1 Chronicles 9:20
New International Version
In earlier times Phinehas son of Eleazar was the official in charge of the gatekeepers, and the LORD was with him.

New Living Translation
Phinehas son of Eleazar had been in charge of the gatekeepers in earlier times, and the LORD had been with him.

English Standard Version
And Phinehas the son of Eleazar was the chief officer over them in time past; the LORD was with him.

Berean Standard Bible
In earlier times Phinehas son of Eleazar had been in charge of the gatekeepers, and the LORD was with him.

Berean Literal Bible
And Phinehas son of Eleazar had been the officer over them formerly; YHWH was with him.

King James Bible
And Phinehas the son of Eleazar was the ruler over them in time past, and the LORD was with him.

New King James Version
And Phinehas the son of Eleazar had been the officer over them in time past; the LORD was with him.

New American Standard Bible
Phinehas the son of Eleazar was supervisor over them previously, and the LORD was with him.

NASB 1995
Phinehas the son of Eleazar was ruler over them previously, and the LORD was with him.

NASB 1977
And Phinehas the son of Eleazar was ruler over them previously, and the LORD was with him.

Legacy Standard Bible
And Phinehas the son of Eleazar was ruler over them previously, and Yahweh was with him.

Amplified Bible
Phinehas the son of Eleazar was ruler over them in times past, and the LORD was with him.

Berean Annotated Bible
In earlier times Phinehas (mouth of brass) son of Eleazar (God has helped) had been in charge of the gatekeepers, and the LORD {YHWH} was with him.

Christian Standard Bible
In earlier times Phinehas son of Eleazar had been their leader, and the LORD was with him.

Holman Christian Standard Bible
In earlier times Phinehas son of Eleazar had been their leader, and the LORD was with him.

American Standard Version
And Phinehas the son of Eleazar was ruler over them in time past, and Jehovah was with him.

Contemporary English Version
Phinehas son of Eleazar had supervised their work because the LORD was with him.

English Revised Version
And Phinehas the son of Eleazar was ruler over them in time past, and the LORD was with him.

GOD'S WORD® Translation
(Phinehas, Eleazar's son, had been the official in charge of the gatekeepers, and the LORD was with him.)

Good News Translation
Phinehas son of Eleazar--may the LORD be with him!--had supervised them at one time.

International Standard Version
Eleazar's son Phinehas used to be Commander-in-Chief over them—the LORD was with him.

NET Bible
Phinehas son of Eleazar had been their leader in earlier times, and the LORD was with him.

New Heart English Bible
Phinehas the son of Eleazar was ruler over them in time past, and the LORD was with him.

Webster's Bible Translation
And Phinehas the son of Eleazar was the ruler over them in time past, and the LORD was with him.
Majority Text Translations
Majority Standard Bible
In earlier times Phinehas son of Eleazar had been in charge of the gatekeepers, and the LORD was with him.

World English Bible
Phinehas the son of Eleazar was ruler over them in time past, and Yahweh was with him.
Literal Translations
Literal Standard Version
and Phinehas son of Eleazar has been leader over them formerly; YHWH [is] with him.

Berean Literal Bible
And Phinehas son of Eleazar had been the officer over them formerly; YHWH was with him.

Young's Literal Translation
and Phinehas son of Eleazar hath been leader over them formerly; Jehovah is with him.

Smith's Literal Translation
And Phinehas son of Eleazar was leader over them to their face; Jehovah with him.
Catholic Translations
Douay-Rheims Bible
And Phinees the son of Eleazar, was their prince before the Lord,

Catholic Public Domain Version
Now Phinehas, the son of Eleazar, was their ruler before the Lord.

New American Bible
Phinehas, son of Eleazar, had been their chief in times past; the LORD was with him.

New Revised Standard Version
And Phinehas son of Eleazar was chief over them in former times; the LORD was with him.
Translations from Aramaic
Lamsa Bible
And Phinehas the son of Eleazar was ruler over them in time past, and the LORD was with him.

