1 Chronicles 27:22

Translation
King James Version
Of Dan, Azareel the son of Jeroham. These were the princes of the tribes of Israel.
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KJV (with Strong's)
Of Dan H1835, Azareel H5832 the son H1121 of Jeroham H3395. These were the princes H8269 of the tribes H7626 of Israel H3478.
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Complete Jewish Bible
of Dan: 'Azar'el the son of Yerocham. These were the commanders of the tribes of Isra'el.
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Berean Standard Bible
and over Dan was Azarel son of Jeroham. These were the leaders of the tribes of Israel.
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American Standard Version
of Dan, Azarel the son of Jeroham. These were the captains of the tribes of Israel.
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World English Bible Messianic
of Dan, Azarel the son of Jeroham. These were the captains of the tribes of Israel.
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Geneva Bible (1599)
Ouer Dan, Azariel the sonne of Ieroham. these are the princes of the tribes of Israel.
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Young's Literal Translation
these are heads of the tribes of Israel.
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See also
1 Chronicles 28:1
In the KJVVerse 11,132 of 31,102

Study This Verse

SUMMARY

1 Chronicles 27:22 concludes a meticulous enumeration of the twelve tribal leaders appointed by King David, specifically identifying Azareel, son of Jeroham, as the prince over the tribe of Dan. This verse, embedded within a larger administrative register (1 Chronicles 27:1-24), powerfully underscores David's comprehensive and divinely guided efforts to establish a stable, organized, and unified kingdom. It highlights his foresight in delegating authority and ensuring that every tribe had a designated leader responsible for civil administration, military oversight, and judicial matters, thereby reflecting the Chronicler's profound emphasis on order, legitimate authority, and the foundational blessing upon David's reign.

CONTEXT

  • Literary Context: This verse serves as the concluding statement for the list of tribal princes, which commences in 1 Chronicles 27:16. Chapter 27 as a whole meticulously details King David's extensive administrative and military organization of Israel, following his earlier establishment of the Levitical and priestly orders (e.g., 1 Chronicles 23 and 1 Chronicles 24). The Chronicler's deliberate inclusion of these detailed records underscores David's exceptional foresight, wisdom, and unwavering dedication to orderly governance, which was absolutely crucial for the stability, prosperity, and spiritual health of the united monarchy. The specific naming of individuals and their tribal affiliations, even for a tribe like Dan, reinforces the historical veracity of the account and aligns with the Chronicler's theological agenda of presenting David as an exemplary king who laid robust foundations for Israel's future.
  • Historical & Cultural Context: David's reign (circa 1010-970 BCE) marked a pivotal transition for Israel from a loose tribal confederacy, often prone to internal strife and external threats, to a centralized, unified monarchy. While King Saul initiated this shift, David profoundly solidified it, skillfully integrating existing tribal structures into a cohesive national administration. The "princes of the tribes" (שָׂרִים, sarim') were far more than mere ceremonial figures; they functioned as active regional administrators, serving as vital liaisons between the burgeoning central government in Jerusalem and their respective tribal territories. Their multifaceted roles likely encompassed the collection of taxes, judicial arbitration of local disputes, military mobilization (as suggested by the preceding military lists in 1 Chronicles 27:1-15), and the maintenance of internal order and loyalty. This sophisticated system allowed David to effectively project his authority across the diverse tribal landscape while simultaneously respecting and leveraging traditional tribal identities.
  • Key Themes: 1 Chronicles 27:22 contributes significantly to several profound themes prevalent throughout the book of 1 Chronicles. Firstly, Order and Governance is paramount; David's meticulous organization of both military and civil structures is presented as a definitive hallmark of his righteous and divinely blessed rule. This reflects a fundamental theological principle that order is indispensable for human flourishing, mirroring God's own orderly and purposeful creation as depicted in Genesis 1. Secondly, Unity in Diversity is powerfully emphasized by the comprehensive listing of all twelve tribes, including Dan, underscoring the profound idea that despite their distinct identities, territories, and historical trajectories, all parts of Israel were united under David's divinely appointed kingship. This theme beautifully foreshadows the New Testament concept of the church as a unified body composed of diverse members, each with unique gifts and functions (e.g., 1 Corinthians 12). Thirdly, the Importance of Leadership is highlighted, as the appointment of specific, named individuals for each tribe signifies the crucial role of delegated authority and accountable leadership in maintaining national cohesion, executing the king's vision, and ensuring justice and peace throughout the land. These leaders were instrumental in bringing David's administrative reforms to fruition across the entire nation.

EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

Key Word Analysis

  • Azareel (Hebrew, ʻĂzarʼêl', H5832): This is a theophoric name, derived from the Hebrew words for "help" (ʻāzar) and "God" (ʼēl), meaning "God has helped" or "God is my helper." The inclusion of such names throughout biblical genealogies and administrative lists serves not merely as identification but as a subtle yet profound theological statement. It serves as a constant reminder to the reader that even in the seemingly mundane details of governance and administration, God's providence, assistance, and active involvement are profoundly present. For Azareel, a leader of the tribe of Dan, his very name would have been a powerful, daily affirmation of divine support in his demanding leadership role.
  • Princes (Hebrew, sar', H8269): The term (שָׂר, plural sarim') is a broad and significant one, referring to chiefs, leaders, officials, or commanders. It denotes individuals holding substantial authority and responsibility within their respective spheres of influence. In this specific context, the sarim' were not merely traditional tribal elders but appointed royal officials, skillfully integrating the existing tribal structures into David's burgeoning centralized administration. Their role was absolutely crucial for the effective and orderly governance of the kingdom, serving as the vital bridge between the central authority in Jerusalem and the diverse local tribal populations.

Verse Breakdown

  • "Of Dan, Azareel the son of Jeroham.": This clause precisely identifies the appointed leader for the tribe of Dan. The consistent, formulaic presentation—"Of [Tribe], [Name] the son of [Father's Name]"—used throughout 1 Chronicles 27:16-22 imbues the text with a sense of official record-keeping, meticulous detail, and historical authenticity. The specific mention of Dan is particularly noteworthy, as this tribe sometimes receives negative attention or is notably omitted in other biblical lists (e.g., Revelation 7). Its inclusion here emphatically affirms its continued place and active participation within the twelve tribes of Israel under David's unified and comprehensive kingdom.
  • "These [were] the princes of the tribes of Israel.": This concluding statement functions as both a summary and a definitive declaration, bringing the entire list of tribal leaders to a powerful close. It unequivocally confirms their collective identity and their authoritative, officially sanctioned positions within David's overarching administrative framework. The phrase powerfully emphasizes that these individuals collectively represented the entirety of Israel, highlighting the profound unity and comprehensive nature of David's governance over all the diverse tribal entities.

Literary Devices

The primary literary device at play in this verse, and indeed throughout the entire section of 1 Chronicles 27:16-22, is Enumeration. The Chronicler meticulously lists each tribal prince, providing a comprehensive and systematic account of David's administrative appointments. This detailed listing serves to underscore David's exceptional organizational prowess and the thoroughness with which he managed his kingdom. Furthermore, the consistent, formulaic presentation ("Of [Tribe], [Name] the son of [Father's Name]") creates a discernible sense of Repetition and rhythmic cadence, reinforcing the official, administrative, and historical nature of the record. The strategic inclusion of Theophoric Naming (e.g., Azareel, meaning "God has helped") is also a subtle yet potent literary and theological choice, embedding a constant reminder of divine involvement, blessing, and providence within the very names of the leaders entrusted with governing God's people.

THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS

1 Chronicles 27:22, by detailing David's systematic appointment of tribal princes, speaks profoundly to the theological importance of divine order, delegated authority, and the essential unity of God's people. Just as God is inherently a God of order, establishing creation with intricate structure and purposeful design, so too is the effective and righteous governance of His people a profound reflection of His character. David's meticulous administration, including the wise appointment of capable leaders for every tribe, demonstrates a deep commitment to faithful stewardship and the holistic well-being of the nation—a principle that resonates powerfully throughout all of Scripture. It underscores that leadership, when exercised righteously, systematically, and with integrity, is a divine instrument for maintaining justice, fostering peace, and promoting cohesion within a community. The deliberate inclusion of all tribes, even Dan, also subtly reinforces God's unwavering covenant faithfulness to His people as a unified whole, ensuring that no part is overlooked in the divine-human partnership of building His kingdom.

