1 Chronicles 24:17 (KJV)

What does 1 Chronicles 24:17 mean?

1 Chronicles 24:17 lists two of the priestly divisions: the twenty-first division assigned to Jachin and the twenty-second to Gamul. This verse is part of a record showing how King David organized the priests into groups for their service in the temple.

In this chapter, the writer is describing how the descendants of Aaron, the priestly family, were divided into 24 groups, each with its own leader. These groups would take turns serving in the temple, ensuring that worship and duties were carried out regularly and fairly. The verse simply names the leaders of the 21st and 22nd groups.

The Hebrew behind 1 Chronicles 24:17

• יָכִין (Yakhin): This is the name "Jachin," which means "he establishes." The name may remind readers that the priestly service was meant to be stable and enduring.
• גָּמוּל (Gamul): This is the name "Gamul," which means "recompense" or "reward." The name itself does not give extra detail about the group, but it is part of the careful listing of priestly families.

Why 1 Chronicles 24:17 matters

• This verse is part of a larger passage that shows the careful organization and fairness in how temple service was assigned, reflecting the importance of order in worship.
• Listing each division by name emphasizes the value placed on every priestly family, showing that each had a recognized and honored role.
• Understanding this structure helps make sense of later references to priestly divisions in the Bible, such as the mention of Zechariah (father of John the Baptist) serving in his division in Luke 1.