Peshitta Holy Bible Translated
And Phinkhas, son of Eliazar, was Master over them from the first, and LORD JEHOVAH was with him.
OT Translations
JPS Tanakh 1917
and Phinehas the son of Eleazar was ruler over them in time past, the LORD being with him.

Brenton Septuagint Translation
And Phinees son of Eleazar was head over them before the Lord, and these were with him.

Additional Translations ...
Audio Bible



Context
The People of Jerusalem
19Shallum son of Kore, the son of Ebiasaph, the son of Korah, and his relatives from the Korahites were assigned to guard the thresholds of the Tent, just as their fathers had been assigned to guard the entrance to the dwelling of the LORD. 20In earlier times Phinehas son of Eleazar had been in charge of the gatekeepers, and the LORD was with him. 21Zechariah son of Meshelemiah was the gatekeeper at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting.…

Cross References
In earlier times

Numbers 25:10-13
Then the LORD said to Moses, / “Phinehas son of Eleazar, the son of Aaron the priest, has turned My wrath away from the Israelites; for he was zealous for My sake among them, so that I did not consume the Israelites in My zeal. / Declare, therefore, that I am granting him My covenant of peace. …

Joshua 24:33
Eleazar son of Aaron also died, and they buried him at Gibeah, which had been given to his son Phinehas in the hill country of Ephraim.
Phinehas son of Eleazar

Exodus 6:25
Aaron’s son Eleazar married one of the daughters of Putiel, and she bore him Phinehas. These were the heads of the Levite families by their clans.

Numbers 3:32
The chief of the leaders of the Levites was Eleazar son of Aaron the priest; he oversaw those responsible for the duties of the sanctuary.
had been in charge of the gatekeepers,

1 Chronicles 26:12-19
These divisions of the gatekeepers, through their chief men, had duties for ministering in the house of the LORD, just as their relatives did. / They cast lots for each gate, according to their families, young and old alike. / The lot for the East Gate fell to Shelemiah. Then lots were cast for his son Zechariah, a wise counselor, and the lot for the North Gate fell to him. …

2 Chronicles 23:19
He stationed gatekeepers at the gates of the house of the LORD, so that no one who was in any way unclean could enter.

Nehemiah 12:25
Mattaniah, Bakbukiah, Obadiah, Meshullam, Talmon, and Akkub were gatekeepers who guarded the storerooms at the gates.
and the LORD was with him.

Genesis 39:2-3
And the LORD was with Joseph, and he became a successful man, serving in the household of his Egyptian master. / When his master saw that the LORD was with him and made him prosper in all he did,

1 Samuel 18:12-14
So Saul was afraid of David, because the LORD was with David but had departed from Saul. / Therefore Saul sent David away and gave him command of a thousand men. David led the troops out to battle and back, / and he continued to prosper in all his ways, because the LORD was with him.

2 Samuel 5:10
And David became greater and greater, for the LORD God of Hosts was with him.
Numbers 25:7-13
On seeing this, Phinehas son of Eleazar, the son of Aaron the priest, got up from the assembly, took a spear in his hand, / followed the Israelite into the tent, and drove the spear through both of them—through the Israelite and on through the belly of the woman. So the plague against the Israelites was halted, / but those who died in the plague numbered 24,000. …

Numbers 4:16
Eleazar son of Aaron the priest shall oversee the oil for the light, the fragrant incense, the daily grain offering, and the anointing oil. He has oversight of the entire tabernacle and everything in it, including the holy objects and their utensils.”

