13 Lots were cast for each gate, according to their families, young and old alike.

Other Translations of 1 Chronicles 26:13

King James Version

13 And they cast lots, as well the small as the great, according to the house of their fathers, for every gate.

English Standard Version

13 And they cast lots by fathers' houses, small and great alike, for their gates.

The Message

13 They were all assigned to their posts by the same method regardless of the prominence of their families - each picked his gate assignment from a hat.

New King James Version

13 And they cast lots for each gate, the small as well as the great, according to their father's house.

New Living Translation

13 They were assigned by families for guard duty at the various gates, without regard to age or training, for it was all decided by means of sacred lots.

Matthew Henry's Commentary on 1 Chronicles 26:13

Chapter Contents

The offices of the Levites.

The porters and treasurers of the temple, had occasion for strength and valour to oppose those who wrongly attempted to enter the sanctuary, and to guard the sacred treasures. Much was expended daily upon the altar; flour, wine, oil, salt, fuel, beside the lamps; quantities of these were kept beforehand, besides the sacred vestments and utensils. These were the treasures of the house of God. These treasures typified the plenty there is in our heavenly Father's house, enough and to spare. From those sacred treasuries, the unsearchable riches of Christ, all our wants are supplied; and receiving from his fulness, we must give him the glory, and endeavour to dispose of our abilities and substance according to his will. We have an account of those employed as officers and judges. The magistracy is an ordinance of God for the good of the church, as truly as the ministry, and must not be neglected. None of the Levites who were employed in the service of the sanctuary, none of the singers or porters, were concerned in this outward business; one duty was enough to engage the whole man. Wisdom, courage, strength of faith, holy affections, and constancy of mind in doing our duty, are requisite or useful for every station.