Study notes
When David appointed his son Solomon as Israel’s king (see 1 Kings 1), he outlined the kingdom's organizational structure and made provisions for the temple's operation.
The account of Solomon’s coronation continues in 1 Chronicles 28–29; the chapters in between (23:3–27:24) detail the kingdom's organization.
David very carefully prepared for Solomon to be king after him. The business matters of his kingdom were well ordered. They were overseen by many officials. The worship practices were also well ordered. They were overseen by the Levites.
For many years the Levites had served at the holy tent. Most of their work would take place at the temple once it was built. The Levites cast lots to decide what duties each group would be responsible for.
There were Levite officials, judges and guards of the temple gates. Some Levites were responsible for all the work inside temple. This included taking care of the rooms and all the objects. It also included the priests’ work of offering sacrifices and giving blessings to the people.
Some Levites were musicians. Their work was to prophecy and lead the people in worshipping God with songs and instruments. Some Levites were in charge of all the treasures gathered for the temple. These treasures had been set aside by Samuel, Saul, Joab, David and other leaders.
Some Levites took care of matters on the east side of the River Jordan. Others took care of matters on the west side. David’s plans for building the temple were well ordered. They included what the temple would look like and what it would have inside. They included what everything would be made from.
David provided many of the things needed. Other leaders in Israel gave gold, silver, bronze, iron and jewels. They gave freely and with joy. David recognised that they gave back to God what they had received from him. This is because everything belongs to God.
David prayed for God to help Solomon and the Israelites stay faithful to him. David wanted Solomon to serve God with all his heart.
The records of the Levites list them by their roles instead of their families.
In the census of 1 Chronicles 23:3, individuals were counted at age thirty. However, the registration of the divisions included those who were twenty years old or older (see Numbers 1:3). The age for starting Levitical service seemed to change over time based on need.
The Levites helped the priests in many ways. They maintained the temple, arranged the sacred bread and other offerings, sang, and assisted with sacrifices. Different family groups of Levites had specific duties (1 Chronicles 23:4–6).
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