King James Version

What Does 1 Chronicles 26:4 Mean?

1 Chronicles 26:4 in the King James Version says “Moreover the sons of Obededom were, Shemaiah the firstborn, Jehozabad the second, Joah the third, and Sacar the fourth, ...” — study this verse from 1 Chronicles chapter 26 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“Moreover the sons of Obededom were, Shemaiah the firstborn, Jehozabad the second, Joah the third, and Sacar the fourth, and Nethaneel the fifth,”

1 Chronicles 26:4 · KJV

Context

2

And the sons of Meshelemiah were, Zechariah the firstborn, Jediael the second, Zebadiah the third, Jathniel the fourth,

3

Elam the fifth, Jehohanan the sixth, Elioenai the seventh.

4

Moreover the sons of Obededom were, Shemaiah the firstborn, Jehozabad the second, Joah the third, and Sacar the fourth, and Nethaneel the fifth,

5

Ammiel the sixth, Issachar the seventh, Peulthai the eighth: for God blessed him. him: that is, Obededom

6

Also unto Shemaiah his son were sons born, that ruled throughout the house of their father: for they were mighty men of valour.

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.

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 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 · 13 words
וּלְעֹבֵ֥ד1 of 13
H0
אֱדֹ֖ם2 of 13

“of Obededom”

H5654

obed-edom, the name of five israelites

בָּנִ֑ים3 of 13

“Moreover 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

שְׁמַעְיָ֤ה4 of 13

“were Shemaiah”

H8098

shemajah, the name of twenty-five israelites

הַבְּכוֹר֙5 of 13

“the firstborn”

H1060

first-born; hence, chief

יְהֽוֹזָבָ֣ד6 of 13

“Jehozabad”

H3075

jehozabad, the name of three israelites

הַשֵּׁנִ֔י7 of 13

“the second”

H8145

properly, double, i.e., second; also adverbially, again

יוֹאָ֤ח8 of 13

“Joah”

H3098

joach, the name of four israelites

הַשְּׁלִשִׁי֙9 of 13

“the third”

H7992

third; feminine a third (part); by extension, a third (day, year or time); specifically, a third-story cell)

וְשָׂכָ֣ר10 of 13

“and Sacar”

H7940

sakar, the name of two israelites

הָֽרְבִיעִ֔י11 of 13

“the fourth”

H7243

fourth; also (fractionally) a fourth

וּנְתַנְאֵ֖ל12 of 13

“and Nethaneel”

H5417

nethanel, the name of ten israelites

הַֽחֲמִישִֽׁי׃13 of 13

“the fifth”

H2549

fifth; also a fifth

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 26:4 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 26:4 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

1 Chronicles 15:241 Chronicles 16:381 Chronicles 15:181 Chronicles 15:211 Chronicles 16:5

Test Your Knowledge

1 Chronicles 26 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapter1 Chronicles Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

Continue Your Study

Read 1 Chronicles 26 with CommentaryAll 1 Chronicles ChaptersComplete 1 Chronicles QuizBible CharactersNave's Topical BibleAll Bible Quizzes