(2) And the sons of Meshelemiah were.--Rather, And Meshelemiah had sons, viz., Zechariah the firstborn. (See 1Chronicles 9:21, and 1Chronicles 26:14 below.) The seven "sons" of Meshelemiah-Shallum represent seven guilds of porters.

Verses 2, 3. - These verses contain the enumeration of seven sons of Shelemiah, of the firstborn of whom, viz. Zechariah, express mention was made in 1 Chronicles 9:21.

26:1-32 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.And the sons of Meshelemiah were, Zechariah the firstborn,.... And six more, who are mentioned in their order:

Jediael, Zebadiah, and Jathniel, Elam, Jehohanan, and Elioenai.