King James Version

What Does 1 Chronicles 23:17 Mean?

“And the sons of Eliezer were, Rehabiah the chief. And Eliezer had none other sons; but the sons of Rehabiah were very many. the chief: or, the first very many: Heb. were highly multiplied”

1 Chronicles 23:17 · KJV

Context

15

The sons of Moses were, Gershom, and Eliezer.

16

Of the sons of Gershom, Shebuel was the chief. Shebuel: or, Shubael

17

And the sons of Eliezer were, Rehabiah the chief. And Eliezer had none other sons; but the sons of Rehabiah were very many. the chief: or, the first very many: Heb. were highly multiplied

18

Of the sons of Izhar; Shelomith the chief.

19

Of the sons of Hebron; Jeriah the first, Amariah the second, Jahaziel the third, and Jekameam the fourth.

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Theological Analysis: This passage falls within the section on Levitical divisions and temple service organization. The Hebrew term עֲבוֹדָה (avodah) - service/work is theologically significant here, pointing to Ordered worship according to divine pattern. 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 Ordered worship according to divine pattern. 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: Priesthood of all believers under Christ.

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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 Levitical divisions and temple service organization 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 Ordered worship according to divine pattern challenge or affirm your current spiritual priorities and practices?
  2. What does Priesthood of all believers under Christ 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 · 14 words
וַיִּֽהְי֥וּ1 of 14
H1961

to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)

וּבְנֵ֥י2 of 14

“And 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

לֶֽאֱלִיעֶ֙זֶר֙3 of 14

“And Eliezer”

H461

eliezer, the name of a damascene and of ten israelites

רְחַבְיָ֖ה4 of 14

“of Rehabiah”

H7345

rechabjah, an israelite

הָרֹ֑אשׁ5 of 14

“the chief”

H7218

the head (as most easily shaken), whether literal or figurative (in many applications, of place, time, rank, itc.)

וְלֹֽא6 of 14
H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

הָיָ֤ה7 of 14
H1961

to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)

לֶֽאֱלִיעֶ֙זֶר֙8 of 14

“And Eliezer”

H461

eliezer, the name of a damascene and of ten israelites

וּבְנֵ֥י9 of 14

“And 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

אֲחֵרִ֔ים10 of 14

“had none other”

H312

properly, hinder; generally, next, other, etc

וּבְנֵ֥י11 of 14

“And 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

רְחַבְיָ֖ה12 of 14

“of Rehabiah”

H7345

rechabjah, an israelite

רָב֥וּ13 of 14

“many”

H7235

to increase (in whatever respect)

לְמָֽעְלָה׃14 of 14

“were very”

H4605

properly,the upper part, used only adverbially with prefix upward, above, overhead, from the top, etc

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 23:17 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 23:17 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

1 Chronicles 26:25

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