TRV
Translation
King James Version
And over the herds that fed in Sharon was Shitrai the Sharonite: and over the herds that were in the valleys was Shaphat the son of Adlai:
Complete Jewish Bible
In charge of the herds of livestock feeding in the Sharon was Shirtai from the Sharon, while Shafat the son of Adlai was put over herds in the valleys.
Berean Standard Bible
Shitrai the Sharonite was in charge of the herds grazing in Sharon. Shaphat son of Adlai was in charge of the herds in the valleys.
American Standard Version
and over the herds that fed in Sharon was Shitrai the Sharonite: and over the herds that were in the valleys was Shaphat the son of Adlai:
World English Bible Messianic
and over the herds that fed in Sharon was Shitrai the Sharonite: and over the herds that were in the valleys was Shaphat the son of Adlai:
Geneva Bible (1599)
And ouer the oxen that fed in Sharon, was Shetrai the Sharonite: and ouer the oxen in the valleyes was Shaphat the sonne of Adlai:
Young's Literal Translation
and over the herds that are feeding in Sharon is Shitrai the Sharonite; and over the herds in the valleys is Shaphat son of Adlai;
Study This Verse
Commentary on 1 Chronicles 27 verses 16–34
16 ¶ Furthermore over the tribes of Israel: the ruler of the Reubenites was Eliezer the son of Zichri: of the Simeonites, Shephatiah the son of Maachah:
17 Of the Levites, Hashabiah the son of Kemuel: of the Aaronites, Zadok:
18 Of Judah, Elihu, one of the brethren of David: of Issachar, Omri the son of Michael:
19 Of Zebulun, Ishmaiah the son of Obadiah: of Naphtali, Jerimoth the son of Azriel:
20 Of the children of Ephraim, Hoshea the son of Azaziah: of the half tribe of Manasseh, Joel the son of Pedaiah:
21 Of the half tribe of Manasseh in Gilead, Iddo the son of Zechariah: of Benjamin, Jaasiel the son of Abner:
22 Of Dan, Azareel the son of Jeroham. These were the princes of the tribes of Israel.
23 But David took not the number of them from twenty years old and under: because the LORD had said he would increase Israel like to the stars of the heavens.
24 Joab the son of Zeruiah began to number, but he finished not, because there fell wrath for it against Israel; neither was the number put in the account of the chronicles of king David.
25 And over the king's treasures was Azmaveth the son of Adiel: and over the storehouses in the fields, in the cities, and in the villages, and in the castles, was Jehonathan the son of Uzziah:
26 And over them that did the work of the field for tillage of the ground was Ezri the son of Chelub:
27 And over the vineyards was Shimei the Ramathite: over the increase of the vineyards for the wine cellars was Zabdi the Shiphmite:
28 And over the olive trees and the sycomore trees that were in the low plains was Baalhanan the Gederite: and over the cellars of oil was Joash:
29 And over the herds that fed in Sharon was Shitrai the Sharonite: and over the herds that were in the valleys was Shaphat the son of Adlai:
30 Over the camels also was Obil the Ishmaelite: and over the asses was Jehdeiah the Meronothite:
31 And over the flocks was Jaziz the Hagerite. All these were the rulers of the substance which was king David's.
32 Also Jonathan David's uncle was a counsellor, a wise man, and a scribe: and Jehiel the son of Hachmoni was with the king's sons:
33 And Ahithophel was the king's counsellor: and Hushai the Archite was the king's companion:
34 And after Ahithophel was Jehoiada the son of Benaiah, and Abiathar: and the general of the king's army was Joab.
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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SUMMARY
1 Chronicles 27:29 meticulously details key appointments within King David's extensive administrative structure, specifically highlighting Shitrai the Sharonite's oversight of royal herds in the fertile Sharon plain and Shaphat the son of Adlai's management of herds situated in the valleys. This verse, embedded within a larger catalog of civil and military officials, powerfully underscores David's meticulous attention to the economic foundations of his kingdom, ensuring diligent stewardship and specialized management of vital agricultural assets for the nation's prosperity.
CONTEXT
Literary Context: This verse is strategically placed within a comprehensive account of King David's administrative organization of his kingdom, primarily found in 1 Chronicles 23-27. Following the detailed establishment of the Levitical divisions, priestly courses, and various temple servants in earlier chapters, the Chronicler pivots in 1 Chronicles 27 to enumerate the commanders of the monthly military divisions, the tribal leaders, and subsequently, a series of royal officials responsible for the king's vast property and assets. Verse 29 specifically falls within this latter category, illustrating the profound scope and comprehensive nature of David's preparations for the kingdom, which would ultimately be inherited by his son, Solomon. Its inclusion emphasizes that even seemingly mundane aspects of agricultural management were considered integral to the divinely ordered structure of the kingdom.
