King James Version

What Does 1 Chronicles 26:29 Mean?

“Of the Izharites, Chenaniah and his sons were for the outward business over Israel, for officers and judges.”

Context

Out of the spoils won in battles did they dedicate to maintain the house of the LORD. spoils: Heb. battles and spoils

And all that Samuel the seer, and Saul the son of Kish, and Abner the son of Ner, and Joab the son of Zeruiah, had dedicated; and whosoever had dedicated any thing, it was under the hand of Shelomith, and of his brethren.

Of the Izharites, Chenaniah and his sons were for the outward business over Israel, for officers and judges.

And of the Hebronites, Hashabiah and his brethren, men of valour, a thousand and seven hundred, were officers among them of Israel on this side Jordan westward in all the business of the LORD, and in the service of the king. officers: Heb. over the charge

Among the Hebronites was Jerijah the chief, even among the Hebronites, according to the generations of his fathers. In the fortieth year of the reign of David they were sought for, and there were found among them mighty men of valour at Jazer of Gilead.

Read full chapter →

Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

**III. THE LEVITES CHARGED WITH BUSINESS EXTERNAL TO THE SANCTUARY** (1Chronicles 26:29-32). (29) **Of the Izharites, Chenaniah and his sons.**—*As to the Izharites, Chenaniah, *&c. Izhar was the second, as Hebron (1Chronicles 26:30) was the third of the Kohathite stocks (1Chronicles 23:12). **The outward business** is defined as that of “officers” (*shoterîm,* scribes) and judges. Six thousand Levites were set apart for these duties (1Chronicles 23:4). As Nehemiah 11:16 mentions *“*the outward business of the house of God,” the outward business here spoken of may have been in part connected with the Temple, and included such work as the collection of tithes and taxes.

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 26:29 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.