REFLECTION AND APPLICATION

While 1 Chronicles 27:22 details an ancient administrative structure from Israel's monarchy, its underlying principles offer timeless and profound wisdom for contemporary life. The meticulous organization and intentional planning demonstrated by King David serve as a powerful reminder of the inherent value of structure and foresight in any endeavor, whether in our personal lives, families, businesses, or the church. Order facilitates clarity, enhances efficiency, and sharpens purpose, enabling the effective stewardship of resources and responsibilities. Furthermore, the verse highlights the enduring significance of leadership. Just as David appointed capable and trustworthy individuals to guide and serve the tribes, there remains a vital and urgent need for dedicated, wise, and God-fearing leaders in all spheres of society today. We are called not only to recognize, honor, and submit to those in authority but also to actively support and fervently pray for them, understanding their crucial role in maintaining order, promoting justice, and guiding communities toward flourishing. Finally, the inclusion of every tribe, emphasizing that every part matters, serves as a powerful reminder that in any community—especially the body of Christ—each individual and group has a unique, indispensable, and divinely appointed role to play, contributing significantly to the strength, vitality, and holistic flourishing of the whole.

Questions for Reflection

  • How does David's commitment to order and structure in governance challenge my own approach to personal responsibilities, family life, or community involvement?
  • In what specific ways can I better support, honor, and pray for the leaders in my life, whether in my family, church, workplace, or government?
  • Considering that every tribe, including Dan, had a designated leader, how does this emphasize the inherent value and unique contribution of every individual within a larger community or the church?
  • What practical steps can I take to foster greater unity, more effective leadership, and a deeper sense of shared purpose in the groups or communities I am a part of?

FAQ

Why is the specific mention of Azareel from Dan important, given Dan's sometimes ambiguous portrayal in Scripture?

Answer: The specific mention of Azareel from the tribe of Dan is profoundly important because it unequivocally confirms Dan's continued inclusion, representation, and active participation within the unified kingdom of Israel under King David. While the tribe of Dan is indeed sometimes associated with significant instances of idolatry (e.g., Judges 18) and is notably absent from the list of sealed tribes in Revelation 7, its undeniable presence here in David's meticulously compiled administrative list demonstrates that, at this pivotal historical juncture, Dan was still considered an integral and valued part of the twelve tribes. This inclusion powerfully highlights David's comprehensive and inclusive approach to governance, ensuring representation and leadership for all tribal entities, thereby reinforcing the paramount theme of national unity and God's faithfulness to His covenant people.

What was the practical role of these "princes of the tribes" in David's kingdom?

Answer: The "princes of the tribes" were absolutely crucial regional administrators within David's increasingly centralized monarchy, serving as the king's direct representatives in their respective territories. Their practical roles were multifaceted and vital for the kingdom's functioning. They likely included extensive civil administration, such as overseeing local affairs and ensuring compliance with royal decrees; significant judicial oversight, resolving disputes and administering justice within their tribal territories; and critical military conscription, mobilizing men for David's formidable army, as strongly suggested by the preceding military lists in 1 Chronicles 27:1-15. They served as the primary and essential link between the central government in Jerusalem and the diverse local tribal populations, ensuring the king's vision was implemented and order was maintained throughout the entire land. Their appointment reflects David's strategic and divinely inspired efforts to consolidate power, establish a stable, well-governed nation, and foster unity among God's people.

CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT

The meticulous organization of David's kingdom, culminating in the systematic appointment of tribal princes like Azareel, serves as a profound foreshadowing of the perfect, eternal, and sovereign reign of Jesus Christ, the ultimate King and Head of His Church. David's diligent efforts to bring order, unity, and righteous administration to Israel point directly to Christ, who is not merely a regional ruler but the cosmic King, holding all authority in heaven and on earth (Matthew 28:18). Just as David wisely delegated authority to ensure the well-being and proper functioning of his earthly kingdom, Christ, having gloriously ascended to heaven, has established His Church—His spiritual kingdom—and sovereignly gifted it with diverse leaders and ministries for the specific purpose of building up the body of believers (Ephesians 4:11-12). The unity of the twelve tribes under David's comprehensive administration beautifully prefigures the spiritual unity of believers from every nation, tribe, people, and language, all wonderfully united under Christ as the Head of His body, the Church (Colossians 1:18 and Revelation 5:9). Ultimately, David's earthly kingdom, with its administrative structures and appointed leaders, serves as a shadow of the perfect, eternal, and perfectly ordered kingdom of God, fully realized in Christ, where He reigns supreme, bringing ultimate peace, justice, and flawless governance to His redeemed people forever (Isaiah 9:6-7).

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Commentary on 1 Chronicles 27 verses 16–34

We have here an account,

I. Of the princes of the tribes. Something of the ancient order instituted by Moses in the wilderness was still kept up, that every tribe should have its prince or chief. It is probable that it was kept up all along, either by election or by succession, in the same family; and those are here named who were found in that office when this account was taken. Elihu, or Eliab, who was prince of Judah, was the eldest son of Jesse, and descended in a right line from Nahshon and Salmon, the princes of this tribe in Moses's time. Whether these princes were of the nature of lord-lieutenants that guided them in their military affairs, or chief-justices that presided in their courts of judgment, does not appear. Their power, we may suppose, was much less now that all the tribes were united under one king than it had been when, for the most part, they acted separately. Our religion obliges us to be subject, not only to the king as supreme, but unto governors under him (Pe1 2:13, Pe1 2:14), the princes that decree justice. Of Benjamin was Jaaziel the son of Abner, Ch1 27:21. Though Abner was David's enemy, and opposed his coming to the throne, yet David would not oppose the preferment of his son, but perhaps nominated him to this post of honour, which teaches us to render good for evil.

II. Of the numbering of the people, Ch1 27:23, Ch1 27:24. It is here said, 1. That when David ordered the people to be numbered he forbade the numbering of those under twenty years old, thinking thereby to save the reflection which what he did might otherwise cast upon the promise that they should be innumerable; yet it was but a poor salvo, for it had never been customary to number those under twenty, and the promise of their numbers chiefly respected the effective men. 2. That the account which David took of the people, in the pride of his heart, turned to no good account; for it was never perfected, nor done with exactness, nor was it ever recorded as an authentic account. Joab was disgusted with it, and did it by halves; David was ashamed of it, and willing it should be forgotten, because there fell wrath for it against Israel. A good man cannot, in the reflection, please himself with that which he knows God is displeased with, cannot make use of that, nor take comfort in that, which is obtained by sin.

III. Of the officers of the court. 1. The rulers of the king's substance (as they are called, Ch1 27:31), such as had the oversight and charge of the king's tillage, his vineyards, his olive-yards, his herds, his camels, his asses, his flocks. Here are no officers for state, none for sport, no master of the wardrobe, no master of the ceremonies, no master of the horse, no master of the hounds, but all for service, agreeable to the simplicity and plainness of those times. David was a great soldier, a great scholar, and a great prince, and yet a great husband of his estate, kept a great deal of ground in his own hand, and stocked it, not for pleasure, but for profit; for the king himself is served of the field, Ecc 5:9. Those magistrates that would have their subjects industrious must themselves be examples of industry and application to business. We find, however, that afterwards the poor of the land were thought good enough to be vine-dressers and husbandmen, Kg2 25:12. Now David put his great men to preside in these employments. 2. The attendants on the king's person. They were such as were eminent for wisdom, being designed for conversation. His uncle, who was a wise man and a scribe, not only well skilled in politics, but well read in the scriptures, was his counsellor, Ch1 27:32. Another, who no doubt excelled in learning and prudence, was tutor to his children. Ahithophel, a very cunning man, was his counsellor: but Hushai, an honest man, was his companion and confidant. It does not appear that he had many counsellors; but those he had were men of great abilities. Much of the wisdom of princes is seen in the choice of their ministry. But David, though he had all these trusty and well-beloved cousins and counsellors about him, preferred his Bible before them all. Psa 119:24, Thy testimonies are my delight and my counsellors.

Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 16–34. Public domain.
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Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.
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