1 Chronicles 9:22

“All those that were chosen to be porters in the gates were two hundred and twelve, etc.] As fixed in the days of David, and might not be fewer: these were reckoned by their genealogies in their villages; where they dwelt: whom David and Samuel the seer did ordain in their set office; the scheme was first drawn by Samuel the prophet, and communicated to David, who put it into execution, to be constantly and perpetually observed.”

“The porters, like the singers Nehemiah 12:29, dwelt for the most part in the villages round Jerusalem. They were the descendants of those originally selected for the work by David. David’s arrangements are here regarded as having had the sanction of Samuel - which would imply that he planned them in the lifetime of Saul, while he was still a fugitive and an outlaw. return to 'Top of Page'”

“Villages - Where their usual residence was, and whence they came to Jerusalem in their courses. Ordain - In the times of the judges there was much disorder both in the Jewish state and church, and the Levites came to the tabernacle promiscuously, and as their inclinations or occasions brought them. But Samuel observing they were greatly increased, began to think of establishing order in their ministration. And these intentions of his probably were communicated to David, who after his own peaceable settlement in his throne, revived and perfected Samuel's design, and took care to put it in execution. 1 Chronicles 9:23”

“in their: Ch1 9:16, Ch1 9:25; Neh 11:25-30, Neh 11:36, Neh 12:28, Neh 12:29, Neh 12:44 David: 1Chr. 23:1-32, 25:1-26:32, Ch1 28:13, Ch1 28:21 Samuel: Sa1 9:9 did ordain: Heb. founded set office: or, trust, Ch1 9:26, Ch1 9:31 1 Chronicles 9:23”