1 Chronicles 27
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1 Chronicles 27
The Captains of the Monthly Courses
1Now the children of Israel after their number, to wit, the chief fathers and captains of thousands and hundreds, and their officers that served the king in any matter of the courses, which came in and went out month by month throughout all the months of the year, of every course were twenty and four thousand.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
CHAPTER 27
1Ch 27:1-15. Twelve Captains for Every Month.
1. came in and went out month by month--Here is an account of the standing military force of Israel. A militia formed, it would seem, at the beginning of David's reign (see 1Ch 27:7) was raised in the following order: Twelve legions, corresponding to the number of tribes, were enlisted in the king's service. Each legion comprised a body of twenty-four thousand men, whose term of service was a month in rotation, and who were stationed either at Jerusalem or in any other place where they might be required. There was thus always a force sufficient for the ordinary purposes of state, as well as for resisting sudden attacks or popular tumults; and when extraordinary emergencies demanded a larger force, the whole standing army could easily be called to arms, amounting to two hundred eighty-eight thousand, or to three hundred thousand, including the twelve thousand officers that naturally attended on the twelve princes (1Ch 27:16-24). Such a military establishment would be burdensome neither to the country nor to the royal treasury; for attendance on this duty being a mark of honor and distinction, the expense of maintenance would be borne probably by the militiaman himself, or furnished out of the common fund of his tribe. Nor would the brief period of actual service produce any derangement of the usual course of affairs; for, on the expiry of the term, every soldier returned to the pursuits and duties of private life during the other eleven months of the year. Whether the same individuals were always enrolled, cannot be determined. The probability is, that provided the requisite number was furnished, no stricter scrutiny would be made. A change of men might, to a certain degree, be encouraged, as it was a part of David's policy to train all his subjects to skill in arms; and to have made the enlistment fall always on the same individuals would have defeated that purpose. To have confined each month's levy rigidly within the limits of one tribe might have fallen hard upon those tribes which were weak and small. The rotation system being established, each division knew its own month, as well as the name of the commander under whom it was to serve. These commanders are styled, "the chief fathers," that is, the hereditary heads of tribes who, like chieftains of clans, possessed great power and influence.
captains of thousands and hundreds--The legions of twenty-four thousand were divided into regiments of one thousand, and these again into companies of a hundred men, under the direction of their respective subalterns, there being, of course, twenty-four captains of thousands, and two hundred forty centurions.
and their officers--the Shoterim, who in the army performed the duty of the commissariat, keeping the muster-roll, &c.
CHAPTER 27
1Ch 27:1-15. Twelve Captains for Every Month.
1. came in and went out month by month--Here is an account of the standing military force of Israel. A militia formed, it would seem, at the beginning of David's reign (see 1Ch 27:7) was raised in the following order: Twelve legions, corresponding to the number of tribes, were enlisted in the king's service. Each legion comprised a body of twenty-four thousand men, whose term of service was a month in rotation, and who were stationed either at Jerusalem or in any other place where they might be required. There was thus always a force sufficient for the ordinary purposes of state, as well as for resisting sudden attacks or popular tumults; and when extraordinary emergencies demanded a larger force, the whole standing army could easily be called to arms, amounting to two hundred eighty-eight thousand, or to three hundred thousand, including the twelve thousand officers that naturally attended on the twelve princes (1Ch 27:16-24). Such a military establishment would be burdensome neither to the country nor to the royal treasury; for attendance on this duty being a mark of honor and distinction, the expense of maintenance would be borne probably by the militiaman himself, or furnished out of the common fund of his tribe. Nor would the brief period of actual service produce any derangement of the usual course of affairs; for, on the expiry of the term, every soldier returned to the pursuits and duties of private life during the other eleven months of the year. Whether the same individuals were always enrolled, cannot be determined. The probability is, that provided the requisite number was furnished, no stricter scrutiny would be made. A change of men might, to a certain degree, be encouraged, as it was a part of David's policy to train all his subjects to skill in arms; and to have made the enlistment fall always on the same individuals would have defeated that purpose. To have confined each month's levy rigidly within the limits of one tribe might have fallen hard upon those tribes which were weak and small. The rotation system being established, each division knew its own month, as well as the name of the commander under whom it was to serve. These commanders are styled, "the chief fathers," that is, the hereditary heads of tribes who, like chieftains of clans, possessed great power and influence.
captains of thousands and hundreds--The legions of twenty-four thousand were divided into regiments of one thousand, and these again into companies of a hundred men, under the direction of their respective subalterns, there being, of course, twenty-four captains of thousands, and two hundred forty centurions.
and their officers--the Shoterim, who in the army performed the duty of the commissariat, keeping the muster-roll, &c.
The Pulpit Commentary
It is impossible to feel fully satisfied with any translation which the words of this verse offer. Yet there can scarcely he any doubt of the meaning of the verse, viz. that the writer would speak of the children of Israel, including the chief fathers and captains of thousands and hundreds, as regards their courses and their number in their courses, as they succeeded one another, month by month, including also all those officers who served the king in any relation to these courses—the courses were twelve, and each course was numbered twenty-four thousand. Meantime, when we turn to the list, we do not find any full complement of chiefs, captains, and officers specified, but apparently only the chief of each course, with somewhat ambiguous additions in 1Ch_27:4 (Mikloth), 6 (Ammizabad), 7 (Zebadiah); while what seems an unnecessary stress repeats the number each time. This, however, in fact, tallies with the clause "respecting their number" in the first verse, and may constitute the explanation of the apparent inconsistency in question. Milman says on this military portion of David's preparations, that he "organized an immense disposable force; every month twenty-four thousand men, furnished in rotation by the tribes, appeared in arms, and were trained as the standing militia of the country. At the head of his army were officers of consummate experience and, what was more highly esteemed in the warfare of the time, extraordinary personal activity, strength, and valour. His heroes remind us of those of Arthuror Charlemagne, excepting that the armour of the feudal chieftains constituted their superiority; here, main strength of body and dauntless fortitude of mind." Which came in and went out month by month; i.e. exchanged places in rotation (2Ki_11:5-7, 2Ki_11:9; 2Ch_23:8).
