The Divisions of the Gatekeepers 1These were the divisions of the gatekeepers: From the Korahites: Meshelemiah son of Kore, one of the sons of Asaph. 2Meshelemiah had sons: Zechariah the firstborn, Jediael the second, Zebadiah the third, Jathniel the fourth, 3Elam the fifth, Jehohanan the sixth, and Eliehoenai the seventh. 4And Obed-edom also had sons: Shemaiah the firstborn, Jehozabad the second, Joah the third, Sachar the fourth, Nethanel the fifth, 5Ammiel the sixth, Issachar the seventh, and Peullethai the eighth. For God had blessed Obed-edom. 6Also to his son Shemaiah were born sons who ruled over their families because they were strong, capable men. 7Shemaiah’s sons were Othni, Rephael, Obed, and Elzabad; his brothers were Elihu and Semachiah, also capable men. 8All these were descendants of Obed-edom; they and their sons and brothers were capable men with strength to do the work—62 in all from Obed-edom. 9Meshelemiah also had sons and brothers who were capable men—18 in all. 10Hosah the Merarite also had sons: Shimri the first (although he was not the firstborn, his father had appointed him as the first), 11Hilkiah the second, Tebaliah the third, and Zechariah the fourth. The sons and brothers of Hosah numbered 13 in all. 12These divisions of the gatekeepers, through their chief men, had duties for ministering in the house of the LORD, just as their relatives did. 13They cast lots for each gate, according to their families, young and old alike. 14The lot for the East Gate fell to Shelemiah.a Then lots were cast for his son Zechariah, a wise counselor, and the lot for the North Gate fell to him. 15The lot for the South Gate fell to Obed-edom, and the lot for the storehouses to his sons. 16The lots for the West Gate and the Shallecheth Gate on the ascending highwayb fell to Shuppim and Hosah. There were guards stationed at every watch. 17Each day there were six Levites on the east, four on the north, four on the south, and two pairs at the storehouse. 18As for the courtc on the west, there were four at the highway and two at the court. 19These were the divisions of the gatekeepers who were descendants of Korah and Merari. The Treasurers, Officers, and Judges 20Now their fellow Levites wered in charge of the treasuries of the house of God and the treasuries of the dedicated things. 21From the descendants of Ladan, who were Gershonites through Ladane and heads of the families of Ladan the Gershonite, were Jehieli,f 22the sons of Jehieli, Zetham, and his brother Joel. They were in charge of the treasuries of the house of the LORD. 23From the Amramites, the Izharites, the Hebronites, and the Uzzielites: 24Shebuel, a descendant of Gershom son of Moses, was the officer in charge of the treasuries. 25His relatives through Eliezer included Rehabiah his son, Jeshaiahg his son, Joram his son, Zichri his son, and Shelomith his son. 26This Shelomith and his brothers were in charge of all the treasuries for the things dedicated by King David, by the heads of families who were the commanders of thousands and of hundreds, and by the army commanders. 27They had dedicated some of the plunder from their battles to the repair of the house of the LORD. 28Everything that had been dedicated by Samuel the seer, Saul son of Kish, Abner son of Ner, and Joab son of Zeruiah, along with everything else that was dedicated, was under the care of Shelomith and his brothers. 29From the Izharites, Chenaniah and his sons had the outside dutiesh as officers and judges over Israel. 30From the Hebronites, Hashabiah and his relatives, 1,700 capable men, had charge of the affairs of Israel west of the Jordan for all the work of the LORD and for the service of the king. 31As for the Hebronites, Jerijahi was the chief of the Hebronites, according to the genealogies of his ancestors. In the fortieth year of David’s reign the records were searched, and strong, capable men were found among the Hebronites at Jazer in Gilead. 32Among Jerijah’s relatives there were 2,700 capable men who were heads of families. King David appointed them over the Reubenites, the Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh for every matter pertaining to God and for the affairs of the king. Footnotes: 14 a Shelemiah is a variant of Meshelemiah; see verse 2. 16 b Or on the upper road 18 c Hebrew parbar; twice in this verse 20 d LXX; Hebrew As for the Levites, Ahijah was 21 e Ladan is a variant of Libni; see 1 Chronicles 6:17. 21 f Jehieli is a variant of Jehiel; also in verse 22; see 1 Chronicles 23:8. 25 g Jeshaiah is a variant of Isshiah; see 1 Chronicles 24:21. 