1 Chronicles 27:21

KJV

Of the half [tribe] of Manasseh in Gilead, Iddo the son of Zechariah: of Benjamin, Jaasiel the son of Abner:

KJV (with Strong's)

Of the half {H2677} tribe of Manasseh {H4519} in Gilead {H1568}, Iddo {H3035} the son {H1121} of Zechariah {H2148}: of Benjamin {H1144}, Jaasiel {H3300} the son {H1121} of Abner {H74}:

Complete Jewish Bible

of the half-tribe of M'nasheh in Gil'ad: Yiddo the son of Z'kharyahu; of Binyamin: Ya'asi'el the son of Avner;

Berean Standard Bible

over the half-tribe of Manasseh in Gilead was Iddo son of Zechariah; over Benjamin was Jaasiel son of Abner;

American Standard Version

of the half-tribe of Manasseh in Gilead, Iddo the son of Zechariah: of Benjamin, Jaasiel the son of Abner:

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Chronicles 27:21 continues the detailed enumeration of King David's administrative and military structure, specifically identifying two key tribal leaders: Iddo, son of Zechariah, from the half-tribe of Manasseh located in Gilead, and Jaasiel, son of Abner, from the tribe of Benjamin. This verse is part of a larger record demonstrating David's meticulous organization of the kingdom, ensuring efficient governance, military readiness, and the cohesion of the Israelite tribes under his unified rule. It underscores the importance of delegated authority and the specific roles individuals played in the stability and prosperity of the nation.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** 1 Chronicles 27 is a meticulously detailed account of King David's administrative and military organization, serving as a testament to his foresight and strategic leadership. Following chapters that detail David's mighty men and his preparations for the temple, this chapter shifts focus to the internal structure of his kingdom. It begins by outlining the monthly rotation of twenty-four thousand men for military service (verses 1-15), then lists the tribal leaders (verses 16-22), and concludes with various royal officials (verses 25-34). Verse 21 specifically falls within the section enumerating the tribal leaders, highlighting the individuals responsible for overseeing the affairs of their respective tribes, thereby integrating local tribal identity into a broader national framework. This systematic listing reinforces the Chronicler's emphasis on order, unity, and the proper functioning of God's kingdom on earth under Davidic rule, contrasting with the disunity often seen in the period of the Judges.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** David's reign marked a pivotal period in Israelite history, transforming a loose confederacy of tribes into a centralized monarchy. The administrative structures detailed in 1 Chronicles 27 reflect the challenges and necessities of governing a rapidly expanding kingdom. The mention of "the half [tribe] of Manasseh in Gilead" is significant, as Gilead was a region east of the Jordan River, geographically distinct from the western tribes. This highlights the administrative effort required to integrate all Israelite territories, including those across the Jordan, into a cohesive national entity. Tribal leaders like Iddo and Jaasiel would have been crucial intermediaries between the central government in Jerusalem and their respective tribal territories, responsible for maintaining order, collecting taxes, conscripting men for service, and ensuring loyalty to the king. The cultural emphasis on lineage ("son of Zechariah," "son of Abner") underscores the importance of family and tribal identity in ancient Israel, even as David sought to unify the nation.
* **Key Themes:** This verse, within the broader context of 1 Chronicles 27, contributes to several overarching themes. Firstly, it powerfully illustrates the theme of **Order and Organization**, showcasing David's commitment to establishing a well-structured and efficient administration for his kingdom. This meticulous planning is presented as a hallmark of his reign, reflecting divine wisdom in governance. Secondly, the listing of tribal leaders emphasizes **Unity within Diversity**, demonstrating how distinct tribal identities were integrated into a cohesive national structure under the unified authority of the king. The inclusion of leaders from both sides of the Jordan, like the half-tribe of Manasseh in Gilead, underscores David's success in consolidating all Israelite territories. Finally, the specific naming of individuals like Iddo and Jaasiel highlights the **Importance of Delegated Leadership**. It conveys that every position, even those in what might appear to be a dry administrative list, was vital for the functioning of the kingdom and for ensuring that the people were properly shepherded, aligning with the broader biblical principle that God works through human agents and structures, as seen in the appointment of elders and deacons in the New Testament church (e.g., [Acts 6:1-7](/acts/6-1 "Acts 6:1-7 - Appointment of the Seven")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Manasseh (Hebrew, _Menaššeh'_):** This refers to one of the two half-tribes descended from Joseph's son Manasseh. The phrase "in Gilead" specifically distinguishes the eastern branch of the tribe, which settled across the Jordan River, from the western branch that settled in Canaan proper. This geographical distinction highlights the vastness of David's unified kingdom and the administrative challenge of governing disparate regions.
* **Iddo (Hebrew, _Yiddô'_):** The name "Iddo" can mean "his witness" or "praise." While the primary purpose here is identification, the potential meaning subtly points to a role of testimony or acknowledgment within the community, perhaps reflecting a leader who bore witness to the king's authority or was a figure of praise within his tribe.
* **Jaasiel (Hebrew, _Ya`asi'el'_):** This name means "God makes" or "God creates." Like "Iddo," its meaning, while not directly expounded upon in the text, could carry a theological undertone, perhaps signifying that this leader's effectiveness or very existence was seen as a divine work or blessing. It subtly reinforces the Chronicler's theological perspective that God is active in the affairs of His people and their leaders.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Of the half [tribe] of Manasseh in Gilead, Iddo the son of Zechariah:"** This clause identifies the leader responsible for the eastern half of the tribe of Manasseh. The specification "in Gilead" is crucial, distinguishing this segment of Manasseh from its western counterpart and emphasizing the comprehensive reach of David's administration across the Jordan. Iddo, as the son of Zechariah, is named as the appointed captain or overseer, indicating a specific individual with delegated authority over this significant tribal region.
* **"of Benjamin, Jaasiel the son of Abner:"** This second clause shifts to the tribe of Benjamin, identifying Jaasiel, son of Abner, as its leader. The tribe of Benjamin held historical significance, being the tribe of Israel's first king, Saul. Its proximity to Jerusalem (David's capital) and its past association with Saul would have made its leadership particularly sensitive and important for David's unified kingdom. Jaasiel's appointment signifies David's successful integration of Benjamin into his administrative framework, perhaps also indicating a reconciliation or strategic appointment given Benjamin's past loyalties.

