What number verse is 1 Chronicles 27:8 in the Bible?

1 Chronicles 27:8 is the 11,118th 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 27:8 sits at position 11,118.

Translation

King James Version

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

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KJV (with Strong's)

The fifth ^H2549 captain ^H8269 for the fifth ^H2549 month ^H2320 was Shamhuth ^H8049 the Izrahite ^H3155: and in his course ^H4256 were twenty ^H6242 and four ^H702 thousand ^H505.

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Complete Jewish Bible

The fifth commander, for the fifth month, was Shamhut from Yizrach; there were 24,000 in his division.

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Berean Standard Bible

The fifth, for the fifth month, was the commander Shamhuth the Izrahite. There were 24,000 men in his division.

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American Standard Version

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

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World English Bible Messianic

The fifth captain for this fifth month was Shamhuth the Izrahite: and in his division were twenty-four thousand.

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Geneva Bible (1599)

The fift for ye fift moneth was prince Shamhuth the Izrahite: and in his course foure and twentie thousand.

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Young's Literal Translation

The fifth, for the fifth month, is the prince Shamhuth the Izrahite, and on his course are twenty and four thousand.

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Study This Verse

SUMMARY

1 Chronicles 27:8 serves as a precise administrative entry within King David's meticulously organized kingdom, identifying Shamhuth the Izrahite as the appointed captain over the fifth of David's twelve monthly military divisions. This verse, part of a detailed catalog of royal officials and military structures, underscores David's strategic foresight in establishing a rotational system where 24,000 men served for one month annually, ensuring Israel's continuous military readiness and showcasing the kingdom's structured efficiency and the importance of delegated leadership under divine blessing.

CONTEXT

Literary Context: This verse is intricately woven into the fabric of 1 Chronicles 27, a chapter singularly devoted to outlining King David's sophisticated administrative and military organization. Following the epic accounts of David's mighty men and their valiant exploits in chapters 11-20, and the somber narrative of the census in chapter 21, the Chronicler shifts focus to the peacetime governance of David's kingdom. Specifically, 1 Chronicles 27:1 introduces the innovative system of twelve monthly military divisions, each comprising 24,000 men, designed to maintain a formidable standing army without the constant burden of full conscription. Verses 1 Chronicles 27:2-15 systematically list the captains for each month, with Shamhuth the Izrahite appearing as the fifth in this distinguished roster. This meticulous cataloging serves the Chronicler's broader purpose of demonstrating the order, stability, and divine blessing that characterized David's reign, often drawing a stark contrast to the disarray that preceded it, particularly under Saul. The chapter then proceeds to list other key officials, including tribal leaders and royal administrators, painting a comprehensive portrait of David's well-ordered and divinely favored kingdom.
Historical & Cultural Context: King David's reign (circa 1010-970 BC) marked a pivotal era of consolidation and expansion for the nascent Israelite kingdom. Having successfully unified the disparate tribes and established Jerusalem as his capital, David faced the dual imperatives of maintaining internal stability and defending against persistent external threats. The organizational system meticulously described in 1 Chronicles 27 reflects a highly advanced administrative structure for its time, bearing resemblances to sophisticated military and civil organizations observed in other powerful ancient Near Eastern empires. The ingenious concept of a rotating militia allowed for a large, well-trained fighting force to be readily available, while simultaneously minimizing the economic and social burden on the populace, as individuals served only one month out of twelve. This system not only fostered a profound sense of national unity and shared responsibility for defense but also ensured that a significant portion of the male population received military training. The specific mention of "Izrahite" for Shamhuth highlights the enduring importance of tribal and family lineage in Israelite society, where identity, social standing, and assigned roles were frequently intertwined with one's ancestral heritage, a theme consistently emphasized through the detailed genealogies found throughout the book of 1 Chronicles.
Key Themes: The meticulous details presented in 1 Chronicles 27, including the specific mention of Shamhuth the Izrahite, contribute significantly to several overarching theological and narrative themes within the book of Chronicles. Firstly, the theme of Order and Administration is paramount; the Chronicler emphasizes David's divinely inspired wisdom in establishing a highly organized and efficient kingdom, a stark contrast to the periods of chaos and disunity that often plagued Israel. This divine order is presented as a tangible testament to God's blessing upon a righteous and obedient king. Secondly, Leadership and Delegation is prominently highlighted, as David wisely entrusted significant authority and responsibility to capable individuals like Shamhuth, thereby demonstrating the indispensable necessity of effective governance through distributed authority. This theme resonates throughout the broader narrative of David's reign, where he strategically appointed leaders for diverse tasks, ranging from military command to the intricate oversight of temple preparations, as vividly depicted in 1 Chronicles 28:11-19. Thirdly, the principle of Preparedness and Stewardship is powerfully evident in the rotational military system; it ensured that Israel was constantly ready to face any challenge, reflecting a responsible approach to national security and the prudent management of the nation's human and material resources. Finally, the inclusion of specific names like Shamhuth underscores the profound theme of Individual Contribution within a Collective Body, emphasizing that every person, even those listed in what might seem like mere administrative records, played a vital and indispensable role in the overall functioning, strength, and divine purpose of God's people.

EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

Key Word Analysis

Shamhuth (Hebrew, Shamhûwth', H8049): This personal name, though its etymological meaning ("desolation" or "renown") is less central here, serves a crucial function in the text. Its inclusion precisely identifies a specific historical individual, emphasizing the Chronicler's meticulous record-keeping and the historical veracity of David's administrative structures. The presence of such specific names lends credibility and realism to the account, highlighting that these were real people entrusted with significant responsibilities within the kingdom.
Izrahite (Hebrew, Yizrâch', H3155): This gentilic designation indicates Shamhuth's family or tribal origin. While the exact lineage is not explicitly detailed for Shamhuth in this verse, the term likely connects him to the descendants of Izrahiah, a prominent family within the tribe of Issachar, as mentioned in 1 Chronicles 7:3. This geographical or ancestral identifier further grounds the account in historical reality, illustrating the diverse tribal representation within David's unified kingdom and underscoring the enduring importance of lineage and tribal identity in ancient Israelite society.
Course (Hebrew, machălôqeth', H4256): Derived from a root meaning "to divide" or "to apportion," this term signifies a "section," "division," or "turn of duty." In the context of 1 Chronicles 27:8, it specifically refers to Shamhuth's assigned period of service or his rotational division within the military structure. This word highlights the systematic and orderly nature of David's administration, emphasizing that military service was not haphazard but carefully organized into distinct, rotating units, ensuring efficiency and equitable distribution of responsibility.

Verse Breakdown

"The fifth captain for the fifth month [was] Shamhuth the Izrahite:" This opening clause precisely identifies the individual responsible for the military division serving in the fifth month of the year. The numerical order ("fifth") and the specific month ("fifth month") underscore the systematic, calendrical nature of David's military rotation, indicating a well-planned and executed administrative calendar. Shamhuth's name and his familial designation ("the Izrahite") provide concrete identification, anchoring this administrative detail to a real person within the historical framework of David's reign. This specificity emphasizes the Chronicler's concern for accurate record-keeping and the importance of individual roles within the larger national structure.
"and in his course [were] twenty and four thousand." This second clause specifies the formidable size of the military contingent under Shamhuth's command for his designated month of service. The phrase "in his course" refers to his assigned turn or rotation of duty, highlighting the orderly succession of military divisions. The precise number "twenty and four thousand" (24,000) men underscores the substantial scale and highly organized nature of David's military apparatus. This large, well-trained force, available on a rotating basis, ensured Israel's continuous military preparedness and demonstrated the king's strategic foresight in maintaining national security without perpetually burdening the entire male population with military service.

Literary Devices

The Chronicler's account in 1 Chronicles 27:8, and indeed the entire chapter, is characterized by several key literary devices that serve to convey its deeper message. The most prominent is Enumeration and Cataloging, as the text meticulously lists each captain, their month of service, and the precise size of their division. This detailed listing functions not merely as a dry administrative record but as a powerful rhetorical tool to demonstrate the Order and Efficiency of David's kingdom, contrasting sharply with the often chaotic periods that preceded his reign, such as the era of the Judges or the tumultuous rule of Saul. The consistent repetition of the structural pattern for each captain (e.g., "the first captain for the first month... the second captain for the second month...") creates a discernible sense of Rhythm and reinforces the systematic and predictable nature of David's administration. Furthermore, the inclusion of specific names and tribal designations, such as "Shamhuth the Izrahite," employs Specificity to lend historical authenticity and credibility to the narrative, emphasizing that these were real individuals contributing to a divinely blessed and exceptionally well-governed nation.

THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS

1 Chronicles 27:8, though seemingly a mundane administrative detail, speaks volumes about the theological principles that underpin effective governance and thriving community life. It powerfully reflects a divine emphasis on order, preparation, and the responsible stewardship of both resources and people. David's meticulous organization of his kingdom, undoubtedly inspired by divine wisdom, ensured stability and security, thereby creating an environment conducive to the flourishing of the nation and the unhindered worship of God. This profound commitment to structure and delegated authority mirrors God's own character as a God of order, not of confusion, as explicitly stated in 1 Corinthians 14:33. It also profoundly highlights the importance of every individual's contribution within a larger collective body, where specific roles, even those that might appear small or administrative, are vital for collective success and the fulfillment of a shared purpose. The principle of preparedness, so vividly exemplified by the rotating army, resonates deeply with broader biblical calls for believers to be ready for service, for spiritual warfare, and for the Lord's glorious return.

