A third part] The priests and Levites were so divided, as they might serve in the temple by course, 1 Chron. 24. 1, &c. Luk. 1. 8, 9. While one part served, two parts rested, and went to their houses: but at this time they were all assembled together; and, according to the said division into three parts, they were assigned to severall charges. enter in on the sabbath] To do their service, wherein they continued from sabbath to sabbath, so long as their course continued, 1 Chronicles 9:25. keepers of the watch] Shall carefully and diligently watch. of the kings house] The gate that leadeth into the royall pallace, lest any should thence issue out to destory the king. Some understand by the kings house, the chamber where the king was kept. keepers, &c.] Of porters and keepers of the gates of the temple, see the Notes on 1 Chronicles 9:17-18.