1 Chronicles 26 19

1 Chronicles 26:19 kjv

These are the divisions of the porters among the sons of Kore, and among the sons of Merari.

1 Chronicles 26:19 nkjv

These were the divisions of the gatekeepers among the sons of Korah and among the sons of Merari.

1 Chronicles 26:19 niv

These were the divisions of the gatekeepers who were descendants of Korah and Merari.

1 Chronicles 26:19 esv

These were the divisions of the gatekeepers among the Korahites and the sons of Merari.

1 Chronicles 26:19 nlt

These were the divisions of the gatekeepers from the clans of Korah and Merari.

1 Chronicles 26 verses

1 Chronicles 26 19 Meaning

1 Chronicles 26:19 indicates that the previous enumeration (verses 1-18) describes the systematic assignments and classifications of the temple doorkeepers. It specifically notes that these divisions comprised individuals from the descendants of Kore (Korah) and Merari, two prominent branches of the Levitical tribe, responsible for guarding the entranceways and managing the resources within the house of God.

1 Chronicles 26 19 Context

1 Chronicles 26 provides a detailed account of King David's organized assignments for the Levitical gatekeepers and treasurers, predating the actual construction of the Temple by Solomon. The chapter meticulously lists the heads of various doorkeeper families, their numerical strength, and specific areas of responsibility, such as guarding different gates and overseeing temple storerooms. Verse 19 acts as a concluding statement to this specific segment of the enumeration (which began in verse 1), affirming that the previously mentioned organizational structures pertain specifically to the doorkeepers originating from the lineage of Korah and Merari.

Historically, the book of Chronicles was compiled in the post-exilic period, primarily for the returning Jewish community. Its emphasis on meticulously documenting the Levite divisions and their duties, as established by David, served several crucial purposes. It provided a definitive blueprint for re-establishing temple worship according to ancient, divine patterns. It validated the lineages and roles of those serving in the restored temple, ensuring continuity and proper authorization for sacred functions. This detailed organization highlights the Chronicler's concern for order, reverence, and the sanctity of God's dwelling, underscoring the belief that the proper service of God required thorough planning and specific appointments rather than haphazard participation.

1 Chronicles 26 19 Word analysis

• These: Points back to the lists of names, family heads, and numerical assignments for the doorkeepers given in the preceding verses (1 Chr 26:1-18), explicitly tying the statement to that data.
• are: Simple verb of identity, connecting the descriptive information with the roles defined.
• the divisions (Hebrew: מַחְלְקוֹת, machleqot): Derived from the root chalaq (to divide, apportion). This term emphasizes a highly organized, systematic distribution of roles and responsibilities. It reflects meticulous planning and an orderly administration of sacred duties, crucial for the functionality and reverence of the Temple service.
• of the doorkeepers (Hebrew: הַשּׁוֹעֲרִים, ha-sho'arim): From sha'ar (gate). These were not mere guards but vital Levitical officials with extensive duties. Their role included physical security of the Temple and its gates, maintaining order, regulating access, protecting sacred space from impurity, and managing the Temple treasury and storehouses (as indicated by verses 15-18). Their position required strength, vigilance, and profound trust.
• among the sons of Kore (Hebrew: לִבְנֵי קֹרַח, li-vnei Korach): Refers to the descendants of Korah, a Kohathite Levite. Despite their ancestor Korah's famous rebellion against Moses and Aaron, God preserved his direct lineage who did not participate (Num 26:11). Their prominence here signifies divine grace and redemption, demonstrating that God can use those whose ancestral lines were once associated with disloyalty. The Korahites also became renowned musicians and psalmists (e.g., Ps 42, 84).
• and the sons of Merari (Hebrew: וְלִבְנֵי מְרָרִי, v'li-vnei Merari): Refers to the descendants of Merari, another son of Levi. Historically, Merarites were responsible for the heavier, more structural elements of the Tabernacle (posts, frames, bases). Their inclusion as doorkeepers showcases the diverse nature of service within the Levitical roles, where various skills and traditional family responsibilities were integrated into the overall Temple administration.

Words-group analysis:

• "These are the divisions": This phrase introduces the central theme of highly structured and systematic organization. It highlights the divine preference for order and careful planning in matters related to God's worship and the maintenance of His house. This structure ensures clarity of responsibility and efficient operation within the sacred precinct.
• "of the doorkeepers among the sons of Kore and the sons of Merari": This specifies the precise beneficiaries and implementers of these divisions. It clearly identifies which specific Levitical lineages were appointed to the crucial gatekeeping roles. This phrase underscores the principle of hereditary service in the Old Covenant, yet also illustrates the wide distribution of duties among different Levitical families according to their unique strengths and heritage, even including those with complex histories, like the Korahites.

1 Chronicles 26 19 Bonus section

• Significance of "Gate": In the ancient Near East, city gates were critical places for legal proceedings, business transactions, and social gatherings. Therefore, "doorkeepers" held a position of considerable authority and trust, not just in security but in overall management.
• Legacy of Redemption: The prominent mention of the "sons of Kore" among the doorkeepers is particularly noteworthy. Despite Korah's infamous rebellion against God's appointed leadership, God graciously preserved a portion of his lineage, restoring them to honorable and significant service in the tabernacle/temple. This illustrates a divine pattern of grace and the potential for redemption and reinstatement, where God's purposes can still be fulfilled through instruments even from flawed or troubled pasts.
• Blueprint for Generations: The meticulous listing of divisions and genealogies was more than historical record; for the post-exilic community, it served as a divine blueprint. It authenticated their identity and duties, providing guidance and assurance that they were rebuilding the worship structure according to God's ancient and enduring design, passed down from King David himself.

1 Chronicles 26 19 Commentary

1 Chronicles 26:19 encapsulates David's commitment to methodical order in divine service, reflecting a divine principle of structured worship. It reaffirms that the detailed arrangements for gatekeepers listed were specifically apportioned among the respected lineages of Korah and Merari. These doorkeepers were pivotal not only for physical security but also for maintaining the sanctity and operational flow of the Temple. Their roles involved safeguarding access, regulating purity, and managing financial contributions, thus embodying trust and sacred responsibility. The Chronicler's emphasis on such specifics underscores the importance of intentionality, precision, and designated roles within God's house, demonstrating that consecrated service requires diligence and faithful stewardship over all aspects, however seemingly mundane. It is a powerful reminder that all tasks, big or small, within God's plan contribute to the integrity of His worship and presence.