1 Chronicles 9:27

KJV

And they lodged round about the house of God, because the charge [was] upon them, and the opening thereof every morning [pertained] to them.

KJV (with Strong's)

And they lodged {H3885} round about {H5439} the house {H1004} of God {H430}, because the charge {H4931} was upon them, and the opening {H4668} thereof every morning {H1242} pertained to them.

Complete Jewish Bible

They spent their nights in the vicinity of the house of God, because they were in charge of it; they were responsible for opening it up each morning.

Berean Standard Bible

They would spend the night stationed around the house of God, because they were responsible for guarding it and opening it every morning.

American Standard Version

And they lodged round about the house of God, because the charge thereof was upon them; and to them pertained the opening thereof morning by morning.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Chronicles 9:27 provides a concise yet profound insight into the dedicated service of the Levitical gatekeepers in post-exilic Jerusalem. This verse highlights their constant presence and unwavering commitment to the Temple, specifically noting their lodging around the sacred precinct and their daily responsibility for opening its gates each morning. It underscores the vital nature of their "charge," a divinely appointed duty that ensured the security, order, and accessibility of the "house of God" for daily worship and priestly functions, embodying a spirit of faithful stewardship and continuous vigilance.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within a lengthy and detailed genealogical record in the book of 1 Chronicles, specifically in chapter 9, which focuses on the inhabitants of Jerusalem after the return from Babylonian exile. Following extensive lists of families and tribes, the chapter shifts its focus to the re-establishment of the temple service, meticulously detailing the roles of priests, Levites, and various temple servants. Verses 17-34 are particularly dedicated to the gatekeepers, outlining their lineage, responsibilities, and the importance of their daily duties. Verse 27 specifically elaborates on their living arrangements and the continuous nature of their task, serving as a practical detail that underscores the solemnity and constancy of their sacred "charge." This section of Chronicles emphasizes the restoration of order and the continuity of covenant worship in the rebuilt community.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The setting for 1 Chronicles 9:27 is the post-exilic period, following the return of the Jewish people from seventy years of captivity in Babylon, as described in books like Ezra and Nehemiah. This was a time of national and spiritual rebuilding, where the re-establishment of the Temple and its services was paramount to restoring Israel's identity and relationship with God. The "house of God" refers to the Second Temple, which, though not as grand as Solomon's, was still the spiritual heart of the nation. The cultural practice of assigning specific Levitical families to guard and maintain the Temple was ancient, rooted in the Tabernacle traditions (e.g., [Numbers 3:25-38](/numbers/3-25 "Numbers 3:25-38 - Duties of the Sons of Levi")). Their lodging "round about" the Temple was a practical necessity for security and immediate availability, reflecting a society where sacred spaces required constant vigilance against defilement or intrusion.
* **Key Themes:** The verse encapsulates several significant themes prevalent in 1 Chronicles and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it highlights **Faithful Stewardship and Responsibility**, emphasizing the "charge" (מִשְׁמֶרֶת, _mishmeret_) laid upon these Levites, signifying a sacred trust that demanded careful observance and protection of God's sanctuary. This resonates with the broader biblical call for God's people to be faithful with what they have been entrusted, as seen in the New Testament teaching on stewardship in [1 Corinthians 4:2](/1_corinthians/4-2 "1 Corinthians 4:2 - Faithfulness in Stewardship"). Secondly, **Diligence and Vigilance** are paramount, as their lodging on site and daily "opening thereof every morning" speaks to an unwavering commitment and readiness. This continuous presence underscores the persistent nature of spiritual service. Lastly, the verse points to the theme of **Sacred Service**, illustrating that even seemingly mundane tasks, when performed for the "house of God," are integral to worship and contribute to the functioning of God's kingdom. Every role, from the most prominent priest to the humble gatekeeper, is vital in God's ordered community, a principle echoed in [1 Corinthians 12](/1_corinthians/12 "1 Corinthians 12 - Unity and Diversity in the Body of Christ") regarding the body of Christ.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Charge (Hebrew, _mishmeret'_):** This noun, derived from the verb _shamar_ (to keep, guard, observe), denotes a 'guard,' 'watch,' 'custody,' 'duty,' or 'obligation.' In the context of the Temple, it signifies a divinely mandated responsibility that demands careful observance, protection, and adherence to specific regulations. It implies a sacred trust, often associated with priestly and Levitical functions, highlighting the seriousness and accountability inherent in their assigned tasks. The "charge" was not merely a job but a solemn duty before God.
* **Lodged (Hebrew, _lanu'_):** From the verb _lun_ (to lodge, pass the night, abide), this word indicates that the gatekeepers literally resided or encamped around the Temple complex. This was not a temporary arrangement but a permanent living situation, underscoring their constant presence and immediate availability for their duties. Their proximity ensured continuous vigilance and readiness for the daily operations of the sanctuary, emphasizing their complete devotion to their sacred role.
* **Opening (Hebrew, _p'tichah'_):** This noun, derived from _patach_ (to open), refers specifically to the act of opening the Temple gates. The repetition "every morning" (בַּבֹּקֶר בַּבֹּקֶר, _ba'boker ba'boker_) in the Hebrew text emphasizes the daily, consistent, and indispensable nature of this task. It was a foundational duty, signifying the preparation of the sanctuary for the priests and worshippers, allowing access to the sacred space and the commencement of daily rituals.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And they lodged round about the house of God":** This clause describes the physical proximity and constant presence of the gatekeepers. Their living arrangements were not far from the Temple but directly surrounding it, indicating a perpetual state of readiness and vigilance. This close association highlighted their dedication and the critical nature of their role in safeguarding the sacred precinct.
* **"because the charge [was] upon them":** This phrase provides the reason for their constant presence. The "charge" (מִשְׁמֶרֶת, _mishmeret_) refers to a specific, divinely appointed duty or responsibility. It was a solemn trust, implying that they were entrusted with the security, order, and proper functioning of the Temple, a task that required unwavering faithfulness and accountability.
* **"and the opening thereof every morning [pertained] to them":** This specifies one of their primary daily duties. The gatekeepers were responsible for the literal opening of the Temple gates at dawn, a task that facilitated access for priests and worshippers to begin the day's sacrifices and rituals. The emphasis on "every morning" underscores the routine, continuous, and essential nature of their service, symbolizing the daily renewal of access to God's presence for His people.

