Ver. 1. Now these are the divisions,] i.e., The distinct orders and courses.
Ver. 2. But Nadab and Abihu died.] And, as it is thought, in their drunkenness, to the great grief of their father Aaron. See Leviticus 10:2-9, [See Trapp on “Le 10:2”] &c
Ver. 3. And Ahimelech of the sons of Ithamar.] Ahimelech is thought by some to be the son of Abiathar, the high priest; and that Zadok and he were great deputies to Abiathar. How the high priesthood came from Eleazar’s lineage to Ithamar’s is nowhere in Scripture expressed. The Hebrews say it was because the priests of that family carried not the matter well at that time, when that wickedness was committed upon the Levite’s concubine.
Ver. 5. Thus were they divided by lot.] To take away all cause of contention or complaint. One sort with another.] Promiscuously, pell mell. And governors of the house of God.] Heb., Governors, or princes of God; antistites scilicet rerum sacrarum. These were called chief priests—of such we read often in the gospel—and ruled over other priests of their own order; but were subject to the high priest. Hi erant veluti Ephori et εργοδιωκται.
Ver. 6. The scribe, one of the Levites, wrote them.] This was the public notary, of great note amongst them; and highly honoured in such witnesses of that which he now recorded.
Ver. 10. The eighth to Abijah.] John Baptist’s father was of this course, (Luke 1:5) but whether he were chief priest of this division, as also whether he were of the line of Eleazar, or of Ithamar, is uncertain. Old he was, (Luke 1:7) and yet not freed from taking his turn. Dumb he was also for a time; and yet he went on to do his office in the ministration. The evangelist’s word, εφημερια, (Luke 1:5) importeth a daily attendance upon the work while the course continueth.
Ver. 19. Under Aaron their father.] That is, Under the high priest, whoever he was.
Ver. 20. And the rest of the sons of Levi,] sc., Besides the priests afore mentioned; and besides the Gershonites set down before. (1 Chronicles 23:7)
Ver. 21. Rehabiah.] Famous for his πολυτεκνια. (1 Chronicles 23:17) He had many children; and if all good, it was a great happiness, a great wonder.
Ver. 23. And the sons of Hebron.] Hebron is not in the original, but well supplied out of 1 Chronicles 23:19 26:31. See the like lacuna in 1 Chronicles 2:53.