1 Chronicles 27:30

KJV

Over the camels also [was] Obil the Ishmaelite: and over the asses [was] Jehdeiah the Meronothite:

KJV (with Strong's)

Over the camels {H1581} also was Obil {H179} the Ishmaelite {H3459}: and over the asses {H860} was Jehdeiah {H3165} the Meronothite {H4824}:

Complete Jewish Bible

Ovil the Yishma'eli was put over the camels, Yechd'yahu the Meronoti over the donkeys

Berean Standard Bible

Obil the Ishmaelite was in charge of the camels. Jehdeiah the Meronothite was in charge of the donkeys.

American Standard Version

and over the camels was Obil the Ishmaelite: and over the asses was Jehdeiah the Meronothite: and over the flocks was Jaziz the Hagrite.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Chronicles 27:30 details two key officials within King David's extensive administrative structure: Obil the Ishmaelite, who was appointed over the royal camels, and Jehdeiah the Meronothite, who was responsible for the royal asses. This verse, part of a meticulous register of David's kingdom management, underscores the king's commitment to comprehensive organization, efficient stewardship of resources, and the strategic utilization of diverse expertise, even in seemingly mundane aspects of governance.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within [1 Chronicles chapter 27](/1_chronicles/27 "1 Chronicles 27 - David's Administrative and Military Organization"), a detailed register outlining King David's sophisticated administrative and military organization. The Chronicler, writing to a post-exilic audience, emphasizes David's exemplary leadership, particularly his foresight and meticulous planning in establishing the kingdom's infrastructure. Chapters 23-27 collectively present David's preparations for the temple, the Levitical service, and the civil administration, demonstrating his role as a foundational figure who brought order and stability to Israel. The inclusion of specific officials for livestock, alongside military commanders and tribal leaders, highlights the comprehensive nature of David's governance, leaving no aspect of the kingdom unmanaged. This level of detail serves to portray David as a model king, whose administrative genius laid the groundwork for future prosperity and the building of the temple.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Israel, camels and asses (donkeys) were indispensable assets, representing significant economic, military, and logistical value. Camels, known for their endurance and ability to traverse arid regions, were crucial for long-distance trade, transportation of goods, and military campaigns, often serving as beasts of burden for armies. Asses were vital for local transportation, agricultural labor (plowing, grinding grain), and personal travel, especially in mountainous terrain. Owning large herds of these animals signified wealth and power for a monarch. The appointment of "Obil the Ishmaelite" is particularly noteworthy. Ishmaelites were descendants of Abraham through Ishmael and were renowned for their expertise in desert travel, trade, and camel husbandry, as seen in the caravan in [Genesis 37:25](/genesis/37-25 "Genesis 37:25 - Ishmaelite Traders"). David's willingness to employ a non-Israelite, and specifically one from a traditionally nomadic people, for a specialized and critical role demonstrates his pragmatic leadership and his focus on competence over ethnic origin, reflecting a broader biblical principle of God using diverse individuals for His purposes.
* **Key Themes:** Several key themes emerge from this verse and its surrounding context. Firstly, **Order and Administration** is paramount; David's meticulous organization, as detailed throughout [1 Chronicles 27](/1_chronicles/27 "1 Chronicles 27 - David's Administrative Structure"), showcases a commitment to effective governance and stewardship. This systematic approach ensured the stability and prosperity of the kingdom, reflecting a divine principle that "God is not a God of confusion but of peace" ([1 Corinthians 14:33](/1_corinthians/14-33 "1 Corinthians 14:33 - God of Order")). Secondly, the theme of **Valuing Expertise** is evident in the appointment of Obil. David recognized and utilized specialized skills regardless of background, demonstrating a wise and inclusive approach to leadership that prioritizes competence for the benefit of the kingdom. This echoes the biblical emphasis on diverse gifts and talents working together, as seen in [Romans 12:4-8](/romans/12-4 "Romans 12:4-8 - Diverse Gifts in the Body of Christ"). Thirdly, **Stewardship of Resources** is highlighted. The careful management of royal assets like livestock underscores the importance of responsible oversight of all that God entrusts to human leaders, whether material possessions, people, or time, a principle consistently taught throughout Scripture, such as in the [Parable of the Talents](/matthew/25-14 "Matthew 25:14-30 - The Parable of the Talents").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Obil (Hebrew, _’Ōḇîl_):** This name is likely derived from the Hebrew root meaning "to lead" or "to drive," particularly in the context of camels. Thus, "Obil" could literally mean "camel driver" or "one who leads camels," making his name perfectly suited to his assigned role. This suggests either a descriptive name given due to his expertise or a divinely ordained fittingness for his calling.
* **Ishmaelite (Hebrew, _Yišmə‘êlî_):** Referring to a descendant of Ishmael, Abraham's first son through Hagar. Historically, Ishmaelites were nomadic peoples known for their extensive knowledge of desert travel, trade routes, and, crucially, their expertise in handling camels. Their presence as traders is noted in ancient texts, and their proficiency with camels made them ideal candidates for managing royal herds. David's appointment of an Ishmaelite demonstrates a pragmatic and merit-based approach to leadership, valuing skill over national or ethnic origin for specific, specialized roles.
* **Jehdeiah (Hebrew, _Yaḥdîyāhû_):** This is a theophoric name, common in ancient Israel, meaning "Yahweh makes glad" or "Yahweh unites." Such names reflect the piety of the parents or the hope placed in God regarding the child's life. While the name itself doesn't directly relate to his role, it is a testament to the pervasive religious worldview of the time, where even administrative officials bore names that glorified God.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Over the camels also [was] Obil the Ishmaelite":** This clause identifies the specific asset—camels—and the individual appointed to oversee them. The inclusion of "also" (Hebrew, גַּם _gam_) links this administrative detail to the broader list of officials, emphasizing that no aspect of the kingdom was overlooked. Obil's ethnic designation as an "Ishmaelite" is significant, highlighting David's strategic decision to leverage specialized knowledge, even from outside the Israelite community, for the efficient management of a vital royal resource. Camels were costly and essential for the kingdom's economy and logistics.
* **"and over the asses [was] Jehdeiah the Meronothite":** This second clause specifies the other vital animal asset—asses (donkeys)—and the official responsible for them. Jehdeiah's title, "the Meronothite," indicates his geographical origin, likely from Meronoth, a place in Judah (possibly near Gibeon or Bethlehem). This detail grounds the official within the Israelite tribal structure, contrasting with Obil's foreign origin. The management of asses, while perhaps less glamorous than camels, was equally crucial for daily transport, agriculture, and the general functioning of the kingdom, underscoring the comprehensive nature of David's administrative oversight.

