The previous verses have shown that David provided the plans for building the Temple and making its utensils. This verse shows that he has also provided the necessary personnel to build the Temple and to serve in it.

And behold the divisions of the priests and the Levites for all the service of the house of God: See the comments on verse 13. The Hebrew word translated behold is the common focusing particle, which in this case draws attention to what is about to be said. It is omitted by most modern English versions, but in those languages that have a corresponding device which would fit naturally here, it may be used.

And with you in all the work will be every willing man who has skill for any kind of service: The expression every willing man seems to imply that there might be some who are unwilling to help. New Revised Standard Version is perhaps better with “every volunteer.” The Hebrew noun translated skill may also mean “wisdom” in some contexts (see the La Bible Pléiade translation below). Most versions correctly understand it to mean skill here, that is, David assures Solomon that skilled workers in every kind of craft will be willing to help construct the Temple. This language echoes that of Exo 35.10, where Moses says regarding the Tabernacle and its utensils “And let every able man among you come and make all that the LORD has commanded.” Bible en français courant provides a good model here, saying “likewise, for the work to be done, you can count on people full of good will and competence.” However, La Bible Pléiade translates who has skill for any kind of service as “endowed with wisdom in everything regarding worship.” This translation gives a different meaning: that people with wisdom will help Solomon know how the worship is to be conducted.

Also the officers and all the people will be wholly at your command: All the people may be rendered “every one of your subjects” or “the entire nation” (New Living Translation). Will be wholly at your command is literally “at all your words.” Another way of saying this is “will do anything you tell them” (Contemporary English Version) or “will do everything that you say to them” (Parole de Vie).

Quoted with permission from Omanson, Roger L. and Ellington, John E. A Handbook on 1-2 Chronicles, Volume 1. (UBS Helps for Translators). Miami: UBS, 2014. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .