1 Chronicles 24:15
the seventeenth to Hezir, the eighteenth to Happizzez,
the seventeenth
The use of ordinal numbers in this passage reflects the structured and organized nature of the priestly divisions established by King David. The number seventeen, in biblical numerology, often symbolizes victory and perfection of spiritual order. This division signifies a continuation of the divine order and the meticulous planning that went into the service of the temple. It reminds us of God's desire for order and precision in worship, reflecting His own nature.

to Hezir
The name "Hezir" is of Hebrew origin, meaning "swine" or "boar." This name, while seemingly unusual for a priestly family, highlights the diversity and inclusivity within the priestly divisions. It serves as a reminder that God calls individuals from all walks of life and backgrounds to serve Him. Historically, Hezir is also mentioned in Nehemiah 10:20 as one of the leaders who sealed the covenant, indicating a legacy of faithfulness and commitment to God's covenant.

the eighteenth
The number eighteen in biblical terms can be associated with bondage or oppression, as seen in the eighteen years of oppression by the Moabites in Judges 3:14. However, in this context, it signifies the continuation of the priestly order and the fulfillment of divine service. It underscores the importance of each division in maintaining the continuous worship and service in the temple, reflecting the unbroken chain of devotion to God.

to Happizzez
The name "Happizzez" is unique and not widely mentioned elsewhere in the Bible, which adds a layer of mystery and intrigue. The etymology of the name is uncertain, but it may be derived from a root meaning "to scatter" or "to disperse." This could symbolize the spreading of God's word and the dissemination of His teachings through the priestly service. It serves as an inspiration for believers to carry forth the message of God, ensuring that His presence and teachings are spread throughout the world.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Hezir
Hezir is one of the priestly divisions established by King David. The name "Hezir" is of Hebrew origin, meaning "swine" or "boar," which may reflect a characteristic or a family symbol. This division was part of the 24 priestly courses that were set to serve in the temple.

2. Happizzez
Happizzez is another priestly division. The name is less common, and its meaning is not entirely clear, but it is part of the structured order of priests serving in the temple.

3. Priestly Divisions
The division of priests into 24 courses was an organizational system established by King David to ensure that the temple service was orderly and continuous. Each division served in the temple for a week at a time, twice a year.

4. King David
The king of Israel who organized the priestly divisions. His leadership was instrumental in establishing a structured worship system in the temple.

5. Temple Service
The temple was the central place of worship for the Israelites, and the priestly divisions were crucial for maintaining the daily sacrifices and rituals.
Teaching Points
Order and Structure in Worship
The division of priests into courses highlights the importance of order and structure in worship. God is a God of order, and our worship should reflect that.

Faithfulness in Service
Each priestly division had specific times to serve, emphasizing the need for faithfulness and commitment in our service to God. We should be diligent in fulfilling our roles within the body of Christ.

Continuity of God's Plan
The priestly divisions show the continuity of God's plan from the Old Testament to the New Testament. God's purposes are unchanging, and His plans are fulfilled through faithful service.

Diversity in Unity
The various divisions, each with unique names and roles, reflect the diversity within the body of Christ. Each member has a unique contribution to make, yet all work together for the common purpose of glorifying God.
Bible Study Questions
1. How does the organization of the priestly divisions in 1 Chronicles 24 reflect God's character and His desire for order in worship?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of faithfulness in service, as seen in the priestly divisions, to our own lives and ministries today?

3. How does the continuity of the priestly divisions from the Old Testament to the New Testament encourage us about God's unchanging nature and His plans for His people?

4. What can we learn from the diversity of the priestly divisions about the importance of each individual's role within the church?

5. How can we ensure that our worship and service to God are both orderly and heartfelt, reflecting the balance seen in the temple service?
Connections to Other Scriptures
1 Chronicles 23
This chapter provides the context for the division of the Levites and priests, showing David's role in organizing temple service.

Luke 1:5-9
This passage mentions Zechariah, a priest of the division of Abijah, serving in the temple, illustrating the continuation of the priestly divisions into the New Testament era.

Exodus 28
Describes the establishment of the priesthood, providing background on the importance of priestly service in Israel.
Aaronites and Descendants of LeviF. Whitfield 1 Chronicles 24, 25
People
Aaron, Abiathar, Abihu, Abijah, Ahimelech, Amariah, Amram, Aphses, Beno, Bilgah, David, Delaiah, Eder, Eleazar, Eliashib, Ezekiel, Gamul, Hakkoz, Harim, Hezir, Huppah, Ibri, Immer, Isshiah, Ithamar, Izharites, Jaaziah, Jachin, Jahath, Jahaziel, Jakim, Jedaiah, Jehdeiah, Jehezekel, Jehoiarib, Jekameam, Jerahmeel, Jeriah, Jerijah, Jerimoth, Jeshebeab, Jeshua, Jeshuah, Jizharites, Kish, Levi, Levites, Maaziah, Mahli, Malchijah, Merari, Micah, Michah, Mijamin, Mushi, Nadab, Nethaneel, Pethahiah, Rehabiah, Seorim, Shamir, Shecaniah, Shelomoth, Shemaiah, Shoham, Shubael, Uzziel, Zaccur, Zadok, Zechariah
Places
Jerusalem
Topics
Aphses, Eighteenth, Happizez, Happizzez, Hap'pizzez, Hezer, Hezir, Seventeenth
Dictionary of Bible Themes
1 Chronicles 24:10

     7769   priests, NT types

Library
Annunciation to Zacharias of the Birth of John the Baptist.
(at Jerusalem. Probably b.c. 6.) ^C Luke I. 5-25. ^c 5 There was in the days of Herod, the king of Judæa [a Jewish proselyte, an Idumæan or Edomite by birth, founder of the Herodian family, king of Judæa from b.c. 40 to a.d. 4, made such by the Roman Senate on the recommendation of Mark Antony and Octavius Cæsar], a certain priest named Zacharias, of the course [David divided the priests into twenty-four bodies or courses, each course serving in rotation one week in the temple
J. W. McGarvey—The Four-Fold Gospel

That Upon the Conquest and Slaughter of vitellius Vespasian Hastened his Journey to Rome; but Titus his Son Returned to Jerusalem.
1. And now, when Vespasian had given answers to the embassages, and had disposed of the places of power justly, [25] and according to every one's deserts, he came to Antioch, and consulting which way he had best take, he preferred to go for Rome, rather than to march to Alexandria, because he saw that Alexandria was sure to him already, but that the affairs at Rome were put into disorder by Vitellius; so he sent Mucianus to Italy, and committed a considerable army both of horsemen and footmen to
Flavius Josephus—The Wars of the Jews or History of the Destruction of Jerusalem

Chronicles
The comparative indifference with which Chronicles is regarded in modern times by all but professional scholars seems to have been shared by the ancient Jewish church. Though written by the same hand as wrote Ezra-Nehemiah, and forming, together with these books, a continuous history of Judah, it is placed after them in the Hebrew Bible, of which it forms the concluding book; and this no doubt points to the fact that it attained canonical distinction later than they. Nor is this unnatural. The book
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament

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