1 Chronicles 29 8

1 Chronicles 29:8 kjv

And they with whom precious stones were found gave them to the treasure of the house of the LORD, by the hand of Jehiel the Gershonite.

1 Chronicles 29:8 nkjv

And whoever had precious stones gave them to the treasury of the house of the LORD, into the hand of Jehiel the Gershonite.

1 Chronicles 29:8 niv

Anyone who had precious stones gave them to the treasury of the temple of the LORD in the custody of Jehiel the Gershonite.

1 Chronicles 29:8 esv

And whoever had precious stones gave them to the treasury of the house of the LORD, in the care of Jehiel the Gershonite.

1 Chronicles 29:8 nlt

They also contributed numerous precious stones, which were deposited in the treasury of the house of the LORD under the care of Jehiel, a descendant of Gershon.

1 Chronicles 29 verses

1 Chronicles 29 8 Meaning

1 Chronicles 29:8 describes a specific act of generosity by the Israelite community, following David's personal commitment and appeal for contributions towards the construction of the Temple. Those who possessed precious stones willingly gave them, entrusting these valuable materials to the Temple treasury. This act highlights a commitment to God's house, not just through gold and silver, but also through the most beautiful and enduring resources. The verse also underscores the structured and accountable management of these sacred donations, with specific Levites appointed for this critical task, ensuring order and faithfulness in handling what was dedicated to the Lord.

1 Chronicles 29 8 Context

1 Chronicles 29:8 is part of a grand narrative in David's later reign, where he dedicates himself to the preparations for building the First Temple in Jerusalem. Although God had forbidden David himself from constructing the Temple due to his involvement in warfare (1 Chr 22:8), He graciously allowed David to gather an immense treasury of materials, resources, and skilled labor. In this specific chapter (1 Chr 29), David models sacrificial giving by contributing a vast personal fortune and then challenges the leaders and people of Israel to join him. Their overwhelming response, particularly detailed in verses 6-9, demonstrates remarkable generosity and unity. Verse 8, specifically, highlights the giving of valuable precious stones, distinct from gold, silver, bronze, and iron, emphasizing the desire to adorn the House of God with beauty and permanence. The subsequent organization and appointed handlers of these gifts speak to the meticulous planning and spiritual devotion underlying this monumental endeavor, rooted in the desire for a central, enduring place of worship for the Lord.

1 Chronicles 29 8 Word analysis

• And they with whom: Connects the individual contribution to the communal act inspired by David's leadership. It highlights the individuals who responded. The Hebrew וְהַנִּמְצָא (vehannimtsa), literally "and the found ones" or "and that which was found," suggests not just possession, but perhaps the specific identification or availability of these items for the stated purpose.
• precious stones: אֲבָנִים יְקָרֹת (avanîm yeqarôt). "Stones" (אֶבֶן, even) denotes durability and lasting value. "Precious" (יָקָר, yaqar) implies high value, rarity, and beauty, often associated with kingship, sacred objects, and divine presence (e.g., in the High Priest's breastplate, Ex 28:17-20). The use of such materials underscores the intent to build a house of ultimate splendor, fitting for the dwelling place of God's presence, reflecting divine glory. These stones were used for inlay, ornamentation, and possibly even the foundation, symbolizing permanence and worth.
• were found: נִמְצָא (nimtsa) - "to be found," indicating these materials were available or readily accessible among the people, possibly specifically sought out or newly acquired for this purpose. It reflects the people bringing forth what they possessed.
• gave them: נָתְנוּ אֹתָם (natnu otam) - "they gave them." The verb נָתַן (natan) implies voluntary, deliberate action. This giving was not compelled, but a freewill offering, emphasizing the spirit of generosity and devotion.
• to the treasury: לְאוֹצַר (le'otsar) - "to the storehouse/treasury." An אוֹצָר (otsar) was a dedicated store for valuables, implying organization, security, and a specific purpose. It indicates proper management of the sacred offerings, not merely an informal collection. This demonstrates a system of financial accountability within God's people.
• of the house of the Lord: בֵּית יְהוָה (bêt Yahweh) - "House of Yahweh." This specifies the ultimate sacred recipient and purpose of the gifts, the soon-to-be-built Temple, God's dwelling place on earth. All gifts were directed towards facilitating true worship.
• by the hand of: עַל יַד (ʿal yad) - literally "upon the hand of" or "by means of the hand of." This idiomatic expression denotes delegated authority, agency, or management. It highlights the structured and authorized delivery process, not simply placing items into a chest. It implies official receipt and stewardship.
• Jehiel the Gershonite: יְחִיאֵל הַגֵּרְשֻׁנִי (Yeḥi'el hag-Gershunī) - יְחִיאֵל (Yeḥi'el) means "God lives" or "May God live." Jehiel was a specific, named individual, identified by his Levitical lineage as a Gershonite. According to 1 Chr 26:21-22, other sons of Jehiel were over the treasuries, indicating his significant role in the administration of the Temple resources. The Gershonites were a division of Levites primarily responsible for the tabernacle's coverings and hangings (Num 3:25-26), but also played roles in temple administration and musical service, showing the diversified service of Levites. His mention reinforces the meticulous order and designated roles within the preparations for the Temple.