29 h Or the duties outside (the temple) or the duties outside (Jerusalem) 31 i Jerijah is a variant of Jeriah; see 1 Chronicles 23:19. Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub  1 Chronicles 26 Summary The Gatekeepers, Treasurers, Officers, and JudgesVerses 1–19 – Gatekeepers Organized Verse20–28 – Treasurers and Temple Storekeepers Verse29–32 – Military and Civil Officials 1 Chronicles 26 provides a detailed description of the division of the gatekeepers, treasures, and officials who were tasked with key roles in King David's kingdom. This structured distribution of responsibilities underscores the importance of order and faithful service in the kingdom, reflecting the order and organization that characterizes God's nature. Historical Backdrop 1 Chronicles 26 stands in David’s closing years (c. 971 BC). The king is preparing a seamless transition for Solomon, ensuring every Temple role—priest, musician, gatekeeper, treasurer, judge—is filled. Chapters 24–27 form a single block of administrative blueprints. Gatekeeping in Ancient Worship • Responsibilities: guarding doors, inspecting sacrifices, welcoming worshipers, and protecting sacred furniture (2 Kings 12:9). • Skill set: courage (2 Chron 23:4), reliability (Nehemiah 13:22), and alertness (Psalm 134:1). • Spiritual image: Psalm 84:10—“I would rather stand at the threshold of the house of my God than dwell in the tents of the wicked.” Casting Lots: Trusting God’s Choice Verse 13 explains that lots determined assignments “young and old alike.” Proverbs 16:33 notes, “The lot is cast into the lap, but its every decision is from the LORD.” This avoided favoritism, echoing Joshua’s land allotments (Joshua 18:6) and Matthias’s selection (Acts 1:26). Obed-Edom’s Legacy Obed-edom once sheltered the Ark (2 Samuel 6:10-11). God blessed him, and now his family provides 62 gatekeepers. The pattern: faithfulness to God’s presence leads to generational favor. Treasuries and Sacred Wealth • Verse 22: “Shebuel son of Gershom…was officer over the treasuries.” Gershom’s line, once on the fringes (Exodus 2:22), now safeguards offerings. • Items stored included enemy plunder (v.27) and freewill gifts (1 Chron 29:6-9). • Later abuse of these rooms by Tobiah (Nehemiah 13:4-9) shows why trustworthy stewards mattered. Judges across Israel The Hebronites administer “both religious and royal affairs” (v.32). Deuteronomy 16:18 required judges “in all your gates.” David fulfills this, decentralizing justice so every tribe experiences righteous authority. Archaeological Insights • Temple doors: bronze-covered cedar, similar to Balawat Gates (c. 852 BC), reveal the weight and artistry that demanded strong gatekeepers. • Storehouse rooms found on the Temple Mount’s south side (Herodian period) mirror the multi-chamber concept described here. Connections to Other Scriptures • Priestly Guard Duty: Numbers 3:36-37 outlines Merarite tasks—exact heritage of Hosah (v.10). • King-Priest Partnership: 2 Chron 31:14-19 shows Hezekiah reviving these same gatekeeper pools. • Stewardship Theme: Jesus’ parable of the talents (Matthew 25:14-30) echoes the charge to handle “dedicated things” faithfully. Messianic Echoes and New Testament Parallels • Christ calls Himself “the door” (John 10:9). The physical gatekeepers foreshadow the spiritual truth that access to God’s presence is guarded through Him. • Believers become “a royal priesthood” (1 Peter 2:9), taking up watch over doctrine and fellowship (Acts 20:28-31). Timeless Principles for God’s People 1. Every task—seen or unseen—matters. Whether guarding doors or ruling provinces, all labor supports God’s worship. 2. Legacy counts. Obed-edom’s name reappears because a single act of hospitality toward God had ripple effects. 3. Accountability and transparency protect sacred resources. Clear roles, lots, and public records curb corruption. 4. Leadership succession should be deliberate, organized, and prayer-saturated, as modeled by David for Solomon. Lively Takeaway Behind every grand moment of worship stood hundreds of unsung Levites clicking open wooden gates at dawn, tallying silver in torchlit rooms, and settling neighborly disputes in dusty border towns. 1 Chronicles 26 reminds us that God writes their names into His Word—and He still notices every faithful, often-overlooked servant today. Connections to Additional Scriptures Guarding the Heart Proverbs 4:23 - Guard your heart with all diligence, for from it flow springs of life. Faithfulness in Service Matthew 25:21 - His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!’ Order in Worship 1 Corinthians 14:40 - But everything must be done in a proper and orderly manner. Generational Faithfulness 2 Timothy 1:5 - I am reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also. Teaching Points Role of GatekeepersThe divisions of the gatekeepers: From the Korahites, Meshelemiah son of Kore, one of the sons of Asaph (1 Chronicles 26:1). Gatekeepers were responsible for maintaining the security and sanctity of the temple, ensuring that only those who were clean and authorized could enter. Organization and Order The chapter outlines the detailed organization of the temple service, highlighting the importance of order in worship and service to God. Faithfulness in Service The gatekeepers and other officials were chosen for their integrity and faithfulness, emphasizing the need for trustworthy individuals in positions of responsibility. Diverse Roles Beyond gatekeeping, the chapter also mentions treasurers and other officials, illustrating the variety of roles necessary for the functioning of the temple. Generational Service Many of the roles were passed down through families, indicating the value of generational faithfulness and legacy in serving God. Practical Applications Guarding Our HeartsJust as gatekeepers guarded the temple, we are called to guard our hearts and minds, ensuring that what enters aligns with God's holiness. Valuing Order Embrace the importance of order and organization in our personal and communal worship practices. Faithfulness in Small Things Recognize that every role, no matter how small, is significant in God's kingdom and requires faithfulness. Embracing Our Roles Identify and embrace the unique roles God has given us in our communities and churches, serving with dedication and integrity. Legacy of Faith Consider how we can pass down a legacy of faith and service to the next generation. People 1. MeshelemiahA gatekeeper from the Korahites, son of Kore, from the family of Asaph (1 Chronicles 26:1). 2. Zechariah The firstborn son of Meshelemiah, a gatekeeper (1 Chronicles 26:2). 3. Jediael The second son of Meshelemiah, a gatekeeper (1 Chronicles 26:2). 4. Zebadiah The third son of Meshelemiah, a gatekeeper (1 Chronicles 26:2). 5. Jathniel The fourth son of Meshelemiah, a gatekeeper (1 Chronicles 26:2). 6. Elam The fifth son of Meshelemiah, a gatekeeper (1 Chronicles 26:3). 7. Jehohanan The sixth son of Meshelemiah, a gatekeeper (1 Chronicles 26:3). 8. Eliehoenai The seventh son of Meshelemiah, a gatekeeper (1 Chronicles 26:3). 9. Obed-Edom A gatekeeper, blessed by God, with many sons (1 Chronicles 26:4). 10. Shemaiah The firstborn son of Obed-Edom, a gatekeeper (1 Chronicles 26:4). 11. Jehozabad The second son of Obed-Edom, a gatekeeper (1 Chronicles 26:4). 12. Joah The third son of Obed-Edom, a gatekeeper (1 Chronicles 26:4). 13. Sacar The fourth son of Obed-Edom, a gatekeeper (1 Chronicles 26:4). 14. Nethanel The fifth son of Obed-Edom, a gatekeeper (1 Chronicles 26:4). 15. Ammiel The sixth son of Obed-Edom, a gatekeeper (1 Chronicles 26:5). 16. Issachar The seventh son of Obed-Edom, a gatekeeper (1 Chronicles 26:5). 17. Peullethai The eighth son of Obed-Edom, a gatekeeper (1 Chronicles 26:5). 18. Shemaiah's sons Not individually named, but described as leaders of their family (1 Chronicles 26:6). 19. Othni A son of Shemaiah, a leader (1 Chronicles 26:7). 20. Rephael A son of Shemaiah, a leader (1 Chronicles 26:7). 21. Obed A son of Shemaiah, a leader (1 Chronicles 26:7). 22. Elzabad A son of Shemaiah, a leader (1 Chronicles 26:7). 23. Elihu A son of Shemaiah, a leader (1 Chronicles 26:7). 24. Semachiah A son of Shemaiah, a leader (1 Chronicles 26:7). 25. Hosah A gatekeeper from the Merarites (1 Chronicles 26:10). 26. Shimri The firstborn son of Hosah, though not the firstborn by birthright (1 Chronicles 26:10). 27. Hilkiah The second son of Hosah, a gatekeeper (1 Chronicles 26:11). 28. Tabaliah The third son of Hosah, a gatekeeper (1 Chronicles 26:11). 29. Zechariah The fourth son of Hosah, a gatekeeper (1 Chronicles 26:11). 30. Shuppim and Hosah Additional gatekeepers mentioned (1 Chronicles 26:16). 31. Ahijah In charge of the treasuries of the house of God (1 Chronicles 26:20). 32. Shelomith A Levite in charge of the treasuries (1 Chronicles 26:25-26). 33. Zetham and Joel Sons of Shelomith, in charge of the treasuries (1 Chronicles 26:22). 34. Chenaniah and his sons Officials and judges over Israel (1 Chronicles 26:29). 35. Hashabiah and his relatives Seventeen hundred capable men, officials over Israel (1 Chronicles 26:30). 