1 Chronicles 16:38

along with Obed-edom and his sixty-eight relatives. Obed-edom son of Jeduthun, and also Hosah, were to be gatekeepers.

Study Bible

along with Obed-edom and his sixty-eight relatives.
Obed-edom is a significant figure in the context of the Ark of the Covenant. He is known for housing the Ark in his home for three months, during which time the Lord blessed his household (2 Samuel 6:11). This blessing likely contributed to his continued service in the temple. The mention of his sixty-eight relatives indicates a large family, which was common in ancient Israelite society, emphasizing the importance of family and community in religious service. This large number also suggests the dedication and commitment of Obed-edom's family to the service of the Lord, reflecting the communal nature of worship and service in Israel.

Obed-edom son of Jeduthun,
Jeduthun, also known as Ethan, was one of the chief musicians appointed by David for the worship in the tabernacle (1 Chronicles 25:1). This connection highlights the musical and worship heritage within Obed-edom's family, suggesting that service to God was a family tradition. The lineage indicates a continuity of faith and service, which is a recurring theme in the Old Testament, where family lines often carried specific roles or blessings.

and also Hosah,
Hosah was a Levite of the family of Merari, one of the three main divisions of the Levites (1 Chronicles 26:10). The Merarites were responsible for the care of the tabernacle's structure, including its frames, bars, pillars, and bases (Numbers 3:36-37). Hosah's inclusion as a gatekeeper signifies the importance of the Levites in maintaining the sanctity and order of the temple, a role that required trustworthiness and dedication.

were to be gatekeepers.
Gatekeepers had a crucial role in the temple, responsible for guarding the entrances and ensuring that only those who were ceremonially clean could enter (1 Chronicles 9:19). This role was not merely about physical security but also about maintaining the spiritual purity of the worship space. Gatekeepers were seen as protectors of the sacred, a role that can be seen as a type of Christ, who is described as the "door" or "gate" for the sheep (John 10:7). This typology underscores the protective and mediating role of Christ in the New Testament, connecting the Old Testament roles to the fulfillment found in Jesus.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Obed-edom
A Levite who is noted for his role as a gatekeeper and for housing the Ark of the Covenant. His household was blessed by God during the time the Ark was with him.

2. Sixty-eight relatives
These are the family members of Obed-edom who were involved in the service of the tabernacle, indicating a family dedicated to the service of God.

3. Jeduthun
A Levite and one of the chief musicians appointed by David. Obed-edom is identified as his son, linking him to a lineage of worship and service.

4. Hosah
Another gatekeeper who served alongside Obed-edom. His inclusion highlights the collaborative nature of temple service.

5. Gatekeepers
These were Levites assigned to guard the entrances of the tabernacle, ensuring the sanctity and order of worship.

Teaching Points

Faithfulness in Service
Obed-edom and his family exemplify dedication to God's service. Their roles as gatekeepers and musicians show that every task in God's house is significant and honored.

Generational Blessing
The involvement of Obed-edom's relatives in temple service underscores the importance of passing down faith and dedication to future generations.

Guarding the Presence of God
As gatekeepers, Obed-edom and Hosah were responsible for maintaining the sanctity of the tabernacle. This teaches us the importance of guarding our hearts and lives as temples of the Holy Spirit.

Collaboration in Ministry
The partnership between Obed-edom and Hosah highlights the value of working together in ministry, supporting one another in the service of God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of Obed-edom as a gatekeeper reflect the importance of every position in the service of God?

2. In what ways can we, like Obed-edom, ensure that our homes are places where God's presence is welcomed and honored?

3. How can the example of Obed-edom's family inspire us to involve our own families in the service of God?

4. What are some practical ways we can guard our hearts and lives as temples of the Holy Spirit, similar to the gatekeepers of the tabernacle?

5. How does the collaboration between Obed-edom and Hosah encourage us to work together in our church communities and ministries?

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 connection highlights the faithfulness and blessing associated with Obed-edom.

1 Chronicles 15:18, 24
These verses list Obed-edom among the gatekeepers and musicians, emphasizing his multifaceted role in temple service.

Psalm 84:10
This verse speaks to the honor and blessing of being a doorkeeper in the house of God, which relates to the role of Obed-edom and his family.