1 Chronicles 26:9

KJV

And Meshelemiah had sons and brethren, strong men, eighteen.

KJV (with Strong's)

And Meshelemiah {H4920} had sons {H1121} and brethren {H251}, strong {H2428} men {H1121}, eighteen {H8083}{H6240}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Meshelemyahu had sons and brothers, valiant men, eighteen.

Berean Standard Bible

Meshelemiah also had sons and brothers who were capable men—18 in all.

American Standard Version

And Meshelemiah had sons and brethren, valiant men, eighteen.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Chronicles 26:9 precisely records Meshelemiah's family contingent, consisting of eighteen "strong men"—his sons and brethren—who were designated as doorkeepers for the tabernacle, and later the temple. This seemingly simple detail underscores the meticulous organization of temple service under King David, highlighting the communal, hereditary nature of Levite duties and the requirement for individuals of both physical and moral fortitude to safeguard the sacred precincts and their valuable contents. The verse emphasizes God's valuing of all roles within His house, even those seemingly less prominent, and the importance of strength and faithfulness in carrying out divine assignments.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within 1 Chronicles 26, a chapter meticulously detailing the divisions and responsibilities of the Levite doorkeepers and treasurers. Following chapters that outline the duties of priests (e.g., [1 Chronicles 24](/1_chronicles/24 "1 Chronicles 24 - Divisions of Priests")) and other Levite roles (e.g., [1 Chronicles 23](/1_chronicles/23 "1 Chronicles 23 - Levite Divisions and Duties")), chapter 26 focuses specifically on the gatekeepers and the guardians of the temple treasuries. Meshelemiah, also identified as Shelemiah in [1 Chronicles 26:1](/1_chronicles/26-1 "1 Chronicles 26:1 - Divisions of the Gatekeepers"), is presented as a prominent head of a household chosen for this crucial service. The detailed enumeration of his family members underscores the comprehensive and orderly system established by King David under divine inspiration, ensuring every aspect of temple operation was covered by capable and dedicated individuals.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Israel, the tabernacle, and later the temple, served as the central place of worship and the dwelling place of God's presence. Protecting this sacred space and its valuable contents was a paramount duty. The Levites, a tribe set apart for temple service, had hereditary responsibilities, and the role of "doorkeeper" or "gatekeeper" (Hebrew: *sho'er*) was vital for maintaining order, security, and sanctity. These individuals were not merely guards; they controlled access, managed offerings, and often oversaw treasuries, requiring both physical capability and unwavering trustworthiness. The mention of "sons and brethren" reflects the patriarchal and communal structure of Israelite society, where family units often served together, passing on vocational and spiritual legacies.
* **Key Themes:** The meticulous organization of the Levites in this passage contributes to several overarching themes in Chronicles. First, it highlights **Organized and Dedicated Service**, emphasizing that God values order and every specific role within His house, no matter how seemingly mundane. This echoes the broader Chronicler's emphasis on proper worship and the functioning of the temple, as seen in [1 Chronicles 23:4](/1_chronicles/23-4 "1 Chronicles 23:4 - Levites Appointed for Temple Service"). Second, the focus on "sons and brethren" underscores the theme of **Familial and Generational Faithfulness**, where service to God was often a communal and hereditary endeavor, fostering a legacy of devotion. Finally, the description "strong men" points to the theme of **Capability and Character in Service**. Beyond mere physical prowess, this term implies moral fortitude, reliability, and competence—qualities essential for those entrusted with the security and sanctity of God's dwelling place, aligning with the Chronicler's broader concern for the integrity of those who serve the Lord.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Strong men (Hebrew, _gibborim'_):** This term (גִּבּוֹרִים) is plural for *gibbor*, often translated as "mighty men," "warriors," or "heroes" in other biblical contexts (e.g., [Joshua 1:14](/joshua/1-14 "Joshua 1:14 - Mighty Men of Valor") or [2 Samuel 23:8](/2_samuel/23-8 "2 Samuel 23:8 - David's Mighty Men")). While it can denote physical strength, in the context of doorkeepers, it implies more than mere brawn. It suggests individuals of courage, resolve, and steadfast character, capable of handling the demands of their sensitive and important duties—guarding the temple, managing its resources, and maintaining order. Their strength was not just for physical defense but for moral integrity and unwavering commitment to their sacred trust.
* **Sons and brethren (Hebrew, _banim v'achim'_):** This phrase (בָּנִים וְאַחִים) emphasizes the familial unit involved in this service. "Sons" refers to direct descendants, while "brethren" (or brothers) can include close male relatives or kinsmen. This highlights the communal nature of Levite duties, which were often passed down through generations and involved an extended family network. It underscores the idea that service to God was a family affair, fostering continuity and shared responsibility within the tribal structure.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And Meshelemiah had sons and brethren":** This opening clause establishes Meshelemiah as a patriarch and head of a significant household. It immediately draws attention to the familial aspect of the doorkeepers' service, indicating that this was not an individual appointment but one that encompassed an entire family unit. This familial involvement ensured continuity and a communal dedication to the sacred duties.
* **"strong men":** This descriptive phrase, using the Hebrew *gibborim*, qualifies the "sons and brethren." It specifies the caliber of individuals involved in Meshelemiah's contingent. They were not just numerous but possessed the necessary qualities—whether physical prowess, courage, or moral fortitude—to fulfill the demanding and responsible role of temple doorkeepers and treasurers. This highlights the importance of capability and reliability in sacred service.
* **"eighteen":** The precise number provided here is characteristic of the Chronicler's meticulous record-keeping, emphasizing the orderly and systematic organization of temple personnel. It signifies a substantial contingent from Meshelemiah's family, indicating their significant contribution to the overall doorkeeping force. This specific enumeration underscores the divine attention to detail in the administration of His house and the valuing of each individual's contribution.

#### Literary Devices
The Chronicler employs **Enumeration** and **Emphasis** in this verse. The precise listing of "eighteen" individuals from Meshelemiah's family, along with the specific designation of "sons and brethren," is a form of **Enumeration** that highlights the meticulous organization and comprehensive nature of the temple service. This detailed accounting underscores the divine order established by David. Furthermore, the description "strong men" serves as an **Emphasis** on the quality and capability of these individuals. It's not merely a headcount but a qualitative assessment, drawing attention to their suitability for the important role of guarding the sacred precincts. This qualitative emphasis elevates the doorkeepers from mere guards to individuals of significant character and competence.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
1 Chronicles 26:9, though a seemingly minor detail, profoundly illustrates God's valuing of order, preparedness, and the communal nature of service within His kingdom. It demonstrates that every role, from the most visible priest to the gatekeeper, is essential for the proper functioning of divine worship. The strength mentioned is not just physical but speaks to the character and reliability required for sacred duties, reminding us that God seeks not just willing hands but faithful hearts. This verse sets a precedent for the meticulous and dedicated service expected in God's house, a principle that transcends the Old Testament temple and applies to the church today.

* [1 Chronicles 23:4](/1_chronicles/23-4 "Levites Appointed for Temple Service")
* [Nehemiah 7:1](/nehemiah/7-1 "Appointment of Gatekeepers")
* [Romans 12:6-8](/romans/12-6 "Gifts for Service in the Body of Christ")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
This verse, a brief record of an ancient family's service, offers profound lessons for contemporary believers. It reminds us that God values every role within His kingdom, no matter how seemingly small or behind-the-scenes. Just as the doorkeepers were crucial for the security and sanctity of the temple, every contribution to the body of Christ is indispensable for its health and mission. We are called to use our God-given strengths—whether physical, intellectual, spiritual, or relational—with diligence and faithfulness in His service. The example of Meshelemiah's family also encourages us to consider the communal and generational aspects of faith. How can we, as families and communities, foster a legacy of dedication to God's work, passing on a spirit of service and commitment to the next generation? This verse subtly challenges us to embrace our specific callings with integrity and strength, understanding that our faithfulness in seemingly ordinary tasks contributes to God's extraordinary purposes.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "behind-the-scenes" roles in my church or community might be as vital as the more visible ones, and how can I honor those who serve in them?**
* **In what ways can I identify and utilize my unique "strength" (gifts, talents, character) for God's purposes, rather than just for personal gain?**
* **How can my family or spiritual community intentionally cultivate a legacy of service and faithfulness for future generations?**
* **What does "diligence" and "order" in service look like in my personal walk with God and my contributions to His kingdom?**

### FAQ
**Who was Meshelemiah and why is his family mentioned?**

Answer: Meshelemiah (also called Shelemiah in [1 Chronicles 26:1](/1_chronicles/26-1 "1 Chronicles 26:1 - Divisions of the Gatekeepers")) was a Levite doorkeeper, specifically from the Kohathite branch, whose family was chosen for the crucial role of guarding the gates of the tabernacle/temple and managing its treasuries. His family is mentioned to highlight the meticulous organization of temple service under King David, where specific families were assigned particular hereditary duties. The detailed enumeration of his "sons and brethren" underscores the communal and generational nature of Levite service, emphasizing that entire family units were dedicated to God's house.

**What does "strong men" imply in this context?**

Answer: The Hebrew term for "strong men" is *gibborim*, which often denotes "mighty men" or "warriors." In the context of doorkeepers, it implies more than just physical strength. It suggests individuals of courage, moral fortitude, reliability, and competence. Their duties involved not only guarding the physical gates but also managing valuable temple treasures and maintaining order in sacred spaces. Therefore, "strong men" refers to their comprehensive capability and steadfast character, essential for such sensitive and responsible tasks.

**Why is such a specific number ("eighteen") given?**

Answer: The Chronicler is known for his meticulous record-keeping, particularly concerning the organization of the temple and its personnel. The specific number "eighteen" for Meshelemiah's contingent is part of this detailed enumeration, which highlights the precise and orderly administration of God's house. It demonstrates that every role and every individual's contribution was accounted for and valued in the divinely ordained system established by King David. It underscores the importance of order and accountability in sacred service.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While 1 Chronicles 26:9 details the earthly organization of doorkeepers for a physical temple, it points forward to the ultimate order and security found in Christ. Jesus declared Himself the [true "door" for the sheep](/john/10-9 "John 10:9 - Jesus, the Door"), through whom all must enter to find salvation and abundant life. He is also the [ultimate Temple](/john/2-19 "John 2:19 - Jesus, the Temple"), whose body was destroyed and raised in three days, becoming the new and living way to God. The "strong men" of Meshelemiah's family foreshadow the strength and capability found in believers who are empowered by the Holy Spirit to serve in Christ's spiritual temple, the Church. Just as the gatekeepers ensured the sanctity and order of the Old Testament sanctuary, Christ, through His perfect sacrifice and ongoing intercession, ensures the eternal security and purity of His people. He perfectly fulfills the role of the ultimate Guardian, protecting His flock from all spiritual dangers, and He equips His followers with diverse gifts and strengths, not for a physical building, but for the [building up of His body](/ephesians/4-12 "Ephesians 4:12 - Equipping the Saints for Ministry"), the church, where every member, like Meshelemiah's family, has a vital, God-given role in the grand design of His kingdom.

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.