It is impossible to feel fully satisfied with any translation which the words of this verse offer. Yet there can scarcely he any doubt of the meaning of the verse, viz. that the writer would speak of the children of Israel, including the chief fathers and captains of thousands and hundreds, as regards their courses and their number in their courses, as they succeeded one another, month by month, including also all those officers who served the king in any relation to these courses—the courses were twelve, and each course was numbered twenty-four thousand. Meantime, when we turn to the list, we do not find any full complement of chiefs, captains, and officers specified, but apparently only the chief of each course, with somewhat ambiguous additions in 1Ch_27:4 (Mikloth), 6 (Ammizabad), 7 (Zebadiah); while what seems an unnecessary stress repeats the number each time. This, however, in fact, tallies with the clause "respecting their number" in the first verse, and may constitute the explanation of the apparent inconsistency in question. Milman says on this military portion of David's preparations, that he "organized an immense disposable force; every month twenty-four thousand men, furnished in rotation by the tribes, appeared in arms, and were trained as the standing militia of the country. At the head of his army were officers of consummate experience and, what was more highly esteemed in the warfare of the time, extraordinary personal activity, strength, and valour. His heroes remind us of those of Arthuror Charlemagne, excepting that the armour of the feudal chieftains constituted their superiority; here, main strength of body and dauntless fortitude of mind." Which came in and went out month by month; i.e. exchanged places in rotation (2Ki_11:5-7, 2Ki_11:9; 2Ch_23:8).
2Over the first course for the first month was Jashobeam the son of Zabdiel: and in his course were twenty and four thousand.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
2-3. Jashobeam the son of Zabdiel--(See on 1Ch 11:11; 2Sa 23:8). Hachmoni was his father, Zabdiel probably one of his ancestors; or there might be different names of the same individual. In the rotation of the military courses, the dignity of precedence, not of authority, was given to the hero.
2-3. Jashobeam the son of Zabdiel--(See on 1Ch 11:11; 2Sa 23:8). Hachmoni was his father, Zabdiel probably one of his ancestors; or there might be different names of the same individual. In the rotation of the military courses, the dignity of precedence, not of authority, was given to the hero.
The Pulpit Commentary
Jashobeam is mentioned in 1Ch_12:11 as son of Hachmoni, and as one of those "three mighties" of David, of whom the other two were Eleazar and Shammah (see also 1Ch_12:6); he is again referred to (2Sa_23:8) in a verse of which the text is corrupt, as "the Tachmonite," or more correctly "the Tahh-cemonite." The tau in this word is probably an error for the article. Kennicott ('Dies.,' 72, 82) confirms this supposition by noting that the Book of Samuel constantly replaces by the definite article what appears in Chronicles as "son of." He has also shown reason for believing that the words in this passage, "that sat in the seat, are a corruption of the Hebrew text for characters that would spell our name "Jashobeam." We know nothing of this name "Hachmon," which may be the name of an earlier forefather, while Zabdiel, thence named "the Hach-monite," appears to Be the name of the actual father of Jashobeam. Jashobeam was of Judah.
Jashobeam is mentioned in 1Ch_12:11 as son of Hachmoni, and as one of those "three mighties" of David, of whom the other two were Eleazar and Shammah (see also 1Ch_12:6); he is again referred to (2Sa_23:8) in a verse of which the text is corrupt, as "the Tachmonite," or more correctly "the Tahh-cemonite." The tau in this word is probably an error for the article. Kennicott ('Dies.,' 72, 82) confirms this supposition by noting that the Book of Samuel constantly replaces by the definite article what appears in Chronicles as "son of." He has also shown reason for believing that the words in this passage, "that sat in the seat, are a corruption of the Hebrew text for characters that would spell our name "Jashobeam." We know nothing of this name "Hachmon," which may be the name of an earlier forefather, while Zabdiel, thence named "the Hach-monite," appears to Be the name of the actual father of Jashobeam. Jashobeam was of Judah.
3Of the children of Perez was the chief of all the captains of the host for the first month.
The Pulpit Commentary
This verse tells us that Jasho-beam belonged to the tribe of Judah, through Perez, the fourth son of Judah (1Ch_2:4).
This verse tells us that Jasho-beam belonged to the tribe of Judah, through Perez, the fourth son of Judah (1Ch_2:4).
4And over the course of the second month was Dodai an Ahohite, and of his course was Mikloth also the ruler: in his course likewise were twenty and four thousand.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
4. second month was Dodai--or, "Dodo." Here the text seems to require the supplement of "Eleazar the son of Dodo" (2Sa 23:9).
4. second month was Dodai--or, "Dodo." Here the text seems to require the supplement of "Eleazar the son of Dodo" (2Sa 23:9).
The Pulpit Commentary
Before the name Dodai we must supply "Eleazar the son of," on the authority of 1Ch_11:12; 2Sa_23:9. The allusion to Mikloth (of the tribe of Benjamin, according to 1Ch_8:32; 1Ch_9:37) in this verse is not plain. The translation may possibly be the same which our Authorized Version gives, And over the course of the second month was (Eleazar, the son of) Dodai the Ahohite, and (over) his (or, its) course also Mikloth was ruler. The appearances of the Hebrew text, however, favour the supposition of an inaccurate text. A somewhat similar con. struction and position of words in 2Sa_23:6 is less difficult by the absence of a conjunction before Ammizabad.
