Ezra 6:18
And they set the priests in their divisions, and the Levites in their courses, for the service of God, which is at Jerusalem; as it is written in the book of Moses.
Original Language Analysis
וַֽהֲקִ֨ימוּ
And they set
H6966
וַֽהֲקִ֨ימוּ
And they set
Strong's:
H6966
Word #:
1 of 13
to rise (in various applications, literal, figurative, intensive and causative)
כָֽהֲנַיָּ֜א
the priests
H3549
כָֽהֲנַיָּ֜א
the priests
Strong's:
H3549
Word #:
2 of 13
one officiating, a priest; also (by courtesy) an acting priest (although a layman)
עַל
for
H5922
עַל
for
Strong's:
H5922
Word #:
6 of 13
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
דִּ֣י
H1768
דִּ֣י
Strong's:
H1768
Word #:
9 of 13
that, used as relative conjunction, and especially (with a preposition) in adverbial phrases; also as preposition of
Historical Context
David organized priests into twenty-four divisions and Levites into courses for rotating temple service (1 Chronicles 24-25). This maintained continuous worship without exhausting any group. The system balanced orderly structure with personal participation. 'As it is written in the book of Moses' refers to Levitical service regulations (Numbers 3-4, 8), showing Davidic organization implemented rather than contradicted Torah. Maintaining this structure through exile required oral tradition and committed teaching.
Questions for Reflection
- How does implementing Davidic organizational structures under Mosaic authority demonstrate proper relationship between biblical command and wise application?
- What does careful organization for worship demonstrate about honoring God through excellence and order rather than mere spontaneity?
Analysis & Commentary
The organizational statement—'they set the priests in their divisions, and the Levites in their courses, for the service of God, which is at Jerusalem'—restored Davidic worship structure. The phrase 'as it is written in the book of Moses' demonstrates submission to biblical authority. This balance of Davidic innovation (divisions and courses) grounded in Mosaic authorization shows that legitimate development must accord with Scripture. The restored order enabled regular worship according to divine prescription.