1 Chronicles 9:28

And [certain] of them had the charge of the ministering vessels, that they should bring them in and out by tale.

And certain of them had the charge of {H5921} the ministering {H5656} vessels {H3627}, that they should bring them in {H935} and out {H3318} by tale {H4557}{H4557}.

Some of [the L'vi'im] were in charge of the articles used for the service; they had to keep records of them when bringing them in and out.

Some of them were in charge of the articles used in worship, to count them whenever they were brought in or taken out.

And certain of them had charge of the vessels of service; for by count were these brought in and by count were these taken out.

Commentary

1 Chronicles 9:28 KJV: "And certain of them had the charge of the ministering vessels, that they should bring them in and out by tale."

Context

This verse is part of a detailed account in 1 Chronicles 9 that describes the inhabitants of Jerusalem after the Babylonian exile and, more specifically, the organization and duties of the Levites and other temple servants. After the return from captivity, there was a significant focus on re-establishing proper temple worship and its associated services. This chapter meticulously lists various roles, from gatekeepers to those who prepared the showbread, highlighting the structured and dedicated nature of service in the rebuilt temple. Verse 28 specifically details the responsibility of certain individuals concerning the sacred utensils used in divine service.

Key Themes

  • Stewardship and Accountability: The phrase "by tale" (Hebrew: b'mispar, meaning "by count" or "by number") emphasizes the meticulous inventory and accountability required for these precious items. This highlights the importance of faithful stewardship over God's possessions and responsibilities.
  • Order and Precision in Worship: God's service was not to be chaotic but highly organized. The careful handling and counting of vessels ensured that everything was done decently and in order, reflecting the holy nature of the worship itself. This principle resonates with the New Testament call for all things to be done decently and in order.
  • Reverence for the Sacred: The "ministering vessels" (Hebrew: k'ley hashareth) were not ordinary items; they were consecrated for divine service in the Tabernacle and later the Temple. Their careful handling signified the deep reverence due to God and everything associated with His presence and worship.
  • Diligence in Service: Even seemingly mundane tasks, like counting and transporting vessels, were considered vital parts of temple service. This speaks to the value God places on diligence and attention to detail in all responsibilities given to us.

Linguistic Insights

The term "ministering vessels" refers to the various implements, tools, and utensils used specifically in the rituals and services of the Tabernacle and Temple. These included items for offerings, lamps, incense, and more, all consecrated for sacred use. The phrase "by tale" is a crucial detail, indicating a strict system of inventory and accountability. It wasn't enough to simply move them; they had to be carefully accounted for, ensuring none were lost, damaged, or misused. This points to a high level of organization and responsibility among the Levites entrusted with these duties.

Practical Application

While believers today do not serve in a physical temple with literal sacred vessels, the principles of 1 Chronicles 9:28 remain highly relevant. We are called to be faithful stewards of what God has entrusted to us—whether it's our time, talents, resources, or spiritual gifts. Just as the Levites meticulously cared for the temple items, we are to exercise diligence and accountability in our service to God and others. This verse reminds us that God values our carefulness, our attention to detail, and our reverence for His work, even in the seemingly small or less glamorous aspects of our lives and ministries. Our faithfulness in the little things often prepares us for greater responsibilities.

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Cross-References

  • Nehemiah 13:4

    And before this, Eliashib the priest, having the oversight of the chamber of the house of our God, [was] allied unto Tobiah:

  • Nehemiah 13:5

    And he had prepared for him a great chamber, where aforetime they laid the meat offerings, the frankincense, and the vessels, and the tithes of the corn, the new wine, and the oil, which was commanded [to be given] to the Levites, and the singers, and the porters; and the offerings of the priests.

  • Numbers 23:25

    And Balak said unto Balaam, Neither curse them at all, nor bless them at all.

  • Numbers 23:27

    And Balak said unto Balaam, Come, I pray thee, I will bring thee unto another place; peradventure it will please God that thou mayest curse me them from thence.

  • Nehemiah 12:44

    ¶ And at that time were some appointed over the chambers for the treasures, for the offerings, for the firstfruits, and for the tithes, to gather into them out of the fields of the cities the portions of the law for the priests and Levites: for Judah rejoiced for the priests and for the Levites that waited.

  • 1 Chronicles 26:22

    The sons of Jehieli; Zetham, and Joel his brother, [which were] over the treasures of the house of the LORD.

  • 1 Chronicles 26:26

    Which Shelomith and his brethren [were] over all the treasures of the dedicated things, which David the king, and the chief fathers, the captains over thousands and hundreds, and the captains of the host, had dedicated.
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