1 Chronicles 15:7

Of the sons of Gershom; Joel the chief, and his brethren an hundred and thirty:

1 Chronicles 15:7 (KJV)

Context

This verse belongs to the account of King David bringing the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem. After the Ark had been neglected, David organized a solemn procession to move it from the house of Obed-Edom to the tent he had prepared. The chapter lists the Levite families who carried the Ark, and this verse names the clan of Gershom, with Joel as their chief and 130 of his relatives.

Meaning

The verse records names and family relationships. Its purpose is genealogical: it preserves the identities and connections that carry the historical record forward. The wording does not assign motives, virtues, or failures to these people, so a sound reading should not add character claims that the verse itself does not make. The Hebrew name Gershom is a variant of Gershon, one of the sons of Levi. The Gershomites had specific duties related to the care and transport of the tabernacle and later the temple.

Biblical connections

The listing of leaders and their numbers shows the orderly way David restored the Ark to its proper place. This orderliness reflects obedience to God’s instructions for worship, as seen in the surrounding chapter. The Levites were set apart for service, and their faithful service is recognized and recorded.

Application

Genealogical verses establish continuity between generations and locate individuals within the larger history recorded by Scripture. Their value lies in their precision. Names and relationships that may appear brief still belong to the Bible’s ordered account of families, tribes, inheritance, and covenant history.

Reflection

This verse encourages careful attention to details that are easy to pass over. A responsible reader receives the names and relationships as written, does not invent a biography beyond the record, and allows the surrounding genealogy to define their place in the account. Taken within its immediate setting, this verse has a clear place in the passage, and careful attention to its actual words provides a sound foundation for interpretation and response.