1 Chronicles 24 17

1 Chronicles 24:17 kjv

The one and twentieth to Jachin, the two and twentieth to Gamul,

1 Chronicles 24:17 nkjv

the twenty-first to Jachin, the twenty-second to Gamul,

1 Chronicles 24:17 niv

the twenty-first to Jakin, the twenty-second to Gamul,

1 Chronicles 24:17 esv

the twenty-first to Jachin, the twenty-second to Gamul,

1 Chronicles 24:17 nlt

The twenty-first lot fell to Jakin.
The twenty-second lot fell to Gamul.

1 Chronicles 24 verses

1 Chronicles 24 17 Meaning

This verse precisely identifies the twenty-first priestly course as that of Jachin and the twenty-second priestly course as that of Gamul. It is part of King David's systematic organization of the descendants of Aaron into twenty-four divisions or courses, established by lot, to ensure an orderly and continuous service in the future temple in Jerusalem. Each course was to serve for a week, twice a year, ensuring equitable participation among all qualified priestly families.

1 Chronicles 24 17 Context

1 Chronicles 24 is part of a larger section (chapters 23-26) detailing David's organization of the Levitical service, specifically for the temple which his son Solomon would build. Before the temple's physical construction, David meticulously established the administrative and operational framework for its worship, including the priestly roles. This chapter outlines the division of the descendants of Aaron into twenty-four courses by lot, ensuring that all eligible priestly families had a scheduled turn to perform duties in the house of the Lord. Verses 7-18 list these twenty-four courses sequentially. This detailed arrangement reflects David's commitment to ordered worship and the perpetuity of the temple service, laying a foundational structure that persisted for centuries, even into the New Testament era (as seen with Zechariah of the course of Abijah in Luke 1:5).

1 Chronicles 24 17 Word analysis

• The one and twentieth: This specific ordinal number highlights the methodical and precise nature of King David's organization. It underscores the detailed record-keeping and deliberate allocation of duties.
• to Jachin:
  • Original Language: יָכִין (Yakhin).
  • Meaning: "He establishes" or "He will establish."
  • Significance: The name itself carries theological weight, perhaps an unconscious recognition that God Himself establishes these priestly lines and their service. This Jachin is distinct from the pillar in the temple's porch (1 Kgs 7:21), referring instead to a specific individual and his priestly lineage. The family of Jachin would thus take their turn in service.
• the two and twentieth: Continues the precise enumeration, emphasizing the comprehensive and equitable nature of the priestly assignments. Every course had its turn.
• to Gamul:
  • Original Language: גָּמוּל (Gamul).
  • Meaning: "Weaned," "requited," or "rewarded."
  • Significance: Another personal name representing a priestly family. The etymology, "weaned," might imply a maturity or separation unto service. "Requited" or "rewarded" could metaphorically signify the faithful service of this lineage receiving its assigned place, highlighting the divine favor in their designated role within the Levitical structure.

1 Chronicles 24 17 Bonus section

The careful division of priestly courses by lot, as seen in this chapter, underscores a core biblical principle: God is a God of order, not of confusion (1 Cor 14:33). The use of lots, especially in ancient Israel, often indicated divine direction and confirmation of specific choices (Prov 16:33), signifying that this systematic organization was not merely a human administrative task but one blessed by God. The system ensured that for centuries to come, the Temple in Jerusalem would operate with continuity and equity in its sacred service, a structure that influenced Jewish life and worship until the temple's destruction. This careful foresight highlights the value placed on organized, disciplined worship in biblical times.

1 Chronicles 24 17 Commentary

1 Chronicles 24:17, though a single verse in a lengthy list, succinctly illustrates the meticulous and orderly nature of God's desired worship. It demonstrates David's divinely inspired wisdom in establishing a comprehensive system for temple service. The division into courses ensured that every qualified priestly family had its turn to minister, promoting fairness and preventing a concentration of power, while guaranteeing continuous service. This systematic approach underscored the principle that sacred duties require careful planning and structured execution. It also points to the significance of named individuals and their family lines in the divine plan for corporate worship, ensuring a specific order and accountability.