1 Chronicles 4:23

These were the Potters, and those that dwelt amongst plants and hedges. There they dwelt with the king for his worke. 1 Chronicles 4:23 (KJV)

These

were the potters, and those that dwelt among plants and hedges: there they dwelt with the king for his work. 1 Chronicles 4:23 (KJV)

The book of 1 Chronicles presents a historical record of Israel’s genealogies and the reigns of its kings, emphasizing worship, the Davidic line, and the establishment of the temple in Jerusalem. Chapter 4 concentrates on the descendants of Judah, especially the family of Caleb, and lists various occupations and settlements among the people.

The quoted verse mentions two distinct groups: potters and those who dwelt among plants and hedges. Potters were skilled artisans who shaped, molded, and fired clay to produce vessels such as pots, jars, and bowls. Their work served both practical daily needs and decorative purposes, making them valuable contributors to the community’s material culture.

The phrase “those that dwelt among plants and hedges” likely refers to individuals engaged in agricultural or horticultural activities—tending cultivated fields, gardens, or vineyards. Their proximity to plants and hedges suggests a lifestyle centered on farming, garden maintenance, or the care of orchard boundaries.

According to the quoted wording, these people “dwelt with the king for his work,” implying that the king employed or commissioned them for their respective crafts. However, it is noted that this specific wording is not found in the canonical text of 1 Chronicles 4, and the association of these groups with royal service is not supported by the actual verses.

Understanding the social and economic roles of potters and agricultural workers helps illuminate the broader picture of life in ancient Israel. Both groups contributed essential goods—pottery for storage and transport, and cultivated produce for sustenance and trade. Their mention alongside the king underscores the interconnectedness of royal authority and everyday labor, whether or not the biblical text explicitly records such a relationship.

In study, we can reflect on how skilled craftsmanship and diligent stewardship of the land were valued in the community, and how these occupations supported the nation’s stability and the king’s household. The passage invites us to appreciate the diverse ways ordinary people served God’s purposes through their work, even as we remain attentive to the precise wording of Scripture.