36. Jerijah A leader of the Hebronites, in charge of the affairs of the LORD and the king (1 Chronicles 26:31). Places 1. JerusalemJerusalem is the central city of worship for the Israelites and the location of the temple. It is the political and spiritual center of the kingdom of Israel. The Hebrew root for Jerusalem is "יְרוּשָׁלַיִם" (Yerushalayim), which is often associated with meanings related to peace and completeness. 2. The House of the LORD This refers to the temple in Jerusalem, which is the focal point of worship and religious activities for the Israelites. The Hebrew term used is "בֵּית יְהוָה" (Beit Yahweh), indicating the dwelling place of God among His people. Events 1. Division of the GatekeepersThe chapter begins with the organization of the gatekeepers, who were responsible for guarding the entrances to the temple. The sons of Korah and Merari are specifically mentioned, highlighting their roles and duties. The Hebrew term for gatekeepers, "שֹׁעֲרִים" (sho'arim), emphasizes their role in maintaining the sanctity and security of the temple. 2. Assignments by Lot The gatekeepers were assigned their positions by casting lots, ensuring that their duties were determined by divine guidance rather than human decision. This practice reflects the Hebrew tradition of seeking God's will in decision-making, as seen in the use of "גּוֹרָל" (goral), meaning "lot." 3. List of Gatekeepers The chapter provides a detailed list of the gatekeepers, including their family lineage and the number of men assigned to each gate. This genealogical record underscores the importance of family heritage and continuity in temple service. 4. Duties of the Treasurers The chapter also outlines the responsibilities of the treasurers, who were in charge of the temple's financial resources and offerings. The Hebrew word "אוֹצָר" (otzar), meaning "treasury," indicates the sacred duty of managing the temple's wealth. 5. Oversight of the Storehouses Specific individuals were appointed to oversee the storehouses, which held the temple's supplies and offerings. This role was crucial for the proper functioning and maintenance of the temple services. 6. Officials and Judges The chapter concludes with the appointment of officials and judges from the Levites, who were responsible for administering justice and maintaining order among the people. This reflects the broader role of the Levites in both religious and civil matters, as indicated by the Hebrew term "שֹׁפְטִים" (shofetim), meaning "judges." Topics 1. The Divisions of the GatekeepersThis section outlines the organization and responsibilities of the gatekeepers, who were tasked with guarding the entrances to the temple. The passage begins with the sons of Korah and Merari, emphasizing their roles and duties. The Hebrew term for gatekeepers, "שֹׁעֲרִים" (sho'arim), highlights their function as protectors and overseers of the sacred space. 2. The Families of the Gatekeepers The text details the genealogies and family divisions of the gatekeepers, including the sons of Obed-Edom and Meshelemiah. This genealogical record underscores the hereditary nature of their service, ensuring that the temple was guarded by those consecrated for this purpose. 3. The Duties of the Gatekeepers Specific duties and assignments are given to the gatekeepers, including the allocation of gates and the number of men assigned to each. This organization reflects the importance of order and security in the temple, as well as the careful stewardship of sacred duties. 4. The Treasurers and Other Officials The chapter also mentions the treasurers and other officials responsible for the temple's financial and material resources. These roles were crucial for maintaining the temple's operations and ensuring that offerings and contributions were properly managed. 5. The Levites in Charge of External Duties The Levites were assigned various external duties, including overseeing the work outside the temple. This section highlights the broader responsibilities of the Levites beyond the immediate temple service, ensuring that all aspects of worship and community life were supported. 6. The Officers and Judges The chapter concludes with a mention of officers and judges among the Levites, who were responsible for maintaining justice and order. This reflects the integration of religious and civil duties, with the Levites playing a key role in upholding the law and ensuring righteous governance. Themes 1. Duties of the Gatekeepers1 Chronicles 26 outlines the responsibilities and organization of the gatekeepers, emphasizing the importance of order and security in the temple. The Hebrew term for gatekeepers, "שֹׁעֲרִים" (sho'arim), highlights their role in guarding the sacred spaces, ensuring that only those who were ceremonially clean could enter. 