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1 Chronicles 9:2

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Now the first inhabitants that [dwelt] in their possessions in their cities [were], the Israelites, the priests, Levites, and the Nethinims.

Now the first {H7223} inhabitants {H3427} that dwelt in their possessions {H272} in their cities {H5892} were, the Israelites {H3478}, the priests {H3548}, Levites {H3881}, and the Nethinims {H5411}.

The first people to return to their possessions in the cities were the Isra'elim, the cohanim, the L'vi'im and the temple servants.

Now the first to resettle their own property in their cities were Israelites, priests, Levites, and temple servants.

Now the first inhabitants that dwelt in their possessions in their cities were Israel, the priests, the Levites, and the Nethinim.

Commentary

Commentary on 1 Chronicles 9:2 KJV

1 Chronicles 9:2 serves as a pivotal verse, initiating a detailed account of the residents of Jerusalem and other cities following the Babylonian exile. It transitions from the extensive genealogies of earlier chapters to the practical reality of the community re-establishing itself in the promised land.

Historical and Cultural Context

This verse provides a snapshot of the initial population that resettled Jerusalem and other cities after the return from Babylonian captivity. The Book of Chronicles, particularly chapters 1-9, is largely concerned with genealogies, tracing the lineage of Israel and the tribes. Chapter 9 shifts focus to those who actually took possession of their ancestral lands and cities. This re-establishment was crucial for the continuity of the covenant people and the restoration of worship. The listed groups represent the essential components of the post-exilic Jewish society, highlighting the civil, religious, and service-oriented structures.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Restoration and Re-establishment: The verse underscores God's faithfulness in bringing His people back to their land and re-establishing their community after a period of exile. It speaks to the fulfillment of prophecies concerning their return.
  • Divine Order and Structure: The precise enumeration of groups—Israelites, priests, Levites, and Nethinims—demonstrates the structured nature of the restored community, reflecting God's design for order within His people, especially concerning worship.
  • Importance of Worship and Service: The immediate mention of priests, Levites, and Nethinims highlights the priority given to the re-establishment of temple service and religious life in Jerusalem. Their roles were essential for the proper functioning of the sanctuary and the spiritual health of the nation.

Linguistic Insights

The term "Nethinims" (Hebrew: nethinim, נְתִינִים) literally means "given ones" or "dedicated ones." These were temple servants who performed the more menial tasks associated with the sanctuary, such as fetching water, cutting wood, and other laborious duties. While their exact origin is debated, they are often understood to be descendants of foreign peoples who were "given" to the service of the tabernacle or temple, such as the Gibeonites (Joshua 9) or others appointed by King David, as mentioned in Ezra 8:20. Their inclusion here emphasizes that even the most humble roles were vital to the overall functioning of God's house.

Related Scriptures

  • For a parallel account of the returnees, see Nehemiah 11:3, which also lists the inhabitants of Jerusalem following the exile.
  • The distinct roles of priests and Levites are extensively detailed in the books of Numbers and Leviticus, outlining their sacred duties concerning the tabernacle and later the temple.

Practical Application

This verse reminds us that every role within God's community is significant. Just as the priests, Levites, and Nethinims each had their place in the functioning of the temple, so too does every member of the body of Christ have a unique contribution to make. It speaks to the value of order, stewardship, and dedicated service in God's kingdom. Whether in prominent or seemingly humble positions, all who serve God are vital to His purposes, contributing to the spiritual health and growth of the community.

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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Nehemiah 7:73 (7 votes)

    So the priests, and the Levites, and the porters, and the singers, and [some] of the people, and the Nethinims, and all Israel, dwelt in their cities; and when the seventh month came, the children of Israel [were] in their cities.

  • Ezra 2:58 (5 votes)

    All the Nethinims, and the children of Solomon's servants, [were] three hundred ninety and two.

  • Ezra 8:20 (5 votes)

    Also of the Nethinims, whom David and the princes had appointed for the service of the Levites, two hundred and twenty Nethinims: all of them were expressed by name.

  • Ezra 2:43 (5 votes)

    The Nethinims: the children of Ziha, the children of Hasupha, the children of Tabbaoth,

  • Ezra 2:70 (5 votes)

    So the priests, and the Levites, and [some] of the people, and the singers, and the porters, and the Nethinims, dwelt in their cities, and all Israel in their cities.

  • Nehemiah 7:60 (4 votes)

    All the Nethinims, and the children of Solomon's servants, [were] three hundred ninety and two.

  • Nehemiah 11:3 (2 votes)

    Now these [are] the chief of the province that dwelt in Jerusalem: but in the cities of Judah dwelt every one in his possession in their cities, [to wit], Israel, the priests, and the Levites, and the Nethinims, and the children of Solomon's servants.