New International VersionThe third army commander, for the third month, was Benaiah son of Jehoiada the priest. He was chief and there were 24,000 men in his division.
New Living TranslationBenaiah son of Jehoiada the priest was commander of the third division of 24,000 troops, which was on duty during the third month.
English Standard VersionThe third commander, for the third month, was Benaiah, the son of Jehoiada the chief priest; in his division were 24,000.
Berean Standard BibleThe third army commander, as chief for the third month, was Benaiah son of Jehoiada the priest. There were 24,000 men in his division.
King James BibleThe third captain of the host for the third month was Benaiah the son of Jehoiada, a chief priest: and in his course were twenty and four thousand.
New King James VersionThe third captain of the army for the third month was Benaiah, the son of Jehoiada the priest, who was chief; in his division were twenty-four thousand.
New American Standard BibleThe third commander of the army for the third month was Benaiah, the son of Jehoiada the priest, as chief; and in his division were twenty-four thousand.
NASB 1995The third commander of the army for the third month was Benaiah, the son of Jehoiada the priest, as chief; and in his division were 24,000.
NASB 1977The third commander of the army for the third month was Benaiah, the son of Jehoiada the priest, as chief; and in his division were 24,000.
Legacy Standard BibleThe third commander of the army for the third month was Benaiah, the son of Jehoiada the priest, as chief; and in his division were 24,000.
Amplified BibleThe third commander of the army for the third month was Benaiah, the son of Jehoiada the priest, as chief; and in his division were 24,000.
Christian Standard BibleThe third army commander, as chief for the third month, was Benaiah son of the priest Jehoiada; 24,000 were in his division.
Holman Christian Standard BibleThe third army commander, as chief for the third month, was Benaiah son of Jehoiada the priest; 24,000 were in his division.
American Standard VersionThe third captain of the host for the third month was Benaiah, the son of Jehoiada the priest, chief: and in his course were twenty and four thousand.
Contemporary English Versionin the third month, Benaiah the son of Jehoiada the priest,
English Revised VersionThe third captain of the host for the third month was Benaiah, the son of Jehoiada the priest, chief: and in his course were twenty and four thousand.
GOD'S WORD® TranslationThe third commander of the army during the third month was Benaiah, son of the priest Jehoiada. He was the head, and in his unit there were 24,000.
International Standard VersionJehoiada's son Benaiah the priest was commander of the third division for the third month, consisting of 24,000 soldiers.
NET BibleThe third army commander, assigned the third month, was Benaiah son of Jehoiada the priest. He was the leader of his division, which consisted of 24,000 men.
New Heart English BibleThe third captain of the army for the third month was Benaiah, the son of Jehoiada the priest, chief: and in his division were twenty-four thousand.
Webster's Bible TranslationThe third captain of the host for the third month was Benaiah the son of Jehoiada, a chief priest: and in his course were twenty and four thousand. Majority Text Translations Majority Standard BibleThe third army commander, as chief for the third month, was Benaiah son of Jehoiada the priest. There were 24,000 men in his division.
World English BibleThe third captain of the army for the third month was Benaiah, the son of Jehoiada the chief priest. In his division were twenty-four thousand. Literal Translations Literal Standard VersionHead of the third host, for the third month, [is] Benaiah son of Jehoiada, the head priest, and twenty-four thousand [are] on his division.
Young's Literal Translation Head of the third host, for the third month, is Benaiah son of Jehoiada, the head priest, and on his course are twenty and four thousand.
Smith's Literal TranslationThe chief of the army the third for the third month, Benaiah son of Jehoida the head priest: and for his division twenty and four thousand. Catholic Translations Douay-Rheims BibleAnd the captain of the third company for the third month, was Banaias the son of Joiada the priest: and in his division were four and twenty thousand.
Catholic Public Domain VersionAlso, the commander of the third company, in the third month, was Benaiah, the son of Jehoiada the priest; and in his division there were twenty-four thousand.
New American BibleThe third army commander, for the third month, was Benaiah, son of Jehoiada the chief priest, and in his division were twenty-four thousand men.
New Revised Standard VersionThe third commander, for the third month, was Benaiah son of the priest Jehoiada, as chief; in his division were twenty-four thousand. Translations from Aramaic Lamsa BibleThe third commander of the army for the third month was Benaiah the son of Jehoiada, the chief priest; and in his division were twenty-four thousand.
