King James Version

What Does 1 Chronicles 15:8 Mean?

1 Chronicles 15:8 in the King James Version says “Of the sons of Elizaphan; Shemaiah the chief, and his brethren two hundred:” — study this verse from 1 Chronicles chapter 15 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

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

1 Chronicles 15:8 · KJV

Context

6

Of the sons of Merari; Asaiah the chief, and his brethren two hundred and twenty:

7

Of the sons of Gershom; Joel the chief, and his brethren an hundred and thirty:

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 .

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 · 6 words
לִבְנֵ֖י1 of 6

“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

אֱלִֽיצָפָ֑ן2 of 6

“of Elizaphan”

H469

elitsaphan or eltsaphan, an israelite

שְׁמַֽעְיָ֥ה3 of 6

“Shemaiah”

H8098

shemajah, the name of twenty-five israelites

הַשָּׂ֖ר4 of 6

“the chief”

H8269

a head person (of any rank or class)

וְאֶחָ֥יו5 of 6

“and his brethren”

H251

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

מָאתָֽיִם׃6 of 6

“two hundred”

H3967

a hundred; also as a multiplicative and a fraction

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 15:8 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 15:8 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Exodus 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