TRV
Translation
King James Version
And Shallum the son of Kore, the son of Ebiasaph, the son of Korah, and his brethren, of the house of his father, the Korahites, were over the work of the service, keepers of the gates of the tabernacle: and their fathers, being over the host of the LORD, were keepers of the entry.
KJV (with Strong's)
And Shallum H7967 the son H1121 of Kore H6981, the son H1121 of Ebiasaph H43, the son H1121 of Korah H7141, and his brethren H251, of the house H1004 of his father H1, the Korahites H7145, were over the work H4399 of the service H5656, keepers H8104 of the gates H5592 of the tabernacle H168: and their fathers H1, being over the host H4264 of the LORD H3068, were keepers H8104 of the entry H3996.
Complete Jewish Bible
Shalum the son of Kore the son of Evyasaf the son of Korach and his kinsmen from his father's clan the Korchim were in charge of the work of the service, keepers of the gates of the tent. Their ancestors had been in charge of the camp of ADONAI, keepers of the entryway.
Berean Standard Bible
Shallum son of Kore, the son of Ebiasaph, the son of Korah, and his relatives from the Korahites were assigned to guard the thresholds of the Tent, just as their fathers had been assigned to guard the entrance to the dwelling of the LORD.
American Standard Version
And Shallum the son of Kore, the son of Ebiasaph, the son of Korah, and his brethren, of his father’s house, the Korahites, were over the work of the service, keepers of the thresholds of the tent: and their fathers had been over the camp of Jehovah, keepers of the entry.
World English Bible Messianic
Shallum the son of Kore, the son of Ebiasaph, the son of Korah, and his brothers, of his father’s house, the Korahites, were over the work of the service, keepers of the thresholds of the tent: and their fathers had been over the camp of the LORD, keepers of the entry.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And Shallum the sonne of Kore the sonne of Ebiasaph the sonne of Korah, and his brethren the Korathites (of the house of their father) were ouer the worke, and office to keepe the gates of the Tabernacle: so their families were ouer the hoste of the Lord, keeping the entrie.
Young's Literal Translation
And Shallum son of Kore, son of Ebiasaph, son of Korah, and his brethren, of the house of his father, the Korahites, are over the work of the service, keepers of the thresholds of the tent, and their fathers are over the camp of Jehovah, keepers of the entrance;
See also
In the KJVVerse 10,635 of 31,102
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Commentary on 1 Chronicles 9 verses 14–34
14 ¶ And of the Levites; Shemaiah the son of Hasshub, the son of Azrikam, the son of Hashabiah, of the sons of Merari;
15 And Bakbakkar, Heresh, and Galal, and Mattaniah the son of Micah, the son of Zichri, the son of Asaph;
16 And Obadiah the son of Shemaiah, the son of Galal, the son of Jeduthun, and Berechiah the son of Asa, the son of Elkanah, that dwelt in the villages of the Netophathites.
17 And the porters were, Shallum, and Akkub, and Talmon, and Ahiman, and their brethren: Shallum was the chief;
18 Who hitherto waited in the king's gate eastward: they were porters in the companies of the children of Levi.
19 And Shallum the son of Kore, the son of Ebiasaph, the son of Korah, and his brethren, of the house of his father, the Korahites, were over the work of the service, keepers of the gates of the tabernacle: and their fathers, being over the host of the LORD, were keepers of the entry.
20 And Phinehas the son of Eleazar was the ruler over them in time past, and the LORD was with him.
21 And Zechariah the son of Meshelemiah was porter of the door of the tabernacle of the congregation.
22 All these which were chosen to be porters in the gates were two hundred and twelve. These were reckoned by their genealogy in their villages, whom David and Samuel the seer did ordain in their set office.
23 So they and their children had the oversight of the gates of the house of the LORD, namely, the house of the tabernacle, by wards.
24 In four quarters were the porters, toward the east, west, north, and south.
25 And their brethren, which were in their villages, were to come after seven days from time to time with them.
26 For these Levites, the four chief porters, were in their set office, and were over the chambers and treasuries of the house of God.
27 And they lodged round about the house of God, because the charge was upon them, and the opening thereof every morning pertained to them.
