1 Chronicles 26:7

KJV

The sons of Shemaiah; Othni, and Rephael, and Obed, Elzabad, whose brethren [were] strong men, Elihu, and Semachiah.

KJV (with Strong's)

The sons {H1121} of Shemaiah {H8098}; Othni {H6273}, and Rephael {H7501}, and Obed {H5744}, Elzabad {H443}, whose brethren {H251} were strong {H2428} men {H1121}, Elihu {H453}, and Semachiah {H5565}.

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.

Commentary

### 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.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** 1 Chronicles 26:7 is situated within a broader section (chapters 23-26) dedicated to King David's meticulous organization of the Levites for temple service, even before the temple's construction. Chapter 23 provides an overview of the Levitical duties, while chapter 24 details the divisions of the priests. Chapter 25 focuses on the musicians, leading into chapter 26, which specifically outlines the divisions of the gatekeepers (vv. 1-19) and treasurers (vv. 20-32). Verse 7, by naming the sons of Shemaiah and their brethren, falls squarely within the detailed enumeration of the gatekeepers, underscoring the precise allocation of roles and responsibilities within the sacred precincts. This meticulous listing emphasizes the comprehensive nature of David's preparations, ensuring every aspect of temple administration was divinely ordered and staffed.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** During King David's reign, Israel was transitioning from a nomadic tabernacle worship to the anticipation of a permanent Temple in Jerusalem. This period saw the consolidation of national identity and religious practice around the capital. The Levites, descendants of Levi, were divinely appointed for temple service, a role that was hereditary and central to Israelite worship. Their duties extended beyond sacrificial rites to include maintaining the sanctuary, teaching the law, and, as seen here, guarding the entrances and managing sacred treasuries. The mention of "strong men" for gatekeepers reflects the practical necessity of physical capability and reliability in a time when security was paramount, protecting valuable offerings and ensuring the sanctity of the holy space from unauthorized access or theft. This reflects a culture where lineage, strength, and dedicated service were highly valued for communal and religious well-being.
* **Key Themes:** The detailed enumeration in 1 Chronicles 26:7, set within the broader Levitical organization, powerfully underscores the theme of **Divine Order and Organization**. David's meticulous planning, often guided by prophetic instruction (e.g., [1 Chronicles 28:11-19](/1_chronicles/28-11 "1 Chronicles 28:11-19 - David's Instructions for the Temple")), reflects God's desire for precision and structure in worship and service. This verse also highlights the theme of **Covenantal Service and Lineage**, as the roles were passed down through specific families, emphasizing the enduring nature of God's covenant with Levi and the importance of generational faithfulness in fulfilling sacred duties, as seen in the broader context of [Numbers 3](/numbers/3 "Numbers 3 - The Duties of the Levites"). Finally, the description of "strong men" introduces the theme of **Competence and Strength in Service**. This wasn't merely about physical prowess, but about the reliability, valor, and steadfastness required for demanding roles, echoing the call for believers to serve God with their best abilities, as exemplified by figures like [Joshua](/joshua/1-9 "Joshua 1:9 - Be Strong and Courageous").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Strong men (Hebrew, _gibborim'_):** This term (גִּבּוֹרִים) is a plural noun derived from the root גבר (gabar), meaning "to be strong, mighty, or valiant." While it often denotes physical strength or military prowess, as seen in descriptions of David's "mighty men" ([2 Samuel 23:8](/2_samuel/23-8 "2 Samuel 23:8 - David's Mighty Men")), in the context of temple gatekeepers, it signifies more than mere musculature. It implies reliability, courage, steadfastness, and a robust capacity for demanding service. These individuals were not just guards but trusted administrators, requiring moral fortitude and unwavering dedication to their sacred duties.
* **Sons of Shemaiah (Hebrew, _b'nei Sh'ma'yah'_):** This phrase (בְּנֵי שְׁמַעְיָה) literally translates to "sons of Shemaiah," emphasizing the patrilineal lineage crucial for Levitical service. Shemaiah himself is identified in verse 6 as a son of Obed-Edom, indicating a specific family line within the gatekeepers. The detailed naming of his sons—Othni, Rephael, Obed, Elzabad, Elihu, and Semachiah—underscores the hereditary nature of these sacred roles and the importance of each individual's place within the divinely ordained structure. It highlights the transmission of responsibility and spiritual heritage through generations.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"The sons of Shemaiah; Othni, and Rephael, and Obed, Elzabad,":** This initial clause identifies the patriarch, Shemaiah, and four of his sons who were designated for service. Their inclusion by name signifies their specific appointment within the Levitical divisions, highlighting the personal nature of God's call to service and David's meticulous record-keeping. It establishes their direct lineage from Obed-Edom, a prominent gatekeeper.
* **"whose brethren [were] strong men,":** This parenthetical phrase offers a significant descriptive detail about the wider family unit. The term "strong men" (גִּבּוֹרִים) here refers not necessarily to the four named sons but to their kinsmen or other members of their extended family. This description emphasizes the inherent qualities—physical, moral, and spiritual—deemed essential for their demanding roles as gatekeepers and potentially treasurers. It suggests a family known for its reliability, capability, and steadfastness in service.
* **"Elihu, and Semachiah.":** This final clause names two additional sons of Shemaiah, completing the list of his six sons involved in this specific Levitical division. Their inclusion reinforces the comprehensive nature of the record and the full extent of Shemaiah's family's contribution to the temple administration. The precise naming of each individual underscores the importance of every person's role in the larger divine plan for worship and service.

