1 Chronicles 27:14
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.
The eleventh {H6249}{H6240} captain for the eleventh {H6249}{H6240} month {H2320} was Benaiah {H1141} the Pirathonite {H6553}, of the children {H1121} of Ephraim {H669}: and in his course {H4256} were twenty {H6242} and four {H702} thousand {H505}.
The eleventh commander, for the eleventh month, was B'nayah from Pir'aton, from the descendants of Efrayim; there were 24,000 in his division.
The eleventh, for the eleventh month, was Benaiah the Pirathonite, an Ephraimite. There were 24,000 men in his division.
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.
Cross-References
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1 Chronicles 11:31 (4 votes)
Ithai the son of Ribai of Gibeah, [that pertained] to the children of Benjamin, Benaiah the Pirathonite, -
2 Samuel 23:30 (2 votes)
Benaiah the Pirathonite, Hiddai of the brooks of Gaash,
Commentary
1 Chronicles 27:14 is part of a detailed administrative record in the book of 1 Chronicles, specifically listing the military commanders and their divisions who served King David on a rotating monthly basis. This verse highlights the eleventh captain in this structured system.
Context of 1 Chronicles 27:14
The book of 1 Chronicles meticulously records the lineage, reign, and administrative details of King David and his successors, emphasizing the establishment of the Israelite kingdom under God's covenant. Chapter 27 provides an extraordinary insight into David's highly organized military and civil administration. Unlike typical army structures, David implemented a system where 12 divisions, each comprising 24,000 men, served for one month of the year, ensuring a large, well-trained standing force while allowing the majority of men to return to their livelihoods. This verse specifically names Benaiah the Pirathonite as the captain for the eleventh month, leading his division of twenty-four thousand men. This systematic approach reflects David's wisdom in leadership and his commitment to national security and stability, building upon his earlier organization as seen in passages like his arrangement of the Levites.
Key Themes and Messages
Linguistic Insights
The name Benaiah (Hebrew: ืึฐึผื ึธืึธืืึผ, Bฤnฤyฤhลซ) means "Yahweh has built" or "Yahweh has established." This name, though common, subtly points to the divine hand in the establishment and stability of the kingdom. The term "Pirathonite" identifies his hometown, Pirathon, located in the territory of Ephraim, linking him to his tribal heritage within the tribe of Ephraim.
Practical Application
While detailing an ancient military structure, 1 Chronicles 27:14 offers timeless principles for modern life. It emphasizes the value of systematic planning and effective delegation in any large endeavor, whether it's a business, an organization, or even a family. Just as David ensured every part of his kingdom was well-managed, we are reminded to bring order and intentionality to our responsibilities. Furthermore, the meticulous record-keeping of each captain highlights the importance of recognizing and valuing the contributions of every individual within a team or community, affirming that each role, no matter how seemingly small, contributes to the overall success. This verse encourages us to appreciate the structure and leadership that facilitate stability and progress, much like Paul's later teaching on respecting authority.
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