Words-group by words-group analysis:

• "And they with whom precious stones were found": This phrase identifies the givers—individuals who possessed rare and valuable items. Their participation demonstrates that the call for contributions extended to all, inspiring generosity even from those holding objects of great personal worth, transforming personal wealth into a collective offering for divine glory.
• "gave them to the treasury of the house of the Lord": This segment describes the selfless act of dedication and its sacred destination. The 'treasury' signifies proper and secure management, indicating that the contributions were part of a well-organized endeavor for God's holy dwelling place. It wasn't haphazard giving, but a purposeful, designated offering.
• "by the hand of Jehiel the Gershonite": This concluding part specifies the means and the appointed individual responsible for receiving and administering these valuable gifts. It underscores accountability, order, and the essential role of Levites in handling sacred offerings for the Lord's service, demonstrating God's meticulous care for His house and how offerings are received and managed.

1 Chronicles 29 8 Bonus section

• The scale of generosity in 1 Chronicles 29, including this verse, is truly exceptional. David’s and the people's contributions were astronomical in value, signifying their understanding that God deserves the absolute best and that giving to Him involves the highest personal sacrifice.
• The use of precious stones in the Temple materials also carries symbolic weight, harking back to the precious stones in the High Priest's breastplate representing the tribes of Israel before God, and looking forward to the description of the New Jerusalem in Revelation, where precious stones adorn the city itself, reflecting divine glory and purity. This illustrates a consistent biblical motif of the sacredness and beauty associated with God's dwelling.
• The meticulous accounting and oversight (like by Jehiel) recorded in Chronicles reflect a key aspect of faithful stewardship within biblical tradition. God cares not only about the motivation of giving but also about the integrity and transparency of how those gifts are managed for His purposes. This resonates with principles of responsible management taught throughout Scripture.
• This act of giving, particularly of valuable personal possessions, also implicitly served as a tangible expression of the people's faith and covenant loyalty. By dedicating their finest resources, they were demonstrating their commitment to the Lord as their ultimate Provider and King.

1 Chronicles 29 8 Commentary

1 Chronicles 29:8 succinctly illustrates the deep spiritual fervor and unity that permeated Israel under King David's leadership as they prepared for the construction of God's Temple. It specifically highlights the voluntary contribution of "precious stones," distinguishing these rare and beautiful materials from the previously mentioned metals. This specific mention emphasizes the desire to offer not just abundant, but also aesthetically superior and enduring resources for God's house, fitting for His glory.

The act of giving was a freewill offering, prompted by a responsive heart rather than coercion, aligning with biblical principles of cheerful giving. The designation of these gifts "to the treasury of the house of the Lord" speaks volumes about the planned, organized, and sacred nature of this colossal project. It was not merely a collection, but a systematic intake of resources into a secured and designated storage.

Furthermore, the mention of "by the hand of Jehiel the Gershonite" provides a vital detail of accountability and stewardship. This points to the meticulous care with which sacred offerings were handled. It reminds us that giving is only part of the spiritual transaction; proper management and administration of what is given to the Lord is equally crucial. Jehiel, a Levite, belonging to the division traditionally responsible for aspects of tabernacle management, embodies the trusted, designated oversight required for God's holy possessions. The verse, therefore, serves as a powerful testament to sincere, bountiful, and well-administered giving in devotion to the Lord, laying a foundational example of generosity and orderly stewardship in service to God's dwelling place among His people.