1 Chronicles 27:29-31
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It's easy to skim over names, but notice how these officials are identified not just by their names but also by where they worked – "the Sharonite" and "in the valleys." This tells us that God's detailed organization of his people and their resources extended even to the practical, everyday oversight of the land and its bounty. It’s a reminder that God cares about the details of our lives and work, not just the big, spiritual moments.
Over the herds that pastured in Sharon was Shitrai the Sharonite; over the herds in the valleys was Shaphat the son of Adlai. Over the camels was Obil the Ishmaelite; and over the donkeys was Jehdeiah the Meronothite. Over the flocks was Jaziz the Hagrite. All these were stewards of King David’s property.
English Standard Version (ESV)
After detailing the military divisions and royal officials, Chronicles shifts to the practical administration of David's kingdom. This passage specifically outlines the overseers responsible for the vast livestock holdings across different regions, highlighting the careful organization required to manage a prosperous nation. It's part of a larger inventory of David's kingdom, demonstrating the breadth of his leadership beyond just warfare.
Think about the vastness of Israel's resources – herds grazing in the fertile plains and deep valleys. Who was looking after all that? The Bible tells us specifically.
The book of 1 Chronicles is all about the structure and organization of Israel, especially concerning worship and the kingdom. In chapter 27, we get a detailed look at who was responsible for different parts of the nation's wealth and infrastructure. Here, we see specific individuals named for overseeing the livestock in distinct geographical areas: Sharon and the valleys.
This isn't just a dry administrative list; it reveals something profound about God's perspective. He cares about the details of His people's lives and resources. Every role, no matter how seemingly 'small' or practical, is important in the functioning of the community and, by extension, in God's plan. Whether you're leading a great army or managing livestock, your stewardship is seen and valued.
Why mention 'the Sharonite' or 'son of Adlai'? It tells us these men were known not just by their name, but by their heritage and their specific role in a particular place.
In this verse, the men are identified with both their lineage ('son of Adlai') and their geographical origin or specialty ('the Sharonite'). This highlights how identity was understood in ancient Israel – it was deeply connected to where you came from, your family, and what you did.
Shitrai is 'the Sharonite,' suggesting he was from or had significant ties to the region of Sharon, known for its pasturelands. Shaphat is identified by his father, Adlai, showing family connection. Together, these identifiers paint a picture of men who were recognized and trusted for their deep knowledge of the land and its resources.
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For us today, while our ultimate identity is in Christ, God also gives us spheres of influence and unique gifts tied to our experiences and backgrounds. Understanding our personal history and God-given roles can empower us to serve more effectively, rooted in who we are and what we've been entrusted with.
Understand the original words
gamal · Hebrew Noun
Large domesticated animals used primarily for transport and labor; they represent wealth and endurance in the ancient world and are specifically noted for their ability to traverse arid environments.
athon · Hebrew Noun
A beast of burden widely used for transportation, agricultural work, and carrying heavy loads; they are associated with humility and common, everyday labor in the biblical narrative.
shomer · Hebrew Noun/Participle
A person appointed to oversee, manage, or administer the property, affairs, or household of a master or king, reflecting a position of trust and responsibility.
This verse reflects the administrative organization of the kingdom under David, showing a detailed oversight of resources and territories, including the management of livestock in specific regions like Sharon.
c. 1070 BC
Reign of King David Begins
David is anointed king over all Israel, establishing a united monarchy and ushering in a period of consolidation and expansion.
c. 1050 BC
The Ark of the Covenant Brought to Jerusalem
King David successfully brings the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem, establishing it as the religious and political center of Israel.
c. 1040 BC— this verse
David's Census of Israel
A census is taken to organize the people, including military strength and labor forces, highlighting the administrative structure of the kingdom.
c. 1015 BC
Death of King David
David's long and influential reign ends, leaving behind a stable kingdom and a complex administrative system for his son Solomon.
This passage shows Abraham's abundance of livestock, a stark contrast to the organized, managed herds described in Chronicles, highlighting the progression of God's provision and human stewardship.
Psalm 23:1-2This Psalm speaks of the Lord as our Shepherd, tending to His flock, mirroring the responsibility of the overseers in 1 Chronicles who cared for vast numbers of livestock, emphasizing divine and human care.
Song of Solomon 1:7The lover asks, 'Tell me, where do you feed your flock, where do you make it lie down at noon?', a beautiful image of tender care for sheep, connecting with the practical oversight detailed in Chronicles.
Isaiah 40:11This prophetic verse describes God as a shepherd gathering his flock and carrying them, highlighting the gentle, powerful care that underpins all human stewardship of resources like livestock.
It's easy to skim over names, but notice how these officials are identified not just by their names but also by where they worked – "the Sharonite" and "in the valleys." This tells us that God's detailed organization of his people and their resources extended even to the practical, everyday oversight of the land and its bounty. It’s a reminder that God cares about the details of our lives and work, not just the big, spiritual moments.
After detailing the military divisions and royal officials, Chronicles shifts to the practical administration of David's kingdom. This passage specifically outlines the overseers responsible for the vast livestock holdings across different regions, highlighting the careful organization required to manage a prosperous nation. It's part of a larger inventory of David's kingdom, demonstrating the breadth of his leadership beyond just warfare.
After detailing the military divisions and royal officials, Chronicles shifts to the practical administration of David's kingdom. This passage specifically outlines the overseers responsible for the vast livestock holdings across different regions, highlighting the careful organization required to manage a prosperous nation. It's part of a larger inventory of David's kingdom, demonstrating the breadth of his leadership beyond just warfare.
"Over the herds that pastured in Sharon was Shitrai the Sharonite; over the herds in the valleys was Shaphat the son of Adlai. Over the camels was Obil the Ishmaelite; and over the donkeys was Jehdeiah the Meronothite. Over the flocks was J…" — It's easy to skim over names, but notice how these officials are identified not just by their names but also by where they worked – "the Sharonite" and "in the valleys." This tells us that God's de…
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Last reviewed October 2026
