1 Chronicles 9:22 (KJV)

What does 1 Chronicles 9:22 mean?

1 Chronicles 9:22 describes how 212 men were chosen to serve as gatekeepers for the temple, with their selection carefully recorded by family lines in their villages. King David and Samuel the prophet appointed these men to this official duty, making sure their roles were established and recognized.

This verse is part of a historical record explaining how the temple’s security and order were organized after the return from exile. The chronicler is recounting how important roles, like the porters or gatekeepers, were not randomly assigned but were given to specific families, with their appointments going back to respected leaders like David and Samuel. This highlights the careful planning and continuity in temple service.

The Hebrew behind 1 Chronicles 9:22

• "chosen" (בָּרוּרִים, bārurim): This word means "selected" or "picked out," emphasizing that the gatekeepers were not just volunteers but were specifically chosen for their role.
• "porters" (שֹׁעֲרִים, shōʿărîm): This term refers to gatekeepers, whose job was to guard and control access to the temple, an important and trusted position.
• "genealogy" (יִתְיַחְשׂוּ, yityaḥsū): This word means "to be enrolled by genealogy," showing that the selection was based on family records, not just ability or preference.
• "ordain" (יַסְּדוּם, yassədum): This means "to establish" or "appoint," indicating that David and Samuel formally set these men in their positions, giving the role official status.

Why 1 Chronicles 9:22 matters

• This verse clarifies that the gatekeepers’ roles were not casual or temporary but were established by respected leaders and based on family lineage, showing the importance of order and tradition in temple service.
• The mention of both David and Samuel connects the temple practices to Israel’s foundational leaders, underlining the continuity and authority behind these appointments.
• By recording the number and the method of selection, the chronicler emphasizes the care and legitimacy in organizing temple worship, which would have reassured those returning from exile about the stability and sacredness of their restored community.