1 Chronicles 27:1–34

Read the passage.

Just as the priests and gatekeepers are divided into monthly divisions of service, so are the military officers and the men they command. I’m not sure if this reflects a lack of specialization, where all of these soldiers were expected to work their land when they weren’t serving during their month, or if it is something else. Of special note is Benaiah, the commander of the third division, because he was the son of Jehoiada the chief priest. Priests were not expected or required to do military service, and only sons of priests could serve as priests when they came of age. Benaiah must have been a special case because he is identified as a “mighty man of the thirty”. (v. 6) The thirty attained legendary status by overcoming overwhelming odds in battle, blessed by God to accomplish things most would consider impossible for normal people to do.

After the military divisions, the tribal elders are listed. Each tribe of Israel lived in particular regions, so they also functioned as governors over all the people living in those regions. No population statistics are given in this section because the census that David ordered was ill-conceived, bringing about a plague from the Lord.

Next are those who have charge over David’s treasure, which were organized by material. Money, land, vinyards, wine, trees, oil, cattle, camels, donkeys, and sheep. Each of these had a steward who oversaw their production, storage, and use.

Finally, the lists of people end with David’s counselors and cabinet. His uncle, Jonathan, not to be confused with his friend, Saul’s son. Ahitophel and Hushai both were mentioned in the account of Absalom’s rebellion. Joab also figured prominently in the accounts of King David’s reign.