What is the meaning of 1 Chronicles 23:9? The sons of Shimei 1 Chronicles 23:9 opens by simply recording that Shimei has sons. In the wider context (vv. 7–11) David is assigning Levites by clan for future temple service. By naming Shimei’s line, Scripture anchors their lineage in the covenant family, just as earlier genealogies did for Levi himself (Exodus 6:16; 1 Chronicles 23:7). Every detail underscores God’s faithfulness to keep track of those who will serve Him—no name is lost, no family overlooked. Shelomoth, Haziel, and Haran—three in all The verse immediately lists the sons: • Shelomoth • Haziel • Haran “Three in all” underlines completeness; there are precisely three, no more, no less. This deliberate numbering mirrors other Levitical counts (Numbers 4:36–40) and highlights the care with which David organized temple personnel (1 Chronicles 23:3–5). Later, a Shelomith (same name variant) supervises sacred treasures (1 Chronicles 26:26–28), showing how these men or their descendants took tangible roles in guarding what was holy (2 Chronicles 31:12). Each name, therefore, is both a personal identity and a testimony that God appoints specific people for specific tasks. These were the heads of the families of Ladan The verse concludes by telling us these three sons of Shimei “were the heads of the families of Ladan.” Ladan (also called Libni in Numbers 3:18, 24) is a branch of the Gershonite Levites. Being “heads” means leadership: • Responsibility for organizing their sub-clans in worship duties (Numbers 4:24-28). • Oversight of the sacred tent’s fabrics and cords (Numbers 3:25-26), duties later transferred to temple service (1 Chronicles 23:24-26). Their leadership ensured orderly worship and preservation of holiness—foreshadowing the church’s call today to serve “decently and in order” (1 Corinthians 14:40). By recording their headship, the text affirms that God honors structures of authority within His people and equips chosen individuals to guide others. summary 1 Chronicles 23:9 is more than a genealogical footnote. It certifies that God knows and appoints every servant in His house. Shimei’s three sons—Shelomoth, Haziel, and Haran—are counted as leaders of the Ladanite branch of Gershonite Levites, entrusted with vital temple responsibilities. Their precise listing reinforces the accuracy of Scripture, the importance of orderly worship, and the assurance that God faithfully records and uses the lives of those dedicated to His service. |
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