King James Version
What Does 1 Chronicles 27:34 Mean?
“And after Ahithophel was Jehoiada the son of Benaiah, and Abiathar: and the general of the king's army was Joab.”
1 Chronicles 27:34 · KJV
Context
32
Also Jonathan David's uncle was a counsellor, a wise man, and a scribe: and Jehiel the son of Hachmoni was with the king's sons: scribe: or, secretary son: or, Hachmonite
33
And Ahithophel was the king's counsellor: and Hushai the Archite was the king's companion:
34
And after Ahithophel was Jehoiada the son of Benaiah, and Abiathar: and the general of the king's army was Joab.
Commentary
KJV Study CommentaryTheological 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.
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.
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
- How does this verse's emphasis on Godly governance and administration challenge or affirm your current spiritual priorities and practices?
- What does Christ's kingdom administration teach you about Jesus Christ and His redemptive work?
- In what practical ways can you apply the principles of covenant faithfulness and proper worship demonstrated in this passage?
Original Language Analysis
Hebrew · 10 wordsוְאַֽחֲרֵ֣י1 of 10
“And after”
H310properly, the hind part; generally used as an adverb or conjunction, after (in various senses)
בֶּן4 of 10
“the son”
H1121a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
צָבָ֥א8 of 10
“army”
H6635a mass of persons (or figuratively, things), especially reg. organized for war (an army); by implication, a campaign, literally or figuratively (speci
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 27:34 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to 1 Chronicles 27:34 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge