1 Chronicles 9:13

KJV

And their brethren, heads of the house of their fathers, a thousand and seven hundred and threescore; very able men for the work of the service of the house of God.

KJV (with Strong's)

And their brethren {H251}, heads {H7218} of the house {H1004} of their fathers {H1}, a thousand {H505} and seven {H7651} hundred {H3967} and threescore {H8346}; very able {H2428} men {H1368} for the work {H4399} of the service {H5656} of the house {H1004} of God {H430}.

Complete Jewish Bible

and their kinsmen, leaders of their fathers'clans, 1,760 very competent men available for serving in the house of God.

Berean Standard Bible

and 1,760 of their relatives, the heads of their families, able men for the work of the service of the house of God.

American Standard Version

and their brethren, heads of their fathers’ houses, a thousand and seven hundred and threescore; very able men for the work of the service of the house of God.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Chronicles 9:13 details the considerable number of highly competent men—one thousand seven hundred and threescore (1,760)—who were dedicated to the essential service of the House of God in Jerusalem following the Babylonian exile. This verse underscores the meticulous organization and the profound commitment of the post-exilic community to re-establish and maintain proper worship and temple functions, highlighting the importance of both quantity and quality in those consecrated to divine service.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within a lengthy and detailed genealogical record that dominates the first nine chapters of 1 Chronicles. Following an extensive tracing of Israel's lineage from Adam through the various tribes, Chapter 9 specifically focuses on the inhabitants of Jerusalem after the return from Babylonian captivity. It serves as a crucial bridge, connecting the historical genealogies to the practical re-establishment of life in the land, particularly emphasizing the roles of priests, Levites, gatekeepers, and other temple servants. The meticulous listing of these individuals, including their numbers and qualifications, sets the stage for the narrative of Israel's kingship and the centrality of the temple in their national and spiritual identity, which unfolds in subsequent chapters.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The historical backdrop for 1 Chronicles 9:13 is the post-exilic period, specifically after the first wave of returns to Jerusalem under Zerubbabel, as recounted in [Ezra 2](/ezra/2 "Ezra 2 - List of Those Who Returned"). After decades of captivity in Babylon, the Jewish people were granted permission by Cyrus the Great to return and rebuild their temple and city. This era was marked by immense challenges, including physical reconstruction, spiritual renewal, and the re-establishment of religious and civil order. Culturally, the "House of God" (the Temple) was the epicenter of Israelite life, representing God's presence among His people and serving as the primary place for worship, sacrifice, and covenant renewal. The detailed enumeration of "heads of the house of their fathers" signifies the importance of tribal and familial lineage in maintaining order and continuity, especially for priestly and Levitical duties, which were strictly hereditary.
* **Key Themes:** The verse contributes significantly to several overarching themes in Chronicles. Firstly, it highlights **Restoration and Renewal**, demonstrating God's faithfulness in bringing His people back to the land and enabling them to resume their covenant responsibilities, particularly the re-establishment of temple worship. Secondly, it emphasizes **Dedicated Service to God**, showing the community's commitment to the "work of the service of the house of God," which reflects a profound spiritual re-prioritization after the exile. This theme resonates with the broader Chronicler's emphasis on the centrality of worship and obedience. Thirdly, the phrase "very able men" underscores the theme of **Competence and Ability in Ministry**. God values not only willingness but also skill and suitability in those who serve Him, a principle seen throughout scripture, as when Moses was advised to choose [able men to judge the people](/exodus/18-21 "Exodus 18:21 - Moses Chooses Able Men"). Finally, the precise number points to the theme of **Order and Organization**, illustrating the meticulous structure and diligence required for carrying out divine commands and maintaining the sanctity of worship.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Threescore (English, _sixty_):** An archaic English term meaning sixty. In the context of "a thousand and seven hundred and threescore," it precisely indicates the total number of men as 1,760. This precise numerical detail underscores the Chronicler's meticulous record-keeping and the significant scale of the workforce dedicated to the temple.
* **Able men (Hebrew, _'anashim gibborei chayil'_):** This phrase, literally "men of strength/valor," is commonly translated "mighty men" in military contexts (e.g., David's mighty men). However, in this specific context, it denotes competence, capability, and suitability for the sacred duties of temple service. It implies not merely physical prowess but also moral aptitude, skill, and perhaps even courage in upholding the sanctity and order of the "house of God." These were men of proven character and proficiency.
* **Service (Hebrew, _'abodah'_):** This versatile Hebrew term encompasses work, labor, worship, and servitude. Here, it refers to the dedicated, often ritualistic, labor performed in the Temple. It signifies a comprehensive range of duties, from maintaining the physical structure to assisting with sacrifices, teaching, and administrative tasks, all performed as an act of devotion to God.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And their brethren, heads of the house of their fathers":** This phrase identifies the specific group of men being counted. "Their brethren" refers to those related by kinship or tribal affiliation, particularly within the Levitical and priestly lines. "Heads of the house of their fathers" indicates that these were not just any men, but the leading figures or patriarchs of their respective ancestral clans, emphasizing the organized, lineage-based structure of the temple personnel and the importance of hereditary roles in post-exilic society.
* **"a thousand and seven hundred and threescore":** This numerical specification (1,760) provides a precise count of these leading men. The Chronicler's inclusion of such exact figures highlights the meticulousness of the records and the significant number of qualified individuals dedicated to the temple's operations, reflecting a substantial commitment to the restoration of worship.
* **"very able men":** This descriptive phrase emphasizes the quality and competence of the individuals. They were not merely numerous but were chosen for their skill, strength (in the sense of capability), and suitability for the demanding and sacred duties associated with the "house of God." This highlights a divine expectation for excellence in service.
* **"for the work of the service of the house of God":** This final clause specifies the purpose and destination of these men's abilities and numbers. Their collective strength and competence were entirely devoted to the comprehensive "work of the service" within the Temple. This encompasses all aspects of its operation, maintenance, and the performance of its sacred rituals, underscoring the centrality of the Temple in the life of the restored community.

