King James Version

What Does 1 Chronicles 27:20 Mean?

1 Chronicles 27:20 in the King James Version says “Of the children of Ephraim, Hoshea the son of Azaziah: of the half tribe of Manasseh, Joel the son of Pedaiah:” — study this verse from 1 Chronicles chapter 27 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“Of the children of Ephraim, Hoshea the son of Azaziah: of the half tribe of Manasseh, Joel the son of Pedaiah:”

1 Chronicles 27:20 · KJV

Context

18

Of Judah, Elihu, one of the brethren of David: of Issachar, Omri the son of Michael:

19

Of Zebulun, Ishmaiah the son of Obadiah: of Naphtali, Jerimoth the son of Azriel:

20

Of the children of Ephraim, Hoshea the son of Azaziah: of the half tribe of Manasseh, Joel the son of Pedaiah:

21

Of the half tribe of Manasseh in Gilead, Iddo the son of Zechariah: of Benjamin, Jaasiel the son of Abner:

22

Of Dan, Azareel the son of Jeroham. These were the princes of the tribes of Israel.

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Theological Analysis: This passage falls within the section on Military and civil administration - kingdom organization. The Hebrew term שָׂרִים (sarim) - princes/officers is theologically significant here, pointing to Godly governance and administration. 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 Godly governance and administration. 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: Christ's kingdom administration.

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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 Military and civil administration - kingdom organization 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 Godly governance and administration challenge or affirm your current spiritual priorities and practices?
  2. What does Christ's kingdom administration 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?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 11 words
בֶּן1 of 11

“Of the children”

H1121

a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or

אֶפְרַ֔יִם2 of 11

“of Ephraim”

H669

ephrajim, a son of joseph; also the tribe descended from him, and its territory

הוֹשֵׁ֖עַ3 of 11

“Hoshea”

H1954

hoshea, the name of five israelites

בֶּן4 of 11

“Of the children”

H1121

a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or

עֲזַזְיָ֑הוּ5 of 11

“of Azaziah”

H5812

azazjah, the name of three israelites

לַֽחֲצִי֙6 of 11

“of the half”

H2677

the half or middle

שֵׁ֣בֶט7 of 11

“tribe”

H7626

a scion, i.e., (literally) a stick (for punishing, writing, fighting, ruling, walking, etc.) or (figuratively) a clan

מְנַשֶּׁ֔ה8 of 11

“of Manasseh”

H4519

menashsheh, a grandson of jacob, also the tribe descended from him, and its territory

יוֹאֵ֖ל9 of 11

“Joel”

H3100

joel, the name of twelve israelites

בֶּן10 of 11

“Of the children”

H1121

a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or

פְּדָיָֽהוּ׃11 of 11

“of Pedaiah”

H6305

pedajah, the name of six israelites

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 27:20 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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