1 Chronicles 24:5

Authorized King James Version

Thus were they divided by lot, one sort with another; for the governors of the sanctuary, and governors of the house of God, were of the sons of Eleazar, and of the sons of Ithamar.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וַיַּחְלְק֥וּם

H2505

Thus were they divided

to be smooth (figuratively)

בְּגֽוֹרָל֖וֹת

H1486

by lot

properly, a pebble, i.e., a lot (small stones being used for that purpose); figuratively, a portion or destiny (as if determined by lot)

אֵ֑לֶּה

H428

one sort

these or those

עִם

H5973

adverb or preposition, with (i.e., in conjunction with), in varied applications; specifically, equally with; often with prepositional prefix (and then

אֵ֑לֶּה

H428

one sort

these or those

כִּֽי

H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

הָי֤וּ

H1961

to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)

וְשָׂרֵ֣י

H8269

and governors

a head person (of any rank or class)

קֹ֙דֶשׁ֙

H6944

of the sanctuary

a sacred place or thing; rarely abstract, sanctity

#10

וְשָׂרֵ֣י

H8269

and governors

a head person (of any rank or class)

#11

הָֽאֱלֹהִ֔ים

H430

of the house of God

gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of

#12

וּבִבְנֵ֥י

H1121

and of the sons

a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or

#13

אֶלְעָזָ֖ר

H499

of Eleazar

elazar, the name of seven israelites

#14

וּבִבְנֵ֥י

H1121

and of the sons

a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or

#15

אִֽיתָמָֽר׃

H385

of Ithamar

ithamar, a son of aaron

Analysis

Within the broader context of 1 Chronicles, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of 1 Chronicles.

Historical Context

The historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine sovereignty. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

How does this verse's literary context within 1 Chronicles chapter 24 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
In what ways does understanding divine sovereignty in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
How might the original audience's understanding of divine sovereignty differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?