Peshitta Holy Bible TranslatedThe third General of the army for the third month: Benaiah, son of Yuda, the High Priest, and with his division, twenty and four thousand. OT Translations JPS Tanakh 1917The third captain of the host for the third month was Benaiah the son of Jehoiada, the priest, chief; and in his course were twenty and four thousand.
Brenton Septuagint TranslationThe third for the third month was Banaias the son of Jodae the chief priest: and in his division were twenty and four thousand.
Additional Translations ... Audio Bible
Context The Twelve Captains for Each Month… 4Dodai the Ahohite was in charge of the division for the second month, and Mikloth was the leader. There were 24,000 men in his division. 5The thirdarmycommander,as chieffor the thirdmonth,was Benaiahsonof Jehoiadathe priest.There were 24,000men inhis division.6This Benaiah was mighty among the Thirty and was over the Thirty, and his son Ammizabad was in charge of his division.…
Cross References 2 Samuel 23:20-23And Benaiah son of Jehoiada was a man of valor from Kabzeel, a man of many exploits. He struck down two champions of Moab, and on a snowy day he went down into a pit and killed a lion. / He also struck down an Egyptian, a huge man. Although the Egyptian had a spear in his hand, Benaiah went against him with a club, snatched the spear from his hand, and killed the Egyptian with his own spear. / These were the exploits of Benaiah son of Jehoiada, who won a name along with the three mighty men. ...
1 Kings 2:34-35So Benaiah son of Jehoiada went up, struck down Joab, and killed him. He was buried at his own home in the wilderness. / And the king appointed Benaiah son of Jehoiada in Joab’s place over the army, and he appointed Zadok the priest in Abiathar’s place.
1 Chronicles 11:22-25And Benaiah son of Jehoiada was a man of valor from Kabzeel, a man of many exploits. He struck down two champions of Moab, and on a snowy day he went down into a pit and killed a lion. / He also struck down an Egyptian, a huge man five cubits tall. Although the Egyptian had a spear like a weaver’s beam in his hand, Benaiah went against him with a club, snatched the spear from his hand, and killed the Egyptian with his own spear. / These were the exploits of Benaiah son of Jehoiada, who won a name along with the three mighty men. ...
1 Chronicles 18:17Benaiah son of Jehoiada was over the Cherethites and Pelethites; and David’s sons were chief officials at the king’s side.
1 Chronicles 12:27-28including Jehoiada, leader of the house of Aaron, with 3,700 men, / and Zadok, a mighty young man of valor, with 22 commanders from his own family.
1 Chronicles 26:30From the Hebronites, Hashabiah and his relatives, 1,700 capable men, had charge of the affairs of Israel west of the Jordan for all the work of the LORD and for the service of the king.
1 Chronicles 11:6Now David had said, “Whoever is the first to strike down a Jebusite will become chief commander.” And Joab son of Zeruiah went up first, and he became the chief.
1 Chronicles 12:18Then the Spirit came upon Amasai, the chief of the Thirty, and he said: “We are yours, O David! We are with you, O son of Jesse! Peace, peace to you, and peace to your helpers, for your God helps you.” So David received them and made them leaders of his troops.
1 Chronicles 15:16-24David also told the leaders of the Levites to appoint their relatives as singers to lift up their voices with joy, accompanied by musical instruments—harps, lyres, and cymbals. / So the Levites appointed Heman son of Joel; from his brothers, Asaph son of Berechiah; from their brothers the Merarites, Ethan son of Kushaiah; / and with them their brothers next in rank: Zechariah, Jaaziel, Shemiramoth, Jehiel, Unni, Eliab, Benaiah, Maaseiah, Mattithiah, Eliphelehu, Mikneiah, and the gatekeepers Obed-edom and Jeiel. ...
1 Chronicles 16:4-6David appointed some of the Levites to minister before the ark of the LORD, to celebrate, to give thanks, and to praise the LORD, the God of Israel. / Asaph was the chief, Zechariah was second, then Jeiel, Shemiramoth, Jehiel, Mattithiah, Eliab, Benaiah, Obed-edom, and Jeiel. They were to play the harps and lyres, while Asaph sounded the cymbals / and the priests Benaiah and Jahaziel blew the trumpets regularly before the ark of the covenant of God.
