1 Chronicles 15:9

from the Hebronites, Eliel the chief and 80 of his relatives;

Study Bible

from the Hebronites
The Hebronites were a clan within the tribe of Levi, specifically descending from Kohath, one of Levi's sons. Hebron was a significant city in the history of Israel, located in the hill country of Judah. It was a city of refuge and a Levitical city, indicating its importance in religious and legal matters. The Hebronites' role in the transportation and care of the Ark of the Covenant highlights their dedication to the sacred duties assigned to the Levites.

Eliel the chief
Eliel, meaning "My God is God," was a leader among the Hebronites. His position as chief suggests he was responsible for organizing and overseeing the duties of his relatives in the service of the Ark. Leadership among the Levites was crucial for maintaining order and ensuring the proper observance of religious practices. Eliel's role underscores the importance of godly leadership in fulfilling divine mandates.

and 80 of his relatives
The mention of 80 relatives indicates a significant family group dedicated to the service of the Lord. This number reflects the large extended families typical in ancient Israelite society, where kinship ties were strong and often determined one's role and responsibilities. The involvement of such a large group in the procession of the Ark emphasizes the communal nature of worship and the collective responsibility of the Levites in their sacred duties.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Hebron
A significant city in the history of Israel, often associated with the patriarchs Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. It was a Levitical city and a city of refuge.

2. Eliel
The chief of the sons of Hebron mentioned in this verse. His leadership role is highlighted in the context of organizing the Levites for the transportation of the Ark of the Covenant.

3. The Sons of Hebron
A clan within the tribe of Levi, specifically from the Kohathite division, responsible for carrying the sacred objects of the tabernacle.

4. The Ark of the Covenant
The sacred chest that held the tablets of the Ten Commandments, representing God's presence with His people. The transportation of the Ark to Jerusalem is the central event in this chapter.

5. David's Organization of the Levites
King David's efforts to properly organize the Levites for the transportation of the Ark, ensuring that it was done according to God's instructions.

Teaching Points

Leadership and Responsibility
Eliel's role as chief among the sons of Hebron emphasizes the importance of leadership in fulfilling God's commands. Leaders are called to guide others in obedience to God's Word.

Obedience to God's Instructions
The careful organization of the Levites underscores the necessity of following God's specific instructions, especially in matters of worship and holiness.

Community and Cooperation
The involvement of 80 relatives highlights the communal aspect of serving God. It takes a collective effort to accomplish God's purposes.

Reverence for the Sacred
The transportation of the Ark was a sacred duty, reminding us of the reverence we must have for God's presence and commands.

Historical Continuity
The mention of Hebron and its descendants connects the present actions of David's time to the historical promises and covenants God made with the patriarchs.

Bible Study Questions

1. What can we learn from Eliel's leadership about the qualities God values in those who lead His people?

2. How does the organization of the Levites in 1 Chronicles 15:9 reflect the importance of obedience to God's instructions in our own lives?

3. In what ways can we, like the sons of Hebron, contribute to the communal efforts of our church or faith community?

4. How does the reverence shown in the transportation of the Ark challenge us to approach our worship and service to God today?

5. How does understanding the historical context of Hebron and its descendants enrich our appreciation of God's faithfulness throughout the Bible?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 6:18
Provides genealogical context for the sons of Hebron, linking them to the tribe of Levi and the Kohathites.

Numbers 3:27-31
Details the responsibilities of the Kohathites, including the care and transportation of the most holy things, which connects to the role of the sons of Hebron in this passage.

2 Samuel 6:1-15
Describes an earlier attempt to move the Ark, which failed due to not following God's instructions, highlighting the importance of David's careful organization in 1 Chronicles 15.