28 And certain of them had the charge of the ministering vessels, that they should bring them in and out by tale.
29 Some of them also were appointed to oversee the vessels, and all the instruments of the sanctuary, and the fine flour, and the wine, and the oil, and the frankincense, and the spices.
30 And some of the sons of the priests made the ointment of the spices.
31 And Mattithiah, one of the Levites, who was the firstborn of Shallum the Korahite, had the set office over the things that were made in the pans.
32 And other of their brethren, of the sons of the Kohathites, were over the shewbread, to prepare it every sabbath.
33 And these are the singers, chief of the fathers of the Levites, who remaining in the chambers were free: for they were employed in that work day and night.
34 These chief fathers of the Levites were chief throughout their generations; these dwelt at Jerusalem.
We have here a further account of the good posture which the affairs of religion were put into immediately upon the return of the people out of Babylon. They had smarted for their former neglect of ordinances and under the late want of ordinances. Both these considerations made them very zealous and forward in setting up the worship of God among them; so they began their worship of God at the right end. Instances hereof we have here.
I. Before the house of the Lord was built they had the house of the tabernacle, a plain and movable tent, which they made use of in the mean time. Those that cannot yet reach to have a temple must not be without a tabernacle, but be thankful for that and make the best of it. Never let God's work be left undone for want of a place to do it in.
II. In allotting to the priests and Levites their respective employments, they had an eye to the model that was drawn up by David, and Samuel the seer, Ch1 9:22. Samuel, in his time, had drawn the scheme of it, and laid the foundation, though the ark was then in obscurity, and David afterwards finished it, and both acted by immediate direction from God. Or David, as soon as he was anointed had this matter in his mind and consulted Samuel about it, though he was then in his troubles, and the plan was formed in concert between them. This perhaps had been little regarded for many ages; but now, after a long interruption, it was revived. In dividing the work, they observed these ancient land-marks.
III. The most of them dwelt at Jerusalem (Ch1 9:34), yet there were some that dwelt in the villages (Ch1 9:16, Ch1 9:22), because, it may be, there was not yet room for them in Jerusalem. However they were employed in the service of the tabernacle (Ch1 9:25): They were to come after seven days from time to time. They had their week's attendance in their turns.
IV. Many of the Levites were employed as porters at the gates of the house of God, four chief porters (Ch1 9:26), and, under them, others, to the number of 212, Ch1 9:22. They had the oversight of the gates (Ch1 9:23), were keepers of the thresholds, as in the margin (Ch1 9:19), and keepers of the entry. This seemed a mean office; and yet David would rather have it than dwell in the tents of wickedness, Psa 84:10. Their office was, 1. To open the doors of God's house every morning (Ch1 9:27) and shut them at night. 2. To keep off the unclean, and hinder those from thrusting in that were forbidden by the law. 3. To direct and introduce into the courts of the Lord those that came thither to worship, and to show them where to go and what to do, that they might not incur punishment. This required care, and diligence, and constant attendance. Ministers have work to do of this kind.
V. Here is one Phinehas, a son of Eleazar, that is said to be a ruler over them in time past (Ch1 9:20), not the famous high priest of that name, but (as is supposed) an eminent Levite, of whom it is here said that the Lord was with him, or (as the Chaldee reads it) the Word of the Lord was his helper - the eternal Word, who is Jehovah, the mighty one on whom help is laid.
VI. It is said of some of them that, because the charge was upon them, they lodged round about the house of God, Ch1 9:27. It is good for ministers to be near their work, that they may give themselves wholly to it. The Levites pitched about the tabernacle when they marched through the wilderness. Then they were porters in one sense, bearing the burdens of the sanctuary, now porters in another sense, attending the gates and the doors - in both instances keeping the charge of the sanctuary.
VII. Every one knew his charge. Some were entrusted with the plate, the ministering vessels, to bring them in and out by tale, Ch1 9:28. Others were appointed to prepare the fine flour, wine, oil, etc., Ch1 9:29. Others, that were priests, made up the holy anointing oil, Ch1 9:30. Others took care of the meat-offerings, Ch1 9:31. Others of the show-bread, Ch1 9:32. As in other great houses, so in God's house, the work is likely to be done well when every one knows the duty of his place and makes a business of it. God is the God of order: but that which is every body's work will be nobody's work.
VIII. The singers were employed in that work day and night, Ch1 9:33. They were the chief fathers of the Levites that made a business of it, not mean singing-men, that made a trade of it. They remained in the chambers of the temple, that they might closely and constantly attend it, and were therefore excused from all other services. It should seem, some companies were continually singing, at least at stated hours, both day and night. Thus was God continually praised, as it is fit he should be who is continually doing good. Thus devout people might, at any hour, have assistance in their devotion. Thus was the temple a figure of the heavenly one, where they rest not day nor night from praising God, Rev 4:8. Blessed are those that dwell in thy house; they will be still praising thee.
Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 14–34. Public domain.
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Theodoret of CyrusAD 458
QUESTIONS ON FIRST CHRONICLES, PROLOGUE
The Chronicles also speak about the tabernacle because a temple of the Lord had not yet been built by either Samuel or David. The text also adds that that the holy services were held in the tabernacle. Worship was observed at that time according to the number of the days of the week. For it also says, “and their kindred who were in their villages were obliged to come in every seven days, in turn, to be with them.” With regard to the holy utensils it says, “Some of them had charge of the utensils of service, for they were required to count them when they were brought in and taken out. Others of them were appointed over the furniture, and over all the holy utensils, also over the choice flour, the wine, the oil, the incense and the spices.” And about the priests it says, “Others, of the sons of the priests, prepared the mixing of the spices.” With regard to the tomb of Saul the Chronicles gives us much information, and in the Book of Kings itself we read that his bones were gathered and buried in the land of Jabesh.
Theodoret of CyrusAD 458
QUESTIONS ON 1 CHRONICLES, PROLOGUE
There is abundant information in the books of Chronicles which were written to continue the books of the Kings and to preserve the memory of such important events. The first book begins with a genealogy that sets out to demonstrate how the human race came from a single man. Since it focuses only on the single kingdom of Judah, it can tell us about its cities and the villages, and from where they took their names. Here we come to know Nathan, from whom the blessed Luke constructed the beginning of his genealogy of our Lord and Savior, Son of David and Solomon’s brother4 on his mother’s side: “The following children were born to him in Jerusalem: Shimeah, Shobab, Nathan and Solomon, that is, the four children he fathered with Bersabea, daughter of Ammiel.” And Rechab6 herself, who is mentioned in many books of Scripture, is said to have come from the tribe of Judah.It also clearly explains why Reuben lost his birthright and Joseph gained it and also, finally, the reason why the tribe of Judah obtained the highest honor: “The sons of Reuben the firstborn of Israel. He was the firstborn, but because he defiled his father’s bed his birthright was given to the sons of Joseph son of Israel, so that he is not enrolled in the genealogy according to the birthright; though Judah became prominent among his brothers and a ruler came from him, yet the birthright belonged to Joseph.” It also explains the reason why such a great honor was conceded to Joseph. By the will of God Judah had the dignity of receiving the Lord who was born from him according to the flesh. This is the sense tacitly expressed with the words “a leader from him.” Indeed the passage seems to assert that not only the kings of the earth derived from Judah, but also the eternal king himself who had no beginning and will never end.
It also describes the situation of the tribes beyond the Jordan, those of Reuben and Gad, and even the tribes of Manasseh which later were received into those of the Hagarites and the Itureans, and talks about the tribes of the Naphiseans, and all those peoples who entered into conflict with them. In addition the text relates how they fought and won, and made the Hagarites flee. And it also reports the reason for the victory: “When they received help against them, the Hagarites and all who were with them were given into their hands, for they cried to God in the battle, and he granted their entreaty because they trusted in him.” It also describes the amount of the spoils of war: “They captured their livestock: 50, of their camels, 250, sheep, 2, donkeys and 100, captives. Many were slain because the war was from God. And they lived in their territory until the exile.”
