9. Meshelemiah had sons and relatives who were powerful men. In all there were 18 sons and relatives.
10. These are the gatekeepers from the Merari family: Hosah, son of Merari, chose his son Shimri to be the leader, even though he was not the oldest son.
11. Hilkiah was Hosah’s second son, Tebaliah his third, and Zechariah his fourth son. In all Hosah had 13 sons and relatives who were gatekeepers.
12. These were the leaders of the groups of the gatekeepers. The gatekeepers had a special way to serve in the Lord’S Temple, just as their relatives did.
13. Each family was given a gate to guard. Lots were thrown to choose a gate for a family. Young and old were treated the same.
14. Meshelemiah was chosen to guard the East Gate. Then lots were thrown for Meshelemiah’s son Zechariah. Zechariah was a wise counselor. Zechariah was chosen for the North Gate.
15. Obed Edom was chosen for the South Gate. And Obed Edom’s sons were chosen to guard the house where the valuable things were kept.
16. Shuppim and Hosah were chosen for the West Gate and the Shalleketh Gate on the upper road. Guards stood side by side.