Ezri son of ChelubEzri, whose name means "help" or "helper," is identified as the son of Chelub. The mention of his lineage suggests a family of some standing or recognition within the tribe of Judah. Chelub may be linked to Caleb, a prominent figure known for his faithfulness and leadership during the conquest of Canaan (
Numbers 13:30). This connection could imply a heritage of leadership and faith. The genealogical record emphasizes the importance of family lineage in Israelite society, where one's ancestry often determined social status and responsibilities.
was in charge of the workers in the fields
Ezri's role as overseer of the agricultural workers highlights the organized structure of King David's administration. Agriculture was a critical component of Israel's economy, and managing the workforce required significant leadership skills. This position indicates a level of trust and responsibility, as the productivity of the fields was essential for the sustenance of the nation. The division of labor and appointment of overseers reflect the wisdom in governance, ensuring that each aspect of the kingdom's needs was met efficiently.
who tilled the soil
Tilling the soil was a fundamental task in ancient Israel, necessary for preparing the land for planting crops. This phrase underscores the agrarian nature of Israelite society, where the majority of the population was engaged in farming. The process of tilling involved breaking up the ground to make it suitable for sowing seeds, a task that required both skill and physical labor. The imagery of tilling the soil can also be seen as a metaphor for spiritual preparation, as seen in the parable of the sower (Matthew 13:3-9), where the condition of the soil represents the readiness of the heart to receive God's word.
Persons / Places / Events
1.
EzriA leader appointed by King David, responsible for overseeing the agricultural workers. His name means "help" or "helper," indicating his role in supporting the kingdom's sustenance.
2.
ChelubThe father of Ezri, mentioned here to identify Ezri's lineage. The name Chelub is not widely referenced elsewhere, but it signifies the importance of family heritage in biblical times.
3.
Agricultural WorkersThese individuals were responsible for farming the land, a crucial task for the sustenance and economic stability of Israel. Their work ensured that the kingdom had enough food and resources.
4.
The LandRefers to the agricultural fields of Israel, which were vital for the nation's survival and prosperity. The land was a gift from God, and its cultivation was a divine mandate.
5.
King David's AdministrationThis verse is part of a larger passage detailing the organization and administration of King David's kingdom, highlighting the importance of structured leadership.
Teaching Points
The Importance of StewardshipGod entrusts us with resources, and we are called to manage them wisely, just as Ezri managed the agricultural workers.
The Value of LaborWork is a divine calling, and every role, whether prominent or humble, contributes to the greater good of God's kingdom.
Leadership and ResponsibilityEffective leadership, as demonstrated by Ezri, involves overseeing and supporting others to fulfill their roles successfully.
Heritage and IdentityUnderstanding our spiritual heritage and identity in Christ can empower us to fulfill our God-given roles.
Community and CooperationThe success of a community depends on the cooperation and dedication of its members, each fulfilling their unique responsibilities.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1.What is the meaning of 1 Chronicles 27:26?
2.How does 1 Chronicles 27:26 highlight the importance of stewardship in our lives?
3.What role did Ezri play in managing resources according to 1 Chronicles 27:26?
4.How can we apply the principle of faithful management from 1 Chronicles 27:26 today?
5.What other scriptures emphasize the importance of stewardship and resource management?
6.How does 1 Chronicles 27:26 inspire us to serve diligently in our roles?
7.What is the significance of Ezri son of Kelub in 1 Chronicles 27:26?
8.How does 1 Chronicles 27:26 reflect the agricultural practices of ancient Israel?
9.Why is the role of overseer of the field workers important in 1 Chronicles 27:26?
10.What are the top 10 Lessons from 1 Chronicles 27?
11.How do skeptics address potential inconsistencies between Genesis 46 and other Old Testament genealogies regarding the descendants of Jacob?
12.1 Chronicles 26:1 compared to 1 Chronicles 9:17: Do these genealogies for the gatekeepers align, or do they present contradictory lists?
13.1 Chronicles 26:4-6: Why detail Obed-Edom's lineage so precisely with no external evidence to confirm these large family claims?
14.Do references to the Assyrian kings Pul and Tiglath-Pileser in 1 Chronicles 5:26 align with known Assyrian records and timelines?What Does 1 Chronicles 27:26 Mean
Ezri- “Ezri” means “my help,” reminding us that leaders raised up by God are themselves testimonies to His help (Psalm 121:1–2).
