1 Chronicles 26:4

Moreover the sons of Obededom [were], Shemaiah the firstborn, Jehozabad the second, Joah the third, and Sacar the fourth, and Nethaneel the fifth,

Moreover the sons {H1121} of Obededom {H5654} were, Shemaiah {H8098} the firstborn {H1060}, Jehozabad {H3075} the second {H8145}, Joah {H3098} the third {H7992}, and Sacar {H7940} the fourth {H7243}, and Nethaneel {H5417} the fifth {H2549},

'Oved-Edom had sons: Sh'ma'yah the firstborn, Y'hozavad the second son, Yo'ach the third, Sakhar the fourth, N'tan'el the fifth,

And Obed-edom also had sons: Shemaiah the firstborn, Jehozabad the second, Joah the third, Sachar the fourth, Nethanel the fifth,

And Obed-edom had sons: Shemaiah the first-born, Jehozabad the second, Joah the third, and Sacar the fourth, and Nethanel the fifth,

Commentary

Context of 1 Chronicles 26:4

This verse is part of a detailed account in 1 Chronicles chapters 23-26, which meticulously describes the organization and duties of the Levites under King David's reign. After the bringing of the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem, David devoted significant effort to preparing for the future temple, including establishing roles for the priests, musicians, gatekeepers, and treasurers. 1 Chronicles 26:4 specifically introduces the sons of Obed-Edom, highlighting their lineage as a foundation for their assigned responsibilities within the temple service, particularly as gatekeepers.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Divine Blessing and Legacy: The prominence given to Obed-Edom's numerous and capable descendants (mentioned further in 1 Chronicles 26:8) serves as a testament to the blessing God bestowed upon him for faithfully housing the Ark of the Covenant (2 Samuel 6:11). This verse underscores how divine favor can extend across generations.
  • Order and Organization: The detailed listing of names and birth order reflects the meticulous planning and structure King David implemented for the Levite ministries. Every individual, even those in seemingly minor roles like gatekeepers, was accounted for and had a specific place in God's house.
  • Faithfulness Rewarded: Obed-Edom's descendants were entrusted with significant responsibilities because of the faithfulness of their ancestor. This illustrates a biblical principle where obedience can yield lasting blessings for future generations.

Linguistic Insights

The names themselves often carry meaning in Hebrew, though the verse focuses on identification rather than etymology. For instance, "Shemaiah" (ืฉืึฐืžึทืขึฐื™ึธื”) means "heard by Yah" or "Yah has heard," a common type of theophoric name indicating a connection to God. While not elaborated upon in this specific verse, the systematic listing of names underscores the importance of genealogical records and individual identity within the tribal and Levitical structures of ancient Israel.

Practical Application

While a genealogical list might seem obscure, 1 Chronicles 26:4 offers valuable lessons:

  • Value of Every Role: Just as each son of Obed-Edom had a place, every person in God's kingdom has a vital role, regardless of its perceived prominence. No task is insignificant when done for the Lord, especially in service to His house.
  • Generational Impact: Our faithfulness today can bless future generations. Obed-Edom's devotion to the Ark paved the way for his family's esteemed service for decades. This encourages us to live lives that leave a positive spiritual legacy.
  • God's Attention to Detail: The meticulous record-keeping in Chronicles reminds us that God is a God of order and knows each of His servants by name. He cares about the details of our lives and service, much like David's organization of the temple staff.
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Cross-References

  • 1 Chronicles 15:24 (3 votes)

    And Shebaniah, and Jehoshaphat, and Nethaneel, and Amasai, and Zechariah, and Benaiah, and Eliezer, the priests, did blow with the trumpets before the ark of God: and Obededom and Jehiah [were] doorkeepers for the ark.

  • 1 Chronicles 15:18 (3 votes)

    And with them their brethren of the second [degree], Zechariah, Ben, and Jaaziel, and Shemiramoth, and Jehiel, and Unni, Eliab, and Benaiah, and Maaseiah, and Mattithiah, and Elipheleh, and Mikneiah, and Obededom, and Jeiel, the porters.

  • 1 Chronicles 16:38 (3 votes)

    And Obededom with their brethren, threescore and eight; Obededom also the son of Jeduthun and Hosah [to be] porters:

  • 1 Chronicles 15:21 (2 votes)

    And Mattithiah, and Elipheleh, and Mikneiah, and Obededom, and Jeiel, and Azaziah, with harps on the Sheminith to excel.

  • 1 Chronicles 16:5 (2 votes)

    Asaph the chief, and next to him Zechariah, Jeiel, and Shemiramoth, and Jehiel, and Mattithiah, and Eliab, and Benaiah, and Obededom: and Jeiel with psalteries and with harps; but Asaph made a sound with cymbals;