Before the name Dodai we must supply "Eleazar the son of," on the authority of 1Ch_11:12; 2Sa_23:9. The allusion to Mikloth (of the tribe of Benjamin, according to 1Ch_8:32; 1Ch_9:37) in this verse is not plain. The translation may possibly be the same which our Authorized Version gives, And over the course of the second month was (Eleazar, the son of) Dodai the Ahohite, and (over) his (or, its) course also Mikloth was ruler. The appearances of the Hebrew text, however, favour the supposition of an inaccurate text. A somewhat similar con. struction and position of words in 2Sa_23:6 is less difficult by the absence of a conjunction before Ammizabad.
5The third captain of the host for the third month was Benaiah the son of Jehoiada, a chief priest: and in his course were twenty and four thousand.
The Pulpit Commentary
Benaiah (1Ch_11:22-25; 2Sa_23:20-23). To this name Keil thinks the word chief (ראֹשׁ), in the succeeding expression, chief priest, belongs. Thus Jehoiada would be named here only priest. Yet see 1Ch_12:27, where Jehoiada is called לְאַהֲרֹן חַגָּגִיד; and 2Ki_25:18; where כֹּהֵן הָראֹשׁ stands for our הכֹּהֵן ראֹשׁ, as applied to Seraiah. Benaiah was manifestly a Aaronite.
Benaiah (1Ch_11:22-25; 2Sa_23:20-23). To this name Keil thinks the word chief (ראֹשׁ), in the succeeding expression, chief priest, belongs. Thus Jehoiada would be named here only priest. Yet see 1Ch_12:27, where Jehoiada is called לְאַהֲרֹן חַגָּגִיד; and 2Ki_25:18; where כֹּהֵן הָראֹשׁ stands for our הכֹּהֵן ראֹשׁ, as applied to Seraiah. Benaiah was manifestly a Aaronite.
6This is that Benaiah, who was mighty among the thirty, and above the thirty: and in his course was Ammizabad his son.
7The fourth captain for the fourth month was Asahel the brother of Joab, and Zebadiah his son after him: and in his course were twenty and four thousand.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
7. Asahel--This officer having been slain at the very beginning of David's reign [2Sa 2:23], his name was probably given to this division in honor of his memory, and his son was invested with the command.
1Ch 27:16-24. Princes of the Twelve Tribes.
7. Asahel--This officer having been slain at the very beginning of David's reign [2Sa 2:23], his name was probably given to this division in honor of his memory, and his son was invested with the command.
1Ch 27:16-24. Princes of the Twelve Tribes.
The Pulpit Commentary
With this verse, as Keil observes, the description of the successive courses is given with the greatest brevity. Zebadiah was of Judah. Inasmuch as Asahel (1Ch_11:26; 2Sa_23:24) was killed by Abner (2Sa_2:23) before this division of military courses was made, it is evident that his name in this place marks, not the individual, but the family. Possibly he and his name were held in all the greater regard, and his son Zebadiah best known for the sake of his father.
With this verse, as Keil observes, the description of the successive courses is given with the greatest brevity. Zebadiah was of Judah. Inasmuch as Asahel (1Ch_11:26; 2Sa_23:24) was killed by Abner (2Sa_2:23) before this division of military courses was made, it is evident that his name in this place marks, not the individual, but the family. Possibly he and his name were held in all the greater regard, and his son Zebadiah best known for the sake of his father.
8The fifth captain for the fifth month was Shamhuth the Izrahite: and in his course were twenty and four thousand.
The Pulpit Commentary
Shamhuth. For variations in the form of this name, see 1Ch_11:27; 2Sa_23:25. In the former of these passages also we have Harorite in place of our Izrahite, and in the latter Harodite. The Izrahite probably means of the family of Zerah (1Ch_2:4, 1Ch_2:6), and of course marks one of the tribe of Judah. The Hebrew הַיִּזְרָחevidently does not justify the form as translated "Izrahite."
Shamhuth. For variations in the form of this name, see 1Ch_11:27; 2Sa_23:25. In the former of these passages also we have Harorite in place of our Izrahite, and in the latter Harodite. The Izrahite probably means of the family of Zerah (1Ch_2:4, 1Ch_2:6), and of course marks one of the tribe of Judah. The Hebrew הַיִּזְרָחevidently does not justify the form as translated "Izrahite."
9The sixth captain for the sixth month was Ira the son of Ikkesh the Tekoite: and in his course were twenty and four thousand.
The Pulpit Commentary
For Ira, see 1Ch_11:28; 2Sa_23:26. He was of Tekoa, belonging to Judah.
For Ira, see 1Ch_11:28; 2Sa_23:26. He was of Tekoa, belonging to Judah.
10The seventh captain for the seventh month was Helez the Pelonite, of the children of Ephraim: and in his course were twenty and four thousand.
The Pulpit Commentary
For Helez, see 1Ch_11:27; 2Sa_23:26. He belonged to Ephraim.
For Helez, see 1Ch_11:27; 2Sa_23:26. He belonged to Ephraim.
11The eighth captain for the eighth month was Sibbecai the Hushathite, of the Zarhites: and in his course were twenty and four thousand.
The Pulpit Commentary
For Sibbecai, see 1Ch_11:29; 1Ch_20:4; 2Sa_21:18; 2Sa_23:27, where by a corruption the name Mebunnai is found for Sibbechai, a corruption all the easier to account for in the similarity of the characters that form the names. He was a Zarhite, and belonged to the tribe of Judah.
For Sibbecai, see 1Ch_11:29; 1Ch_20:4; 2Sa_21:18; 2Sa_23:27, where by a corruption the name Mebunnai is found for Sibbechai, a corruption all the easier to account for in the similarity of the characters that form the names. He was a Zarhite, and belonged to the tribe of Judah.
12The ninth captain for the ninth month was Abiezer the Anetothite, of the Benjamites: and in his course were twenty and four thousand.
