King James Version

What Does 1 Chronicles 9:31 Mean?

“And Mattithiah, one of the Levites, who was the firstborn of Shallum the Korahite, had the set office over the things that were made in the pans. set: or, trust in: or, on flat plates, or, slices”

Context

Some of them also were appointed to oversee the vessels, and all the instruments of the sanctuary, and the fine flour, and the wine, and the oil, and the frankincense, and the spices. instruments: or, vessels

And some of the sons of the priests made the ointment of the spices.

And Mattithiah, one of the Levites, who was the firstborn of Shallum the Korahite, had the set office over the things that were made in the pans. set: or, trust in: or, on flat plates, or, slices

And other of their brethren, of the sons of the Kohathites, were over the shewbread , to prepare it every sabbath. shewbread: Heb. bread of ordering

And these are the singers, chief of the fathers of the Levites, who remaining in the chambers were free : for they were employed in that work day and night. they: Heb. upon them

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(31) The narrative returns to the functions of the Levites. “And Mattithiah, one of the Levites (he was the firstborn of Shallum the Korahite), was (or is) in fixed charge over the making of the pancakes.” **Mattithiah . . . firstborn of Shallum the Korahite.**—The son of Shallum, or Meshelemiah, is called Zechariah (1Chronicles 26:2). If Zechariah was the chief branch of Shallum in the days of David, Mattithiah may have been so in the time of the chronicler or of his authority here. **Had the set** **office.**—In other words, the duty of baking the sacred cakes for the meat offerings was hereditary in this branch of the family of Shallum. **Things that were made in the pans**—*i.e.,* “pancakes.” The Hebrew term (*hăbittim*) occurs here only, but its meaning is fixed by the related word “baking-pan” (Ezekiel 4:3; *mahăbath*)*.*

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 9:31 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.