King James Version

What Does 1 Chronicles 9:21 Mean?

1 Chronicles 9:21 in the King James Version says “And Zechariah the son of Meshelemiah was porter of the door of the tabernacle of the congregation.” — study this verse from 1 Chronicles chapter 9 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

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

1 Chronicles 9:21 · KJV

Context

19

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

20

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

21

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

22

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

23

So they and their children had the oversight of the gates of the house of the LORD, namely, the house of the tabernacle, by wards.

Read 1 Chronicles 9 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Genealogical Significance: This verse appears within the Post-exilic restoration community section of Chronicles' genealogical framework. The Hebrew term שְׁאֵרִית (she'erit) - remnant is central to understanding this passage's purpose. The Chronicler, writing to post-exilic Israel (c. 450-400 BCE), uses these genealogies not merely as historical records but as theological statements about covenant continuity and divine faithfulness.

The genealogical structure serves multiple purposes: (1) establishing Israel's connection to God's creatio n plan from Adam, (2) legitimizing post-exilic community's claim to covenant promises, (3) emphasizing Judah and Levi's special roles in God's redemptive plan, and (4) demonstrating that despite exile, God's covenant purposes continue. The selection and arrangement of names is intentional, highlighting God preserves faithful remnant.

Chronicles diverges from Genesis and Samuel-Kings in its genealogical presentation, reflecting the Chronicler's distinct theological agenda. Where earlier texts focus on narrative history, Chronicles emphasizes continuity, legitimacy, and hope for restoration. This verse contributes to the larger argument that the post-exilic community is the rightful heir of God's ancient covenant promises.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Post-Exilic Context: The Chronicler wrote during the Persian period (450-400 BCE) to a community returned from Babylonian exile, struggling with identity and purpose. These genealogies answered crucial questions: Who are we? What is our relationship to ancient Israel? Do God's promises still apply to us?

The historical setting influences the text's emphasis on Post-exilic returnees and Jerusalem's inhabitants. Ancient Near Eastern cultures valued genealogies for establishing land rights, royal legitimacy, and tribal identity. Chronicles' genealogies served similar functions while adding theological depth. The inclusion of specific names and details reflects the author's access to temple archives, royal records, and earlier biblical texts.

Archaeological evidence from Persian-period Judah shows a small, struggling community centered around Jerusalem and the rebuilt temple. The genealogies reinforced their connection to the glorious past and provided hope for future restoration through God's covenant faithfulness.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does understanding genealogies as theological statements rather than mere historical records change your reading of Chronicles and other biblical genealogies?
  2. What does this verse teach about God's faithfulness across generations, and how does that apply to your own family's spiritual legacy?
  3. How does God preserves faithful remnant connect to the New Testament revelation of Jesus Christ as the fulfillment of Old Testament promises?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 7 words
זְכַרְיָה֙1 of 7

“And Zechariah”

H2148

zecarjah, the name of twenty-nine israelites

בֶּ֣ן2 of 7

“the son”

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

מְשֶֽׁלֶמְיָ֔ה3 of 7

“of Meshelemiah”

H4920

meshelemjah, an israelite

שֹׁעֵ֥ר4 of 7

“was porter”

H7778

a janitor

פֶּ֖תַח5 of 7

“of the door”

H6607

an opening (literally), i.e., door (gate) or entrance way

לְאֹ֥הֶל6 of 7

“of the tabernacle”

H168

a tent (as clearly conspicuous from a distance)

מוֹעֵֽד׃7 of 7

“of the congregation”

H4150

properly, an appointment, i.e., a fixed time or season; specifically, a festival; conventionally a year; by implication, an assembly (as convened for

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 9:21 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 9:21 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

1 Chronicles 26:141 Chronicles 26:2

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