The Pulpit Commentary
For Abiezer, of the tribe of Benjamin, see 1Ch_11:28; 2Sa_23:27. For Anetothite (Anathoth) see 1Ch_6:60 (45); Jos_21:18; Jer_1:1; Jer_11:21; Jer_32:7-9.
For Abiezer, of the tribe of Benjamin, see 1Ch_11:28; 2Sa_23:27. For Anetothite (Anathoth) see 1Ch_6:60 (45); Jos_21:18; Jer_1:1; Jer_11:21; Jer_32:7-9.
13The tenth captain for the tenth month was Maharai the Netophathite, of the Zarhites: and in his course were twenty and four thousand.
The Pulpit Commentary
For Maharai, of the tribe of Judah, see 1Ch_11:30; 2Sa_23:28. The Netophathite. Though the name of the town Netophah happens to occur only after the Captivity (e.g. Ezr_2:22; Neh_7:26), yet the name of the people, as in this passage, was evidently a name existing before the Captivity (see also 2Sa_2:1-32 :54; 9:16).
For Maharai, of the tribe of Judah, see 1Ch_11:30; 2Sa_23:28. The Netophathite. Though the name of the town Netophah happens to occur only after the Captivity (e.g. Ezr_2:22; Neh_7:26), yet the name of the people, as in this passage, was evidently a name existing before the Captivity (see also 2Sa_2:1-32 :54; 9:16).
14The eleventh captain for the eleventh month was Benaiah the Pirathonite, of the children of Ephraim: and in his course were twenty and four thousand.
The Pulpit Commentary
For this Benaiah, who was of Ephraim, see 1Ch_11:31; 2Sa_23:30. For Pirathon, see Jdg_12:15, where alone the place is mentioned.
For this Benaiah, who was of Ephraim, see 1Ch_11:31; 2Sa_23:30. For Pirathon, see Jdg_12:15, where alone the place is mentioned.
15The twelfth captain for the twelfth month was Heldai the Netophathite, of Othniel: and in his course were twenty and four thousand.
The Pulpit Commentary
For Heldai, who belonged to Judah, see 1Ch_11:30, where the name appears as Heled, and 2Sa_23:29, where it appears as Heleb. For Othniel (who was nephew and son-in-law of Caleb, and first deliverer of the people after Joshua), see Jos_15:17; Jdg_3:9. These twelve captains then come—from Judah seven, from Benjamin and Ephraim two each, and from Levi one.
For Heldai, who belonged to Judah, see 1Ch_11:30, where the name appears as Heled, and 2Sa_23:29, where it appears as Heleb. For Othniel (who was nephew and son-in-law of Caleb, and first deliverer of the people after Joshua), see Jos_15:17; Jdg_3:9. These twelve captains then come—from Judah seven, from Benjamin and Ephraim two each, and from Levi one.
The Rulers of the Tribes
16Furthermore over the tribes of Israel: the ruler of the Reubenites was Eliezer the son of Zichri: of the Simeonites, Shephatiah the son of Maachah:
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
16. over the tribes of Israel: the ruler--This is a list of the hereditary chiefs or rulers of tribes at the time of David's numbering the people. Gad and Asher are not included; for what reason is unknown. The tribe of Levi had a prince (1Ch 27:17), as well as the other tribes; and although it was ecclesiastically subject to the high priest, yet in all civil matters it had a chief or head, possessed of the same authority and power as in the other tribes, only his jurisdiction did not extend to the priests.
16. over the tribes of Israel: the ruler--This is a list of the hereditary chiefs or rulers of tribes at the time of David's numbering the people. Gad and Asher are not included; for what reason is unknown. The tribe of Levi had a prince (1Ch 27:17), as well as the other tribes; and although it was ecclesiastically subject to the high priest, yet in all civil matters it had a chief or head, possessed of the same authority and power as in the other tribes, only his jurisdiction did not extend to the priests.
17Of the Levites, Hashabiah the son of Kemuel: of the Aaronites, Zadok:
The Pulpit Commentary
These verses give the names of the rulers (1Ch_27:16), or princes (1Ch_27:22), of ten out of the twelve tribes of Israel. The tribes not mentioned are Gad and Asher, an omission which reminds of that of the two tribes Dan and Zebulon from the genealogies contained in 1Ch_4:1-43.-7; and equally unexplained. These designations ruler (נָגִיד) and prince (שַׂר) are the same as are found in the list of 1Ch_4:1-15—the former in 1Ch_4:4, and translated also as here "ruler;" and the latter in 1Ch_4:1, 1Ch_4:3, 1Ch_4:5, 1Ch_4:8, under the Authorized Version word of" captains." This rehearsal of the rulers or captains of the tribes stands evidently in no special relation to the preceding military enumeration, but it forms naturally enough one of four lists in this chapter that purport to set forth David's complete arrangement of the affairs of the kingdom. So far as the enumeration goes, it appears to aim at fulness and no omission, for the "Aaronites" (1Ch_4:17) are given, and Ephraim and the two halves of Manasseh separately (verses 20, 21).
It is, perhaps, remarkable that Hashabiah—presumably a Gershonite—is not distinguished from the Hebronite (i.e. Kohathite) of the same name (1Ch_26:30); some, however, think that our Hasha-biah is the Kohathite. For Zadok, see 1Ch_6:4, 1Ch_6:12. He was of the line of Eleazar.
These verses give the names of the rulers (1Ch_27:16), or princes (1Ch_27:22), of ten out of the twelve tribes of Israel. The tribes not mentioned are Gad and Asher, an omission which reminds of that of the two tribes Dan and Zebulon from the genealogies contained in 1Ch_4:1-43.-7; and equally unexplained. These designations ruler (נָגִיד) and prince (שַׂר) are the same as are found in the list of 1Ch_4:1-15—the former in 1Ch_4:4, and translated also as here "ruler;" and the latter in 1Ch_4:1, 1Ch_4:3, 1Ch_4:5, 1Ch_4:8, under the Authorized Version word of" captains." This rehearsal of the rulers or captains of the tribes stands evidently in no special relation to the preceding military enumeration, but it forms naturally enough one of four lists in this chapter that purport to set forth David's complete arrangement of the affairs of the kingdom. So far as the enumeration goes, it appears to aim at fulness and no omission, for the "Aaronites" (1Ch_4:17) are given, and Ephraim and the two halves of Manasseh separately (verses 20, 21).
