1 Chronicles 15 18

1 Chronicles 15:18 kjv

And with them their brethren of the second degree, Zechariah, Ben, and Jaaziel, and Shemiramoth, and Jehiel, and Unni, Eliab, and Benaiah, and Maaseiah, and Mattithiah, and Elipheleh, and Mikneiah, and Obededom, and Jeiel, the porters.

1 Chronicles 15:18 nkjv

and with them their brethren of the second rank: Zechariah, Ben, Jaaziel, Shemiramoth, Jehiel, Unni, Eliab, Benaiah, Maaseiah, Mattithiah, Elipheleh, Mikneiah, Obed-Edom, and Jeiel, the gatekeepers;

1 Chronicles 15:18 niv

and with them their relatives next in rank: Zechariah, Jaaziel, Shemiramoth, Jehiel, Unni, Eliab, Benaiah, Maaseiah, Mattithiah, Eliphelehu, Mikneiah, Obed-Edom and Jeiel, the gatekeepers.

1 Chronicles 15:18 esv

and with them their brothers of the second order, Zechariah, Jaaziel, Shemiramoth, Jehiel, Unni, Eliab, Benaiah, Maaseiah, Mattithiah, Eliphelehu, and Mikneiah, and the gatekeepers Obed-edom and Jeiel.

1 Chronicles 15:18 nlt

The following men were chosen as their assistants: Zechariah, Jaaziel, Shemiramoth, Jehiel, Unni, Eliab, Benaiah, Maaseiah, Mattithiah, Eliphelehu, Mikneiah, and the gatekeepers ? Obed-edom and Jeiel.

1 Chronicles 15 verses

1 Chronicles 15 18 Meaning

1 Chronicles 15:18 specifies some of the Levites chosen to assist in bringing the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem. These men, identified by name, included those designated for musical roles "of the second degree" and some specifically as gatekeepers, signifying King David's careful and organized approach to sacred worship after the previous attempt's failure.

1 Chronicles 15 18 Context

The immediate context of 1 Chronicles 15 is David's second and successful attempt to bring the Ark of the Covenant from Obed-Edom's house to Jerusalem. This follows a tragic first attempt (1 Chr 13) where Uzzah died because the Ark was transported on an oxcart rather than being carried by the Levites as prescribed by God's law. In chapter 15, David, having learned from this error, meticulously prepares for the procession. He consecrates the Levites and assigns specific roles to ensure proper protocol, emphasizing holiness and adherence to divine commands. This verse details particular Levites chosen for supporting musical roles and as gatekeepers, highlighting the highly organized and intentional nature of this sacred event and David's commitment to right worship. Historically and culturally, this event marks Jerusalem's establishment as both the political and spiritual center of Israel, solidifying the central role of the Ark in national life and demonstrating the importance of Levitical service in the prescribed worship.

1 Chronicles 15 18 Word analysis

• and with them: (וְעִמָּהֶם, ve'immahem) This conjunction connects these individuals directly to the chief musicians/Levites mentioned in the preceding verse (1 Chr 15:17), implying they are part of the larger group participating in the Ark's procession. It suggests a collaborative effort where various roles are integrated.
• their brethren: (אֲחֵיהֶם, acheyhem) Literally "their brothers." This term refers to their fellow Levites, emphasizing tribal and functional kinship within the Levitical families. It highlights the corporate nature of their service, reinforcing that these are not merely disparate individuals but members of a divinely appointed group serving collectively.
• of the second degree: (מִשְׁנֵה, mishneh) This Hebrew term signifies a secondary rank, an assistant capacity, or those next in importance. In the context of the Ark's transportation, particularly with the list of singers and musicians earlier (1 Chr 15:16-17), it likely refers to their specific musical roles as subordinate singers or instrumentalists, or those providing crucial logistical support to the primary Ark carriers and lead musicians. This detail points to an organized and hierarchical structure within the Levitical ministry, demonstrating order in sacred service.
• Zechariah, Ben, Jaaziel, Shemiramoth, Jehiel, Unni, Eliab, Benaiah, Maaseiah, Mattithiah, Elipheleh, Mikneiah, Obed-Edom, and Jeiel: This precise listing of personal names is characteristic of the Chronicler's historical meticulousness. It emphasizes the specific, chosen individuals for this sacred task, authenticating the account and showing the diligent planning of David. Each name identifies a distinct individual with a specific, though often supporting, role in the solemn service of God.
  • Obed-Edom: (עֹבֵד אֱדֹם, Oved Edom) Meaning "servant of Edom" (a seemingly ironic or Gentile name given his context). His inclusion is highly significant. Previously, the Ark had stayed in his house for three months, bringing immense blessing upon his household (1 Chr 13:14). His presence among the chosen Levites demonstrates God's continued favor upon him and his family, and his formal integration into the Levitical service, specifically as a gatekeeper, highlighting his trusted and now consecrated role in God's dwelling. This emphasizes God's grace and how individuals blessed by His presence are often called to deeper service.
• the gatekeepers: (הַשֹׁעֲרִים, ha-sho'arim) Refers to a specific Levitical function within the tabernacle/temple complex. Gatekeepers were responsible for securing the sacred precincts, managing entry and exit, and maintaining order. Their role often included musical service as well (Ps 84:10 connects dwelling in God's courts with this role). Their inclusion in the Ark's procession underscored the need for disciplined oversight and proper conduct during such a holy event.

1 Chronicles 15 18 Bonus section

• The Chronicler's extensive detailing of Levitical roles and specific names in passages like this highlights his strong theological emphasis on proper temple worship and its personnel. This focus was crucial for the post-exilic community in Judah to re-establish and correctly practice their faith according to Mosaic and Davidic precedents.
• David's careful selection and organization of the Levites reflect a significant transition in Israel's worship from informal, less structured practices to a more formal, centralized, and meticulously orchestrated system. This established a foundation for future Temple worship.
• The fact that musicians and gatekeepers are listed alongside each other emphasizes the comprehensive nature of sacred service. Both artistic expression through music and practical administration through gatekeeping were considered essential components of ordered and reverent worship.

1 Chronicles 15 18 Commentary

1 Chronicles 15:18 meticulously enumerates specific Levites entrusted with roles "of the second degree" and as "gatekeepers" in the solemn procession of the Ark. This level of detail underscores King David's meticulous adherence to God's instructions for carrying the Ark, learning from the previous Uzzah tragedy. The mention of "their brethren" highlights the collective and kinship-based nature of Levitical service, where all members contribute to orderly worship. The inclusion of Obed-Edom, whose household had previously been blessed by the Ark's temporary dwelling, symbolizes God's favor extending to those who reverence His presence and are now formally integrated into His dedicated service. Ultimately, the verse illustrates David's commitment to structured, proper, and consecrated worship, demonstrating that all designated roles, great or small, are crucial for the integrity and reverence of sacred service.