#### Literary Devices
The primary literary device at play in 1 Chronicles 27:30, and indeed throughout much of [1 Chronicles 27](/1_chronicles/27 "1 Chronicles 27 - David's Administrative Structure"), is **List/Register**. The Chronicler meticulously records names, roles, and origins, creating a detailed administrative roster. This device serves to emphasize David's extraordinary organizational skills and the comprehensive nature of his kingdom's infrastructure. The sheer volume of specific details, even down to the overseers of livestock, conveys a sense of **Thoroughness** and **Order**, demonstrating David's commitment to good governance and stewardship. Furthermore, the inclusion of "Obil the Ishmaelite" can be seen as a subtle form of **Irony** or **Paradox**, as a foreign national from a traditionally rival lineage is entrusted with a significant royal asset, highlighting David's pragmatic and inclusive leadership, which transcends conventional boundaries for the sake of efficiency and expertise. The specific naming of individuals for seemingly minor roles also employs **Synecdoche**, where these two individuals represent the broader principle of specialized oversight for all kingdom resources.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
1 Chronicles 27:30, while seemingly a mundane administrative detail, offers profound theological insights into the nature of leadership, stewardship, and God's providential order. David's meticulous organization reflects a divine principle that God is a God of order and purpose, not chaos. His commitment to managing every aspect of his kingdom, from military divisions to livestock, underscores the biblical call to faithful stewardship over all resources entrusted to us. This includes not only material wealth but also time, talents, and relationships. The appointment of Obil the Ishmaelite further highlights God's sovereignty in using diverse individuals, even those outside the covenant community, to fulfill His purposes. It speaks to a universal principle of valuing competence and recognizing gifts wherever they are found, demonstrating that God's work is not limited by human distinctions or prejudices. Ultimately, David's administrative wisdom, guided by God, serves as a model for how human leaders can wisely manage earthly affairs in a way that honors God and promotes the well-being of His people.