It is, perhaps, remarkable that Hashabiah—presumably a Gershonite—is not distinguished from the Hebronite (i.e. Kohathite) of the same name (1Ch_26:30); some, however, think that our Hasha-biah is the Kohathite. For Zadok, see 1Ch_6:4, 1Ch_6:12. He was of the line of Eleazar.
18Of Judah, Elihu, one of the brethren of David: of Issachar, Omri the son of Michael:
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
18. Elihu--probably the same as Eliab (1Sa 16:6).
18. Elihu--probably the same as Eliab (1Sa 16:6).
The Pulpit Commentary
David's eldest brother Eliab is no doubt intended here by the name Elihu. The Septuagint gives Eliab. For Michael, see 1Ch_7:3.
David's eldest brother Eliab is no doubt intended here by the name Elihu. The Septuagint gives Eliab. For Michael, see 1Ch_7:3.
19Of Zebulun, Ishmaiah the son of Obadiah: of Naphtali, Jerimoth the son of Azriel:
20Of the children of Ephraim, Hoshea the son of Azaziah: of the half tribe of Manasseh, Joel the son of Pedaiah:
21Of the half tribe of Manasseh in Gilead, Iddo the son of Zechariah: of Benjamin, Jaasiel the son of Abner:
The Pulpit Commentary
There is no reason to doubt that Jaasiel is the son of the Abner who was Saul's own cousin (1Ch_9:36; 1Sa_14:50).
There is no reason to doubt that Jaasiel is the son of the Abner who was Saul's own cousin (1Ch_9:36; 1Sa_14:50).
22Of Dan, Azareel the son of Jeroham. These were the princes of the tribes of Israel.
The Pulpit Commentary
These thirteen princes of the tribes of Israel were presumably in each case those who represented the tribe according to lineal descent in David's time. Though Gad and Asher are left out, the thirteen are filled up by the allowance of two for Levi, viz. one for the Levites and one for the priests; and three for Joseph, viz. one for Ephraim and two for the divided tribe of Manasseh.
These thirteen princes of the tribes of Israel were presumably in each case those who represented the tribe according to lineal descent in David's time. Though Gad and Asher are left out, the thirteen are filled up by the allowance of two for Levi, viz. one for the Levites and one for the priests; and three for Joseph, viz. one for Ephraim and two for the divided tribe of Manasseh.
David's Numbering Incomplete
23But David took not the number of them from twenty years old and under: because the LORD had said he would increase Israel like to the stars of the heavens.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
23. But David took not the number of them from twenty years old and under--The census which David ordered did not extend to all the Israelites; for to contemplate such an enumeration would have been to attempt an impossibility (Ge 28:14), and besides would have been a daring offense to God. The limitation to a certain age was what had probably quieted David's conscience as to the lawfulness of the measure, while its expediency was strongly pressed upon his mind by the army arrangements he had in view.
23. But David took not the number of them from twenty years old and under--The census which David ordered did not extend to all the Israelites; for to contemplate such an enumeration would have been to attempt an impossibility (Ge 28:14), and besides would have been a daring offense to God. The limitation to a certain age was what had probably quieted David's conscience as to the lawfulness of the measure, while its expediency was strongly pressed upon his mind by the army arrangements he had in view.
The Pulpit Commentary
The contents of this and the following verse may be supposed to be suggested by the distinct reference to the matter of number in the first verse of the chapter, and in the latter halves of the following fourteen verses, contrasting with the utter absence of any allusion to the same matter, when the whole body of the tribes and their princes are the subject, in 1Ch_27:16-22. The deeper significance of the latter part of this verse probably comes to this; that God had already given his people the proudest name for their numbers, in saying that they should be numberless, like to the stars of the heavens, and perpetually on the increase.
The contents of this and the following verse may be supposed to be suggested by the distinct reference to the matter of number in the first verse of the chapter, and in the latter halves of the following fourteen verses, contrasting with the utter absence of any allusion to the same matter, when the whole body of the tribes and their princes are the subject, in 1Ch_27:16-22. The deeper significance of the latter part of this verse probably comes to this; that God had already given his people the proudest name for their numbers, in saying that they should be numberless, like to the stars of the heavens, and perpetually on the increase.
24Joab the son of Zeruiah began to number, but he finished not, because there fell wrath for it against Israel; neither was the number put in the account of the chronicles of king David.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
24. neither was the number put in the account of the chronicles of King David--either because the undertaking was not completed, Levi and Benjamin not having been numbered (1Ch 21:6), or the full details in the hands of the enumerating officers were not reported to David, and, consequently, not registered in the public archives.
the chronicles--were the daily records or annals of the king's reign. No notice was taken of this census in the historical register, as from the public calamity with which it was associated it would have stood as a painful record of the divine judgment against the king and the nation.
24. neither was the number put in the account of the chronicles of King David--either because the undertaking was not completed, Levi and Benjamin not having been numbered (1Ch 21:6), or the full details in the hands of the enumerating officers were not reported to David, and, consequently, not registered in the public archives.
the chronicles--were the daily records or annals of the king's reign. No notice was taken of this census in the historical register, as from the public calamity with which it was associated it would have stood as a painful record of the divine judgment against the king and the nation.
