King James Version

What Does 1 Chronicles 26:7 Mean?

1 Chronicles 26:7 in the King James Version says “The sons of Shemaiah; Othni, and Rephael, and Obed, Elzabad, whose brethren were strong men, Elihu, and Semachiah.” — study this verse from 1 Chronicles chapter 26 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“The sons of Shemaiah; Othni, and Rephael, and Obed, Elzabad, whose brethren were strong men, Elihu, and Semachiah.”

1 Chronicles 26:7 · KJV

Context

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.

7

The sons of Shemaiah; Othni, and Rephael, and Obed, Elzabad, whose brethren were strong men, Elihu, and Semachiah.

8

All these of the sons of Obededom: they and their sons and their brethren, able men for strength for the service, were threescore and two of Obededom.

9

And Meshelemiah had sons and brethren, strong men, eighteen .

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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 · 11 words
בְּנֵי1 of 11

“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

שְׁמַֽעְיָ֗ה2 of 11

“of Shemaiah”

H8098

shemajah, the name of twenty-five israelites

עָ֠תְנִי3 of 11

“Othni”

H6273

othni, an israelite

וּרְפָאֵ֨ל4 of 11

“and Rephael”

H7501

rephael, an israelite

וְעוֹבֵ֧ד5 of 11

“and Obed”

H5744

obed, the name of five israelites

אֶלְזָבָ֛ד6 of 11

“Elzabad”

H443

elzabad, the name of two israelites

אֶחָ֖יו7 of 11

“whose brethren”

H251

a brother (used in the widest sense of literal relationship and metaphorical affinity or resemblance [like h0001])

בְּנֵי8 of 11

“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

חָ֑יִל9 of 11

“were strong”

H2428

probably a force, whether of men, means or other resources; an army, wealth, virtue, valor, strength

אֱלִיה֖וּ10 of 11

“Elihu”

H453

elihu, the name of one of job's friends, and of three israelites

וּסְמַכְיָֽהוּ׃11 of 11

“and Semachiah”

H5565

semakjah, an israelite

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 26:7 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

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