#### Literary Devices
The primary literary device at play in 1 Chronicles 26:7 is **Enumeration**, a characteristic feature 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 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**, 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 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, 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 required for faithful stewardship. This principle applies universally, reminding believers that God calls for our best abilities—our strength, diligence, and integrity—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 and security of God's people.
* [Nehemiah 11:19](/nehemiah/11-19 "Nehemiah 11:19 - Gatekeepers in Jerusalem")
* [Psalm 84:10](/psalms/84-10 "Psalm 84:10 - A Day in Your Courts")
* [1 Corinthians 12:4-7](/1_corinthians/12-4 "1 Corinthians 12:4-7 - Diversity of Gifts for the Common Good")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
While 1 Chronicles 26:7 lists ancient gatekeepers, its principles resonate deeply with contemporary believers. It reminds us that every member of God's household has a vital, divinely appointed role. Just as the gatekeepers ensured order and security, each of us is called to be a steward of God's truth and His community, using our unique strengths—be they intellectual, relational, physical, or spiritual—for His glory. The "strong men" were reliable and capable, prompting us to consider whether we are offering our best to God, not just our leftovers. This verse encourages diligence, faithfulness, and a humble embrace of our specific calling, recognizing that even seemingly ordinary tasks, when done for Christ, contribute to the flourishing of His kingdom and the purity of His church. 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
* **What "gates" or areas of responsibility has God entrusted to me in my life or in the church community?**
* **In what ways am I called to be "strong" (i.e., capable, reliable, steadfast) in my service to God and others?**
* **How does understanding the importance of seemingly "minor" roles in the Old Testament temple administration inform my perspective on service today?**

### 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. 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. Thirdly, it highlights the **importance of individual accountability and participation** within the larger covenant community, showing that even seemingly small roles contribute to the whole. For example, the careful record of gatekeepers like those mentioned in [1 Chronicles 26](/1_chronicles/26 "1 Chronicles 26 - Divisions of Gatekeepers and Treasurers") ensures that the temple's security and treasury were managed by specific, identifiable individuals, emphasizing the value of diligent stewardship.

**What is the significance of the phrase "strong men" in this context?**

Answer: The phrase "strong men" (Hebrew: *gibborim*) in 1 Chronicles 26:7 is significant because it implies more than just physical strength. While gatekeepers certainly needed to be physically capable, the term also conveys qualities of **valor, reliability, competence, and moral fortitude**. 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 David had his "mighty men" who were valiant warriors ([2 Samuel 23:8](/2_samuel/23-8 "2 Samuel 23:8 - David's Mighty Men")), the gatekeepers were "strong" in their commitment and ability to perform their duties faithfully. 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 ([Romans 12:6-8](/romans/12-6 "Romans 12:6-8 - Gifts for Service")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While 1 Chronicles 26:7 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 ([John 10:9](/john/10-9 "John 10:9 - Jesus, the Door")). He is the **Strong Man** who conquered sin, death, and the powers of darkness, demonstrating ultimate strength and reliability in His redemptive work ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Triumph Over Principalities")). 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 ([Ephesians 1:22-23](/ephesians/1-22 "Ephesians 1:22-23 - Christ as Head of the Church")). Believers, as members of His spiritual temple, are called to serve Him with their God-given strengths and gifts, not merely guarding physical gates but upholding the truth of the Gospel and stewarding the spiritual treasures of God's grace. 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, reflecting the divine order and purpose that began to be revealed even in the ancient Levitical divisions ([1 Peter 2:5](/1_peter/2-5 "1 Peter 2:5 - Living Stones, Spiritual House")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.