King James Version

What Does 1 Chronicles 9:20 Mean?

“And Phinehas the son of Eleazar was the ruler over them in time past, and the LORD was with him.”

Context

Who hitherto waited in the king's gate eastward: they were porters in the companies of the children of Levi.

And Shallum the son of Kore, the son of Ebiasaph, the son of Korah, and his brethren, of the house of his father, the Korahites, were over the work of the service, keepers of the gates of the tabernacle: and their fathers, being over the host of the LORD, were keepers of the entry. gates: Heb. thresholds

And Phinehas the son of Eleazar was the ruler over them in time past, and the LORD was with him.

And Zechariah the son of Meshelemiah was porter of the door of the tabernacle of the congregation.

All these which were chosen to be porters in the gates were two hundred and twelve . These were reckoned by their genealogy in their villages, whom David and Samuel the seer did ordain in their set office. did: Heb. founded set: or, trust

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(20) **And Phinehas the son of Eleazar was the ruler over them in time past.**—Or, *of yore.* Phinehas may have held this office of president (*nagîd,* 1Chronicles 9:11) of the warders before he became high priest, just as Eleazar had held a similar position during the lifetime of Aaron (Numbers 3:32). Nothing is said of it elsewhere. **And the Lord was with him.**—Rather, *The Lord be with him!* a pious ejaculation, such as the Jews of later times were wont to use in speaking of a departed worthy; and of interest to us as indicating a belief in continued existence after death. (Comp. 1Chronicles 22:11; 1Chronicles 22:16.)

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 9:20 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.