King James Version

What Does 1 Chronicles 23:25 Mean?

“For David said, The LORD God of Israel hath given rest unto his people, that they may dwell in Jerusalem for ever: that: or, and he dwelleth in Jerusalem, etc”

Context

The sons of Mushi; Mahli, and Eder, and Jeremoth, three.

These were the sons of Levi after the house of their fathers; even the chief of the fathers, as they were counted by number of names by their polls, that did the work for the service of the house of the LORD, from the age of twenty years and upward.

For David said, The LORD God of Israel hath given rest unto his people, that they may dwell in Jerusalem for ever: that: or, and he dwelleth in Jerusalem, etc

And also unto the Levites; they shall no more carry the tabernacle, nor any vessels of it for the service thereof.

For by the last words of David the Levites were numbered from twenty years old and above: numbered: Heb. number

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(25) F**or David said.**—This verse seems to assign a reason for the extension of the Levitical census. **The Lord . . . hath given rest unto his people.**—So that they no longer wander from pasture to pasture in the wilderness, nor are any more oppressed by foreign tyrants as in the days of the judges. **That they may dwell.**—Rather, *And He* (the Lord) *hath settled in Jerusalem for ever.* (Comp. 1Chronicles 17:5, “I have gone from tent to tent.”) Now Jehovah has chosen Zion to be His eternal dwelling-place (Psalm 132:13.)

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

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 23:25 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.