1 Chronicles 24:11 (KJV)

What does 1 Chronicles 24:11 mean?

1 Chronicles 24:11 records the assignment of the ninth and tenth lots to two priestly families: Jeshua and Shecaniah. This verse is part of a list showing the order in which different priestly groups would serve in the temple.

The book of 1 Chronicles was written to document the organization of Israel’s priests and Levites after the return from exile. In this chapter, the priestly families are being assigned their specific times to serve in the temple, ensuring fairness and order. The verse simply notes which families received the ninth and tenth turns, continuing a detailed list.

The Hebrew behind 1 Chronicles 24:11

• "ninth" (תְּשִׁיעִי, t'shi‘i): This word means "ninth" and marks the order in which the family of Jeshua would serve. The use of specific numbers shows the careful structure given to temple service.
• "Jeshua" (יֵשׁוּעַ, Yeshua): This is a personal name, identifying a priestly family. The name means "the Lord is salvation," but here it simply marks a family group.
• "tenth" (עֲשִׂירִי, asiri): This word means "tenth" and is used to show the order for Shecaniah’s family.
• "Shecaniah" (שְׁכַנְיָה, Shekanyah): Another priestly family name, included to keep an accurate record of temple duties.

Why 1 Chronicles 24:11 matters

• This verse helps clarify that temple service was organized and scheduled, not left to chance or favoritism, which was important for fairness among priestly families.
• The listing of names and numbers shows the importance of every family’s role, no matter how small or seemingly routine.
• Understanding this order helps make sense of later references to priestly divisions in the Bible, showing continuity in Israel’s worship practices.