What number verse is 1 Chronicles 27:4 in the Bible?

1 Chronicles 27:4 is the 11,114th verse of the Bible. Counting straight through the King James canon — all 31,102 verses from Genesis 1:1 to Revelation 22:21 — 1 Chronicles 27:4 sits at position 11,114.

Translation

King James Version

And over the course of the second month was Dodai an Ahohite, and of his course was Mikloth also the ruler: in his course likewise were twenty and four thousand.

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KJV (with Strong's)

And over the course ^H4256 of the second ^H8145 month ^H2320 was Dodai ^H1737 an Ahohite ^H266, and of his course ^H4256 was Mikloth ^H4732 also the ruler ^H5057: in his course ^H4256 likewise were twenty ^H6242 and four ^H702 thousand ^H505.

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Complete Jewish Bible

Over the division for the second month was Dodai the Achochi; Miklot was the chief officer of his division; there were 24,000 in his division.

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Berean Standard Bible

Dodai the Ahohite was in charge of the division for the second month, and Mikloth was the leader. There were 24,000 men in his division.

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American Standard Version

And over the course of the second month was Dodai the Ahohite, and his course; and Mikloth the ruler: and in his course were twenty and four thousand.

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World English Bible Messianic

Over the division of the second month was Dodai the Ahohite, and his division; and Mikloth the ruler: and in his division were twenty-four thousand.

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Geneva Bible (1599)

And ouer the course of the second moneth was Dodai, an Ahohite, and this was his course, and Mikloth was a captaine, and in his course were foure and twentie thousand.

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Young's Literal Translation

And over the course of the second month is Dodai the Ahohite, and his course, and Mikloth is the president, and on his course are twenty and four thousand.

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Study This Verse

SUMMARY

1 Chronicles 27:4 meticulously details the specific organization of King David's monthly military divisions, identifying Dodai an Ahohite as the commander for the second month, assisted by Mikloth, and overseeing a substantial contingent of twenty-four thousand men. This verse is an integral part of a larger administrative record that underscores David's exceptional foresight, strategic genius, and unwavering commitment to establishing a well-ordered, secure, and divinely blessed kingdom through the systematic organization of its human and material resources.

CONTEXT

Literary Context: This verse is strategically placed within 1 Chronicles 27, a chapter dedicated to enumerating King David's meticulously structured administrative and military apparatus. It follows the Chronicler's detailed accounts of the organization of the Levites and priests for temple service, as seen in chapters like 1 Chronicles 23 and 1 Chronicles 24, and precedes David's poignant final instructions and the solemn transfer of the kingdom to Solomon in 1 Chronicles 28. The Chronicler's overarching emphasis throughout these chapters is on divine order, thorough preparation, and the tangible manifestation of God's blessing upon David's reign, which is powerfully demonstrated through such detailed and effective governance. The inclusion of these extensive lists serves to underscore the stability, foresight, and comprehensive nature of David's kingdom, presenting an idealized and divinely sanctioned model of monarchy.
Historical & Cultural Context: In the agrarian society of ancient Israel, maintaining a large, permanent standing army was economically and socially impractical, as it would extensively disrupt agricultural production and family life. David's innovative solution, a rotating military service system, was remarkably practical and farsighted. This system ensured that a large, well-trained force was consistently available year-round for national defense, border security, or royal duties, while simultaneously allowing the vast majority of men to return to their farms and livelihoods for eleven months of the year. This minimized the economic burden on the populace and ensured a robust, ready defense. The specific mention of "Dodai an Ahohite" is particularly significant, as Ahohites were from the tribe of Benjamin, which was King Saul's tribe. David's deliberate inclusion of leaders from various tribes, even those with historical ties to his predecessor, powerfully demonstrates his unifying leadership and the successful consolidation of all Israel under his rule, reflecting the fulfillment of God's promise to establish his kingdom.
Key Themes: The most prominent theme illuminated by this verse is order and organization, showcasing David's systematic and meticulous approach to governing his burgeoning kingdom. This rotating military service ensured efficiency, constant readiness, and national security, thereby preventing chaos and promoting enduring stability. Another crucial theme is leadership and delegation, as the verse highlights specific individuals like Dodai and Mikloth, underscoring the indispensable importance of capable leaders and effective delegation in managing large-scale operations. This ingenious system guaranteed that Israel consistently possessed a significant, trained force ready for any eventuality, profoundly demonstrating a strategic understanding of preparedness. Finally, the structured nature of David's administration inherently implies accountability, as each leader was responsible for a specific number of men and a defined period of service, illustrating a clear and efficient chain of command within David's administration—a principle that finds echoes in the New Testament's call for order and decency within the church, as articulated in 1 Corinthians 14:40.

EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

Key Word Analysis

Course (Hebrew, machălôqeth', H4256): This term, מַחֲלֹקֶת (H4256), denotes a "section," "division," "company," or "portion." Its repeated use throughout 1 Chronicles 27 emphasizes the structured, systematic, and rotational arrangement of these military units. Significantly, this same Hebrew word is employed elsewhere in the Bible to describe the divinely ordained divisions of priests and Levites for temple service (e.g., 1 Chronicles 24:1), indicating a consistent and comprehensive organizational principle applied by David across various critical sectors of his kingdom, from military to religious service. This highlights David's holistic and, implicitly, divinely inspired approach to governance.
Ahohite (Hebrew, ʼĂchôwchîy', H266): The designation אֲחוֹחִי (H266) identifies Dodai as a descendant of Ahoah, a notable family within the tribe of Benjamin. This detail carries profound significance because Benjamin was the tribe of King Saul, and historical tensions between the house of Saul and the house of David were known. The fact that a Benjamite leader held such a high, trusted, and prominent position in David's army powerfully underscores David's remarkable success in unifying all the tribes of Israel under his reign, fostering loyalty and integration even from those who might have been considered former adversaries.
Ruler (Hebrew, nâgîyd', H5057): This term, נָגִיד (H5057), refers to a "commander," "chief," "governor," "leader," or "prince." It signifies someone who occupies a position of prominence and authority, often at the forefront. The application of this title to Mikloth, in conjunction with Dodai, indicates a clear hierarchy and shared leadership within the division. It reinforces the idea that David's military organization was not merely a list of names but a functional, well-structured command system with designated leaders responsible for their respective units, ensuring effective oversight and operational efficiency.

Verse Breakdown

"And over the course of the second month [was] Dodai an Ahohite": This initial clause precisely establishes the specific period of service for this military division—the second month of the year within David's annual rotation. It introduces Dodai, the principal commander, whose tribal affiliation as an Ahohite (from Benjamin) is deliberately noted, signaling David's successful integration of all Israelite tribes into his unified kingdom. His prominent leadership role signifies David's trust and the effective delegation of authority crucial for managing a vast kingdom.
"and of his course [was] Mikloth also the ruler": This segment specifies Mikloth as an additional leader within Dodai's division. The phrasing "of his course" suggests a subordinate or co-leadership role, possibly indicating Mikloth as a second-in-command or a co-ruler responsible for a specific aspect or sub-unit of the division's operations. This detail illuminates a hierarchical and layered command structure, designed to ensure efficient management and oversight of such a large contingent of men.
"in his course likewise [were] twenty and four thousand": This concluding clause quantifies the precise size of the military contingent under the command of Dodai and Mikloth. Each of the twelve monthly divisions comprised 24,000 men, totaling a potential annual force of 288,000. This immense number profoundly underscores the sheer scale of David's military strength and the meticulous organization required to manage such a vast and rotating army, thereby ensuring Israel's security and demonstrating the kingdom's robust and sophisticated infrastructure.

Literary Devices

The Chronicler masterfully employs several literary devices in this passage to achieve his narrative and theological objectives. Cataloging is eminently prominent, as the entire chapter functions as an extensive and detailed list of David's officials and military divisions. This comprehensive enumeration serves to powerfully emphasize the completeness, thoroughness, and unparalleled efficiency of David's administration, presenting an idealized image of a perfectly ordered and divinely blessed kingdom. The Repetition of the word "course" (Hebrew: machălôqeth) and its underlying concept of rotational service throughout the chapter strongly reinforces the systematic, predictable, and highly efficient nature of David's organization, highlighting the preparedness and stability it consistently engendered. Furthermore, there is an overarching Emphasis on the principles of order, structure, and the wise delegation of authority. These devices collectively contribute to the Chronicler's primary theological purpose: to portray David's reign as a golden era of stability, prosperity, and divine favor, characterized by wise leadership and meticulous planning, thereby serving as an exemplary model for future kings and a profound testament to God's enduring faithfulness to His covenant with David.

THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS

The meticulous organization of David's kingdom, as vividly exemplified in 1 Chronicles 27:4, reflects profound theological principles that transcend mere human administrative skill. It powerfully underscores God's intrinsic character as a God of order, not of chaos, and demonstrates that divine blessing often manifests tangibly through human wisdom, diligent effort, and faithful stewardship. David's remarkable foresight in establishing such a sophisticated system for national defense and governance is presented not merely as a political maneuver but as an act of faithful leadership, recognizing that true security and enduring prosperity emanate not solely from military might, but from disciplined, well-managed resources, and a structured society. This administrative precision points to the indispensable importance of structure, accountability, and wise delegation in any human endeavor, whether secular or sacred. It suggests that even in the practicalities of earthly rule and daily life, there is a profound reflection of God's own sovereign, orderly, and purposeful governance of the cosmos.

REFLECTION AND APPLICATION

The detailed administrative records of King David's kingdom, including the specific military division highlighted in 1 Chronicles 27:4, offer invaluable and timeless lessons for contemporary life. Just as David profoundly understood the critical importance of structure, delegation, and preparedness for the stability and security of his nation, we are likewise called to apply similar principles with intentionality and diligence in our personal lives, within our families, in our churches, and in our professional spheres. This verse serves as a potent reminder that effective leadership involves not only a grand vision but also the practical, meticulous implementation of systems and processes to achieve that vision. It challenges us to critically examine how we manage our time, steward our resources, and approach our responsibilities, encouraging a posture of intentionality and order rather than haphazard or reactive approaches. For believers, it deeply underscores the spiritual principle that God is inherently a God of order, and therefore, our lives, when aligned with His divine will and character, should increasingly reflect that divine attribute, leading to greater fruitfulness, peace, and effectiveness in all our endeavors.

Questions for Reflection

In what specific areas of my life (personal, family, work, spiritual) do I need to implement more order, intentional planning, and systematic approaches?
How can I better delegate responsibilities, empower others, and foster a clear chain of command within my spheres of influence, drawing inspiration from David's exemplary leadership?
What profound lessons does this verse impart regarding the paramount importance of preparedness, both in practical matters and in the ongoing journey of my spiritual walk?
How does a deeper understanding of God as a God of perfect order fundamentally impact my approach to daily tasks, long-term goals, and my overall perspective on life's challenges?

FAQ

Why is such a detailed list of military divisions included in the Bible, specifically in 1 Chronicles?

Answer: The inclusion of such meticulously detailed lists in 1 Chronicles serves several profound and interwoven purposes. First, it powerfully highlights King David's exceptional wisdom, strategic foresight, and administrative genius as a divinely appointed ruler, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to establishing a stable, secure, and prosperous kingdom. This level of sophisticated organization was remarkably innovative and largely unprecedented for its time, reflecting a divinely inspired administrative acumen. Second, it underscores the Chronicler's overarching theological agenda, which consistently emphasizes the divine order, prosperity, and manifest blessing upon David's reign. These comprehensive lists present an idealized and exemplary picture of the kingdom, showcasing how meticulous planning, diligent effort, and faithful leadership contribute directly to national strength and overall well-being. Finally, it provides a precise and valuable historical record of the intricate structure of David's army, offering unique insight into the practicalities of ancient Israelite governance and the paramount importance of preparedness for national defense—a recurring and vital theme that resonates throughout the biblical narrative concerning God's covenant people.

What was the practical purpose and genius of the "course" system for David's army?

Answer: The "course" or rotating system implemented by David was a remarkably practical, ingenious, and highly efficient solution for maintaining a formidable military force without imposing an unsustainable burden on the general population. In an agrarian society like ancient Israel, it was simply not feasible to have a large, permanent standing army, as this would inevitably pull too many able-bodied men away from farming and other essential livelihoods, leading to widespread economic disruption and hardship. By meticulously organizing his army into twelve distinct divisions, with each division serving for only one month out of the year, David brilliantly ensured that a well-trained, substantial contingent of 24,000 men was always readily available for national defense, border patrol, or other crucial royal duties. This innovative system allowed the vast majority of the fighting men to return to their homes, tend to their farms, and support their families for eleven months of the year, thereby minimizing economic disruption while simultaneously maximizing national security. It stands as a testament to David's comprehensive and wise leadership, a strategy that clearly received divine blessing, as evidenced by the remarkable prosperity and stability of his reign, as seen in passages like 1 Chronicles 29:28.

CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT

While 1 Chronicles 27:4 meticulously details the earthly organization of King David's military, it serves as a profound shadow, subtly pointing to the ultimate order, perfect governance, and divine authority found exclusively in the person and redemptive work of Jesus Christ. David, as an earthly king, diligently and meticulously organized his kingdom for its defense, prosperity, and stability, thereby foreshadowing the divine King who establishes an eternal, unshakable, and perfectly ordered kingdom. Christ is the ultimate Commander and the supreme Ruler, who not only leads His people with unparalleled wisdom but also perfectly orders and sustains all things according to His sovereign and benevolent will. Just as David's intricate system ensured preparedness, accountability, and efficient functioning for an earthly army, Christ's supreme headship over the church, His spiritual army, guarantees its ultimate victory, perfect functioning, and eternal security, as beautifully articulated in Ephesians 1:22-23. The meticulous detail of David's earthly administration finds its ultimate and cosmic fulfillment in the divine order established and continually sustained by Christ, "for in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him" (Colossians 1:16-17). David's earnest efforts to bring order and peace to his earthly realm anticipate the perfect peace, divine justice, and ultimate order that Christ, the Prince of Peace, will fully establish and eternally maintain in His everlasting kingdom, where He reigns with absolute authority, righteousness, and glory (Revelation 19:11-16). Thus, the earthly organization of David's kingdom serves as a powerful, albeit imperfect, foreshadowing of the perfect, divinely ordained, and eternally secure order of Christ's reign, which brings ultimate security, profound peace, and eternal blessing to all who are part of His unshakable kingdom (Hebrews 12:28).

