And David divided them into courses among the sons of Levi, [namely], Gershon, Kohath, and Merari.
Ver. 6. And David divided them into courses.] Into certain ranks and distinct functions, according to the commandment of God by Gad and Nathan. 2Ch 29:25 David, at the beginning of his reign, had distinguished the priests and Levites into certain ranks and orders, 1Ch 16:4 but now that their number was greatly increased, and they were to serve in the temple that was shortly after to be erected, he ordered all things better, and with greater diligence.