Theodoret of CyrusAD 458
QUESTIONS ON 1 CHRONICLES, PROLOGUE
The genealogy of the priests and the Levites comes after this. It relates that Zadok, who was high priest at the time of David, had been the eleventh from Aaron; that Azariah, nephew of Zadok, had been the first to receive the priestly anointing in the temple built by Solomon. Among them there was also Jehozadak, who was brought to Babylon as a war prisoner. Jesus9 was his son, a high priest as well, who delivered the people from bondage together with Zerubbabel, and built a temple for the Lord. Here we also learn that Korah, who revolted against the great Moses, was a nephew of Isaar, son of Caath and brother of Amram, Aaron’s and Moses’ father. According to this lineage he was related to the first legislator. But he himself paid in the desert for his errors, although his children did not share the punishment of their father. From here Samuel13 came and then Aeman, who intoned Psalms and was a nephew of the prophet Samuel. In fact he was the son of Joel, son of Samuel. On the other hand, Asaph, one of the singers, came from the lineage of Gerson, son of Levi and brother of Caath. Aetham, who also belonged to the group of the singers, had Merari, the third son of Levi, as great-grandfather.The text also explains the difference between the priests and the Levites. It relates that the Levites were initiated into all the ministries of the holy altar of God: “But Aaron and his sons made offerings on the altar of burnt offering and on the altar of incense, doing all the work of the most holy place, to make atonement for Israel, according to all that Moses the servant of God had commanded.” It seems to me, in fact, that this book was written after the return from Babylon. For this reason it also talks about the bondage and explains its cause: “So all Israel was enrolled by genealogies; and these are written in the book of the Kings of Israel. And Judah was taken into exile in Babylon because of their unfaithfulness. Now the first to live again in their possessions in their towns were Israelites, priests, Levites, and temple servants.” These accounts show that the book was begun after the captivity. Indeed no historian ever relates facts that happened afterwards, but what happened before or during his times. And actually only the prophets have the power to foretell the future. In addition it says that also those who had inhabited that land before them had been enslaved. And actually many of them still live with them: the Canaanites, Chettites, Jebusites, who had been their companions in such a misfortune. Also the priests and the Levites were brought into captivity with the Israelites. I believe that those who were called “the saints’ servants” were then called Nathinim. Many of them, in fact, consecrated themselves to the ministries of the priests and the Levites. There were among them also those who were entrusted with the carrying of the water, the gathering of wood and other necessary duties. Indeed, if it was imposed to the Gabaonites, who were foreigners, to follow Joshua in the praises and to perform some works as porters or carpenters, this task was even more the duty of the Israelites. As a proof of this I have found in the interpretation of Hebrew names that this name means “house of Iaō,” that is, “of the God who is.” The text, in fact, mentions the children of Israel and among them Judah and Benjamin, and Ephraim18 and Manasseh. It also mentions the priests and the Levites, who inhabited those cities. About the Korēnites it says that they derived from Korah. It also says that among them there had been the guardians of the temple of God as well, and it seems that this custom had been introduced by Samuel and David. “All these, who were chosen as gatekeepers at the thresholds, were two hundred twelve. They were enrolled by genealogies in their villages. David and the prophet Samuel established them in their office of trust. So they and their descendants were in charge of the gates of the house of the Lord, that is, the house of the tent, as guards. The gatekeepers were on the four sides, east, west, north, and south.”
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 9:19 meticulously details the specific, vital role of Shallum and his brethren, descendants of Korah, as dedicated gatekeepers of the tabernacle. This verse is part of a broader post-exilic account in Chronicles, emphasizing the meticulous re-establishment of divine worship and the organized service of the Levites, priests, and temple workers in Jerusalem, highlighting the enduring grace of God in restoring even those from a lineage marked by past rebellion to positions of sacred trust and responsibility within His house.
