King James Version

What Does 1 Chronicles 28:13 Mean?

1 Chronicles 28:13 in the King James Version says “Also for the courses of the priests and the Levites, and for all the work of the service of the house of the LORD, and f...” — study this verse from 1 Chronicles chapter 28 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“Also for the courses of the priests and the Levites, and for all the work of the service of the house of the LORD, and for all the vessels of service in the house of the LORD.”

1 Chronicles 28:13 · KJV

Context

11

Then David gave to Solomon his son the pattern of the porch, and of the houses thereof, and of the treasuries thereof, and of the upper chambers thereof, and of the inner parlours thereof, and of the place of the mercy seat,

12

And the pattern of all that he had by the spirit, of the courts of the house of the LORD, and of all the chambers round about, of the treasuries of the house of God, and of the treasuries of the dedicated things: of all that: Heb. of all that was with him

13

Also for the courses of the priests and the Levites, and for all the work of the service of the house of the LORD, and for all the vessels of service in the house of the LORD.

14

He gave of gold by weight for things of gold, for all instruments of all manner of service; silver also for all instruments of silver by weight, for all instruments of every kind of service:

15

Even the weight for the candlesticks of gold, and for their lamps of gold, by weight for every candlestick, and for the lamps thereof: and for the candlesticks of silver by weight, both for the candlestick, and also for the lamps thereof, according to the use of every candlestick.

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Theological Analysis: This passage falls within the section on David's final charge and temple plans. The Hebrew term לֵבָב (levav) - heart/mind is theologically significant here, pointing to Wholehearted devotion to God's purposes. 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 Wholehearted devotion to God's purposes. 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 commands to disciples.

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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 David's final charge and temple plans 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 Wholehearted devotion to God's purposes challenge or affirm your current spiritual priorities and practices?
  2. What does Christ's commands to disciples 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
וּֽלְמַחְלְקוֹת֙1 of 13

“Also for the courses”

H4256

a section (of levites, people or soldiers)

הַכֹּֽהֲנִ֣ים2 of 13

“of the priests”

H3548

literally one officiating, a priest; also (by courtesy) an acting priest (although a layman)

וְהַלְוִיִּ֔ם3 of 13

“and the Levites”

H3881

a levite or descendant of levi

וּֽלְכָל4 of 13
H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

מְלֶ֖אכֶת5 of 13

“and for all the work”

H4399

properly, deputyship, i.e., ministry; generally, employment (never servile) or work (abstractly or concretely); also property (as the result of labor)

עֲבוֹדַ֥ת6 of 13

“of service”

H5656

work of any kind

בֵּית7 of 13

“in the house”

H1004

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

יְהוָֽה׃8 of 13

“of the LORD”

H3068

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

וּֽלְכָל9 of 13
H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

כְּלֵ֖י10 of 13

“and for all the vessels”

H3627

something prepared, i.e., any apparatus (as an implement, utensil, dress, vessel or weapon)

עֲבוֹדַ֥ת11 of 13

“of service”

H5656

work of any kind

בֵּית12 of 13

“in the house”

H1004

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

יְהוָֽה׃13 of 13

“of the LORD”

H3068

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

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 28:13 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 28:13 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Ezra 8:331 Chronicles 24:1-191 Kings 7:1-511 Chronicles 25:1-311 Chronicles 9:29Ezra 8:25-30

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