Peulthai; Peullethai
## Biblical Identity and Family Peulthai (or Peullethai) is mentioned in a single verse in the Hebrew Bible as the eighth son of Obed-edom (1 Chronicles 26:5). His name, derived from Hebrew, is interpreted to mean "Yah's seed" or "Yah's reward," suggesting a theophoric name honoring Yahweh. He belonged to the Korahite clan of Levites, specifically assigned to the service of gatekeeping.
## Role as a Temple Gatekeeper The primary biblical information about Peulthai places him within the detailed organization of the temple personnel by King David. As a gatekeeper, his duties were crucial for maintaining the sanctity and order of the temple precincts. Gatekeepers were responsible for guarding the entrances, managing the flow of worshippers, and protecting the temple treasures (1 Chronicles 9:22-27; 26:12-19). This was not a menial task but a sacred trust.
## The Legacy of Obed-edom Understanding Peulthai requires looking at his father, Obed-edom. Obed-edom the Gittite famously housed the Ark of the Covenant for three months after the incident at Perez-uzzah, during which time his entire household was greatly blessed by God (2 Samuel 6:10-12; 1 Chronicles 13:13-14). This Obed-edom, or a Levite of the same name from the Korahite line, was then appointed as a gatekeeper. Peulthai, therefore, was part of a family lineage marked by divine favor and dedicated temple service.
## Significance in Chronicles' Narrative The detailed genealogies and lists of temple staff in 1 Chronicles, including the mention of Peulthai, serve a theological purpose. They emphasize that David's preparations for worship were meticulous and ordained, involving many faithful individuals. Peulthai's inclusion underscores that every role, even those not in the spotlight, was vital for the functioning of the community's worship before God.
Biblical Context
Peulthai appears exclusively in 1 Chronicles 26:5, within a list detailing the divisions of the temple gatekeepers organized by King David. This list is part of the Chronicler's extensive account of David's preparations for the temple and the organization of the Levitical priesthood (1 Chronicles 23-26). His role is purely functional within this administrative and religious framework.
Theological Significance
Peulthai's brief mention teaches that God values and records faithful service in His house, regardless of its public visibility. It reinforces the New Testament principle that in the body of Christ, every member and function is important (1 Corinthians 12:12-27). His existence as part of the blessed household of Obed-edom also illustrates how God's blessing can extend through generations to those who serve Him faithfully.
Historical Background
Extra-biblical sources do not mention Peulthai specifically. Historically, gatekeepers ("doorkeepers") were a well-established class of temple servants in the ancient Near East. In Israel, this Levitical role became formalized, especially under David. Archaeological evidence from other contemporary cultures shows that temple complexes had guarded gates, confirming the importance of such a function in maintaining ritual purity and security.