1 Chronicles 4:23

These [were] the potters, and those that dwelt among plants and hedges: there they dwelt with the king for his work.

These were the potters {H3335}, and those that dwelt {H3427} among plants {H5196} and hedges {H1448}: there they dwelt {H3427} with the king {H4428} for his work {H4399}.

These were potters and inhabitants of N'ta'im and G'derah; they lived there, occupied with the king's work.

These were the potters who lived at Netaim and Gederah. They lived there in the service of the king.

These were the potters, and the inhabitants of Netaim and Gederah: there they dwelt with the king for his work.

Commentary

1 Chronicles 4:23 introduces a fascinating glimpse into the lives and occupations of certain descendants of Judah, specifically focusing on their unique role in the kingdom.

Context

This verse is found within the extensive genealogies of 1 Chronicles, particularly in chapter 4, which details the lineage and families of the tribe of Judah. Unlike many genealogical lists that simply name individuals, this section occasionally highlights specific occupations, dwelling places, and remarkable achievements of certain families. Verse 23 identifies a group of potters and those who lived in agricultural areas, distinguishing them by their direct association and service to the king. This detail underscores the chronicler's interest not just in lineage, but also in the practical roles and contributions of God's people within the kingdom, particularly during the time of the monarchy.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Dignity of Labor: The mention of potters and those working with plants and hedges demonstrates that all honorable work, even seemingly humble crafts or agricultural tasks, held significance within the community. Their inclusion in a royal chronicle elevates their roles.
  • Service to Authority: The crucial phrase, "there they dwelt with the king for his work," highlights their direct employment and dedication to royal service. This suggests a position of importance and reliability, as their skills were essential for the king's projects, whether crafting vessels or maintaining royal estates. This echoes the broader biblical principle of respecting and serving governing authorities.
  • God's Use of All Skills: The verse implicitly teaches that God can use people from all walks of life and with diverse skills to accomplish His purposes, even through the work of human kings. Every vocation, when performed faithfully, can contribute to the larger divine plan.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "potters" is charashim (ื—ึธืจึธืฉึดืื™ื), which generally refers to skilled craftsmen, particularly those working with clay or metal. The phrase "dwelt among plants and hedges" (ื ึฐื˜ึธืขึดื™ื ื•ึผื’ึฐื“ึตืจื•ึนืช - *neta'im ugederot*) suggests a connection to cultivation or gardening, possibly indicating royal gardens or specific fertile regions. The most impactful part is "there they dwelt with the king for his work," emphasizing their direct and continuous employment in the king's service, implying a stable and perhaps privileged position due to their essential skills.

Related Scriptures

The imagery of the potter is significant elsewhere in Scripture, often used to describe God's sovereignty over humanity, as seen in Jeremiah 18:6, where the Lord declares His power over Israel as the potter over clay. The principle of diligent service, even in ordinary tasks, is echoed in Colossians 3:23, which encourages believers to "whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men."

Practical Application

This verse reminds us that our daily work, no matter how seemingly humble, can be a form of service. Just as these potters and gardeners served the king, we are called to perform our duties with diligence and excellence, recognizing that our ultimate service is to God. It encourages us to find dignity and purpose in our vocations, knowing that God uses a variety of skills and individuals to fulfill His purposes in the world. Our faithfulness in small things can lead to greater opportunities for impact and influence, making our work a meaningful part of God's kingdom.

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Cross-References

  • Psalms 81:6 (3 votes)

    I removed his shoulder from the burden: his hands were delivered from the pots.

  • 1 Chronicles 4:14 (1 votes)

    And Meonothai begat Ophrah: and Seraiah begat Joab, the father of the valley of Charashim; for they were craftsmen.