For example, the careful record of gatekeepers like those mentioned in 1 Chronicles 26 ensures that the temple's security and treasury were managed by specific, identifiable individuals, emphasizing the value of diligent stewardship and faithful service.
What is the significance of the phrase "strong men" in this context?
Answer: The phrase "strong men" (Hebrew: chayil) in 1 Chronicles 26:7 is significant because it implies more than just physical strength, though that was certainly a practical requirement for gatekeepers. The term also conveys qualities of valor, reliability, competence, moral fortitude, and general capability. These individuals were entrusted with the security of the sacred precincts and the management of valuable temple treasuries, demanding unwavering dedication and trustworthiness. Just as King David had his "mighty men" who were valiant warriors and leaders (2 Samuel 23:8), the gatekeepers were "strong" in their commitment and ability to perform their duties faithfully and responsibly. For believers today, it encourages us to bring our best, most capable, and most consecrated selves to God's service, whatever our calling may be, whether it's in overt ministry or in supporting roles within the body of Christ, recognizing that God values our wholehearted effort and competence (Romans 12:6-8).
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While 1 Chronicles 26:7 meticulously details the Old Testament administrative structure for the temple, its underlying principles find their ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ and His new covenant work. Christ is the true and ultimate Gate through whom all must enter to access God the Father, declaring, "I am the door. If anyone enters by Me, he will be saved" (John 10:9). He is the Strong Man who, through His life, death, and resurrection, conquered sin, death, and the powers of darkness, demonstrating ultimate strength and reliability in His redemptive work (Colossians 2:15). The meticulous order of the Old Testament temple service, with its gatekeepers and treasurers, foreshadows the perfect order and divine administration established by Christ in His church, which is His body and the new spiritual temple (Ephesians 1:22-23). Believers, as members of His spiritual temple, are now called to serve Him with their God-given strengths and spiritual gifts, not merely guarding physical gates but upholding the truth of the Gospel, stewarding the spiritual treasures of God's grace, and ensuring the purity and accessibility of His presence. In Christ, every believer is empowered by the Holy Spirit to be a "strong man" or "strong woman" in faith, contributing to the building up of His kingdom as living stones in a spiritual house, reflecting the divine order and purpose that began to be revealed even in the ancient Levitical divisions (1 Peter 2:5).