King James Version

What Does 1 Chronicles 27:26 Mean?

1 Chronicles 27:26 in the King James Version says “And over them that did the work of the field for tillage of the ground was Ezri the son of Chelub:” — study this verse from 1 Chronicles chapter 27 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“And over them that did the work of the field for tillage of the ground was Ezri the son of Chelub:”

1 Chronicles 27:26 · KJV

Context

24

Joab the son of Zeruiah began to number, but he finished not, because there fell wrath for it against Israel; neither was the number put in the account of the chronicles of king David. was: Heb. ascended

25

And over the king's treasures was Azmaveth the son of Adiel: and over the storehouses in the fields, in the cities, and in the villages, and in the castles, was Jehonathan the son of Uzziah:

26

And over them that did the work of the field for tillage of the ground was Ezri the son of Chelub:

27

And over the vineyards was Shimei the Ramathite: over the increase of the vineyards for the wine cellars was Zabdi the Shiphmite: over the increase: Heb. over that which was of the vineyards

28

And over the olive trees and the sycomore trees that were in the low plains was Baalhanan the Gederite: and over the cellars of oil was Joash:

Read 1 Chronicles 27 full chapter

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 · 9 words
וְעַ֗ל1 of 9
H5921

above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications

עֹשֵׂי֙2 of 9

“And over them that did”

H6213

to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application

מְלֶ֣אכֶת3 of 9

“the work”

H4399

properly, deputyship, i.e., ministry; generally, employment (never servile) or work (abstractly or concretely); also property (as the result of labor)

הַשָּׂדֶ֔ה4 of 9

“of the field”

H7704

a field (as flat)

לַֽעֲבֹדַ֖ת5 of 9

“for tillage”

H5656

work of any kind

הָֽאֲדָמָ֑ה6 of 9

“of the ground”

H127

soil (from its general redness)

עֶזְרִ֖י7 of 9

“was Ezri”

H5836

ezri, an israelite

בֶּן8 of 9

“the son”

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

כְּלֽוּב׃9 of 9

“of Chelub”

H3620

kelub, the name of two 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 27:26 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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