Tyndale Open Study Notes1 Chronicles 9

The Chronicler explains how people and institutions returning from the exile in Babylon connected with the past. The Levites and priests are important in this summary of Israel. The Chronicler believes they were central to the nation's organization. They were vital to Israel's success as a nation with God as king. The Chronicler used ancient records from Moses and David (1 Chronicles 9:19–22) to describe each group's homeland and rank.

• The statement that all Israel was listed in the genealogical records highlights the Chronicler’s main idea. It shows that all Israel was represented by the Judean community during the Chronicler's time, maintaining a connection with Israel’s past.

• The Book of the Kings of Israel was a source document used by the authors of both Kings and Chronicles, but it is now lost (see also study note on 1 Kings 14:19–20).

• The people of Judah were exiled due to unfaithfulness, just like the other tribes (1 Chronicles 5:25–26; 6:15; see 2 Chronicles 36:20–21).

lived in Jerusalem: Jerusalem was always central to Israel. People from all tribes lived there, both before and after the exile in Babylon. This statement confirms that some members of the northern tribes returned from exile.

Tent of Meeting: See study note on Exodus 27:21.

the articles used in worship: See Exodus 25:8–30:38.

The priests mixed the spices for use in the tabernacle and temple. This blend was not for everyday use (Exodus 30:34–38).

the rows of the showbread every Sabbath: See Exodus 25:23–30.

• The mention of Jerusalem reminds readers of the start (1 Chronicles 9:3) and describes all of Israel by its leaders in that city.

• In explaining the duties of the priests and Levites, the Chronicler mainly focused on the leaders of Levite families (1 Chronicles 9:10–33).

Saul's family's role in the kingdom is already set (1 Chronicles 8:29–40). Repeating this information helps move from the genealogies to the stories, starting with Saul's death (1 Chronicles 10).