1 Chronicles 15:8

from the Elizaphanites, Shemaiah the chief and 200 of his relatives;

Study Bible

from the Elizaphanites
The Elizaphanites were descendants of Elizaphan, a Levite. Elizaphan was a son of Uzziel, who was a son of Kohath, one of the three sons of Levi. The Kohathites had specific duties related to the tabernacle, including the care of the sanctuary's most sacred objects. This lineage highlights the importance of the Levitical priesthood and their role in worship and service to God. The mention of the Elizaphanites underscores the organized structure of the Levites and their designated responsibilities in the religious life of Israel.

Shemaiah the chief
Shemaiah, as the chief, indicates a position of leadership and authority among the Elizaphanites. Leadership roles among the Levites were crucial for maintaining order and ensuring the proper execution of religious duties. The name Shemaiah means "heard by Yahweh," which reflects a common theme in biblical names where the character's name signifies their relationship with God. This leadership role is significant in the context of 1 Chronicles 15, where David is organizing the Levites for the transportation of the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem, emphasizing the importance of proper leadership in worship.

and 200 of his relatives
The mention of 200 relatives signifies the large number of Levites involved in the religious activities surrounding the Ark. This reflects the communal and familial nature of Levitical service, where entire families were dedicated to the service of God. The large number also indicates the importance of the event, as moving the Ark was a significant religious and national undertaking. This gathering of relatives for a common purpose can be seen as a type of the unity and collective worship that is fulfilled in the New Testament church, where believers are called to serve together as one body in Christ.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Elizaphan
A descendant of Kohath, one of the sons of Levi. Elizaphan's family was part of the Levitical tribe responsible for specific duties related to the tabernacle and later the temple.

2. Shemaiah
The chief of the sons of Elizaphan. He played a significant role in organizing the Levites for the transportation of the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem.

3. 200 Relatives
This refers to the group of Levites from the family of Elizaphan who were involved in the procession and service related to the Ark.

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 event in this chapter is the transportation of the Ark to Jerusalem.

5. Jerusalem
The city chosen by God as the central place of worship for Israel, where King David brought the Ark to establish it as the spiritual center of the nation.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Obedience
The Levites, including the sons of Elizaphan, were tasked with specific roles. Their obedience to God's instructions was crucial for the successful transportation of the Ark. This teaches us the importance of following God's commands in our lives.

Leadership and Responsibility
Shemaiah, as the chief, exemplifies godly leadership. Leaders in the church today are called to guide their communities with integrity and faithfulness.

Community and Unity
The involvement of 200 relatives highlights the strength found in community and unity. The church is called to work together in harmony to fulfill God's purposes.

Reverence for God's Presence
The Ark symbolized God's presence among His people. We are reminded to approach God with reverence and awe, recognizing His holiness.

Learning from Past Mistakes
The earlier mishandling of the Ark serves as a lesson in learning from past mistakes and seeking God's guidance in all endeavors.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of the Levites in transporting the Ark of the Covenant inform our understanding of service and obedience in the church today?

2. In what ways can we apply the principles of godly leadership demonstrated by Shemaiah in our own leadership roles?

3. How does the unity of the 200 relatives in this passage inspire us to foster community within our own church or faith group?

4. What lessons can we learn from the reverence shown towards the Ark of the Covenant about how we approach worship and God's presence?

5. Reflect on a time when you learned from a past mistake. How can the account of the Ark's transportation encourage you to seek God's guidance in future decisions?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 6:18, 22
Provides genealogical context for Elizaphan, linking him to the Levitical lineage and the responsibilities of his descendants.

Numbers 3:30
Mentions Elizaphan as a leader among the Levites, highlighting the continuity of leadership within the tribe.

2 Samuel 6:12-15
Describes the parallel account of the Ark's transportation to Jerusalem, emphasizing the joy and reverence of the event.

1 Chronicles 13:9-14
Details the earlier failed attempt to move the Ark, underscoring the importance of following God's instructions precisely.