#### Literary Devices
The Chronicler employs several literary devices in this verse to convey its significance. **Enumeration** is prominently used through the precise number "a thousand and seven hundred and threescore," which lends an air of historical accuracy and emphasizes the scale and meticulous organization of the post-exilic community's efforts to restore temple service. The phrase "very able men" functions as a form of **Emphasis** or **Hyperbole**, underscoring the exceptional quality and suitability of these individuals for their sacred duties, suggesting they were not just numerous but also highly qualified. Furthermore, the recurring phrase "the house of God" throughout Chronicles, and specifically here, acts as a form of **Repetition** and **Symbolism**, reinforcing the centrality of the Temple as the physical manifestation of God's presence and the focal point of Israelite worship and national identity. The "work of the service of the house of God" also employs **Metonymy**, where "house of God" stands for the entire system of worship, rituals, and spiritual life centered around the Temple.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
1 Chronicles 9:13 powerfully illustrates God's desire for an ordered, dedicated, and competent people to serve Him, particularly in the context of corporate worship. The meticulous listing of these "able men" reflects a theological principle that service to God is not to be done haphazardly but with excellence and intentionality. It speaks to the divine value placed on both the quantity of those committed to His work and, crucially, the quality of their character and capability. This commitment to restoring temple service after exile also demonstrates God's faithfulness to His covenant, enabling His people to re-engage with their sacred responsibilities and re-establish the means of atonement and communion. The verse reminds us that God's work requires dedicated individuals who are equipped and willing to serve with their best, contributing to the spiritual health and order of the community.

* [Exodus 35:30-35](/exodus/35-30 "Exodus 35:30-35 - Bezalel and Oholiab, Spirit-filled Craftsmen for the Tabernacle")
* [Nehemiah 7:73](/nehemiah/7-73 "Nehemiah 7:73 - Resettlement and Temple Service in Nehemiah")
* [1 Corinthians 14:40](/1_corinthians/14-40 "1 Corinthians 14:40 - Order in Worship")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The detailed account of the "able men" serving the House of God in 1 Chronicles 9:13 offers profound lessons for believers today. Just as the returning exiles prioritized the re-establishment of worship with dedicated and competent personnel, we are called to approach our service to God with similar intentionality and excellence. The church, as the spiritual "house of God" in the New Covenant, thrives when its members, empowered by the Holy Spirit, faithfully exercise their diverse gifts and abilities for the common good. This verse challenges us to consider not just our willingness to serve, but also our commitment to developing our skills, cultivating a spirit of diligence, and embracing our roles, however visible or hidden, as vital contributions to the body of Christ. It reminds us that every act of service, from teaching to hospitality, from administration to prayer, contributes to the overall health and mission of God's kingdom, and should be offered with the highest possible standard of devotion and competence.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the emphasis on "very able men" challenge our contemporary understanding of what it means to serve in the church or in our daily vocations for God's glory?**
* **In what specific areas of your life or ministry can you cultivate greater competence and dedication, reflecting the spirit of service seen in 1 Chronicles 9:13?**
* **Considering the importance of order and structure in ancient temple service, how can we foster greater intentionality and excellence in our personal spiritual disciplines and corporate worship experiences today?**