2. Family and Lineage The chapter details the genealogies of the gatekeepers, underscoring the significance of family heritage and the passing down of duties through generations. This reflects the Hebrew cultural emphasis on lineage and the continuity of service to God. 3. Allocation of Duties by Lot The use of lots to assign duties (1 Chronicles 26:13) demonstrates reliance on divine guidance in decision-making. The Hebrew word "גּוֹרָל" (goral) for lot signifies trust in God's sovereignty over human affairs. 4. Diversity of Roles Beyond gatekeeping, the chapter mentions other roles such as treasurers and officials, illustrating the diverse functions necessary for the temple's operation. This diversity reflects the body of Christ, where different gifts and roles contribute to the whole (1 Corinthians 12). 5. Faithfulness in Service The chapter highlights the faithfulness required in temple service, as seen in the detailed organization and dedication of the gatekeepers and other officials. This theme resonates with the New Testament call to be faithful stewards of God's work (1 Corinthians 4:2). 6. God's Provision and Order The structured organization of temple duties reflects God's provision and order, ensuring that His house is maintained with reverence and care. This mirrors the biblical principle that God is a God of order, not chaos (1 Corinthians 14:33). 7. Community and Cooperation The chapter emphasizes the cooperation among different families and clans in fulfilling temple duties, highlighting the importance of community in worship and service. This theme is echoed in the New Testament's emphasis on unity and cooperation within the body of Christ (Ephesians 4:16). Answering Tough Questions 1. 1 Chronicles 26:4–6: Why detail Obed-Edom’s lineage so precisely with no external evidence to confirm these large family claims? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does the detailed organization of duties in 1 Chronicles 26 reflect on God's nature? 2. Why do you think it was important to cast lots for the gatekeepers' duties? How does this relate to fairness and impartiality in our lives today? 3. Discuss the importance of each role described in this chapter, be it a gatekeeper, treasurer, or judge. How does this apply to the diversity of roles in the church today? 4. Reflect on how the sons of Obed-Edom were blessed with many children (verse 8). How does this reflect God's blessing upon those who faithfully serve Him? 5. In today's context, who would be the equivalent of the gatekeepers in the church or in our lives? 6. How can we ensure fair distribution of responsibilities in our own spheres of influence? 7. How can we apply the principles of faithful service in our personal lives, families, and careers? 8. What qualities did these gatekeepers, treasurers, and judges need to have? Are these qualities still relevant today? 9. Why do you think the chronicler felt it was important to list these names and duties in such detail? 10. Can you draw parallels between the external duties performed by the Israelites (verse 29-32) and roles in our society today? 11. Discuss the concept of lineage and inheritance as outlined in this chapter. How does it compare to our modern understanding of these concepts? 12. If you were to compare the role of a gatekeeper, treasurer, and judge to positions in our modern world, what would they be? 13. What can we learn from the accountability and transparency displayed in the allocation of responsibilities in this chapter? 14. How can we faithfully serve in our capacity like those mentioned in 1 Chronicles 26? 15. Reflect on the roles of individuals in your church community. How does this chapter's teachings influence your perspective? 16. What does this chapter teach us about leadership and the delegation of responsibilities? 17. How does the chronicler's description of "gatekeepers" metaphorically apply to spiritual gatekeepers in our lives today? 18. Why do you think certain families were given specific roles and responsibilities, and how does it reflect on the notion of spiritual gifts in today's context? 19. How does this detailed recording of responsibilities reflect on the value of every role in a community or church? 20. In what ways can you use the teachings of 1 Chronicles 26 to improve your personal spiritual journey, service to the church, and service to society at large? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions |
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