What number verse is 1 Chronicles 27:9 in the Bible?

1 Chronicles 27:9 is the 11,119th 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 27:9 sits at position 11,119.

Translation

King James Version

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

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KJV (with Strong's)

The sixth ^H8345 captain for the sixth ^H8345 month ^H2320 was Ira ^H5896 the son ^H1121 of Ikkesh ^H6142 the Tekoite ^H8621: and in his course ^H4256 were twenty ^H6242 and four ^H702 thousand ^H505.

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Complete Jewish Bible

The sixth commander, for the sixth month, was 'Ira the son of 'Ikesh from T'koa; there were 24,000 in his division.

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Berean Standard Bible

The sixth, for the sixth month, was Ira son of Ikkesh the Tekoite. There were 24,000 men in his division.

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American Standard Version

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

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World English Bible Messianic

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

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Geneva Bible (1599)

The sixt for the sixt moneth was Ira the sonne of Ikkesh the Tekoite: and in his course foure and twentie thousand.

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Young's Literal Translation

The sixth, for the sixth month, is Ira son of Ikkesh the Tekoite, and on his course are twenty and four thousand.

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Study This Verse

SUMMARY

1 Chronicles 27:9 precisely identifies Ira, the son of Ikkesh the Tekoite, as the captain appointed over the sixth of King David's twelve monthly military divisions. This specific unit was designated for service during the sixth month of the year and comprised a formidable force of twenty-four thousand men. This meticulous detail serves to underscore the comprehensive and highly organized administrative and military structure that characterized David's reign, reflecting not only his strategic foresight but also the divine blessing upon his efforts to establish a stable and secure kingdom.

CONTEXT

Literary Context: This verse is an integral part of a detailed administrative catalog found in 1 Chronicles 27. Following the extensive genealogies and the roster of David's elite warriors, the Chronicler shifts focus to the practical, systematic organization of the kingdom. The chapter meticulously enumerates the twelve monthly military divisions (vv. 1-15), each with its designated commander and troop strength, before listing tribal leaders (vv. 16-22), various royal officials (vv. 25-31), and David's personal advisors (vv. 32-34). The inclusion of Ira and his division in this precise roster highlights the Chronicler's overarching emphasis on the order, stability, and divine favor that marked David's rule. This detailed cataloging serves to present David as a model king who diligently stewarded the nation entrusted to him by God, showcasing a kingdom established on principles of structure, accountability, and readiness.
Historical & Cultural Context: King David's reign (c. 1010-970 BC) was a transformative period for Israel, transitioning from a loose tribal confederacy into a unified monarchy with a centralized government and a formidable standing army. Prior to David, military service was typically ad hoc, relying on tribal levies only in times of immediate threat. David's innovative system, as meticulously detailed in this chapter, established a professional, rotating army of 288,000 men (24,000 men serving one month each, annually). This ensured continuous military readiness for both internal security and defense against external adversaries, crucial for projecting Israel's power in the volatile ancient Near East. The designation "Tekoite" for Ira grounds him in a specific geographical and tribal identity, a common practice in ancient Israelite records to establish lineage and standing. Tekoa, a town in Judah, was strategically located in the Judean wilderness, known for its rugged inhabitants, and famously associated with the wise woman who intervened with David (2 Samuel 14) and later with the prophet Amos (Amos 1:1).
Key Themes: The detailed organization presented in 1 Chronicles 27 illuminates several profound themes central to the Chronicler's theological agenda. First, Divine Order and Human Administration are paramount, showcasing David's commitment to systematic governance and military readiness as an expression of God's own orderly character. Second, National Preparedness and Security are emphasized, as the rotating military divisions ensured Israel was continuously ready for defense or strategic action, reflecting prudent and divinely-guided leadership. Third, the passage underscores Faithful Service and Loyalty, as the named captains and their thousands of men faithfully fulfilled their duties to the king and, by extension, to God's covenant people. Finally, the system of appointing specific captains for each division illustrates Delegated Leadership and Accountability, demonstrating David's trust in his proven commanders to manage their respective forces, a principle vital for effective management in any large-scale endeavor, whether a kingdom or a community. This intricate structure reflects a divinely blessed kingdom operating with human wisdom and diligence, mirroring God's own meticulous care for His people.

EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

Key Word Analysis

Tekoite (Hebrew, Tᵉqôwʻîy', H8621): This ethnonym, derived from Tekoa, signifies Ira's origin from a town approximately 10 miles south of Jerusalem in the Judean hills. As per H8621, it denotes "a Tekoite or inhabitant of Tekoah." Identifying individuals by their hometown was a common practice in ancient Israel, establishing their identity, tribal affiliation, and often, their reputation. For Ira, being a Tekoite may have implied a certain hardiness or familiarity with the region's challenges, known for its rugged terrain. His inclusion in David's elite forces, as also noted in 2 Samuel 23:26, underscores that his origin was recognized alongside his valor and trustworthiness.
month (Hebrew, chôdesh', H2320): Derived from H2320, this word literally means "the new moon" and by implication, "a month." Its use here highlights the precise, cyclical nature of David's military organization. The new moon marked the beginning of each lunar month in the Israelite calendar, making it a natural reference point for the rotation of military divisions. This term underscores the systematic and periodic nature of the service, ensuring that each division served for a designated period before being relieved. It speaks to a highly organized and efficient system designed to maintain readiness without permanently conscripting the entire populace.
course (Hebrew, machălôqeth', H4256): According to H4256, this term refers to "a section (of Levites, people or soldiers); company, course, division, portion." While the KJV uses "course," the underlying Hebrew word machălôqeth clearly denotes a specific "division" or "section" of soldiers. This term is central to understanding the systematic, rotational nature of David's army, where each division served for a designated period before being relieved by the next. It emphasizes the highly organized and efficient structure designed to maintain continuous military readiness for the kingdom.
thousand (Hebrew, ʼeleph', H505): As per H505, this word literally means "a thousand." This precise numerical designation, repeated for each monthly division throughout 1 Chronicles 27, emphasizes the immense scale and meticulous planning of David's military organization. The number 24,000 is a substantial force for any ancient kingdom, indicating Israel's significant military power under David. The consistency of this number across all divisions underscores the uniformity and disciplined structure of the army, reflecting a high degree of administrative control and logistical capability. It also serves to impress upon the reader the sheer magnitude of resources and manpower David commanded.

Verse Breakdown

"The sixth [captain] for the sixth month [was] Ira the son of Ikkesh the Tekoite:" This clause precisely identifies the individual entrusted with the command of the sixth military division. The repetition of "sixth" emphasizes the sequential and orderly nature of David's administrative system. Ira is fully identified by his father, Ikkesh, and his hometown, Tekoa, a common practice in ancient records to establish identity and lineage. His prominent inclusion here signifies his importance and trustworthiness in David's eyes, as he was entrusted with a major command within the kingdom's vital defense structure.
"and in his course [were] twenty and four thousand." This second clause specifies the formidable size of the contingent under Ira's command. The phrase "in his course" refers to the designated period of service and the specific division assigned to him. The consistent number of 24,000 men for each monthly rotation highlights the standardized, professional, and formidable nature of David's standing army, ensuring a powerful and continuously ready force at all times for the defense and security of the nation.

Literary Devices

The primary literary device at play in 1 Chronicles 27:9, and indeed throughout the entire chapter, is Enumeration or Cataloging. The Chronicler meticulously lists each captain, their specific month of service, and the precise number of men under their command. This detailed enumeration serves to underscore the comprehensive nature of David's administrative and military reforms, conveying a profound sense of thoroughness, order, and control within the kingdom. Beyond mere listing, the repetitive structure for each monthly division creates a rhythmic, almost formulaic, effect, emphasizing the systematic and divinely blessed order of David's reign. The inclusion of specific names and hometowns also employs Specificity, lending historical veracity and a personal touch to what might otherwise be a dry administrative record, grounding the grand scale of the kingdom in the individual contributions of its trusted leaders.

THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS

The meticulous organization of David's kingdom, exemplified by the military divisions in 1 Chronicles 27:9, reflects a profound theological principle: God is a God of order, not chaos. Just as God established perfect order in creation, bringing cosmos out of chaos (Genesis 1:1-2:3), so too does He bless and enable human leaders to bring order to their spheres of influence. David's administrative genius, therefore, is not merely a testament to his human capabilities but also an outworking of divine wisdom granted to him for the stewardship of God's people. This passage implicitly teaches the value of diligent planning, faithful service, and effective delegation in fulfilling God-given responsibilities, whether in the realm of governance, community, or personal life. It suggests that a well-ordered life and society, marked by discipline and foresight, can be a powerful reflection of God's character and a channel for His abundant blessing.

REFLECTION AND APPLICATION

1 Chronicles 27:9, while detailing an ancient military structure, offers profound insights for contemporary life and leadership. It reminds us that effective leadership, whether in a family, a business, a church, or a personal ministry, requires thoughtful planning, clear delegation, and an unwavering commitment to order. David's system wasn't about micromanagement but about empowering competent individuals like Ira to lead significant portions of the kingdom's defense, trusting them with substantial responsibility. This encourages us to identify, equip, and empower others for service, fostering an environment of mutual accountability and shared purpose. Furthermore, the dedication of Ira and his 24,000 men to their rotational duty speaks powerfully to the importance of faithful, consistent service in our own callings. Every task, no matter how seemingly mundane or specialized, contributes significantly to the larger whole. Our commitment to order in our personal lives – managing our time, resources, and spiritual disciplines – can create stability and effectiveness, allowing us to be better stewards of the gifts and responsibilities God has entrusted to us, ultimately bringing glory to Him.

Questions for Reflection

How does the meticulous organization of David's kingdom, as seen in this verse, challenge my own approach to personal or communal responsibilities?
In what specific areas of my life or service could I benefit from more intentional planning, strategic delegation, or systematic execution?
What does Ira's role as a "Tekoite" among David's trusted leaders teach me about the value of faithful service and leadership regardless of one's background or origin?
How can I better embody the principle of "order" in my spiritual disciplines, daily routines, and overall walk with God, reflecting His character?

FAQ

Why did David organize his army into monthly divisions, and what was the significance of 24,000 men per division?

Answer: David's organization of his army into twelve monthly divisions, each comprising 24,000 men, was a brilliant administrative and military innovation for its time. The primary purpose was to maintain a large, well-trained, and continuously ready standing army without overburdening the populace with permanent conscription. By having each division serve only one month per year, the majority of the men could return to their civilian lives (farming, trade, etc.) for eleven months, minimizing economic disruption and preserving the nation's economic vitality. This rotational system ensured that Israel always had a fresh, disciplined force available for defense or offensive campaigns, reflecting astute strategic planning. The consistent number of 24,000 men per division (totaling 288,000 active soldiers annually) signifies the immense scale of David's military power and his unwavering commitment to national security. It reflects a highly centralized and efficient system of governance, crucial for the stability and expansion of his kingdom, as meticulously detailed throughout 1 Chronicles 27.

CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT

While 1 Chronicles 27:9 details the earthly organization of King David's kingdom, it subtly points to the perfect and eternal order of God's ultimate kingdom, established and administered by Christ. David, as an earthly king, sought to bring order and security to Israel through human wisdom and delegated authority, a necessary but imperfect endeavor. This foreshadows Jesus Christ, the true King of Kings, who does not merely organize a temporary army but sovereignly builds an eternal kingdom that will never be destroyed (Daniel 2:44) and commands a spiritual host that triumphs over all spiritual enemies (Colossians 2:15). The meticulous record of David's captains and their divisions reflects a divinely inspired blueprint for effective stewardship and a well-ordered society, principles fully realized in Christ's perfect leadership over His church, which is His body (Ephesians 1:22-23). Just as Ira the Tekoite served faithfully in his assigned course, believers are called to faithful service within the ordered body of Christ, each contributing their unique gifts under the ultimate command of the Chief Shepherd (1 Peter 5:4). David's kingdom, with its structured preparedness for earthly battles, ultimately points to the profound peace and eternal security found in Christ's reign, where the Lamb of God has already secured the ultimate victory, ensuring the eternal safety and perfect order of His redeemed people (Revelation 7:17).

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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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