King James Version

What Does 1 Chronicles 15:10 Mean?

1 Chronicles 15:10 in the King James Version says “Of the sons of Uzziel; Amminadab the chief, and his brethren an hundred and twelve .” — study this verse from 1 Chronicles chapter 15 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“Of the sons of Uzziel; Amminadab the chief, and his brethren an hundred and twelve .”

1 Chronicles 15:10 · KJV

Context

8

Of the sons of Elizaphan; Shemaiah the chief, and his brethren two hundred:

9

Of the sons of Hebron; Eliel the chief, and his brethren fourscore:

10

Of the sons of Uzziel; Amminadab the chief, and his brethren an hundred and twelve .

11

And David called for Zadok and Abiathar the priests, and for the Levites, for Uriel, Asaiah, and Joel, Shemaiah, and Eliel, and Amminadab,

12

And said unto them, Ye are the chief of the fathers of the Levites: sanctify yourselves, both ye and your brethren, that ye may bring up the ark of the LORD God of Israel unto the place that I have prepared for it.

Read 1 Chronicles 15 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Theological Analysis: This passage falls within the section on Proper ark transport - Levitical worship order. The Hebrew term לֵוִי (Levi) - joined/attached is theologically significant here, pointing to Ordained worship according to God's prescription. The Chronicler's narrative, while paralleling Samuel-Kings in places, offers a distinct theological perspective emphasizing temple worship, Levitical service, and covenant faithfulness.

Chronicles presents David not primarily as warrior-king but as worship organizer and temple planner. This verse contributes to that portrait by highlighting the spiritual dimensions of Israel's national life. The text demonstrates that true prosperity comes through proper worship and covenant obedience rather than merely military or political success.

Doctrinally, this passage teaches about Ordained worship according to God's prescription. Cross-references throughout Chronicles connect David's reign to the broader redemptive narrative, showing how God's covenant promises advance through faithful human leadership while ultimately depending on divine grace and power. The messianic implications are profound: Christ as true temple and worship center.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Historical Background: This section describes events from David's reign (c. 1010-970 BCE) but was written centuries later during the Persian period (c. 450-400 BCE). The Chronicler's selectivity in retelling David's story serves his theological purposes—he omits David's sins (Bathsheba, Absalom's rebellion) while emphasizing David's worship reforms and temple preparations.

The historical setting of Proper ark transport - Levitical worship order occurred during Israel's united monarchy, when the nation reached its territorial and political zenith. Archaeological evidence from this period shows significant building projects and administrative development. However, the Chronicler writes for a much smaller, struggling post-exilic community, using David's golden age to inspire hope for restoration.

Ancient Near Eastern parallels show that temple construction and royal sponsorship of worship were common across cultures. However, Israel's understanding of worship centered on covenant relationship with the one true God rather than manipulation of capricious deities. This theological distinctiveness shapes the Chronicler's presentation.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does this verse's emphasis on Ordained worship according to God's prescription challenge or affirm your current spiritual priorities and practices?
  2. What does Christ as true temple and worship center teach you about Jesus Christ and His redemptive work?
  3. In what practical ways can you apply the principles of covenant faithfulness and proper worship demonstrated in this passage?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 8 words
לִבְנֵ֖י1 of 8

“Of the sons”

H1121

a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or

עֻזִּיאֵ֑ל2 of 8

“of Uzziel”

H5816

uzziel, the name of six israelites

עַמִּֽינָדָ֣ב3 of 8

“Amminadab”

H5992

amminadab, the name of four israelites

הַשָּׂ֔ר4 of 8

“the chief”

H8269

a head person (of any rank or class)

וְאֶחָ֕יו5 of 8

“and his brethren”

H251

a brother (used in the widest sense of literal relationship and metaphorical affinity or resemblance [like h0001])

מֵאָ֖ה6 of 8

“an hundred”

H3967

a hundred; also as a multiplicative and a fraction

וּשְׁנֵ֥ים7 of 8

“and twelve”

H8147

two; also (as ordinal) twofold

עָשָֽׂר׃8 of 8
H6240

ten (only in combination), i.e., -teen; also (ordinal) -teenth

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of 1 Chronicles. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

1 Chronicles 15:10 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to 1 Chronicles 15:10 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Exodus 6:181 Chronicles 6:181 Chronicles 23:12Exodus 6:221 Chronicles 6:22

Test Your Knowledge

1 Chronicles 15 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapter1 Chronicles Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

Continue Your Study

Read 1 Chronicles 15 with CommentaryAll 1 Chronicles ChaptersComplete 1 Chronicles QuizBible CharactersNave's Topical BibleAll Bible Quizzes