1 Chronicles 26:15 (KJV)

What does 1 Chronicles 26:15 mean?

1 Chronicles 26:15 assigns the southern gate of the temple area to Obededom and his family, and gives his sons responsibility for the "house of Asuppim," a specific area or storehouse within the temple complex. This verse is part of a detailed listing of gatekeepers and their duties in the organization of temple service.

This verse comes from a section where temple roles are being distributed among the Levites by King David’s direction. Obededom and his sons are given charge of guarding the south side and a place called Asuppim, which is often understood as a storage area or collection point. The verse highlights the careful organization and division of responsibilities among the Levites for the smooth functioning of temple worship.

The Hebrew behind 1 Chronicles 26:15

• אֲסֻפִּים (Asuppim, transliterated "Asuppim") means "storehouses" or "collections." This word points to a specific place where items were gathered or stored, likely supplies or offerings for the temple. It shows that the Levites’ duties included not just guarding entrances but also overseeing important resources.
• נֶגְבָּה (negbah, "southward") indicates the direction assigned to Obededom, clarifying that the temple’s gates had designated keepers for each side, ensuring security and order.

Why 1 Chronicles 26:15 matters

• This verse clarifies that temple service involved more than just ritual; it required practical management, including guarding supplies and entrances.
• The specific mention of Asuppim shows the importance of safeguarding temple resources, not just the main sanctuary.
• By naming Obededom and his sons, the passage connects their faithful service to earlier stories (such as when Obededom’s house was blessed for hosting the Ark), highlighting continuity and trust in temple leadership.