Old Testament
1 Chronicles 16:38
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
He also assigned Obed-edom and 68 of their fellow Levites to serve with them. Obed-edom son of Jeduthun and Hosah served as gatekeepers.
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And Obededom with their brethren, threescore and eight; Obededom also the son of Jeduthun and Hosah to be porters:
What 1 Chronicles 16:38 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, we see King David organizing the worship and service in the temple. He appointed Obed-edom and 68 other Levites to assist in this important task. Obed-edom, who was the son of Jeduthun, along with Hosah, was specifically chosen to be gatekeepers. This role was significant as it involved guarding the entrance to the sacred space, ensuring that only those who were authorized could enter. The Levites were responsible for various duties in the temple, and their commitment to serving God was crucial for maintaining the worship practices of the community. By assigning these roles, David emphasized the importance of order and dedication in worship. This passage highlights the value of teamwork and the diverse roles individuals play in a community. Each person's contribution, no matter how small, is vital for the overall functioning of the group. Obed-edom's service as a gatekeeper reflects a deep commitment to God and the community, reminding us that every role in our lives matters.
How to apply 1 Chronicles 16:38 to your life
Consider how you can serve in your community, no matter your role. Every contribution counts, whether big or small. Look for opportunities to support others and be dedicated to your responsibilities. Your commitment can make a significant difference in the lives of those around you. Embrace teamwork in your daily life to foster a sense of belonging and purpose.
Curated for this public verse page. 1 Chronicles Summary
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Illustrated scene from David's story: Samuel Anoints David (1 Samuel 16:1–13)
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David
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724987). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Hebron, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Where Abraham lived and buried Sarah, and where David was first made king.
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Keep studying 1 Chronicles 16:38
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At a Glance — the Book of 1 Chronicles
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Ezra
- Written
- Around 430 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Post-exilic Jews
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 1 Chronicles 16:38 mean?
1 Chronicles 16:38 describes King David assigning Obed-edom and 68 other Levites to serve in the temple, specifically as gatekeepers. This highlights the importance of organization and dedicated service in worship.
Who is Obed-edom in 1 Chronicles 16:38?
Obed-edom is identified as the son of Jeduthun and one of the Levites appointed by King David to serve as a gatekeeper in the temple. His role was crucial for maintaining order at the sacred entrance.
What is the significance of gatekeepers in 1 Chronicles 16:38?
Gatekeepers, like Obed-edom and Hosah, were responsible for guarding the temple entrance, ensuring that only authorized individuals could enter. This role was vital for maintaining the sanctity of the worship space.
What can we learn from 1 Chronicles 16:38 about community service?
1 Chronicles 16:38 teaches us that every role in a community, no matter how small, is important. It encourages us to contribute to our communities and recognize the value of teamwork in achieving common goals.
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