1 Chronicles 23:4“Of these,” said David, “24,000 are to oversee the work of the house of the LORD, 6,000 are to be officers and judges,
1 Chronicles 24:3-5With the help of Eleazar’s descendant Zadok and Ithamar’s descendant Ahimelech, David divided them according to the offices of their service. / Since more leaders were found among Eleazar’s descendants than those of Ithamar, they were divided accordingly. There were sixteen heads of families from the descendants of Eleazar and eight from the descendants of Ithamar. / Thus they were divided by lot, for there were officers of the sanctuary and officers of God among both Eleazar’s and Ithamar’s descendants.
1 Chronicles 25:1Additionally, David and the commanders of the army set apart some of the sons of Asaph, Heman, and Jeduthun to prophesy with the accompaniment of lyres, harps, and cymbals. The following is the list of the men who performed this service:
1 Chronicles 26:1These were the divisions of the gatekeepers: From the Korahites: Meshelemiah son of Kore, one of the sons of Asaph.
1 Chronicles 28:1Now David summoned all the leaders of Israel to Jerusalem: the leaders of the tribes, the leaders of the divisions in the king’s service, the commanders of thousands and of hundreds, and the officials in charge of all the property and cattle of the king and his sons, along with the court officials and mighty men—every mighty man of valor.
Treasury of Scripture The third captain of the host for the third month was Benaiah the son of Jehoiada, a chief priest: and in his course were twenty and four thousand. 1 Chronicles 18:17 And Benaiah the son of Jehoiadawas over the Cherethites and the Pelethites; and the sons of Davidwere chief about the king. 1 Kings 4:4 And Benaiah the son of Jehoiadawas over the host: and Zadok and Abiatharwere the priests: chief priest. 1 Kings 4:5 And Azariah the son of Nathanwas over the officers: and Zabud the son of Nathanwas principal officer,and the king's friend: Jump to Previous ArmyBenaiahBenai'ahCaptainChiefCommanderCourseDivisionFourHeadHostJehoiadaJehoi'adaMonthOfficerPriestPrincipalThirdThousandTwentyTwenty-FourJump to Next ArmyBenaiahBenai'ahCaptainChiefCommanderCourseDivisionFourHeadHostJehoiadaJehoi'adaMonthOfficerPriestPrincipalThirdThousandTwentyTwenty-Four1 Chronicles 27 1.The twelve captains for each month16.The princes of the twelve tribes23.The numbering of the people is hindered25.David's several officersThe third army commanderIn the organizational structure of King David's army, the role of the army commander was crucial. The division of the army into monthly rotations ensured that the military was always prepared without overburdening any single group. This system reflects the wisdom and administrative skills of David's reign, emphasizing order and readiness. as chief for the third month
The rotation system assigned each commander a specific month, ensuring that leadership was shared and responsibilities were distributed. The third month corresponds to the Hebrew month of Sivan, which typically falls around May-June. This period was significant for agricultural activities, suggesting that the army's readiness was balanced with the nation's economic needs. was Benaiah son of Jehoiada the priest
Benaiah was a notable figure in David's reign, known for his bravery and loyalty. As the son of Jehoiada, a priest, Benaiah's lineage combined both military and religious significance. His role as a commander highlights the integration of faith and leadership in Israel. Benaiah's exploits are detailed in other scriptures, such as his defeat of two Moabite warriors and a lion in a pit on a snowy day (2 Samuel 23:20-21), showcasing his valor and strength. There were 24,000 men in his division
Each division of David's army consisted of 24,000 men, indicating a well-organized and substantial military force. This number reflects the importance of maintaining a strong defense and the ability to mobilize quickly. The size of the division also underscores the logistical capabilities of David's administration, ensuring that the nation was protected and its interests safeguarded. Persons / Places / Events 1. BenaiahA valiant warrior and leader, Benaiah was the son of Jehoiada, a priest. He was known for his loyalty to King David and later served as a commander in King Solomon's army. His notable deeds include killing two Moabite warriors and a lion in a pit on a snowy day. 2. JehoiadaA priest and the father of Benaiah, Jehoiada played a significant role in the spiritual and military leadership of Israel. His lineage indicates a blend of priestly and military influence. 3. The Third MonthIn the Hebrew calendar, the third month is Sivan, which typically corresponds to May-June in the Gregorian calendar. This was a time of military readiness and organization in David's kingdom. 4. 24,000 MenThis number represents the size of the division under Benaiah's command, highlighting the organized and structured military system established by King David. 5. DivisionThe term refers to the organized military units in David's army, each led by a commander for a specific month, ensuring a well-prepared and rotating defense system. Teaching Points Leadership and LoyaltyBenaiah's life exemplifies the importance of loyalty and integrity in leadership. His faithfulness to David and Solomon shows the value of steadfastness in our commitments. Courage in ActionBenaiah's bravery in battle serves as an inspiration for facing challenges with courage and trust in God's strength. Organizational StructureThe division of the army into monthly rotations reflects the importance of organization and preparedness in both spiritual and practical aspects of life. Priestly Influence in LeadershipBenaiah's priestly heritage underscores the integration of spiritual values in leadership roles, reminding us to lead with a heart aligned with God's purposes. Bible Study Questions and Answers 1.What is the meaning of 1 Chronicles 27:5?