### FAQ
**Why are these detailed genealogies and lists of temple workers so important in Chronicles?**

Answer: The detailed genealogies and lists of temple workers in Chronicles serve several crucial purposes. Firstly, they establish the legitimacy and continuity of God's covenant people, particularly after the disruption of the Babylonian exile. By tracing lineages, the Chronicler affirms that the post-exilic community is indeed the true Israel, heir to God's promises. Secondly, these lists underscore the vital importance of legitimate worship and the re-establishment of the Temple system. They demonstrate God's faithfulness in preserving a remnant and enabling them to resume their sacred duties, emphasizing the centrality of the Temple as the place of God's presence and atonement. Finally, they highlight the meticulous organization required for proper worship and national life, providing a blueprint for the restored community and emphasizing the roles of the priests and Levites as essential for maintaining covenant fidelity. This detailed record reinforces the Chronicler's theological agenda: to encourage hope, continuity, and faithful worship for a community seeking to rebuild its identity around God's covenant and His dwelling place.

**What does "able men" mean in this context, and how does it apply to us?**

Answer: In the context of 1 Chronicles 9:13, "able men" (Hebrew: _'anashim gibborei chayil'_) signifies individuals who were competent, skilled, and morally suitable for their specific sacred duties within the Temple. It's not merely about physical strength or military prowess, but about aptitude, integrity, and capability for the work of the Lord. These were men who could effectively carry out the complex and sacred tasks required for the "service of the house of God." For believers today, this principle applies profoundly. God desires us to use our gifts, talents, and resources with excellence and dedication in His service, whether in the church or in our daily vocations. Just as the temple workers were "able men" for their specific tasks, we are called to be "able" in our spheres of influence, striving for competence and diligence in all that we do, as [Colossians 3:23-24](/colossians/3-23 "Colossians 3:23-24 - Working Heartily for the Lord") encourages us to "work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men." Our service should reflect the high value we place on God and His kingdom.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The meticulous enumeration and qualification of "able men for the work of the service of the house of God" in 1 Chronicles 9:13 finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The earthly temple, with its elaborate system of service, priests, and sacrifices, was a shadow pointing to the reality of Christ. He is the true and ultimate "House of God," as He declared, "Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up," speaking of [the temple of his body](/john/2-19 "John 2:19 - Jesus and the Temple"). All the dedicated service of the Old Testament priests and Levites foreshadowed Christ's perfect and once-for-all service as our [great high priest](/hebrews/4-14 "Hebrews 4:14 - Jesus, Our Great High Priest"), who offered Himself as the spotless Lamb of God. The "able men" of the Old Covenant, though competent, were still imperfect and needed to be replaced; Christ, however, is the perfectly "able man," fully qualified and eternally sufficient to accomplish the work of salvation. Through His death and resurrection, He inaugurated a new covenant where believers, indwelt by the Holy Spirit, collectively become the spiritual "temple of God," as [1 Corinthians 3:16](/1_corinthians/3-16 "1 Corinthians 3:16 - You are God's Temple") proclaims. Our service now is not in a physical edifice, but in and through Christ, empowered by His Spirit, as we offer our lives as living sacrifices, reflecting His perfect service and pointing others to the ultimate "work of the service of the house of God" accomplished on the cross.

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.

Cross-References

1 Chronicles 26:32

And his brethren, men of valour, [were] two thousand and seven hundred chief fathers, whom king David made rulers over the Reubenites, the Gadites, and the half tribe of Manasseh, for every matter pertaining to God, and affairs of the king.

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.

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.

1 Chronicles 26:30

[And] of the Hebronites, Hashabiah and his brethren, men of valour, a thousand and seven hundred, [were] officers among them of Israel on this side Jordan westward in all the business of the LORD, and in the service of the king.