Charles Ellicott Commentary 1 Chronicles 15:11

"And David called for Zadok and Abiathar the priests, and for the Levites, for Uriel, Asaiah, and Joel, Shemaiah, and Eliel, and Amminadab," — 1 Chronicles 15:11 (ASV)

David’s instructions to the eight spiritual chiefs.

Zadok and Abiathar the priests were of equal rank, representing the two lines of Eleazar and Ithamar. (Compare Notes on 1 Chronicles 6:4 and following, and 1 Chronicles 24:3.) On 1 Chronicles 15:5 the meanings of three of these names have been suggested.

Of the others, Zadok means just, perhaps equivalent to Zedekiah, Jah is just; Abiathar, the Father (i.e., God) excels; She-maiah, Jah hears; Eliel, God (and no one else) is God (i.e., Divine); Amminadab, the Clansman (i.e., the Lord) is bountiful.

Thus the very names of those who conducted this great religious event expressed to themselves and others the high spiritual truths that Jehovah the Lord is righteous, the Author and Bestower of all knowledge, excellence, and effective power; that He alone is God; and that He hears prayers, as a gracious Father to all His creatures.