1 Chronicles 12:26: "From the descendants of Levi: 4,600."

Context and Background:
1 Chronicles 12 provides a detailed account of the warriors who joined David at Hebron to turn Saul's kingdom over to him, as the LORD had promised. This chapter is part of the Chronicler's broader narrative, which emphasizes the establishment of David's kingship and the unity of Israel under his rule. The Chronicler, writing after the Babylonian exile, seeks to remind the Israelites of their heritage and God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises.

The Tribe of Levi:
The Levites hold a unique position among the tribes of Israel. Descendants of Levi, the third son of Jacob and Leah, they were set apart for religious duties and service in the Tabernacle, and later, the Temple. Unlike other tribes, the Levites did not receive a territorial inheritance in the Promised Land; instead, their inheritance was the LORD Himself (Numbers 18:20-24). They were distributed among the other tribes to perform their sacred duties and to teach the Law.

Significance of the Levites in 1 Chronicles 12:26:
The mention of 4,600 Levites joining David is significant for several reasons. Firstly, it underscores the widespread support David received from all tribes of Israel, including those dedicated to religious service. This support was crucial for legitimizing his rule and unifying the nation. Secondly, the Levites' involvement highlights the spiritual dimension of David's kingship. As those responsible for worship and the Law, their allegiance to David suggests divine approval and the fulfillment of God's covenant promises.

Theological Implications:
The participation of the Levites in David's consolidation of power can be seen as a foreshadowing of the Messianic kingdom, where the roles of king and priest are perfectly united in Jesus Christ. David, a man after God's own heart, prefigures the ultimate King-Priest, who would establish an eternal kingdom characterized by justice, righteousness, and peace.

Application for Believers:
For contemporary believers, the Levites' support of David serves as a reminder of the importance of aligning with God's chosen leaders and purposes. It also emphasizes the role of worship and obedience in the life of faith. Just as the Levites were integral to the spiritual life of Israel, believers today are called to be a "royal priesthood" (1 Peter 2:9), dedicated to serving God and proclaiming His excellencies.

In summary, 1 Chronicles 12:26, while a brief mention, carries profound implications for understanding the unity and spiritual foundation of David's kingdom, pointing ultimately to the greater kingdom established by Christ.4600 (2 Occurrences)

1 Chronicles 12:26
Of the children of Levi four thousand and six hundred.
(See NAS NIV)

Jeremiah 52:30
in the three and twentieth year of Nebuchadnezzar Nebuzaradan the captain of the guard carried away captive of the Jews seven hundred forty-five persons: all the persons were four thousand and six hundred.
(See NAS NIV)

4600 (2 Occurrences)
... Multi-Version Concordance 4600 (2 Occurrences). 1 Chronicles 12:26 Of the children
of Levi four thousand and six hundred. (See NAS NIV). ...
/num/4600.htm - 6k

5000 (3 Occurrences)

/num/5000.htm - 7k

4500 (5 Occurrences)

/num/4500.htm - 7k

Exile (101 Occurrences)
... The entire number Nebuchadnezzar carried captive was 4,600 heads of families with
their wives and children and dependants (Jeremiah 52:30; 43:5-7; 2 Chronicles ...
/e/exile.htm - 43k

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