- Though little else is recorded about him, the chronicler lists Ezri alongside other officials serving King David, underscoring that every role in God’s kingdom—even one mentioned only once—matters (1 Corinthians 12:18).
Son of Chelub- Lineage mattered in Israel; tying Ezri to Chelub anchors him in a real family line, echoing how Scripture grounds faith in history (Luke 3:23-38).
- The name “Chelub” recalls Caleb’s family line (Joshua 14:13-14), hinting that steadfast, faith-filled heritage often produces dependable servants.
Was in charge- David delegated responsibilities so “all things should be done decently and in order” (1 Corinthians 14:40; compare1 Chronicles 26:30-32).
- Ezri’s oversight shows biblical leadership: authority used to serve, not dominate (Mark 10:42-45).
- It also previews how Christ, the greater Son of David, will perfectly shepherd every aspect of His kingdom (Isaiah 9:6-7).
The workers in the fields- Agriculture was Israel’s economic backbone; fieldworkers mirrored God’s first assignment to Adam “to work it and watch over it” (Genesis 2:15).
- Honoring these laborers highlights that in God’s eyes manual work carries dignity equal to royal court duties (Colossians 3:23).
- Their toil enabled offerings for the temple and provision for the poor (Deuteronomy 14:28-29), showing how everyday work supports worship and mercy.
Who tilled the soil- Tilling prepares ground to receive seed, reflecting the spiritual call to cultivate hearts for the Word (Hosea 10:12;Luke 8:15).
- God “makes the grass grow for the livestock and provides crops for man to cultivate” (Psalm 104:14), yet He chooses human hands like these workers’ to partner in His providence.
- Ezri’s supervision ensured faithful stewardship of the land promised to Israel (Deuteronomy 8:7-10), guarding prosperity and covenant blessing (Leviticus 26:3-4).
summary1 Chronicles 27:26 records that “Ezri son of Chelub was in charge of the workers in the fields who tilled the soil.” Far from a throwaway detail, the verse reveals God’s orderly kingdom, where every person—from king to farmhand—plays a vital, God-appointed part. Ezri’s leadership, rooted in a faithful lineage, affirms the value of diligent labor and models servant oversight. Together leader and laborer cultivate both land and covenant life, pointing us to Christ, who perfectly tends His people and brings forth lasting fruit.
(26)
And over them that did the work of the field.--Ezri was steward of the arable domains.
Verse 26. - This verse appears to give the name, not (as in the former verse) of the person who had charge of the stored grain, fruits, etc, but of the chief superintendent and manager of the labour and labourers of the field.
Parallel Commentaries ...
Hebrew
Ezriעֶזְרִ֖י(‘ez·rî)Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 5836:Ezri -- 'my help', an Israelitesonבֶּן־(ben-)Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 1121:A sonof Chelubכְּלֽוּב׃(kə·lūḇ)Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 3620:Chelub -- two Israeliteswas in charge ofוְעַ֗ל(wə·‘al)Conjunctive waw | Preposition
Strong's 5921:Above, over, upon, againstthe workersעֹשֵׂי֙(‘ō·śê)Verb - Qal - Participle - masculine plural construct
Strong's 6213:To do, makein the fieldsהַשָּׂדֶ֔ה(haś·śā·ḏeh)Article | Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 7704:Field, landwho tilledלַעֲבֹדַ֖ת(la·‘ă·ḇō·ḏaṯ)Preposition-l | Noun - feminine singular construct
Strong's 5656:Work of any kindthe soil.הָאֲדָמָ֑ה(hā·’ă·ḏā·māh)Article | Noun - feminine singular
Strong's 127:Ground, land
Links
1 Chronicles 27:26 NIV1 Chronicles 27:26 NLT1 Chronicles 27:26 ESV1 Chronicles 27:26 NASB1 Chronicles 27:26 KJV
1 Chronicles 27:26 BibleApps.com1 Chronicles 27:26 Biblia Paralela1 Chronicles 27:26 Chinese Bible1 Chronicles 27:26 French Bible1 Chronicles 27:26 Catholic Bible
OT History: 1 Chronicles 27:26 Over those who did the work (1 Chron. 1Ch iCh i Ch 1 chr 1chr)