1 Chronicles 9:19

Shallum son of Kore, the son of Ebiasaph, the son of Korah, and his relatives from the Korahites were assigned to guard the thresholds of the Tent, just as their fathers had been assigned to guard the entrance to the dwelling of the LORD.

Study Bible

Shallum son of Kore, the son of Ebiasaph, the son of Korah
Shallum is identified as a descendant of Korah, a significant figure in Israel's history. Korah led a rebellion against Moses and Aaron (Numbers 16), which resulted in his death. Despite this, his descendants were later given roles of responsibility in the temple service, indicating God's grace and redemption. The lineage through Kore and Ebiasaph highlights the continuity of the Levitical duties passed down through generations. This lineage is also mentioned in 1 Chronicles 6:22-23, emphasizing the importance of family heritage in temple service.

and his relatives from the Korahites
The Korahites were a subgroup of the Levites, specifically tasked with roles related to the tabernacle and later the temple. They were known for their musical contributions, as seen in the Psalms attributed to the sons of Korah (e.g., Psalms 42, 44-49). Their role in guarding the temple signifies a trusted position, reflecting their restored status and dedication to worship and service.

were assigned to guard the thresholds of the Tent
Guarding the thresholds of the Tent of Meeting was a critical duty, ensuring the sanctity and security of the sacred space. This role required vigilance and a deep sense of responsibility, as the Tent was where God's presence dwelled among His people. The assignment of this task to the Korahites underscores their reliability and the trust placed in them by the community.

just as their fathers had been assigned to guard the entrance to the dwelling of the LORD
This phrase connects the current duties of the Korahites to their ancestral responsibilities, highlighting the continuity of service across generations. The "dwelling of the LORD" refers to the tabernacle, and later the temple, as the central place of worship and divine presence. This continuity reflects the enduring nature of God's covenant with Israel and the importance of maintaining the sacred traditions and roles established by God. The reference to their fathers' assignments also serves as a reminder of the faithfulness required in serving God, a theme echoed throughout the Old Testament.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Shallum
A leader among the gatekeepers, specifically from the family of Korah. His role was significant in maintaining the sanctity and security of the temple.

2. Kore
The father of Shallum, indicating a lineage of service and responsibility in the temple duties.

3. Ebiasaph
An ancestor in the line of Shallum, showing the generational commitment to temple service.

4. Korahites
A Levitical family descended from Korah, known for their role as gatekeepers and musicians in the temple.

5. Thresholds of the Tent
Refers to the entrances of the tabernacle, which were crucial points of access that required diligent guarding to maintain the holiness of the space.

Teaching Points

Generational Faithfulness
The passage highlights the importance of passing down faith and responsibilities through generations. Just as the Korahites served faithfully, we are called to instill and model faithfulness in our families.

Guarding Holiness
The role of the gatekeepers was to protect the sanctity of the temple. In our lives, we must be vigilant in guarding our hearts and minds against anything that would defile our relationship with God.

Service in the House of the Lord
The Korahites' dedication to their duties reminds us of the value of serving in our local churches. Every role, no matter how seemingly small, contributes to the worship and work of God’s kingdom.

Redemption and Transformation
The Korahites' history from rebellion to faithful service illustrates God's power to redeem and transform lives. No past is too far gone for God to use for His glory.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the lineage of Shallum reflect the importance of family heritage in spiritual service?

2. In what ways can we "guard the thresholds" of our own lives to maintain spiritual purity and holiness?

3. How does the transformation of the Korahites from rebellion to faithful service encourage us in our own spiritual journeys?

4. What roles or responsibilities in your church or community can you commit to, reflecting the dedication of the Korahites?

5. How can the account of the Korahites inspire us to trust in God's ability to redeem and use our past for His purposes?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Numbers 16
The rebellion of Korah provides background on the Korahites, showing a transformation from rebellion to faithful service.

Psalm 84
Written by the sons of Korah, this psalm reflects their deep love and reverence for the dwelling place of God.

1 Chronicles 26
Further details the duties and divisions of the gatekeepers, emphasizing the importance of their role in temple service.