1 Chronicles 27:8 (KJV)

What does 1 Chronicles 27:8 mean?

1 Chronicles 27:8 records that Shamhuth the Izrahite was the fifth commander in charge of the army for the fifth month, and under his command were twenty-four thousand men. This verse is part of a list detailing the leaders responsible for the military divisions of Israel, each serving on a rotating monthly basis.

This record comes from a section where the chronicler is listing the organization of King David’s army. Each commander led a division for one month out of the year, ensuring the nation’s defense was always maintained. The verse highlights the structured and orderly way the army was managed, with specific leaders and numbers assigned for each month.

The Hebrew behind 1 Chronicles 27:8

• שַׁמְהוּת (Shamhuth): This is the name of the fifth commander. The name itself does not carry a widely agreed-upon meaning, but its inclusion shows the chronicler’s attention to individual leaders.
• יִזְרָחִי (Yizrahite): This word identifies Shamhuth’s clan or family group, marking his heritage and possibly his region within Israel. It helps distinguish him from others with similar names.
• מַחֲלֹקֶת (machalóqet, “course”): This word refers to the division or group under Shamhuth’s command. It emphasizes the organized, rotating system of military service.
• עֶשְׂרִים וְאַרְבָּעָה אֶלֶף (esrim ve’arba’ah elef, “twenty and four thousand”): This phrase specifies the exact number of men in each division, showing the scale and planning behind Israel’s defense.

Why 1 Chronicles 27:8 matters

• This verse helps clarify that Israel’s army under David was highly organized, with leadership and responsibilities carefully assigned by month.
• The listing of names and numbers shows the chronicler’s concern for historical accuracy and the value placed on each leader’s contribution.
• Understanding this structure gives insight into how Israel maintained readiness and order, connecting to the broader themes of leadership and stewardship found throughout 1 Chronicles 27.