1 Chronicles 27

1 Chronicles 27:1-15

David organized his reserve army into twelve divisions. Each division served for one month each year. Their duties likely included protecting borders, policing, maintaining order in conquered areas, manning fortresses, and taking care of military equipment like horses and chariots. The divisions were not based on Israel’s tribal structure. Each division included people from different tribes, showing the kingdom's integration.

1 Chronicles 27:16-22

The order of the tribes generally follows Numbers 1:5–15. It starts with Leah's six sons, then Rachel's two sons (Joseph's tribe is divided into Ephraim and Manasseh, followed by Benjamin), and then Bilhah's two sons (Dan and Naphtali). There are some changes:

• Naphtali is moved to his location next to Zebulun

• The tribe of Levi is added according to Levi's birth order, with Aaron's family (the priests) listed separately

• The list does not include Zilpah's two sons, Gad and Asher

1 Chronicles 27:18

The name Elihu might refer to Eliab (1 Chronicles 2:13), or he might have been another brother of David.

1 Chronicles 27:25-31

Ancient kings, like David, gathered a lot of property. This list details parts of David's estate, such as storehouses in Jerusalem and other areas, land for farming, and different kinds of livestock.

1 Chronicles 27:32-34

• The list of David's officials ends with influential people close to the king.

• A wise counselor to the king was likely a trusted advisor.

Aquifer Open Study Notes © 2026 Mission Mutual, an adaptation of the Tyndale Open Study Notes © 2023 Tyndale House Publishers. Licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.