Numbers 18:1-7
So the LORD said to Aaron, “You and your sons and your father’s house must bear the iniquity involving the sanctuary. And you and your sons alone must bear the iniquity involving your priesthood. / But bring with you also your brothers from the tribe of Levi, the tribe of your father, that they may join you and assist you and your sons before the Tent of the Testimony. / And they shall attend to your duties and to all the duties of the Tent; but they must not come near to the furnishings of the sanctuary or the altar, or both they and you will die. …

1 Samuel 2:35
Then I will raise up for Myself a faithful priest. He will do whatever is in My heart and mind. And I will build for him an enduring house, and he will walk before My anointed one for all time.

1 Samuel 22:17-18
Then the king ordered the guards at his side, “Turn and kill the priests of the LORD, because they too sided with David. For they knew he was fleeing, but they did not tell me.” But the king’s servants would not lift a hand to strike the priests of the LORD. / So the king ordered Doeg, “You turn and strike down the priests!” And Doeg the Edomite turned and struck down the priests himself. On that day he killed eighty-five men who wore the linen ephod.

1 Samuel 2:30-31
Therefore, the LORD, the God of Israel, declares: ‘I did indeed say that your house and the house of your father would walk before Me forever. But now the LORD declares: Far be it from Me! For I will honor those who honor Me, but those who despise Me will be disdained. / Behold, the days are coming when I will cut off your strength and the strength of your father’s house, so that no one in it will reach old age.


Treasury of Scripture

And Phinehas the son of Eleazar was the ruler over them in time past, and the LORD was with him.

Phinehas

Numbers 3:32
And Eleazar the son of Aaron the priest shall be chief over the chief of the Levites, and have the oversight of them that keep the charge of the sanctuary.

Numbers 4:16,28,33
And to the office of Eleazar the son of Aaron the priest pertaineth the oil for the light, and the sweet incense, and the daily meat offering, and the anointing oil, and the oversight of all the tabernacle, and of all that therein is, in the sanctuary, and in the vessels thereof…

Numbers 31:6
And Moses sent them to the war, a thousand of every tribe, them and Phinehas the son of Eleazar the priest, to the war, with the holy instruments, and the trumpets to blow in his hand.

the Lord

Numbers 25:11-13
Phinehas, the son of Eleazar, the son of Aaron the priest, hath turned my wrath away from the children of Israel, while he was zealous for my sake among them, that I consumed not the children of Israel in my jealousy…

1 Samuel 16:18
Then answered one of the servants, and said, Behold, I have seen a son of Jesse the Bethlehemite, that is cunning in playing, and a mighty valiant man, and a man of war, and prudent in matters, and a comely person, and the LORD is with him.

Acts 7:9,10
And the patriarchs, moved with envy, sold Joseph into Egypt: but God was with him, …

Jump to Previous
Charge Earlier Eleazar Elea'zar Formerly Gatekeepers Leader Past Phinehas Phin'ehas Previously Ruler Time Times
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Charge Earlier Eleazar Elea'zar Formerly Gatekeepers Leader Past Phinehas Phin'ehas Previously Ruler Time Times
1 Chronicles 9
1. The original of Israel and Judah's genealogies
2. The Israelites
10. The priests
14. and the Levites, with Nethinims, who dwelt in Jerusalem
27. The charge of certain Levites
35. The stock of Saul and Jonathan












In earlier times
This phrase sets the historical context, indicating a reference to a past period in Israel's history. It suggests a time before the chronicler's present, likely during the wilderness wanderings or the early settlement in Canaan. This period is significant as it was foundational for the establishment of Israel's religious and social structures.