The Pulpit Commentary
It seems a little surprising to read of Joab, fixed on the page of history as the person who began to number, but… finished not, when we have been already particularly told that it was he to whom King David's command to number was "abominable" (1Ch_21:6). However differently enough from the method of either nature or mankind, the antidote has here preceded the evil. For because there fell wrath for it, read the Hebrew, and there was for this wrath upon Israel. The last sentence of the verse purports to say that such numbering as had been done before the point at which Joab stopped was not honoured by a place, where other numbers were found, in the register of the chronicles of King David.
It seems a little surprising to read of Joab, fixed on the page of history as the person who began to number, but… finished not, when we have been already particularly told that it was he to whom King David's command to number was "abominable" (1Ch_21:6). However differently enough from the method of either nature or mankind, the antidote has here preceded the evil. For because there fell wrath for it, read the Hebrew, and there was for this wrath upon Israel. The last sentence of the verse purports to say that such numbering as had been done before the point at which Joab stopped was not honoured by a place, where other numbers were found, in the register of the chronicles of King David.
The Officers of the King's Substance
25And over the king’s treasures was Azmaveth the son of Adiel: and over the storehouses in the fields, in the cities, and in the villages, and in the castles, was Jehonathan the son of Uzziah:
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
25. over the king's treasures--Those treasures consisted of gold, silver, precious stones, cedar-wood, &c.; those which he had in Jerusalem as distinguished from others without the city.
the storehouses in the fields--Grain covered over with layers of straw is frequently preserved in the fields under little earthen mounds, like our potato pits.
25. over the king's treasures--Those treasures consisted of gold, silver, precious stones, cedar-wood, &c.; those which he had in Jerusalem as distinguished from others without the city.
the storehouses in the fields--Grain covered over with layers of straw is frequently preserved in the fields under little earthen mounds, like our potato pits.
The Pulpit Commentary
These verses have for their primary object, not to give an exhaustive summary of the wealth of David and the sources thereof, but to give the names of those persons who were charged with the care, or the management and care, of' it. The classification, however, is interesting, and may be naturally expected to be tolerably complete. We do not find any distinction made between such property as might have belonged to David as private property, and such as belonged to him as king—probably because there was none worth making.
For storehouses, read, as in former clause, treasures. The suggestion of the second half of this verse in comparison with the first is that Azmaveth's charge was over treasures in Jerusalem. For the castles, see 2Ch_17:12; 2Ch_27:4. The word אוֹצָר, though the same in both clauses, may probably enough cover precious treasure, as of gold, silver, costly raiment, etc. (1Ki_14:26; 1Ki_15:18), more particularly in the first clause, and grain, fruit, etc. (2Ch_11:11), in the latter, for the word has distinctly this double application. (See for some illustration of this verse also, Sallust; 'De Belle Jugurth.,' 12.)
These verses have for their primary object, not to give an exhaustive summary of the wealth of David and the sources thereof, but to give the names of those persons who were charged with the care, or the management and care, of' it. The classification, however, is interesting, and may be naturally expected to be tolerably complete. We do not find any distinction made between such property as might have belonged to David as private property, and such as belonged to him as king—probably because there was none worth making.
For storehouses, read, as in former clause, treasures. The suggestion of the second half of this verse in comparison with the first is that Azmaveth's charge was over treasures in Jerusalem. For the castles, see 2Ch_17:12; 2Ch_27:4. The word אוֹצָר, though the same in both clauses, may probably enough cover precious treasure, as of gold, silver, costly raiment, etc. (1Ki_14:26; 1Ki_15:18), more particularly in the first clause, and grain, fruit, etc. (2Ch_11:11), in the latter, for the word has distinctly this double application. (See for some illustration of this verse also, Sallust; 'De Belle Jugurth.,' 12.)
26And over them that did the work of the field for tillage of the ground was Ezri the son of Chelub:
The Pulpit Commentary
This verse appears to give the name, not (as in the former verse) of the person who had charge of the stored grain, fruits, etc, but of the chief superintendent and manager of the labour and labourers of the field.
This verse appears to give the name, not (as in the former verse) of the person who had charge of the stored grain, fruits, etc, but of the chief superintendent and manager of the labour and labourers of the field.
27And over the vineyards was Shimei the Ramathite: over the increase of the vineyards for the wine cellars was Zabdi the Shiphmite:
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
27. the vineyards--These seem to have been in the vine growing districts of Judah, and were committed to two men of that quarter.
wine-cellars--The wine is deposited in jars sunk in the court of the house.
27. the vineyards--These seem to have been in the vine growing districts of Judah, and were committed to two men of that quarter.
wine-cellars--The wine is deposited in jars sunk in the court of the house.
The Pulpit Commentary
This verse specifies the officer who had the management of the vineyards, and also the officer who had charge over the wine-cellars. The description of Ramathite does not assist us to identify Shimei, though the choice of place is ample (Jos_13:26; Jos_18:25; Jos_19:29, Jos_19:36; Jdg_15:17). For Shiphmite, see Num_34:10, Num_34:11; to the place Shepham, mentioned in which passage, the reference here may be. For over the increase, read over that which in the vineyards, etc; where the initial שׁ stands for אֲשֶׁר.
This verse specifies the officer who had the management of the vineyards, and also the officer who had charge over the wine-cellars. The description of Ramathite does not assist us to identify Shimei, though the choice of place is ample (Jos_13:26; Jos_18:25; Jos_19:29, Jos_19:36; Jdg_15:17). For Shiphmite, see Num_34:10, Num_34:11; to the place Shepham, mentioned in which passage, the reference here may be. For over the increase, read over that which in the vineyards, etc; where the initial שׁ stands for אֲשֶׁר.
28And over the olive trees and the sycomore trees that were in the low plains was Baalhanan the Gederite: and over the cellars of oil was Joash:
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
28. olive trees and the sycamore trees ... in the low plains--that is, the Shephela, the rich, low-lying ground between the Mediterranean and the mountains of Judah.