#### Literary Devices
1 Chronicles 9:27 employs several literary techniques to convey its message. The primary device is **Emphasis through Repetition**, particularly evident in the Hebrew phrase for "every morning" (בַּבֹּקֶר בַּבֹּקֶר, _ba'boker ba'boker_), which uses a doubled noun to stress the daily, unwavering, and continuous nature of the gatekeepers' duty. This repetition highlights their diligence and the perpetual requirement of their service. Furthermore, **Metonymy** is present in the phrase "house of God," which stands not just for the physical structure but for the entire system of worship, the divine presence, and the covenant relationship it represented. The gatekeepers were not merely opening doors but facilitating access to the very heart of Israel's spiritual life. The verse also utilizes **Understatement** to highlight profound dedication; the seemingly simple act of "opening" the gates belies the immense responsibility and constant vigilance required to maintain the sanctity and security of the Temple, a task foundational to the nation's spiritual well-being.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
1 Chronicles 9:27 offers profound theological insights into the nature of service and stewardship within God's kingdom. It underscores that all roles, regardless of their perceived prominence, are vital when performed with diligence and faithfulness for the Lord. The gatekeepers' constant presence and daily opening of the Temple gates exemplify a life lived in perpetual readiness and dedication to God's purposes. Their "charge" was a sacred trust, reminding us that every believer is entrusted with gifts, time, and resources to be stewarded for God's glory. This verse teaches that true service is marked by consistency, vigilance, and a deep understanding that even the most routine tasks contribute to the larger work of God, preparing the way for others to encounter His presence and participate in His worship. It reinforces the biblical principle that God values faithfulness in the small things just as much as in the great.

* [1 Corinthians 4:2](/1_corinthians/4-2 "1 Corinthians 4:2 - Faithfulness Required of Stewards")
* [Colossians 3:23-24](/colossians/3-23 "Colossians 3:23-24 - Working Heartily for the Lord")
* [Luke 16:10](/luke/16-10 "Luke 16:10 - Faithful in Little, Faithful in Much")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The diligent service of the Levitical gatekeepers in 1 Chronicles 9:27 offers a powerful paradigm for contemporary believers. Their commitment to lodging "round about the house of God" and their consistent "opening thereof every morning" challenges us to consider the depth of our own dedication to God's presence and purposes. Are we living in close proximity to the "house of God"— His church, His Word, His Spirit—ready to serve at any moment? This verse calls us to embrace our individual callings, whether seemingly grand or mundane, with the same sense of sacred "charge" that these gatekeepers possessed. It reminds us that consistency in our spiritual disciplines—daily prayer, Bible reading, and worship—is essential for preparing our hearts and minds to serve God and to be ready for His presence each new day. Furthermore, it encourages us to value and affirm every role within the body of Christ, recognizing that the smooth functioning and spiritual vitality of the church depend on the faithful service of all its members, even those who operate "behind the scenes." Our faithfulness in small, consistent acts of obedience and service contributes significantly to the glory of God and the flourishing of His kingdom.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How do I view my daily responsibilities, both within my spiritual life and secular work, as a divine "charge" entrusted to me by God?**
* **What spiritual disciplines can I consistently practice "every morning" to prepare my heart and mind for God's presence and service throughout the day?**
* **In what ways can I better appreciate and affirm the vital roles of all members within the body of Christ, recognizing that every contribution, no matter how seemingly small, is essential?**

