1 Chronicles 26:3 (KJV)

What does 1 Chronicles 26:3 mean?

1 Chronicles 26:3 lists the names and birth order of three sons—Elam, Jehohanan, and Elioenai—who are identified as the fifth, sixth, and seventh sons in a family line. This verse is part of a genealogical record, showing the descendants of a particular family among the Levites.

The setting is the chronicler’s account of the divisions of the gatekeepers in the temple during King David’s time. These names are part of a longer list that organizes the Levites by family and role, helping to establish order and accountability in temple service. The verse highlights the importance of each individual in the family, regardless of their birth order.

The Hebrew behind 1 Chronicles 26:3

• אֵילָם (Elam, transliterated "Elam"): This name means "hidden" or "eternity" and is the fifth son listed. The use of names often carried significance for families in ancient Israel.
• יְהוֹחָנָן (Yehohanan, transliterated "Jehohanan"): This name means "Yahweh is gracious" and is the sixth son. The inclusion of God’s name in personal names was common and reflected faith or hope.
• אֶלְיוֹעֵינַי (Elioenai, transliterated "Elioenai"): This name means "my eyes are toward God" and is the seventh son. Such names could express the family’s devotion or aspirations.
• חֲמִישִּׁי (chamishi, transliterated "fifth"), שִׁשִּׁי (shishi, "sixth"), שְׁבִיעִי (shevi'i, "seventh"): These ordinal numbers mark each son's place in the family, showing the careful record-keeping and value placed on lineage.

Why 1 Chronicles 26:3 matters

• This verse helps clarify the structure and organization of the Levite families, which was crucial for temple duties and maintaining order in worship.
• The careful listing of names and birth order emphasizes that every individual, not just the firstborn, had a recognized place and role in the community.
• Seeing these names in context connects this family to the larger story of Israel’s worship and the importance of faithful service across generations.