1 Chronicles 26:13

French (La Sainte Bible par Louis Segond 1910)

Ils tirèrent au sort pour chaque porte, petits et grands, selon leurs maisons paternelles.

What Does This Mean?

This verse describes how the Levites cast lots to assign responsibilities for guarding the temple gates. The lots were cast regardless of the individual's status or size, ensuring fairness. The assignment was based on family groups.

Explained for Children

Imagine you and your friends are playing a game where you have to stand guard at different doors. To decide who stands where, you all use a fun game of chance, like rolling dice. Everyone has an equal chance to get any door, whether you're tall or small, and you work with your family members.

Historical Background

This verse is from the book of 1 Chronicles, written by Ezra or a similar scribe after the Babylonian exile. The text describes how the temple was organized after the return of the Israelites to Jerusalem. The audience was the post-exilic community of Israel.

Living It Out Today

In modern life, this verse reminds us of the importance of fairness and equality when distributing responsibilities. For instance, in a workplace, tasks should be assigned based on merit and capability, not just seniority or status.

Topics

• justice
• fairness
• responsibility
• temple
• Levites
• organization

Related Verses

• 1 Samuel 14:42
• Numbers 33:54
• 1 Chronicles 25:8
• Joshua 18:10
• Acts 1:26

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did they cast lots instead of assigning tasks directly?

Casting lots was a common practice in ancient Israel to leave the decision to divine providence, ensuring that the distribution was seen as fair and divinely ordained.

What does it mean to be 'small or great' in this context?

This refers to the status of individuals regardless of their social standing or physical stature. The method of lot casting ensured that everyone had an equal chance.

How does this relate to the organization of the temple?

This verse describes a part of the complex system of organization that managed the temple, ensuring that all roles were filled fairly and in accordance with tradition.

What can we learn from this practice today?

We can learn the importance of fairness and equality in assigning roles and responsibilities, valuing each individual's capabilities rather than their status or size.