REFLECTION AND APPLICATION

The seemingly dry administrative details of 1 Chronicles 27:8 offer profound and actionable insights for contemporary life, both on a personal level and within communal contexts. David's unwavering commitment to order, delegation, and preparedness serves as a powerful and enduring model for effective stewardship in all spheres of existence. In our personal lives, this verse encourages intentionality, discipline, and strategic planning in managing our time, talents, and material resources, fostering a recognition that God is a God of order who desires us to live purposefully and efficiently. In our communities, churches, and workplaces, it profoundly underscores the intrinsic value of clear structures, well-defined roles, and the empowerment of individuals to contribute their unique gifts and callings. Just as Shamhuth and his 24,000 men were indispensable to Israel's security and stability, every member of a collective body is vital, and their organized and coordinated contributions lead directly to collective strength, flourishing, and the successful accomplishment of shared goals. This passage serves as a powerful reminder that even in the seemingly mundane tasks of administration, organization, and daily duty, we have the opportunity to reflect God's character and contribute meaningfully to His overarching purposes, ensuring that our efforts are not haphazard but strategically aligned for maximum impact and divine effectiveness.

Questions for Reflection

How does David's commitment to order and structure challenge my own approach to personal responsibilities or communal engagements?
In what specific areas of my life or service could I benefit from more intentional planning, strategic organization, and wise delegation, drawing inspiration from David's example?
How does recognizing the value of "every twenty and four thousand" men encourage me to more deeply appreciate, affirm, and empower every individual within my own community or church body?

FAQ

Why does the Chronicler include such detailed administrative lists like 1 Chronicles 27:8?

Answer: The Chronicler's inclusion of detailed administrative lists, such as the one found in 1 Chronicles 27, serves several crucial and multifaceted purposes. Firstly, it emphatically highlights the legitimacy and divine blessing upon King David's reign. By meticulously showcasing a highly organized, efficient, and well-governed kingdom, the Chronicler demonstrates that David was not merely a formidable warrior king but also a wise and capable administrator, reflecting God's profound favor and guidance. Secondly, these lists underscore the paramount importance of order and structure in the life of God's people, a pervasive theological theme woven throughout the Old Testament. This meticulous record-keeping also provided a vital historical foundation for the post-exilic community, reminding them of their rich heritage and the foundational principles upon which their nation was built, including the critical importance of effective leadership, dedicated service, and constant preparedness. Ultimately, it emphasizes that even seemingly mundane administrative details are integral to God's larger, providential plan for His people.

What was the purpose of David's monthly military divisions?

Answer: King David's innovative system of twelve monthly military divisions, each comprising 24,000 men, as meticulously detailed in 1 Chronicles 27:1-15, served a multifaceted and highly strategic purpose. Primarily, it ensured continuous military readiness for the kingdom. By having a fresh contingent of 24,000 trained and ready soldiers available each month, Israel could respond swiftly and decisively to any internal rebellion or external threat without the constant burden and economic strain of a fully mobilized standing army. This rotational system also provided an exceptionally efficient way to train a significant portion of the male population in military skills over time, thereby fostering a broad and deep base of defense capability across the nation. Furthermore, it ingeniously minimized the economic and social disruption that would inevitably arise from perpetual conscription, as men were required to serve only one month out of twelve. This remarkably advanced administrative structure showcased David's strategic genius and his unwavering commitment to the security and long-term well-being of his kingdom.

CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT

While 1 Chronicles 27:8 meticulously details the administrative brilliance and organizational prowess of King David, its ultimate fulfillment and profound spiritual significance are found in the person and work of Jesus Christ. David's perfectly ordered earthly kingdom, with its meticulously organized military and civil service, serves as a powerful foreshadowing of the superior order, divine perfection, and eternal stability of God's everlasting kingdom, over which Christ reigns supreme. Just as King David wisely delegated authority to faithful captains like Shamhuth to ensure the well-being, security, and readiness of his earthly realm, so too does Christ, the true and greater King, perfectly govern His spiritual kingdom. He is the ultimate wise administrator who sovereignly orders all things for the ultimate good of His people and the supreme glory of God (Ephesians 1:10). The dedicated service of the 24,000 men, each faithfully playing their part for the security and flourishing of ancient Israel, finds its ultimate and glorious expression in the Church, the very body of Christ, where every believer is uniquely equipped, empowered, and called to serve under the gracious and perfect headship of Christ (Ephesians 4:11-16). Christ ensures that His people are always prepared, not for earthly warfare, but for the spiritual battle against sin and darkness, and for the courageous advancement of His glorious gospel, equipping them with the full spiritual armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-18) and calling them to faithful stewardship of their gifts and resources until His triumphant and glorious return (Matthew 25:14-30). He is the King who not only perfectly orders His kingdom but also divinely empowers His subjects for perfect, eternal, and fruitful service.

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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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