Jehoshaphat the son of Paruah, in Issachar;
English Standard Version (ESV)
This might seem like a simple genealogical note, but the mention of "Issachar" immediately tells us something significant about Jehoshaphat. The tribe of Issachar was known for its understanding of the times and for its wisdom, suggesting Jehoshaphat likely brought a particular insight and expertise to his role.
Jehoshaphat the son of Paruah, in Issachar;
English Standard Version (ESV)
This verse is part of a lengthy list detailing Solomon's administrative districts across Israel, each assigned an official responsible for supplying the royal household. Right before this, and continuing after, the text systematically names the governors and their territories, highlighting the vast reach and organized structure of Solomon's kingdom. This particular entry simply identifies one such official and his regional assignment within this grand bureaucratic account.
In the grand narrative of kings and prophets, names like Issachar might get lost. Yet, the Bible meticulously records them for a reason. What can we learn from these seemingly minor mentions?
This verse is part of a long list of officials in King Solomon’s vast administration. While Solomon was the king, and his wisdom was legendary, he relied on skilled leaders to manage the kingdom’s affairs.
Names Matter
These aren't just random names. They represent individuals with families, faith, and specific contributions, vital cogs in the machinery of a thriving nation. God’s Word doesn't overlook them.
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This verse places an official within King Solomon's administrative system, highlighting the organized, centralized governance of a unified Israel during its golden age before the later division.
c. 970 BC
Death of King David
David, the great king of Israel, dies after a long and influential reign, leaving behind a united kingdom.
c. 970-931 BC
Reign of King Solomon
Solomon, David's son, becomes king and ushers in a period of peace, prosperity, and great building projects, including the Temple in Jerusalem.
During Solomon's Reign— this verse
Solomon's Administrative Districts
King Solomon organized the kingdom into twelve administrative districts, each responsible for supplying the royal court for one month each year.
c. 931 BC
Division of the Kingdom
Following Solomon's death, the united kingdom splits into two: the northern Kingdom of Israel and the southern Kingdom of Judah.
This verse immediately precedes the one in question, identifying the father of the same official, highlighting the lineage and administrative structure.
1 Kings 4:7-19This entire passage lists Solomon's twelve district governors, providing the larger context for Jehoshaphat's specific role within the kingdom's administration.
1 Chronicles 27:16-22This parallel account lists tribal leaders and officials, offering a different perspective on the organization of Israel during the monarchy and the importance of family lines.
This might seem like a simple genealogical note, but the mention of "Issachar" immediately tells us something significant about Jehoshaphat. The tribe of Issachar was known for its understanding of the times and for its wisdom, suggesting Jehoshaphat likely brought a particular insight and expertise to his role.
This verse is part of a lengthy list detailing Solomon's administrative districts across Israel, each assigned an official responsible for supplying the royal household. Right before this, and continuing after, the text systematically names the governors and their territories, highlighting the vast reach and organized structure of Solomon's kingdom. This particular entry simply identifies one such official and his regional assignment within this grand bureaucratic account.
This verse is part of a lengthy list detailing Solomon's administrative districts across Israel, each assigned an official responsible for supplying the royal household. Right before this, and continuing after, the text systematically names the governors and their territories, highlighting the vast reach and organized structure of Solomon's kingdom. This particular entry simply identifies one such official and his regional assignment within this grand bureaucratic account.
"Jehoshaphat the son of Paruah, in Issachar;" — This might seem like a simple genealogical note, but the mention of "Issachar" immediately tells us something significant about Jehoshaphat. The tribe of Issachar was known for its understanding of t…
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Last reviewed October 2026