I Chronicles Chapter 27
Please read: I Chronicles 27 –
Included in these chapters describing the organization created by David, is the organization of the military, and the chief officers of each of the 12 tribes. Also described in this chapter is those in charge of King’s David’s property, and lastly those who served as his chief counselors (advisors) and friends. We learned previously that David had ordered a census to be taken of his kingdom, against the advice of one of his closest officers, Joab, who was the commander of the army. Taking a census was something that God had commanded the kings of Israel not to do because He wanted them to trust Him rather than trust the size of their kingdom. David repented when God brought judgement upon all the people for three days.
They did know the size of their armies though, as they were organized in groups of 24,000. These men were organized to serve for one month as the army that would go out for any necessary battles or were at the ready to defend the king from any invaders. After serving for one month, the next group of 24,000 would serve as the king’s army. This rotation meant that there would have been continual training to keep the men ready for their assigned month.
“All these men were prepared, disciplined, and ready at a call, without the smallest expense to the state or the king. These were, properly speaking, the militia of the Israelitish kingdom.” [Clarke]
Let's Reflect
1. In verses 2-15 we are given the names of the officers in charge of each of the divisions of 24,000 men. How many groups of 24,000 men were there?
2. The officers of the military groups were Jashobeam, Dodai, Benaniah, Asahel, Shamhuth, Ira, Helez, Sibbecai, Abiezer, Maharai, Benaiah, and Heldai. Of these men listed, who was famous for leading a band of 30 men in battle, and he also killed a lion and once killed an Egyptian who was a mighty warrior? See verse 6.
3. Asahel, in verse 7 was a very fast runner and while his name is listed here, we learned that he was killed while trying to chase Abner who speared him through. So, Asahel’s son was named as the new officer of the 24,000 of his group. Who was Asahel’s brother?
4. Verses 16-22 name the Chief Officers of the 12 tribes of Israel. There was Eliezer, Shephatiah, Hashabiah, Zadok, Elihu, Omri, Ishmaiah, Jeremoth, Hoshea, Joel, Jaasiel, and Azarel. Which man was a brother of the king?
5. Verses 25-31 lists all the various men who oversaw King David’s property. There were positions for everything from tillers of the land to overseer of the camels. This tells us that David was concerned about more than just the wars Israel fought, but he was also interested in improving the land, making it productive. What were the positions of these men called?
6. Verses 32-34 list those who were David’s closest advisors and friends. What position did Joab also carry besides that of an advisor?