Historical & Cultural Context: In ancient Israel, livestock, particularly cattle (as mentioned in this verse) and sheep, constituted the bedrock of the economy and daily life. These animals were not only primary sources of food, clothing, and materials for shelter but also represented a significant form of wealth, trade, and even dowry. Furthermore, animals were indispensable for sacrificial worship, as meticulously detailed within the Mosaic Law (e.g., Leviticus 1:2-3). The Sharon plain, explicitly mentioned, was a famously fertile coastal region in central Israel, celebrated for its rich pastures and lush vegetation, making it an exceptionally ideal location for raising large herds. "The valleys" (Hebrew: עֲמָקִים, amaqim) refers to other lower-lying, often well-watered and fertile, areas suitable for grazing, indicating a broader geographical distribution of the royal agricultural assets. David's appointment of specialized officials for these distinct regions reflects a sophisticated understanding of resource management and the critical importance of regional expertise in a predominantly agrarian society.
Key Themes: The meticulous inclusion of this administrative detail illuminates several profound key themes within the Chronicler's narrative. Firstly, Organized Stewardship is paramount, demonstrating David's unwavering commitment to meticulous, delegated management of the kingdom's vast resources, thereby reflecting a divine principle of order, prudence, and accountability. This emphasis on careful oversight extends to all aspects of life, not just the overtly spiritual. Secondly, it highlights the vital Economic Foundation of the kingdom; the prosperity, stability, and future flourishing of the nation were directly and inextricably linked to the careful oversight and diligent management of its agricultural wealth. This echoes timeless wisdom found in texts like Proverbs 27:23-27. Thirdly, the verse powerfully illustrates the principle of Delegation and Expertise, as David wisely appointed specific individuals, such as Shitrai and Shaphat, to manage distinct geographical areas and specific types of assets. This recognition of the need for specialized knowledge and the efficient distribution of authority mirrors the sagacious counsel of delegation seen in figures like Jethro advising Moses in Exodus 18:21-22.
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
The primary literary device prominently at play in this verse, and indeed throughout 1 Chronicles 27, is Cataloging or Listing. The Chronicler meticulously enumerates the various officials and their highly specific roles, providing a comprehensive and detailed overview of King David's remarkably organized and far-reaching administration. This detailed listing serves to powerfully emphasize the king's foresight, his unwavering commitment to order, and the sheer breadth of his preparations for the kingdom's future stability and prosperity. There is also a clear implicit Parallelism in the symmetrical structure of the two clauses, which highlights the similar yet distinct responsibilities of Shitrai and Shaphat, each overseeing herds in different, geographically defined locations. This structural repetition underscores the systematic and methodical nature of David's administrative appointments. Furthermore, the specific naming of "Sharon" and "the valleys" can be interpreted as a form of Metonymy, where the names of these regions stand in for the particular type of pasturage, ecological conditions, and specialized agricultural care required for each, indicating a nuanced understanding of land management. The very inclusion of such a seemingly minor administrative detail also functions as a form of Emphasis, demonstrating the Chronicler's deliberate intent to highlight the thoroughness, prudence, and divine wisdom underpinning David's governance, even in the most practical and seemingly mundane matters of daily economic life.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This seemingly administrative detail in 1 Chronicles 27:29 carries profound theological and thematic weight, extending far beyond a mere historical record. It powerfully illustrates the biblical principle that all aspects of life, including the most practical, economic, and seemingly mundane, fall under the purview of divine order and require faithful stewardship. David's meticulous organization of his kingdom, extending even to the diligent management of royal herds, reflects a deep commitment to prudence, accountability, and wise resource allocation that mirrors God's own orderly creation and meticulous governance. It teaches us that true leadership, whether in a kingdom, a church, a business, or a household, involves diligent oversight of all entrusted resources, recognizing their inherent value and ensuring their proper care for the ultimate benefit of the community and the glory of God. This attention to detail in the material realm is not separate from spiritual devotion but rather a tangible expression of it, demonstrating that faithfulness in "little things" is just as crucial and spiritually significant as faithfulness in grand endeavors.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The detailed administrative records of King David, including the specific appointment of officials like Shitrai and Shaphat for managing royal herds, offer a compelling and enduring model for contemporary life and leadership. This verse serves as a powerful reminder that effective leadership and responsible living inherently involve diligent attention to the resources and responsibilities entrusted to us, whether they manifest as material possessions, unique talents, precious time, vital relationships, or significant ministry responsibilities. Just as David astutely recognized the economic importance of his herds and wisely delegated their care to specialized experts, we too are profoundly called to be wise and faithful stewards of all that God has graciously placed in our hands. This imperative means actively identifying our own "herds" – our areas of responsibility and valuable assets – and ensuring they are managed with intentionality, strategic order, and unwavering accountability. It challenges us to critically examine areas where we might be neglecting practical details or failing to delegate effectively, and it profoundly encourages us to value all forms of work, recognizing that even seemingly mundane or practical tasks contribute significantly to the overall well-being, flourishing, and advancement of God's kingdom. Our faithfulness in these practical matters is a direct reflection of our understanding of God as the ultimate Provider and Owner of all things, and our sacred role as His trusted managers.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why is such a seemingly minor detail included in Scripture?
