1 Chronicles 26:17

Eastward [were] six Levites, northward four a day, southward four a day, and toward Asuppim two [and] two.

Eastward {H4217} were six {H8337} Levites {H3881}, northward {H6828} four {H702} a day {H3117}, southward {H5045} four {H702} a day {H3117}, and toward Asuppim {H624} two {H8147} and two {H8147}.

For the east there were six L'vi'im, for the north four a day, for the south four a day, for the Storehouse two and two,

Each day there were six Levites on the east, four on the north, four on the south, and two pairs at the storehouse.

Eastward were six Levites, northward four a day, southward four a day, and for the store-house two and two.

Commentary

This verse details the specific assignments of Levite gatekeepers at different entrances around the temple area, as organized by King David in preparation for the construction of the temple by his son Solomon.

Context

1 Chronicles chapters 23-26 describe David's extensive organization of the Levites into various roles for the future temple service, including priests, musicians, porters (gatekeepers), and administrators. Chapter 26 focuses specifically on the gatekeepers, listing their divisions, families, and assigned posts. Verse 17 provides a snapshot of the distribution of these gatekeepers at key points: the east gate, north gate, south gate, and the area towards Asuppim.

Key Themes

  • Order and Organization: The detailed listing highlights the meticulous planning and structure implemented for the temple's operation.
  • Specific Roles and Responsibilities: Each group of Levites was assigned a particular duty and location, emphasizing accountability.
  • Preparation for Service: This organization was a crucial step in preparing for the continuous worship and administration that would take place in the temple.
  • Gatekeepers' Importance: Gatekeepers were vital for security, controlling access, and guarding the temple treasuries and supplies.

Linguistic Insights

The term "Asuppim" (ืึฒืกึปืคึดึผื™ื - 'ฤƒsuppรฎm) likely refers to collecting places or storehouses within the temple complex. The gatekeepers stationed "toward Asuppim" were therefore responsible for guarding these valuable areas where temple treasures, offerings, and provisions were kept. This highlights the crucial role of these Levites beyond simply controlling entry and exit; they were also guardians of significant resources.

Related Scriptures

This verse is part of a larger passage detailing the Levite organization. For more on the gatekeepers' duties, see 1 Chronicles 26:1. The overall context of David's preparation for the temple is found throughout 1 Chronicles 23 onwards. The role of Levites in handling the temple treasuries is also mentioned in 1 Chronicles 26:20.

Practical Application

While we don't have a physical temple structure today, the principle of organized service and faithful stewardship remains relevant. This verse reminds us that every role, no matter how seemingly mundane (like standing guard), is important when it contributes to the overall work of God's people. It also underscores the value of order and responsibility in managing resources and facilitating access to sacred spaces or activities.

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Cross-References

  • 1 Chronicles 9:24 (2 votes)

    In four quarters were the porters, toward the east, west, north, and south.

  • 2 Chronicles 8:14 (2 votes)

    And he appointed, according to the order of David his father, the courses of the priests to their service, and the Levites to their charges, to praise and minister before the priests, as the duty of every day required: the porters also by their courses at every gate: for so had David the man of God commanded.