King James Version

What Does 1 Chronicles 24:5 Mean?

1 Chronicles 24:5 in the King James Version says “Thus were they divided by lot, one sort with another; for the governors of the sanctuary, and governors of the house of ...” — study this verse from 1 Chronicles chapter 24 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“Thus were they divided by lot, one sort with another; for the governors of the sanctuary, and governors of the house of God, were of the sons of Eleazar, and of the sons of Ithamar.”

1 Chronicles 24:5 · KJV

Context

3

And David distributed them, both Zadok of the sons of Eleazar, and Ahimelech of the sons of Ithamar, according to their offices in their service.

4

And there were more chief men found of the sons of Eleazar than of the sons of Ithamar; and thus were they divided. Among the sons of Eleazar there were sixteen chief men of the house of their fathers, and eight among the sons of Ithamar according to the house of their fathers.

5

Thus were they divided by lot, one sort with another; for the governors of the sanctuary, and governors of the house of God, were of the sons of Eleazar, and of the sons of Ithamar.

6

And Shemaiah the son of Nethaneel the scribe, one of the Levites, wrote them before the king, and the princes, and Zadok the priest, and Ahimelech the son of Abiathar, and before the chief of the fathers of the priests and Levites: one principal household being taken for Eleazar, and one taken for Ithamar. principal: Heb. house of the father

7

Now the first lot came forth to Jehoiarib, the second to Jedaiah,

Read 1 Chronicles 24 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Theological Analysis: This passage falls within the section on Priestly divisions - 24 courses for temple service. The Hebrew term מִשְׁמָר (mishmar) - division/watch is theologically significant here, pointing to Systematic approach to ministry and worship. 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 Systematic approach to ministry and worship. 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's perpetual priesthood.

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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 Priestly divisions - 24 courses for temple service 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 Systematic approach to ministry and worship challenge or affirm your current spiritual priorities and practices?
  2. What does Christ's perpetual priesthood 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 · 15 words
וַיַּחְלְק֥וּם1 of 15

“Thus were they divided”

H2505

to be smooth (figuratively)

בְּגֽוֹרָל֖וֹת2 of 15

“by lot”

H1486

properly, a pebble, i.e., a lot (small stones being used for that purpose); figuratively, a portion or destiny (as if determined by lot)

אֵ֑לֶּה3 of 15

“one sort”

H428

these or those

עִם4 of 15
H5973

adverb or preposition, with (i.e., in conjunction with), in varied applications; specifically, equally with; often with prepositional prefix (and then

אֵ֑לֶּה5 of 15

“one sort”

H428

these or those

כִּֽי6 of 15
H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

הָי֤וּ7 of 15
H1961

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

וְשָׂרֵ֣י8 of 15

“and governors”

H8269

a head person (of any rank or class)

קֹ֙דֶשׁ֙9 of 15

“of the sanctuary”

H6944

a sacred place or thing; rarely abstract, sanctity

וְשָׂרֵ֣י10 of 15

“and governors”

H8269

a head person (of any rank or class)

הָֽאֱלֹהִ֔ים11 of 15

“of the house of God”

H430

gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of

וּבִבְנֵ֥י12 of 15

“and 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

אֶלְעָזָ֖ר13 of 15

“of Eleazar”

H499

elazar, the name of seven israelites

וּבִבְנֵ֥י14 of 15

“and 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

אִֽיתָמָֽר׃15 of 15

“of Ithamar”

H385

ithamar, a son of aaron

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 24:5 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 24:5 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

1 Chronicles 24:31Acts 1:26Jonah 1:7Matthew 26:3Acts 4:6Matthew 27:1

Places in This Verse

Holy Place 2Room · Modern: Mount Moriah · 31.78°N, 35.24°E23 verses across 8 books
View all places in 1 Chronicles 24 →

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