Answer: The inclusion of seemingly minor administrative details like the oversight of royal herds in 1 Chronicles 27:29 serves several crucial and profound purposes within the biblical narrative. Firstly, it powerfully highlights the Chronicler's emphasis on the thoroughness, divine wisdom, and comprehensive nature of King David's administration, demonstrating his meticulous preparation for the kingdom's future and the eventual construction of the temple. It underscores the biblical truth that God's order and principles of good governance extend to all aspects of life, not merely the overtly spiritual or ceremonial. Secondly, it provides an invaluable historical record of the kingdom's economic foundations and the sophisticated administrative structures that were in place during David's reign, showcasing a well-organized society. Finally, and perhaps most importantly for believers today, it offers timeless practical lessons on diligent stewardship, wise delegation, and the inherent value of all work. It teaches that faithfulness in practical matters is a tangible expression of devotion and wise leadership, a principle that remains profoundly applicable to all believers in their daily lives (see Luke 16:10).
What was the significance of 'Sharon' and 'the valleys' in this context?
Answer: "Sharon" refers to the famously fertile coastal plain in ancient Israel, renowned for its rich pastures, abundant vegetation, and ideal conditions for raising large numbers of livestock. It was, therefore, a prime and exceptionally valuable agricultural asset for the kingdom. "The valleys" (Hebrew: הָעֲמָקִים, ha'amaqim) refers to other lower-lying, often well-watered and productive, areas suitable for extensive grazing throughout the land. Their specific mention signifies the geographical breadth and diverse nature of the royal herds, indicating that the king's livestock were distributed across various ecological zones. By appointing separate overseers for these distinct regions, David demonstrated a sophisticated understanding of land management, recognizing the need for specialized expertise tailored to different terrains and climatic conditions. This strategic delegation ensured the maximized productivity, health, and overall value of the king's vital agricultural assets.
What can we learn about leadership from David's example here?
Answer: From David's meticulous appointment of Shitrai and Shaphat, we can glean several key and enduring principles of effective leadership that transcend time and context. David demonstrated meticulous organization by establishing a comprehensive administrative structure that thoughtfully covered all aspects of the kingdom, including its fundamental economic base. He practiced wise delegation, entrusting specific and significant responsibilities to capable and qualified individuals, recognizing that no single person can effectively manage everything. He highly valued specialized expertise, appointing individuals who were either from or intimately knowledgeable about specific regions like Sharon, ensuring optimal management. Finally, his actions powerfully highlight the paramount importance of diligent stewardship over all resources. This teaches us that responsible management of material assets and practical affairs is absolutely vital for the prosperity, stability, and long-term flourishing of any endeavor, whether it be a kingdom, a business, a church, or a household.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While 1 Chronicles 27:29 meticulously details King David's earthly administration and his diligent management of the royal herds, it subtly but profoundly points to the ultimate and perfect stewardship of Jesus Christ. David, as an earthly king, sought to bring order, prosperity, and stability to his kingdom through the careful oversight of its vital resources, including the herds that sustained its economy and people. This earthly example beautifully foreshadows Christ, who is the true, eternal, and sovereign King, not merely of a temporal earthly kingdom, but of all creation and, preeminently, of His Church. Just as David appointed faithful overseers for his herds, Christ is the supreme Shepherd and Overseer of His beloved flock, the Church, ensuring its perfect provision, unwavering protection, and spiritual growth (see 1 Peter 5:4). He perfectly embodies and flawlessly executes the principles of wise management, diligent care, and ultimate authority, for in Him, "all things were created... and in him all things hold together" (Colossians 1:16-17). Furthermore, Christ's profound parable of the talents in Matthew 25:14-30 powerfully underscores His expectation of faithful stewardship from His followers, echoing David's administrative diligence but elevating it to a spiritual and eternal plane. All entrusted gifts, responsibilities, and resources are to be managed for the glory of God and the advancement of His eternal kingdom, demonstrating that Christ, as the ultimate administrator, perfectly manages the infinite "riches" of God's grace and the "assets" of His redeemed people, leading them to eternal flourishing and abundant life (see John 10:10).