### FAQ
**Who were these "gatekeepers" and what was their primary role in the Temple?**

Answer: The "gatekeepers" (Hebrew: שׁוֹעֲרִים, _sho'arim_) mentioned in 1 Chronicles 9:27 were a specific class of Levites, primarily from the families of Korah and Merari, as detailed in preceding verses (1 Chronicles 9:17-26). Their primary role was multifaceted and crucial for the daily operation and sanctity of the Temple. They were responsible for the security of the sanctuary, guarding its various gates day and night to prevent unauthorized entry or defilement. This included opening the gates each morning at dawn to allow priests and worshippers access, and closing them at night. Beyond security, they oversaw the Temple treasury, managed the storage of various offerings and sacred vessels, and ensured the cleanliness and order of the Temple precincts. Their duties were not merely physical but spiritual, as they were entrusted with maintaining the sacred space where God's presence dwelt, thus facilitating the worship life of the nation.

**Why was it so important for them to "lodge round about the house of God"?**

Answer: Their lodging "round about the house of God" was of paramount importance for several reasons. Firstly, it ensured constant **security** for the sacred Temple complex, which housed invaluable treasures and was the spiritual heart of the nation. Being on site allowed for immediate response to any threat or intrusion. Secondly, it guaranteed their **immediate availability** for their daily duties, particularly the critical task of opening the gates "every morning" at dawn. This eliminated any delay in commencing the daily sacrifices and rituals. Thirdly, it underscored their **unwavering vigilance** and dedication to their sacred "charge." Living within the Temple precincts symbolized their complete devotion and commitment to their divinely appointed role, emphasizing that the Temple required perpetual guardianship and care. This arrangement ensured the smooth, uninterrupted flow of worship and the preservation of the Temple's sanctity.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The diligent service of the Levitical gatekeepers in 1 Chronicles 9:27, with their constant vigil and daily opening of the Temple gates, finds its ultimate fulfillment and transformation in Jesus Christ. While they facilitated physical access to a temporal sanctuary, Jesus declares, "I am the door; if anyone enters through Me, he will be saved" ([John 10:9](/john/10-9 "John 10:9 - Jesus, the Door")). He is the ultimate "gate" or "door" through whom humanity gains access to God the Father. His faithfulness, unlike that of any human gatekeeper, is perfect and eternal. Through His once-for-all sacrifice on the cross, Jesus "opened" the way into the true heavenly sanctuary, tearing the veil that separated humanity from God's presence ([Hebrews 10:19-20](/hebrews/10-19 "Hebrews 10:19-20 - Access to God through Christ")). No longer do we need human intermediaries or a physical temple; believers are now living stones built into a spiritual house, a holy priesthood offering spiritual sacrifices through Christ ([1 Peter 2:5](/1_peter/2-5 "1 Peter 2:5 - Living Stones, Holy Priesthood")). Jesus, who holds "the key of David, who opens and no one will shut, and who shuts and no one opens" ([Revelation 3:7](/revelation/3-7 "Revelation 3:7 - The Key of David")), is the sovereign one who grants and controls access to the divine presence, fulfilling and transcending the dedicated, yet limited, service of the ancient gatekeepers.

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 23:30

And to stand every morning to thank and praise the LORD, and likewise at even;

1 Chronicles 23:32

And that they should keep the charge of the tabernacle of the congregation, and the charge of the holy [place], and the charge of the sons of Aaron their brethren, in the service of the house of the LORD.

1 Samuel 3:15

And Samuel lay until the morning, and opened the doors of the house of the LORD. And Samuel feared to shew Eli the vision.

Malachi 1:10

Who [is there] even among you that would shut the doors [for nought]? neither do ye kindle [fire] on mine altar for nought. I have no pleasure in you, saith the LORD of hosts, neither will I accept an offering at your hand.

Romans 12:7

Or ministry, [let us wait] on [our] ministering: or he that teacheth, on teaching;