1 Chronicles 26:21

[As concerning] the sons of Laadan; the sons of the Gershonite Laadan, chief fathers, [even] of Laadan the Gershonite, [were] Jehieli.

As concerning the sons {H1121} of Laadan {H3936}; the sons {H1121} of the Gershonite {H1649} Laadan {H3936}, chief {H7218} fathers {H1}, even of Laadan {H3936} the Gershonite {H1649}, were Jehieli {H3172}.

The sons of La'dan, the descendants of the Gershuni belonging to La'dan, the heads of clans belonging to La'dan the Gershuni: Yechi'eli;

From the descendants of Ladan, who were Gershonites through Ladan and heads of the families of Ladan the Gershonite, were Jehieli,

The sons of Ladan, the sons of the Gershonites belonging to Ladan, the heads of the fathers’ houses belonging to Ladan the Gershonite: Jehieli.

Commentary

1 Chronicles 26:21 is a concise verse detailing the lineage of Laadan, a Gershonite Levite, specifically mentioning Jehieli as one of the "chief fathers" or heads of families within this lineage. This verse is part of a larger section in 1 Chronicles that meticulously records the organization of the Levites for temple service under King David.

Context

This verse is situated within a detailed account (1 Chronicles 26:1-32) that outlines King David's organization of the various Levitical duties, focusing primarily on the gatekeepers and treasurers for the house of the Lord. The Gershonites were one of the three main branches of the Levites, descendants of Gershon, the son of Levi. While their traditional duties involved carrying the coverings and curtains of the tabernacle (as seen in Numbers 3:21-26), by David's time, their roles had expanded to include administrative and treasury responsibilities within the permanent temple structure.

The Chronicler's emphasis on specific lineages and family heads like Jehieli underscores the meticulous planning and divine order that was to govern the sacred service. This detailed record was crucial for future generations, especially after the Babylonian exile, to re-establish proper temple worship and identify those legitimately appointed to priestly and Levitical duties.

Key Themes

  • Order and Organization: The verse highlights the extensive and precise organization of temple service. King David ensured that every role, from gatekeeping to treasury management, was assigned and accounted for, reflecting a divine preference for order in worship and administration.
  • Importance of Lineage: For the Levites, one's family line was paramount. Being identified as "the sons of Laadan, the Gershonite" and naming "Jehieli" as a chief father affirmed their legitimate claim to their specific duties within the temple structure. This emphasis on genealogy is a recurring theme in the Old Testament, vital for establishing identity and covenantal roles, as also seen in Ezra 2:62.
  • Faithfulness in Service: While Jehieli is just a name here, his inclusion signifies that even seemingly administrative or genealogical details were important to God. It speaks to the value of faithful service in all capacities, no matter how prominent or behind-the-scenes.

Linguistic Insights

The repetition of "Laadan the Gershonite" emphasizes the specific identity and branch of the Levites being discussed, highlighting the Chronicler's commitment to accurate and precise record-keeping. The term "chief fathers" (Hebrew: רָאשֵׁי אָבוֹת, rashei avot) refers to the heads of paternal houses or clans, indicating their leadership and authority within their respective family groups responsible for various aspects of temple service.

Practical Application

Even in a seemingly dry genealogical entry, 1 Chronicles 26:21 offers valuable insights:

  • God Values Detail and Order: This verse reminds us that God is a God of order, and even the seemingly mundane details of organization and administration are important to Him. Our own efforts to bring order and excellence to our responsibilities, whether in church, work, or home, can honor Him.
  • Every Role Matters: Just as Jehieli’s lineage was important for his specific duties, every individual within God's kingdom has a vital role. No task is too small or insignificant if it contributes to the larger work of God, and faithfulness in small things can lead to greater responsibilities (Luke 16:10).
  • Appreciating Unsung Heroes: Many people contribute to God's work without being in the spotlight. This verse reminds us to appreciate the "chief fathers" and faithful servants whose foundational work and quiet diligence enable the visible ministries to flourish.
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Cross-References

  • 1 Chronicles 23:7 (3 votes)

    Of the Gershonites [were], Laadan, and Shimei.

  • 1 Chronicles 29:8 (2 votes)

    And they with whom [precious] stones were found gave [them] to the treasure of the house of the LORD, by the hand of Jehiel the Gershonite.

  • 1 Chronicles 6:17 (2 votes)

    And these [be] the names of the sons of Gershom; Libni, and Shimei.