1 Chronicles 26:5
Peullethai—meaning “my wages” or “reward of Jehovah”—stands in the Old Testament registries as an elite Levitical gatekeeper who belonged to the renowned patriarchal house of Obed-edom. His identity is preserved within the highly detailed logistics of the Davidic military and sanctuary organization.
When King David systematically structured the defense forces and gatekeeping units of the tabernacle, he placed immense responsibility on the lineage of Obed-edom. This family had a historic, uncompromised reverence for the presence of God; it was at Obed-edom’s house that the Ark of the Covenant had safely rested after the tragic breach of Uzzah. Peullethai is explicitly recorded as the eighth and final son born to Obed-edom, a status underscored by a distinct divine commendation in the text:
“Ammiel the sixth, Issachar the seventh, Peullethai the eighth: for God blessed him.” (1 Chronicles 26:5)
The scriptural note “for God blessed him” refers directly to the extraordinary fruitfulness and strength poured out upon this specific household. Peullethai and his brothers were not merely ceremonial workers; they are described as “mighty men of valour” and “able men for strength for the service.”
Tasked with guarding the physical thresholds and treasuries of the house of God, Peullethai and his companions formed an impenetrable defensive line. They prevented the entry of unauthorized or defiled individuals, ensuring that the sanctuary maintained absolute holiness and structural security. Through his physical vigilance and warrior-like posture, Peullethai stands as a clear historical witness to the truth that protecting the place where God’s glory dwells requires both spiritual devotion and unyielding physical readiness.