Summary
The chapter opens by listing the sons of Aaron, noting that Nadab and Abihu died early and that Eleazar and Ithamar carried on the priesthood. David orders the distribution of the priestly offices, with Zadok (Eleazar’s line) and Ahimelech (Ithamar’s line) appointed. The text then explains how the priests were divided into sixteen chief families from Eleazar and eight from Ithamar, with lots drawn to determine their roles in the sanctuary. A long list of the lot recipients follows, detailing names and order of service. The chapter continues with an extensive catalog of the Levites’ genealogies, grouped by their ancestral houses. The levites also cast lots before David, Zadok, and Ahimelech, finalizing the organization of the temple workforce.