1 Chronicles 9:13

And their brethren, heads of the house of their fathers, a thousand and seven hundred and threescore; very able men for the work of the service of the house of God.

And their brethren {H251}, heads {H7218} of the house {H1004} of their fathers {H1}, a thousand {H505} and seven {H7651} hundred {H3967} and threescore {H8346}; very able {H2428} men {H1368} for the work {H4399} of the service {H5656} of the house {H1004} of God {H430}.

and their kinsmen, leaders of their fathers'clans, 1,760 very competent men available for serving in the house of God.

and 1,760 of their relatives, the heads of their families, able men for the work of the service of the house of God.

and their brethren, heads of their fathers’ houses, a thousand and seven hundred and threescore; very able men for the work of the service of the house of God.

Commentary

Commentary on 1 Chronicles 9:13 (KJV)

1 Chronicles 9:13: "And their brethren, heads of the house of their fathers, a thousand and seven hundred and threescore; very able men for the work of the service of the house of God."

Context

This verse is part of a detailed genealogical record in 1 Chronicles, specifically focusing on the inhabitants of Jerusalem after the Babylonian exile. Following the return from captivity, there was a crucial need to re-establish the spiritual and civil order of the nation. Chapter 9 meticulously lists the families who resettled Jerusalem, emphasizing the roles of priests, Levites, gatekeepers, and other temple servants. This particular verse highlights the significant number of qualified men dedicated to the essential duties of the newly restored House of God, underscoring the importance of organized worship and service in the post-exilic community.

Key Themes

  • Dedicated Service to God: The primary emphasis is on the "work of the service of the house of God," illustrating the community's commitment to restoring proper worship and temple functions. This reflects a profound spiritual re-prioritization after years of exile.
  • Competence and Ability in Ministry: The phrase "very able men" signifies that those appointed for sacred duties were not merely numerous but also highly skilled and capable. God values not only willingness but also competence in those who serve Him, as seen in other biblical calls for qualified leaders and workers.
  • Order and Organization: The precise number (1,760 men) indicates a meticulous organization and structure within the temple personnel. This highlights the importance of order and diligence in carrying out divine commands and maintaining the sanctity of worship.
  • Restoration and Renewal: The re-establishment of a large, competent workforce for the temple signifies a spiritual and national renewal. It speaks to God's faithfulness in bringing His people back and enabling them to resume their covenant responsibilities.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew phrase for "able men" is 'anashim gibborei chayil (אֲנָשִׁים גִּבֹּרֵי חַיִל). While often translated as "mighty men of valor" in military contexts, here it implies men of strength, competence, and capability in their specific roles. It suggests not just physical strength but also moral aptitude, skill, and perhaps even courage in upholding the sacred duties. The word for "service" is 'abodah, which encompasses work, worship, and servitude, signifying dedicated labor performed as an act of devotion.

Practical Application

For believers today, 1 Chronicles 9:13 offers several timeless lessons:

  • Valuing Competent Service: Just as in ancient Israel, God desires His work to be carried out with excellence and competence. Whether in the church or in daily life, we are called to use our gifts and abilities diligently for His glory.
  • Dedication to God's "House": The "house of God" today refers to the church, the body of Christ. Every believer is called to contribute to its health and mission through dedicated service, whether in visible leadership or behind-the-scenes roles.
  • The Importance of Every Role: The verse emphasizes the collective strength of many individuals, each contributing to the overall work. This reminds us that every act of service, no matter how seemingly small, is vital for the functioning of God's kingdom.
  • Restoration and Purpose: Just as the returning exiles found purpose in serving God's house, believers today find profound meaning and purpose in serving Him, contributing to spiritual renewal in their communities and the world. This echoes the call to present ourselves as living sacrifices.
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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • 1 Chronicles 26:32 (2 votes)

    And his brethren, men of valour, [were] two thousand and seven hundred chief fathers, whom king David made rulers over the Reubenites, the Gadites, and the half tribe of Manasseh, for every matter pertaining to God, and affairs of the king.

  • Nehemiah 11:14 (2 votes)

    And their brethren, mighty men of valour, an hundred twenty and eight: and their overseer [was] Zabdiel, the son of [one of] the great men.

  • 1 Chronicles 26:6 (2 votes)

    Also unto Shemaiah his son were sons born, that ruled throughout the house of their father: for they [were] mighty men of valour.

  • 1 Chronicles 26:30 (2 votes)

    [And] of the Hebronites, Hashabiah and his brethren, men of valour, a thousand and seven hundred, [were] officers among them of Israel on this side Jordan westward in all the business of the LORD, and in the service of the king.