Phinehas son of Eleazar
Phinehas was a prominent figure in Israel's history, known for his zealousness for God's holiness. He was the grandson of Aaron, the first high priest, and the son of Eleazar, who succeeded Aaron. Phinehas is best known for his decisive action in Numbers 25, where he stopped a plague among the Israelites by executing an Israelite man and a Midianite woman who were flagrantly disobeying God's commands. This act of zeal earned him a covenant of peace and a perpetual priesthood (Numbers 25:10-13).

had been in charge of the gatekeepers
Gatekeepers were responsible for the security and order of the temple, ensuring that only those who were ceremonially clean could enter. This role was crucial for maintaining the sanctity of the worship space. Phinehas's leadership in this role underscores his dedication to preserving the holiness of the community and the worship of God.

and the LORD was with him
This phrase indicates divine approval and presence, a hallmark of God's favor and blessing. It echoes the biblical theme that God is with those who are faithful and obedient to His commands. Phinehas's actions and leadership were in alignment with God's will, and thus he experienced God's presence and support. This divine endorsement is a reminder of the importance of faithfulness and righteousness in leadership.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Phinehas
The son of Eleazar and grandson of Aaron, Phinehas is noted for his zealousness for God's holiness. His leadership and actions are highlighted in the Old Testament as pivotal in maintaining the sanctity of Israel's worship and obedience to God.

2. Eleazar
The father of Phinehas and the son of Aaron, Eleazar served as a priest and was instrumental in the religious leadership of Israel after Aaron's death.

3. The LORD's Presence
The verse emphasizes that the LORD was with Phinehas, indicating divine approval and support for his leadership and actions.
Teaching Points
Zeal for God's Holiness
Phinehas's actions remind us of the importance of being zealous for God's holiness in our lives. We are called to uphold God's standards and be vigilant against sin.

Leadership and Divine Approval
True leadership in the faith community is marked by God's presence and approval. Like Phinehas, leaders should seek to align their actions with God's will and purpose.

Generational Faithfulness
The legacy of Phinehas shows the impact of generational faithfulness. We are encouraged to pass down a legacy of faith and obedience to future generations.

God's Covenant of Peace
Phinehas's reward of a covenant of peace illustrates that God honors those who are faithful and zealous for His name. We can trust that God sees and rewards our faithfulness.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1. What is the meaning of 1 Chronicles 9:20?

2. How does 1 Chronicles 9:20 highlight Phinehas's role in spiritual leadership?

3. What qualities made Phinehas "the leader over them" in 1 Chronicles 9:20?

4. How can Phinehas's example inspire us to uphold God's standards today?

5. What connections exist between Phinehas's leadership and New Testament teachings on spiritual authority?

6. How can we apply Phinehas's dedication to our own spiritual responsibilities?

7. What role did Phinehas play in 1 Chronicles 9:20, and why is it significant?

8. How does 1 Chronicles 9:20 reflect the importance of leadership in biblical history?

9. Why is Phinehas mentioned specifically in 1 Chronicles 9:20?

10. What are the top 10 Lessons from 1 Chronicles 9?

11. Are there any contradictions between 1 Samuel 4 and other biblical accounts regarding the fate of Eli’s sons or the Ark’s movements?

12. What archaeological evidence supports or challenges the specific gatekeepers and their duties described in 1 Chronicles 9:17-27?

13. 1 Chronicles 26:1 compared to 1 Chronicles 9:17: Do these genealogies for the gatekeepers align, or do they present contradictory lists?

14. Why does 1 Chronicles 9:3 include tribes like Ephraim and Manasseh in Jerusalem, contradicting other passages indicating they didn't return?
What Does 1 Chronicles 9:20 Mean
In earlier times

“ In earlier times ” situates the verse in Israel’s history, reminding readers that God’s work is anchored in real events, not myth.

1 Chronicles 9 reviews the post-exile resettlement, yet the writer pauses to reach back to the wilderness era, affirming a continuous line of faithful service (cf. Psalm 78:5-7).

• The phrase underscores that God’s standards for worship and service do not shift with culture or generations (cf. Malachi 3:6; Hebrews 13:8).

• By looking backward, the chronicler urges current gatekeepers to see themselves as heirs of a sacred trust.


Phinehas son of Eleazar

“ Phinehas son of Eleazar ” ties the verse to a specific priestly hero.