28. olive trees and the sycamore trees ... in the low plains--that is, the Shephela, the rich, low-lying ground between the Mediterranean and the mountains of Judah.
The Pulpit Commentary
A similar couple of officers to those of the last verse are described here. By the low plains here in the Authorized Version is translated what had been better left untranslated, i.e. the Shephelah, one of the five divisions of Judaea. It comprised the low-lying tract of land on the coast and, roughly speaking, stretching from Joppa to Gaza. The sycamore tree (הַשִּׁקְמִוֹם, a plural masculine, and once שִׁקְמוֹת, a plural feminine, Psa_78:1-72 :87) is to be distinguished from the sycamine, being that kind of mulberry tree called fig mulberry. The Septuagint, however, does not observe the distinction, and always translates συκάμινος. It was a common tree, and useful to the poor. It is the same with the black mulberry of Egypt, and abounded in Palestine (1Ki_10:27). Its fruit was eatable, and its wood, though soft, yet valuable for enduringness. The name Baal-hanan comes first before us as that of a King of Edom (Gen_36:38, Gen_36:39; 1Ch_1:49). The place Gederah (Jos_15:36), or Beth-gader (1Ch_2:51), attached to the name of the present Baal-hanan, renders it not less probable that he was of similar extraction.
A similar couple of officers to those of the last verse are described here. By the low plains here in the Authorized Version is translated what had been better left untranslated, i.e. the Shephelah, one of the five divisions of Judaea. It comprised the low-lying tract of land on the coast and, roughly speaking, stretching from Joppa to Gaza. The sycamore tree (הַשִּׁקְמִוֹם, a plural masculine, and once שִׁקְמוֹת, a plural feminine, Psa_78:1-72 :87) is to be distinguished from the sycamine, being that kind of mulberry tree called fig mulberry. The Septuagint, however, does not observe the distinction, and always translates συκάμινος. It was a common tree, and useful to the poor. It is the same with the black mulberry of Egypt, and abounded in Palestine (1Ki_10:27). Its fruit was eatable, and its wood, though soft, yet valuable for enduringness. The name Baal-hanan comes first before us as that of a King of Edom (Gen_36:38, Gen_36:39; 1Ch_1:49). The place Gederah (Jos_15:36), or Beth-gader (1Ch_2:51), attached to the name of the present Baal-hanan, renders it not less probable that he was of similar extraction.
29And over the herds that fed in Sharon was Shitrai the Sharonite: and over the herds that were in the valleys was Shaphat the son of Adlai:
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
29. herds that fed in Sharon--a fertile plain between Cæsarea and Joppa.
29. herds that fed in Sharon--a fertile plain between Cæsarea and Joppa.
The Pulpit Commentary
Sharon (see 1Ch_5:16, 1Ch_5:21). It means with the article, which, with one exception, always accompanies it, "the level laud," and on the west of the Jordan exactly corresponds with the Mishor on the east, a word of identical signification with Sharon. The tract of pasture-land which it designated stretched from Carmel to Joppa. The valleys here intended are not specified.
Sharon (see 1Ch_5:16, 1Ch_5:21). It means with the article, which, with one exception, always accompanies it, "the level laud," and on the west of the Jordan exactly corresponds with the Mishor on the east, a word of identical signification with Sharon. The tract of pasture-land which it designated stretched from Carmel to Joppa. The valleys here intended are not specified.
30Over the camels also was Obil the Ishmaelite: and over the asses was Jehdeiah the Meronothite:
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
30. camels--These were probably in the countries east of the Jordan, and hence an Ishmaelite and Nazarite were appointed to take charge of them.
30. camels--These were probably in the countries east of the Jordan, and hence an Ishmaelite and Nazarite were appointed to take charge of them.
The Pulpit Commentary
Whether the word Obil (אוֹבִיל), is a proper name or not, it signifies "a tender of camels" by derivation. The task suited the Ishmaelite, no doubt! Nothing is known of the Meronothite, nor of the situation of the place called Meronoth, unless anything may be conjectured from Neh_3:7.
Whether the word Obil (אוֹבִיל), is a proper name or not, it signifies "a tender of camels" by derivation. The task suited the Ishmaelite, no doubt! Nothing is known of the Meronothite, nor of the situation of the place called Meronoth, unless anything may be conjectured from Neh_3:7.
31And over the flocks was Jaziz the Hagerite. All these were the rulers of the substance which was king David’s.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
31. rulers of the substance that was king David's--How and when the king acquired these demesnes and this variety of property--whether it was partly by conquests, or partly by confiscation, or by his own active cultivation of waste lands--is not said. It was probably in all these ways. The management of the king's private possessions was divided into twelve parts, like his public affairs and the revenue derived from all these sources mentioned must have been very large.
31. rulers of the substance that was king David's--How and when the king acquired these demesnes and this variety of property--whether it was partly by conquests, or partly by confiscation, or by his own active cultivation of waste lands--is not said. It was probably in all these ways. The management of the king's private possessions was divided into twelve parts, like his public affairs and the revenue derived from all these sources mentioned must have been very large.
The Pulpit Commentary
For the Hagerite tribe, see 1Ch_5:10, 1Ch_5:18-22. For the rulers of the substance, the Hebrew words are שָׂרֵי הָרְכּוּשׁ. The number of them adds up again to twelve; Keil justly supposes that the two named in 1Ch_5:25 were those principal officers to whom the other ten delivered the proceeds of their respective charges.
For the Hagerite tribe, see 1Ch_5:10, 1Ch_5:18-22. For the rulers of the substance, the Hebrew words are שָׂרֵי הָרְכּוּשׁ. The number of them adds up again to twelve; Keil justly supposes that the two named in 1Ch_5:25 were those principal officers to whom the other ten delivered the proceeds of their respective charges.