#### Literary Devices
The Chronicler employs **Enumeration** and **Genealogy** in this verse and the broader chapter. The meticulous listing of names and their tribal affiliations serves to emphasize the comprehensive nature of David's administrative control and the organized structure of his kingdom. This detailed record highlights the **Order** and **Efficiency** David brought to Israel, contrasting with earlier periods of disunity. The repeated formula "X the son of Y" is a form of **Patronymic Identification**, which firmly grounds each leader within their established lineage and tribal identity, reinforcing the social fabric of ancient Israel while simultaneously demonstrating their integration into a national system. The very act of recording these names, even seemingly minor ones, elevates their significance, suggesting that every individual and their role contributed to the divine plan for Israel.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
1 Chronicles 27:21, though a seemingly simple record of names, speaks volumes about the divine preference for order, accountability, and wise governance within God's people. David's meticulous organization of his kingdom, including the appointment of specific tribal leaders, reflects a deep understanding that God works through human structures and delegated authority to bring about His purposes. This administrative precision is not merely a secular record but a theological statement about God's desire for His people to live in unity and function effectively, reflecting His own orderly character. It teaches that even seemingly mundane administrative tasks are sacred when performed within God's will and for the good of His kingdom. The detailed listing underscores the value God places on every part of His body, where each member, from the most prominent to the seemingly obscure, plays a vital role in the overall health and mission.

