King James Version

What Does 1 Chronicles 23:29 Mean?

1 Chronicles 23:29 in the King James Version says “Both for the shewbread , and for the fine flour for meat offering, and for the unleavened cakes, and for that which is b...” — study this verse from 1 Chronicles chapter 23 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“Both for the shewbread , and for the fine flour for meat offering, and for the unleavened cakes, and for that which is baked in the pan, and for that which is fried, and for all manner of measure and size; pan: or, flat plate”

1 Chronicles 23:29 · King James Version

Context

27

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

28

Because their office was to wait on the sons of Aaron for the service of the house of the LORD, in the courts, and in the chambers, and in the purifying of all holy things, and the work of the service of the house of God; their: Heb. their station was at the hand of the sons of Aaron

29

Both for the shewbread , and for the fine flour for meat offering, and for the unleavened cakes, and for that which is baked in the pan, and for that which is fried, and for all manner of measure and size; pan: or, flat plate

30

And to stand every morning to thank and praise the LORD, and likewise at even;

31

And to offer all burnt sacrifices unto the LORD in the sabbaths, in the new moons, and on the set feasts, by number, according to the order commanded unto them, continually before the LORD:

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Commentaries3 scholars

KJV Study CommentaryPublic Domain
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.

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 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?

Compare 3 commentaries from different scholars and time periods for a richer understanding.

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 11 words
וּלְלֶ֨חֶם1 of 11

“Both for the shewbread”

H3899

food (for man or beast), especially bread, or grain (for making it)

הַֽמַּעֲרֶ֜כֶת2 of 11
H4635

an arrangement, i.e., (concretely) a pile (of loaves)

וּלְסֹ֤לֶת3 of 11

“and for the fine flour”

H5560

flour (as chipped off)

לְמִנְחָה֙4 of 11

“for meat offering”

H4503

a donation; euphemistically, tribute; specifically a sacrificial offering (usually bloodless and voluntary)

וְלִרְקִיקֵ֣י5 of 11

“cakes”

H7550

a thin cake

הַמַּצּ֔וֹת6 of 11

“and for the unleavened”

H4682

properly, sweetness; concretely, sweet (i.e., not soured or bittered with yeast); specifically, an unfermented cake or loaf, or (elliptically) the fes

וְלַֽמַּחֲבַ֖ת7 of 11

“and for that which is baked in the pan”

H4227

a pan for baking in

וְלַמֻּרְבָּ֑כֶת8 of 11

“and for that which is fried”

H7246

to soak (bread in oil)

וּלְכָל9 of 11
H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

מְשׂוּרָ֖ה10 of 11

“and for all manner of measure”

H4884

a measure (for liquids)

וּמִדָּֽה׃11 of 11

“and size”

H4060

properly, extension, i.e., height or breadth; specifically, tribute (as measured)

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 23:29 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 23:29 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Leviticus 19:35-36Exodus 25:30Leviticus 2:4-7Leviticus 6:20-23Leviticus 24:5-92 Chronicles 13:11

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