1 Chronicles 26:8

All these were descendants of Obed-edom; they and their sons and brothers were capable men with strength to do the work--62 in all from Obed-edom.

Study Bible

All these were descendants of Obed-edom;
Obed-edom is a significant figure in the Old Testament, known for housing the Ark of the Covenant for three months, during which time the Lord blessed his household (2 Samuel 6:10-12). His descendants, therefore, are often associated with divine favor and service to God. The mention of his lineage here emphasizes the continuity of God's blessings and the importance of family heritage in the service of the Lord.

they and their sons and brothers
This phrase highlights the communal and familial nature of service in the temple. In ancient Israel, family units often worked together, and the service of God was a family affair. This reflects the broader biblical theme of generational faithfulness and the importance of raising children in the knowledge and service of the Lord (Deuteronomy 6:6-7).

were capable men with strength to do the work—
The emphasis on capability and strength suggests that the tasks assigned to these men required physical and perhaps spiritual fortitude. In the context of temple service, this could involve guarding the temple, managing its operations, or other duties that required diligence and integrity. This mirrors the New Testament call for believers to be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power (Ephesians 6:10).

62 in all from Obed-edom.
The specific number of 62 descendants underscores the significant contribution of Obed-edom's family to the temple service. Numbers in the Bible often carry symbolic meaning, and while 62 does not have a widely recognized symbolic interpretation, the precision of the count reflects the order and organization within the Levitical duties. This meticulous record-keeping is consistent with the chronicler's intent to document the faithfulness and structure of Israel's worship practices.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Obed-edom
A Levite who was entrusted with the Ark of the Covenant. His household was blessed by God during the time the Ark was in his care.

2. Descendants of Obed-edom
The verse highlights the descendants of Obed-edom, emphasizing their capability and strength in service.

3. The Temple Service
The context of this passage is the organization of the gatekeepers for the temple, a significant role in maintaining the sanctity and security of the temple.

Teaching Points

Legacy of Faithfulness
Obed-edom's faithfulness in caring for the Ark resulted in blessings for his family. Our dedication to God can have lasting impacts on future generations.

Strength for Service
The descendants of Obed-edom were described as capable and strong. God equips those He calls to serve, providing the necessary strength and ability.

The Importance of Service Roles
The role of gatekeepers, though seemingly minor, was crucial for the temple's function. Every role in God's service is significant and valuable.

Generational Blessings
The blessings on Obed-edom's household remind us of the potential for generational blessings when we live in obedience to God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the account of Obed-edom and his descendants encourage you to consider the legacy you are leaving for future generations?

2. In what ways can you identify the strengths and capabilities God has given you for service in His kingdom?

3. Reflect on a time when you felt your role in service was minor. How does this passage challenge that perception?

4. How can you actively seek to be a blessing to your family and community, as Obed-edom was to his?

5. What other biblical examples can you find where faithfulness to God resulted in blessings for future generations? How do these examples inspire you?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Samuel 6:11-12
This passage describes how the Ark of the Covenant was kept in the house of Obed-edom, and how God blessed his household. This blessing is reflected in the capable descendants mentioned in 1 Chronicles 26:8.

1 Chronicles 15:18, 24
These verses mention Obed-edom as a gatekeeper and musician, showing his dedication and service to God, which is a legacy carried on by his descendants.

Psalm 84:10
This verse speaks to the honor and blessing of serving in the house of the Lord, which aligns with the role of Obed-edom's descendants as gatekeepers.