* [Numbers 1:4-16](/numbers/1-4 "Numbers 1:4-16 - Leaders Appointed for the Census")
* [Romans 13:1-7](/romans/13-1 "Romans 13:1-7 - Submission to Governing Authorities")
* [1 Corinthians 12:12-27](/1_corinthians/12-12 "1 Corinthians 12:12-27 - The Body of Christ, Many Members")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
This verse, a small piece of a larger administrative record, offers profound insights for contemporary life and faith. It reminds us that God is a God of order, and He often works through structured systems and delegated responsibilities. Just as David's kingdom thrived on clear roles and diligent leadership, our families, workplaces, and especially our churches benefit immensely from good organization, clear communication, and faithful execution of duties. Every role, no matter how seemingly small or "behind the scenes," is vital for the flourishing of the whole. We are called to embody a spirit of stewardship, recognizing that our abilities and positions are gifts from God to be used for His glory and the good of others. This verse challenges us to consider how we contribute to the order and unity of the communities we belong to, whether through leading, serving, or simply faithfully fulfilling our responsibilities. It encourages us to value every member and every function within the body, knowing that God has placed each person exactly where they are for a purpose.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the emphasis on order and delegation in David's kingdom challenge my own approach to responsibilities in my family, work, or church?**
* **In what ways do I tend to undervalue certain roles or contributions within a community, and how can I cultivate a greater appreciation for every part of the body?**
* **What specific steps can I take to bring more intentionality, organization, or faithful stewardship to the areas of my life where I have been given responsibility?**

### FAQ

**Why does the Bible include such detailed lists of names and administrative structures?**

Answer: The inclusion of detailed lists like those in 1 Chronicles 27, including specific names and administrative structures, serves several crucial purposes. First, it underscores the **historical veracity** of the biblical narrative, demonstrating that these are not abstract stories but accounts rooted in real people, places, and events. Second, from a theological perspective, it highlights God's interest in **order, governance, and the practical functioning of His people**. It shows that God is not only concerned with spiritual matters but also with how societies are organized and led. Third, for the Chronicler's original audience (post-exilic Israel), these lists served as a **reminder of their heritage and the continuity of God's covenant with David**. It offered hope and a blueprint for rebuilding their own community by emphasizing the importance of proper leadership, tribal identity, and national unity. Finally, it subtly teaches that **every individual and every role matters** in God's grand design, even those whose contributions might seem mundane.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While 1 Chronicles 27:21 details the administrative structure of David's earthly kingdom, it subtly points forward to the ultimate King and His perfect, eternal administration. David, as an earthly king, was a type of Christ, establishing order and unity among God's people. Yet, his kingdom, though meticulously organized, was imperfect and temporary. The true and everlasting order is found in the kingdom of God, inaugurated and perfectly administered by Jesus Christ. Just as David appointed specific leaders to oversee his tribes, Christ, as the Head of the Church, has established a spiritual administration, gifting individuals with diverse roles and responsibilities for the building up of His body ([Ephesians 4:11-13](/ephesians/4-11 "Ephesians 4:11-13 - Gifts for the Church's Edification")). The meticulous detail of David's record foreshadows the divine precision and wisdom with which Christ governs His Church and the universe, ensuring that all things work together for His glory and the good of His people ([Romans 8:28](/romans/8-28 "Romans 8:28 - All Things Work for Good")). Ultimately, the unity and order David sought to establish through human leaders find their perfect fulfillment in the new covenant, where believers from every tribe and nation are united under the single, supreme authority of the [Lamb of God](/revelation/7-9 "Revelation 7:9 - A Multitude from Every Nation"), Jesus Christ, whose kingdom is without end ([Luke 1:33](/luke/1-33 "Luke 1:33 - His Kingdom Will Have No End")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

1 Samuel 14:50

And the name of Saul's wife [was] Ahinoam, the daughter of Ahimaaz: and the name of the captain of his host [was] Abner, the son of Ner, Saul's uncle.

1 Samuel 14:51

And Kish [was] the father of Saul; and Ner the father of Abner [was] the son of Abiel.

2 Samuel 3:37

For all the people and all Israel understood that day that it was not of the king to slay Abner the son of Ner.

2 Samuel 3:27

And when Abner was returned to Hebron, Joab took him aside in the gate to speak with him quietly, and smote him there under the fifth [rib], that he died, for the blood of Asahel his brother.

1 Kings 4:14

Ahinadab the son of Iddo [had] Mahanaim: