This verse describes the allocation of duties among the gatekeepers in the Temple during King David's reign. Let's break it down:
"The lot eastward fell to Shelemiah." This means that Shelemiah, one of the gatekeepers, was assigned the responsibility of guarding the eastern gate of the Temple. The "lot" refers to a method of drawing lots (like casting dice or drawing names from a container) to make decisions impartially.
"Then for Zechariah his son, a wise counselor, they cast lots..." Zechariah was Shelemiah's son. The text highlights that he was considered a "wise counselor," suggesting he was respected and knowledgeable. Another lot was cast specifically for him, separate from his father's assignment.
"...and his lot came out northward." This indicates that Zechariah was assigned the responsibility of guarding the northern gate of the Temple. Again, this assignment was determined by drawing lots.
In essence, the verse means:
The eastern gate of the Temple was assigned to Shelemiah. A separate decision was made for his son, Zechariah, known for his wisdom, and the random selection process (drawing lots) designated him to guard the northern gate.
Why is this significant?
Organization: The verse highlights the careful organization of the Temple service during David's reign. Specific duties were assigned to individuals, ensuring that every part of the Temple was properly guarded and maintained.
Impartiality: The use of lots suggests a desire for impartiality in assigning duties. It prevented favoritism and allowed God (as they believed) to guide the selection.
Hereditary Service: The mention of Shelemiah and his son Zechariah suggests that gatekeeping might have been a family profession to some degree.
Recognition of Skill: The specific mention of Zechariah's wisdom indicates that his skills and abilities were recognized and valued in the community. Even though the decision was made by lot, the fact that he was noted as wise suggests that qualifications were considered to some extent.
In summary, this verse provides a small glimpse into the administrative structure and practices within the Temple system during the time of King David.
This verse describes the allocation of duties among the gatekeepers in the Temple during King David's reign. Let's break it down:
"The lot eastward fell to Shelemiah." This means that Shelemiah, one of the gatekeepers, was assigned the responsibility of guarding the eastern gate of the Temple. The "lot" refers to a method of drawing lots (like casting dice or drawing names from a container) to make decisions impartially.
"Then for Zechariah his son, a wise counselor, they cast lots..." Zechariah was Shelemiah's son. The text highlights that he was considered a "wise counselor," suggesting he was respected and knowledgeable. Another lot was cast specifically for him, separate from his father's assignment.
"...and his lot came out northward." This indicates that Zechariah was assigned the responsibility of guarding the northern gate of the Temple. Again, this assignment was determined by drawing lots.
In essence, the verse means:
The eastern gate of the Temple was assigned to Shelemiah. A separate decision was made for his son, Zechariah, known for his wisdom, and the random selection process (drawing lots) designated him to guard the northern gate.
Why is this significant?
Organization: The verse highlights the careful organization of the Temple service during David's reign. Specific duties were assigned to individuals, ensuring that every part of the Temple was properly guarded and maintained.
Impartiality: The use of lots suggests a desire for impartiality in assigning duties. It prevented favoritism and allowed God (as they believed) to guide the selection.
Hereditary Service: The mention of Shelemiah and his son Zechariah suggests that gatekeeping might have been a family profession to some degree.
Recognition of Skill: The specific mention of Zechariah's wisdom indicates that his skills and abilities were recognized and valued in the community. Even though the decision was made by lot, the fact that he was noted as wise suggests that qualifications were considered to some extent.
In summary, this verse provides a small glimpse into the administrative structure and practices within the Temple system during the time of King David.