King James Version

What Does 1 Chronicles 26:13 Mean?

1 Chronicles 26:13 in the King James Version says “And they cast lots, as well the small as the great, according to the house of their fathers, for every gate. as well: or...” — study this verse from 1 Chronicles chapter 26 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“And they cast lots, as well the small as the great, according to the house of their fathers, for every gate. as well: or, as well for the small as for the great”

1 Chronicles 26:13 · KJV

Context

11

Hilkiah the second, Tebaliah the third, Zechariah the fourth: all the sons and brethren of Hosah were thirteen .

12

Among these were the divisions of the porters, even among the chief men, having wards one against another, to minister in the house of the LORD.

13

And they cast lots, as well the small as the great, according to the house of their fathers, for every gate. as well: or, as well for the small as for the great

14

And the lot eastward fell to Shelemiah. Then for Zechariah his son, a wise counsellor, they cast lots; and his lot came out northward. Shelemiah: also called Meshelemiah, ver.I.

15

To Obededom southward; and to his sons the house of Asuppim. Asuppim: Heb. gatherings

Read 1 Chronicles 26 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Theological Analysis: This passage falls within the section on Gatekeepers and treasurers - temple administration. The Hebrew term אוֹצָר (otsar) - treasury/storehouse is theologically significant here, pointing to Stewardship of sacred resources. 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 Stewardship of sacred resources. 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 source of all spiritual riches.

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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 Gatekeepers and treasurers - temple administration 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 Stewardship of sacred resources challenge or affirm your current spiritual priorities and practices?
  2. What does Christ as source of all spiritual riches 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 · 8 words
וַיַּפִּ֨ילוּ1 of 8

“And they cast”

H5307

to fall, in a great variety of applications (intransitive or causative, literal or figurative)

גֽוֹרָל֜וֹת2 of 8

“lots”

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)

כַּקָּטֹ֧ן3 of 8

“as well the small”

H6996

abbreviated, i.e., diminutive, literally (in quantity, size or number) or figuratively (in age or importance)

כַּגָּד֛וֹל4 of 8

“as the great”

H1419

great (in any sense); hence, older; also insolent

לְבֵ֥ית5 of 8

“according to the house”

H1004

a house (in the greatest variation of applications, especially family, etc.)

אֲבוֹתָ֖ם6 of 8

“of their fathers”

H1

father, in a literal and immediate, or figurative and remote application

וָשָֽׁעַר׃7 of 8

“for every gate”

H8179

an opening, i.e., door or gate

וָשָֽׁעַר׃8 of 8

“for every gate”

H8179

an opening, i.e., door or gate

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 26:13 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 26:13 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

1 Chronicles 25:81 Chronicles 24:311 Chronicles 24:5

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