CONTEXT
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
The Chronicler employs several Literary Devices in this verse to convey its profound message. The most prominent is Genealogy, which is foundational to the book of Chronicles. By meticulously tracing Shallum's lineage back through Kore and Ebiasaph to Korah, the text establishes his identity, tribal affiliation, and, significantly, his connection to a controversial figure. This genealogical detail serves to powerfully highlight the theme of Restoration and Divine Grace, as descendants of a rebellious ancestor are shown to be in a position of trusted, sacred service. The Repetition of the phrase "keepers of the gates" (or "keepers of the entry") emphasizes the enduring importance and continuity of this specific role across generations. Furthermore, the very concept of "gates" and "entry" carries rich Symbolism, representing access to the sacred presence of God. The careful guardianship of these points underscores the holiness of God and the need for proper order and reverence in approaching Him, making the gatekeepers' role symbolically crucial for maintaining the sanctity and integrity of worship.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
1 Chronicles 9:19 profoundly illustrates the Lord's redemptive grace and His meticulous ordering of worship. The fact that descendants of Korah, whose ancestor led a direct rebellion against God's appointed leadership, are found serving faithfully as gatekeepers speaks volumes about God's capacity for forgiveness and restoration across generations. It demonstrates that past sin, even grievous sin, does not eternally condemn a lineage, but through faithfulness and divine mercy, a new legacy of service can emerge. This verse also underscores the importance of every role within the community of faith, emphasizing that all service, whether prominent or seemingly peripheral, is vital to God's purposes and contributes to the integrity and sanctity of His house. It reminds us that God values faithful stewardship in all areas, recognizing and honoring those who diligently maintain order and facilitate access to His presence.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
1 Chronicles 9:19 offers powerful lessons for contemporary believers, reminding us that God's grace extends far beyond our past failures or the shortcomings of our heritage. Just as the Korahites were restored to a place of vital service, so too can individuals and families find redemption and purpose in God's kingdom, regardless of their history. This verse challenges us to embrace whatever role God has called us to, no matter how seemingly small or unnoticed, recognizing that every act of faithful service contributes to the greater work of the Lord. The diligence and integrity required of the gatekeepers remind us that our service to God and His church should be marked by excellence, responsibility, and a deep understanding of its sacred nature. We are called to be faithful stewards of the access points to God's presence, whether through evangelism, hospitality, or maintaining the sanctity of worship, ensuring that all who seek Him can do so in order and reverence, reflecting the holiness of God in our actions and attitudes.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why are the descendants of Korah, who rebelled against Moses, serving in the temple?
Answer: This is a powerful testament to God's redemptive grace and the principle that the sins of the fathers do not necessarily condemn the children. While Korah himself led a severe rebellion against God's appointed leadership, resulting in divine judgment upon him and his immediate followers, as recorded in Numbers 16:31-35, the biblical record explicitly states that "the sons of Korah did not die" (Numbers 26:11). Their survival and subsequent faithful service, particularly as temple musicians (authors of several Psalms, e.g., Psalm 42) and gatekeepers, demonstrate that God offers restoration and purpose to those who turn to Him in faithfulness, even from a lineage marked by past rebellion. It highlights the possibility of a new legacy built on obedience and devotion through divine mercy.
What was the specific role and importance of a "gatekeeper" in the tabernacle/temple service?
Answer: The role of a gatekeeper was far more significant than simply opening and closing doors. As "keepers of the gates" or "guardians of the thresholds," they were crucial for maintaining the sanctity, security, and order of the sacred precincts. Their responsibilities included regulating who could enter the various courts of the tabernacle or temple, ensuring that only those ritually clean and authorized were admitted. They also served as security, protecting the sacred treasures and provisions within the temple complex, as detailed in 1 Chronicles 9:26-29. Furthermore, they were responsible for the daily opening and closing, and often for the distribution of offerings and supplies. Their position was one of trust and immense responsibility, essential for the proper functioning of the entire worship system and for upholding the holiness of God's dwelling place.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
1 Chronicles 9:19, with its focus on the gatekeepers and the restoration of the Korahites, finds profound Christ-centered fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus. The gatekeepers' role was to regulate access to God's presence, ensuring order and holiness. Yet, in Christ, the ultimate "gate" to God's presence is flung wide open. Jesus declares, "I am the door. If anyone enters by Me, he will be saved" (John 10:9). He is the one who provides direct, unhindered access to the Father, tearing down the veil that separated humanity from God at His crucifixion (Matthew 27:51). Furthermore, the restoration of the Korahites, a lineage once marked by rebellion but now serving faithfully, powerfully foreshadows the redemption offered through Christ. Through His atoning sacrifice, humanity, once alienated and rebellious against God (Romans 5:8-10), is reconciled and brought into a new covenant relationship, not merely as servants but as adopted children and co-heirs with Christ (Galatians 4:4-7). Jesus, the great High Priest who has passed through the heavens (Hebrews 4:14), not only grants access but also cleanses and sanctifies those who come to Him, enabling them to serve God in spirit and truth, fulfilling the ultimate purpose of all temple service and inviting all believers to be "gatekeepers" of His gospel, welcoming others into His kingdom.