* [Proverbs 27:23](/proverbs/27-23 "Proverbs 27:23 - Know the State of Your Flocks")
* [Matthew 25:21](/matthew/25-21 "Matthew 25:21 - Well Done, Good and Faithful Servant")
* [Romans 12:6-8](/romans/12-6 "Romans 12:6-8 - Gifts Differing According to Grace")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
This seemingly ordinary verse from Chronicles offers powerful lessons for contemporary believers. It reminds us that faithfulness in the "small things" is just as important to God as faithfulness in the grand endeavors. David's meticulous attention to the management of his kingdom's resources, down to the care of camels and asses, teaches us the value of diligence, order, and responsible stewardship in every area of our lives. Whether it's managing our finances, our time, our talents, our families, or our professional responsibilities, God calls us to be good stewards of all that He has entrusted to us. Furthermore, David's willingness to appoint Obil, an Ishmaelite, to a position of trust, speaks volumes about valuing expertise and recognizing gifts irrespective of background. In a world often divided by ethnicity or social status, this serves as a powerful reminder for us to embrace diversity, seek out competence, and collaborate with all people for the common good and the advancement of God's kingdom, recognizing that God uses a multitude of individuals for His purposes. Our calling is to be faithful, organized, and discerning in all our endeavors, reflecting the order and wisdom of our Creator.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life (finances, time, relationships, talents) are you called to exercise greater diligence and stewardship, even in the "small" details?**
* **How can you better recognize and utilize the diverse gifts and expertise of those around you, regardless of their background, for the benefit of your community or ministry?**
* **What does David's administrative example teach you about the importance of order and planning in your personal or spiritual life?**
* **How does the principle of valuing competence over origin, as seen with Obil, challenge any unconscious biases you might hold?**

### FAQ
**Why does the Bible include such seemingly mundane details about David's administration?**

Answer: The inclusion of such detailed administrative lists, like 1 Chronicles 27:30, serves several important purposes. Firstly, for the original post-exilic audience, it demonstrated David's exemplary leadership and the comprehensive, divinely-blessed order he established in the kingdom. This provided a model for good governance and stewardship, reassuring a people rebuilding their nation that God values order and meticulous planning. Secondly, it underscores the Chronicler's theological agenda: to show that David, as God's chosen king, laid the foundational administrative and spiritual groundwork for the temple and the future of Israel. Every detail, no matter how small, contributed to the stability and prosperity of the kingdom, which was ultimately for God's glory. It also reveals the practical realities of managing a large, complex nation, highlighting the importance of every role, from military general to livestock manager. This meticulous record emphasizes that God is concerned with every aspect of our lives and calls us to faithfulness in all our responsibilities, big or small, much like the detailed instructions for the tabernacle in [Exodus 25](/exodus/25 "Exodus 25 - Instructions for the Tabernacle").

**What was the significance of camels and asses in ancient Israel?**

Answer: Camels and asses (donkeys) were incredibly significant in ancient Israel, serving as vital economic and logistical assets. Camels were the "ships of the desert," indispensable for long-distance trade, military logistics, and travel across arid regions due to their ability to carry heavy loads and survive without water for extended periods. They represented considerable wealth and strategic capability. Asses, on the other hand, were crucial for more localized transport, agricultural work (plowing, threshing), and personal travel, especially in the hilly terrain of Israel. They were more common and accessible than camels, forming the backbone of daily life and the agricultural economy. The careful management of these animals, as seen in 1 Chronicles 27:30, was therefore essential for the kingdom's prosperity, trade, and overall functioning, much like a modern nation's infrastructure and transportation networks are vital today. Their importance is frequently highlighted throughout the Old Testament, such as in [Genesis 24:10](/genesis/24-10 "Genesis 24:10 - Camels for Rebekah's Journey") for camels and [Numbers 22:23](/numbers/22-23 "Numbers 22:23 - Balaam's Donkey") for asses.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While 1 Chronicles 27:30 details the administrative oversight of David's earthly kingdom, it subtly points to the ultimate and perfect administration of God's eternal kingdom under Christ. David's meticulous organization foreshadows the divine order and purpose found in Christ, who is the Head of all things, "upholding the universe by the word of his power" ([Hebrews 1:3](/hebrews/1-3 "Hebrews 1:3 - Christ Upholds the Universe")). Just as David appointed skilled individuals to manage his kingdom's resources, Christ, as the ultimate Steward, perfectly administers His church, bestowing diverse gifts upon believers "for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ" ([Ephesians 4:12](/ephesians/4-12 "Ephesians 4:12 - Gifts for the Body of Christ")). The inclusion of Obil the Ishmaelite, a foreigner, in a position of trust, prefigures Christ's inclusive kingdom where "there is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus" ([Galatians 3:28](/galatians/3-28 "Galatians 3:28 - One in Christ Jesus")). Every detail of David's rule, even the management of livestock, was part of a larger divine plan that ultimately culminates in Christ, who perfectly fulfills all righteousness and brings all creation under His sovereign, perfectly administered reign ([Colossians 1:17-18](/colossians/1-17 "Colossians 1:17-18 - Christ is Before All Things")).

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

Genesis 47:6

The land of Egypt [is] before thee; in the best of the land make thy father and brethren to dwell; in the land of Goshen let them dwell: and if thou knowest [any] men of activity among them, then make them rulers over my cattle.

Job 1:3

His substance also was seven thousand sheep, and three thousand camels, and five hundred yoke of oxen, and five hundred she asses, and a very great household; so that this man was the greatest of all the men of the east.