1 Chronicles 9:24

Authorized King James Version

In four quarters were the porters, toward the east, west, north, and south.

Word-by-Word Analysis

לְאַרְבַּ֣ע

H702

In four

four

רוּח֔וֹת

H7307

quarters

wind; by resemblance breath, i.e., a sensible (or even violent) exhalation; figuratively, life, anger, unsubstantiality; by extension, a region of the

יִֽהְי֖וּ

H1961

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

הַשֹּֽׁעֲרִ֑ים

H7778

were the porters

a janitor

מִזְרָ֥ח

H4217

toward the east

sunrise, i.e., the east

יָ֖מָּה

H3220

west

a sea (as breaking in noisy surf) or large body of water; specifically (with the article), the mediterranean sea; sometimes a large river, or an artif

צָפ֥וֹנָה

H6828

north

properly, hidden, i.e., dark; used only of the north as a quarter (gloomy and unknown)

וָנֶֽגְבָּה׃

H5045

and south

the south (from its drought); specifically, the negeb or southern district of judah, occasionally, egypt (as south to palestine)

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of 1 Chronicles Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?
How does this verse's literary context within 1 Chronicles chapter 9 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?