King James Version

What Does 1 Chronicles 12:5 Mean?

1 Chronicles 12:5 in the King James Version says “Eluzai, and Jerimoth, and Bealiah, and Shemariah, and Shephatiah the Haruphite,” — study this verse from 1 Chronicles chapter 12 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“Eluzai, and Jerimoth, and Bealiah, and Shemariah, and Shephatiah the Haruphite,”

1 Chronicles 12:5 · King James Version

Context

3

The chief was Ahiezer, then Joash, the sons of Shemaah the Gibeathite; and Jeziel, and Pelet, the sons of Azmaveth; and Berachah, and Jehu the Antothite, Shemaah: or, Hasmaah

4

And Ismaiah the Gibeonite, a mighty man among the thirty, and over the thirty; and Jeremiah, and Jahaziel, and Johanan, and Josabad the Gederathite,

5

Eluzai, and Jerimoth, and Bealiah, and Shemariah, and Shephatiah the Haruphite,

6

Elkanah, and Jesiah, and Azareel, and Joezer, and Jashobeam, the Korhites,

7

And Joelah, and Zebadiah, the sons of Jeroham of Gedor.

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Commentaries4 scholars

KJV Study CommentaryPublic Domain
Theological Analysis: This passage falls within the section on Warriors who joined David - unity of Israel. The Hebrew term גִּבּוֹר (gibbor) - mighty warrior is theologically significant here, pointing to Unity of God's people under chosen leader. The Chronicler's narrative, while paralleling Samuel-Kings in places, offers a distinct theological perspective emphasizing temple worship, Levitical service, and covenant faithfulness.

Chronicles presents David not primarily as warrior-king but as worship organizer and temple planner. This verse contributes to that portrait by highlighting the spiritual dimensions of Israel's national life. The text demonstrates that true prosperity comes through proper worship and covenant obedience rather than merely military or political success.

Doctrinally, this passage teaches about Unity of God's people under chosen leader. Cross-references throughout Chronicles connect David's reign to the broader redemptive narrative, showing how God's covenant promises advance through faithful human leadership while ultimately depending on divine grace and power. The messianic implications are profound: Church united under Christ's headship.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Historical Background: This section describes events from David's reign (c. 1010-970 BCE) but was written centuries later during the Persian period (c. 450-400 BCE). The Chronicler's selectivity in retelling David's story serves his theological purposes—he omits David's sins (Bathsheba, Absalom's rebellion) while emphasizing David's worship reforms and temple preparations.

The historical setting of Warriors who joined David - unity of Israel occurred during Israel's united monarchy, when the nation reached its territorial and political zenith. Archaeological evidence from this period shows significant building projects and administrative development. However, the Chronicler writes for a much smaller, struggling post-exilic community, using David's golden age to inspire hope for restoration.

Ancient Near Eastern parallels show that temple construction and royal sponsorship of worship were common across cultures. However, Israel's understanding of worship centered on covenant relationship with the one true God rather than manipulation of capricious deities. This theological distinctiveness shapes the Chronicler's presentation.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does this verse's emphasis on Unity of God's people under chosen leader challenge or affirm your current spiritual priorities and practices?
  2. What does Church united under Christ's headship teach you about Jesus Christ and His redemptive work?
  3. In what practical ways can you apply the principles of covenant faithfulness and proper worship demonstrated in this passage?

Compare 4 commentaries from different scholars and time periods for a richer understanding.

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 6 words
אֶלְעוּזַ֤י1 of 6

“Eluzai”

H498

eluzai, an israelite

וִֽירִימוֹת֙2 of 6

“and Jerimoth”

H3406

jerimoth or jeremoth, the name of twelve israelites

וּבְעַלְיָ֣ה3 of 6

“and Bealiah”

H1183

bealjah, an israelite

וּשְׁמַרְיָ֔הוּ4 of 6

“and Shemariah”

H8114

shemarjah, the name of four israelites

וּשְׁפַטְיָ֖הוּ5 of 6

“and Shephatiah”

H8203

shephatjah, the name of ten israelites

הַחֲריּפִֽי׃6 of 6

“the Haruphite”

H2741

a charuphite or inhabitant of charuph (or chariph)

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of 1 Chronicles. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

1 Chronicles 12:5 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

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