• Phinehas is remembered for his zeal when he stopped Israel’s idolatry at Baal-Peor (Numbers 25:6-13). God rewarded him with “a covenant of a perpetual priesthood,” showing how personal holiness affects national blessing.

• As the grandson of Aaron, Phinehas illustrates generational faithfulness (Exodus 6:25).

• Mentioning his name in Chronicles encourages post-exilic readers to imitate his courage and purity, echoing Psalm 106:30-31, where his act “was credited to him as righteousness.”


Had been in charge of the gatekeepers

“ Had been in charge of the gatekeepers ” highlights an appointed leadership role in guarding sacred space.

• Gatekeepers managed access to the tabernacle (and later the temple), ensuring worship remained holy (1 Chronicles 23:5; 26:1-19).

• Their work combined vigilance, administration, and spiritual discernment—early pictures of shepherd-leadership echoed in passages like Acts 20:28-31.

• Phinehas’s oversight shows that even seemingly “support” ministries carry weighty spiritual authority.


And the LORD was with him

“ And the LORD was with him ” explains the source of Phinehas’s effectiveness.

• The phrase mirrors God’s promise to leaders like Joseph (Genesis 39:2-3), Joshua (Joshua 1:5), and David (1 Samuel 18:14). Divine presence—not position alone—secures success.

• God’s companionship honors obedience (1 Samuel 15:22) and bolsters courage (Isaiah 41:10).

• For post-exilic gatekeepers, this assurance clarifies that true security for the temple lies in God’s nearness, not merely in walls or watchmen (Psalm 127:1).


summary

1 Chronicles 9:20 reaches back to Phinehas to remind a restored community that temple service must mirror earlier, Spirit-endorsed faithfulness. The verse teaches that:

• God’s standards are timeless.

• Individual zeal for holiness influences corporate blessing.

• Practical service at the gates is a sacred calling when done under godly leadership.

• The decisive factor in any ministry is the Lord’s accompanying presence.

(20) And Phinehas the son of Eleazar was the ruler over them in time past.--Or, of yore. Phinehas may have held this office of president (nagid, 1Chronicles 9:11) of the warders before he became high priest, just as Eleazar had held a similar position during the lifetime of Aaron (Numbers 3:32). Nothing is said of it elsewhere.

And the Lord was with him.--Rather, The Lord be with him! a pious ejaculation, such as the Jews of later times were wont to use in speaking of a departed worthy; and of interest to us as indicating a belief in continued existence after death. (Comp. 1Chronicles 22:11; 1Chronicles 22:16.)



Parallel Commentaries ...


Hebrew
In earlier times
לְפָנִ֖ים (lə·p̄ā·nîm)
Preposition-l | Noun - masculine plural
Strong's 6440: The face

Phinehas
וּפִֽינְחָ֣ס (ū·p̄î·nə·ḥās)
Conjunctive waw | Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 6372: Phinehas -- three Israelites

son
בֶּן־ (ben-)
Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 1121: A son

of Eleazar
אֶלְעָזָ֗ר (’el·‘ā·zār)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 499: Eleazar -- 'God has helped', six Israelites

had been
הָיָ֧ה (hā·yāh)
Verb - Qal - Perfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 1961: To fall out, come to pass, become, be

in charge
נָגִ֨יד (nā·ḡîḏ)
Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 5057: A commander, civil, military, religious, honorable themes

of [the gatekeepers],
עֲלֵיהֶ֛ם (‘ă·lê·hem)
Preposition | third person masculine plural
Strong's 5921: Above, over, upon, against

and the LORD
יְהוָ֥ה ׀ (Yah·weh)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 3068: LORD -- the proper name of the God of Israel

was with him.
עִמּֽוֹ׃ (‘im·mōw)
Preposition | third person masculine singular
Strong's 5973: With, equally with


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OT History: 1 Chronicles 9:20 Phinehas the son of Eleazar was ruler (1 Chron. 1Ch iCh i Ch 1 chr 1chr)
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