32Also Jonathan David’s uncle was a counsellor, a wise man, and a scribe: and Jehiel the son of Hachmoni was with the king’s sons:
The Pulpit Commentary
These verses contain the names of seven men of high position, and who were, at all events, important enough, in one respect or another, for this closing special mention.
1. Jonathan and Ahithophel are singled out as counsellors (יוֹעֵץ) of the king.
2. Hushai the Archite is mentioned as the companion (רֵעַ) of the king.
3. Jehoiada the son of Benaiah, and Abiathar are mentioned as standing in a similar relation of counsellors to the king with Ahithophel, but after him.
4. The great general of the whole army of the king (שַׂראצָבָא), Joab, has a place found for his name.
5. And the name of Jehiel is mentioned as of one with the king's sons. The first thing which may be observed as to this enumeration is that it is not one whole belonging to the later portion of David's time. Ahithophel had brag before put an end to his own life (2Sa_17:21-23; also see 2Sa_15:12, 2Sa_15:31, 2Sa_15:34; 2Sa_16:20-23). Secondly, that out of the seven names, four or five are already well known to us in some other capacity; for see the lists of 1Ch_18:14-17; 2Sa_8:16-18; 2Sa_20:23-26. And thirdly, that in one or two instances, a different or additional part is assigned to the names mentioned. The impression left with us is rather of honourable or special mention made of seven who had been distinguished helpers of the king or the kingdom at one time or another.
Nothing is known of any uncle to David, named Jonathan, but special mention is made, in 1Ch_20:7 and 2Sa_21:21, of a nephew, son of Shimea, who rendered valuable service, and u-hose name was Jonathan. It is possible that the Hebrew דּוֹר may mean "nephew," as simply meaning "relative.'' It must be admitted, however, as very remarkable, that in Leviticus, Numbers, the historical books, Jeremiah, and Amos, to the number of sixteen times in all, the word confessedly means "uncle;" while this seventeenth time, it would appear to mean "nephew." On the other hand, in Proverbs, Canticles, Isaiah, Ezekiel, to the number of thirty-six times in all, the word follows its other branch of signification of "love," and in particular "one beloved." Nothing certain can be said of the Jehiel of this verse, but, if a son of Hachmoni, we may presume him to have been related to Jashobeam of verse 2 and 1Ch_11:11.
These verses contain the names of seven men of high position, and who were, at all events, important enough, in one respect or another, for this closing special mention.
1. Jonathan and Ahithophel are singled out as counsellors (יוֹעֵץ) of the king.
2. Hushai the Archite is mentioned as the companion (רֵעַ) of the king.
3. Jehoiada the son of Benaiah, and Abiathar are mentioned as standing in a similar relation of counsellors to the king with Ahithophel, but after him.
4. The great general of the whole army of the king (שַׂראצָבָא), Joab, has a place found for his name.
5. And the name of Jehiel is mentioned as of one with the king's sons. The first thing which may be observed as to this enumeration is that it is not one whole belonging to the later portion of David's time. Ahithophel had brag before put an end to his own life (2Sa_17:21-23; also see 2Sa_15:12, 2Sa_15:31, 2Sa_15:34; 2Sa_16:20-23). Secondly, that out of the seven names, four or five are already well known to us in some other capacity; for see the lists of 1Ch_18:14-17; 2Sa_8:16-18; 2Sa_20:23-26. And thirdly, that in one or two instances, a different or additional part is assigned to the names mentioned. The impression left with us is rather of honourable or special mention made of seven who had been distinguished helpers of the king or the kingdom at one time or another.
Nothing is known of any uncle to David, named Jonathan, but special mention is made, in 1Ch_20:7 and 2Sa_21:21, of a nephew, son of Shimea, who rendered valuable service, and u-hose name was Jonathan. It is possible that the Hebrew דּוֹר may mean "nephew," as simply meaning "relative.'' It must be admitted, however, as very remarkable, that in Leviticus, Numbers, the historical books, Jeremiah, and Amos, to the number of sixteen times in all, the word confessedly means "uncle;" while this seventeenth time, it would appear to mean "nephew." On the other hand, in Proverbs, Canticles, Isaiah, Ezekiel, to the number of thirty-six times in all, the word follows its other branch of signification of "love," and in particular "one beloved." Nothing certain can be said of the Jehiel of this verse, but, if a son of Hachmoni, we may presume him to have been related to Jashobeam of verse 2 and 1Ch_11:11.
David's Counsellors
33And Ahithophel was the king’s counsellor: and Hushai the Archite was the king’s companion:
The Pulpit Commentary
For Hushai the Archite, see 2Sa_15:32, 2Sa_15:37; 2Sa_16:16; 2Sa_17:14, 2Sa_17:15.
For Hushai the Archite, see 2Sa_15:32, 2Sa_15:37; 2Sa_16:16; 2Sa_17:14, 2Sa_17:15.
34And after Ahithophel was Jehoiada the son of Benaiah, and Abiathar: and the general of the king’s army was Joab.
The Pulpit Commentary
The after of this verse may possibly be the after of time, i.e. after the death of Ahithophel, instead of the after of place, i.e. subordinate. Jehoiada the son of Benaiah. Either the individual of 1Ch_27:5; 1Ch_18:17; 2Sa_8:18; 2Sa_20:23, is not the person here intended, or we have here the names accidently reversed. There seems no sufficient reason to doubt that the high priest of the Ithamar branch is here meant.
The after of this verse may possibly be the after of time, i.e. after the death of Ahithophel, instead of the after of place, i.e. subordinate. Jehoiada the son of Benaiah. Either the individual of 1Ch_27:5; 1Ch_18:17; 2Sa_8:18; 2Sa_20:23, is not the person here intended, or we have here the names accidently reversed. There seems no sufficient reason to doubt that the high priest of the Ithamar branch is here meant.
THE HOLY BIBLE
1 Chronicles
Chapter 27
Translated out of the original tongues, and with the former translations diligently compared and revised.
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