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Commentary on 1 Chronicles 27 verses 1–15

1 ¶ Now the children of Israel after their number, to wit, the chief fathers and captains of thousands and hundreds, and their officers that served the king in any matter of the courses, which came in and went out month by month throughout all the months of the year, of every course were twenty and four thousand.

2 Over the first course for the first month was Jashobeam the son of Zabdiel: and in his course were twenty and four thousand.

3 Of the children of Perez was the chief of all the captains of the host for the first month.

4 And over the course of the second month was Dodai an Ahohite, and of his course was Mikloth also the ruler: in his course likewise were twenty and four thousand.

5 The third captain of the host for the third month was Benaiah the son of Jehoiada, a chief priest: and in his course were twenty and four thousand.

6 This is that Benaiah, who was mighty among the thirty, and above the thirty: and in his course was Ammizabad his son.

7 The fourth captain for the fourth month was Asahel the brother of Joab, and Zebadiah his son after him: and in his course were twenty and four thousand.

8 The fifth captain for the fifth month was Shamhuth the Izrahite: and in his course were twenty and four thousand.

9 The sixth captain for the sixth month was Ira the son of Ikkesh the Tekoite: and in his course were twenty and four thousand.

10 The seventh captain for the seventh month was Helez the Pelonite, of the children of Ephraim: and in his course were twenty and four thousand.

11 The eighth captain for the eighth month was Sibbecai the Hushathite, of the Zarhites: and in his course were twenty and four thousand.

12 The ninth captain for the ninth month was Abiezer the Anetothite, of the Benjamites: and in his course were twenty and four thousand.

13 The tenth captain for the tenth month was Maharai the Netophathite, of the Zarhites: and in his course were twenty and four thousand.

14 The eleventh captain for the eleventh month was Benaiah the Pirathonite, of the children of Ephraim: and in his course were twenty and four thousand.

15 The twelfth captain for the twelfth month was Heldai the Netophathite, of Othniel: and in his course were twenty and four thousand.

We have here an account of the regulation of the militia of the kingdom. David was himself a man of war, and had done great things with the sword; he had brought into the field great armies. Now here we are told how he marshalled them when God had given him rest from all his enemies. He did not keep them all together, for that would have been a hardship on them and the country; yet he did not disband and disperse them all, for then he would have left his kingdom naked, and his people would have forgotten the arts of war, wherein they had been instructed. He therefore contrived to keep up a constant force, and yet not a standing army. The model is very prudent. 1. He kept up 24,000 constantly in arms, I suppose in a body, and disciplined, in one part or other of the kingdom, the freeholders carrying their own arms and bearing their own charges while they were up. This was a sufficient strength for the securing of the public peace and safety. Those that are Israelites indeed must learn war; for we have enemies to grapple with, whom we are concerned constantly to stand upon our guard against. 2. He changed them every month; so that the whole number of the militia amounted to 288,000, perhaps about a fifth part of the able men of the kingdom. By being thus distributed into twelve courses, they were all instructed in, and accustomed to, military exercises; and yet none were compelled to be in service, and at expenses, above one month in the year (which they might very well afford), unless upon extraordinary occasions, and then they might all be got together quickly. It is the wisdom of governors, and much their praise, while they provide for the public safety, to contrive how to make it effectual and yet easy, and as little as possible burdensome to the people. 3. Every course had a commander in chief over it. Besides the subaltern officers that were rulers over thousands, and hundreds, and fifties, there was one general officer to each course or legion. All these twelve great commanders are mentioned among David's worthies and champions, 2 Sa. 23 and 1 Chr. 11. They had first signalized themselves by their great actions and then they were advanced to those great preferments. It is well with a kingdom when honour thus attends merit. Benaiah is here called a chief priest, Ch1 27:5. But, cohen signifying both a priest and a prince, it might better be translated here a chief ruler, or (as in the margin) a principal officer. Dodai had Mikloth (Ch1 27:4) either for his substitute when he was absent or infirm, or for his successor when he was dead. Benaiah had his son under him, Ch1 27:6. Asahel had his son after him (Ch1 27:7), and by this it seems that this plan of the militia was laid in the beginning of David's reign; for Asahel was killed by Abner while David reigned in Hebron. When his wars were over he revived this method, and left the military affairs in this posture, for the peaceable reign of his son Solomon. When we think ourselves most safe, yet, while we are here in the body, we must keep in a readiness for spiritual conflicts. Let not him that girdeth on the harness boast as he that puts it off.

Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 1–15. 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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