2.How does Benaiah's leadership in 1 Chronicles 27:5 inspire your daily responsibilities?
3.What qualities made Benaiah "mighty among the thirty" and how can we emulate them?
4.How does Benaiah's role connect to other biblical leaders' responsibilities and duties?
5.In what ways can we apply Benaiah's dedication to our spiritual commitments today?
6.How does 1 Chronicles 27:5 encourage us to serve faithfully in our communities?
7.What is the significance of Benaiah's role in 1 Chronicles 27:5?
8.How does Benaiah's leadership reflect God's plan in 1 Chronicles 27:5?
9.Why is Benaiah's lineage important in 1 Chronicles 27:5?
10.What are the top 10 Lessons from 1 Chronicles 27?
11.Who was Benaiah in the Bible?
12.Does 1 Chronicles 27 align with known ancient Near Eastern military practices, or are these numbers and divisions exaggerated?
13.Who was Benaiah in the Bible?
14.Are the named commanders in 1 Chronicles 27 historically verifiable through archaeology or extrabiblical records?What Does 1 Chronicles 27:5 Mean The third army commanderDavid organized Israel’s standing army into twelve monthly rotations (1 Chronicles 27:1). Benaiah appears as the third in line, underscoring God-given order and preparedness—much like the orderly encampment inNumbers 2 and the structured priestly courses later assigned by David (1 Chronicles 24:3–4). This arrangement demonstrates a king who trusts God yet still plans responsibly (Proverbs 21:31).
As chief for the third monthEach commander served one month of active duty per year, so Benaiah’s turn came during month three, roughly our late May/early June (cf.Exodus 19:1 for the biblical “third month” marker). The rotation assured fresh troops and constant national security while allowing men to return to fields and families the rest of the year—a wise blending of faith and prudence (Ecclesiastes 3:1).
Benaiah son of Jehoiada the priest• Benaiah ranks among “the Thirty” mighty men (2 Samuel 23:20–23). • He struck down two Moabite champions, a lion in a pit on a snowy day, and a formidable Egyptian armed only with a staff—feats showing courage rooted in the Lord (Joshua 1:9). • His father Jehoiada was a priest, linking Benaiah to both spiritual and martial heritage (1 Chronicles 27:5;2 Samuel 8:18). • Later, Solomon will place him over the entire army (1 Kings 2:35). God often raises leaders whose loyalty is tested long before greater responsibility arrives (Luke 16:10).
There were 24,000 men in his divisionEvery monthly host numbered exactly 24,000 (1 Chronicles 27:2–15), echoing other “twenty-four” groupings in Scripture—e.g., the twenty-four priestly courses (1 Chronicles 24:18) and the heavenly elders (Revelation 4:4). The figure conveys completeness and readiness. Benaiah’s command over so large a force highlights both his proven valor and the nation’s commitment to defense without neglecting daily life (Nehemiah 4:17).
summary1 Chronicles 27:5 spotlights God’s gift of orderly leadership under David. In month three, the brave and loyal Benaiah, son of a priest, commands 24,000 troops—reminding us that the Lord values preparation, integrates spiritual depth with practical duty, and faithfully promotes those who serve Him courageously. (5) The third captain of the host.--Heb., captain of the third host. So Vulg. Benaiah.--See1Chronicles 11:22. The son of Jehoiada, a chief priest.--Rather,son of Jehoiada the priest, as head, viz., of the third army corps. The term "chief," or "head," belongs to Benaiah, not to his father. But perhaps it is an erroneous gloss on Jehoiada. (Comp.2Chronicles 23:8.) Both LXX. and Vulg. makeBenaiah the priest. Verse 5. - Benaiah ( 1 Chronicles 11:22-25; 2 Samuel 23:20-23). To this name Keil thinks the word chief ( רלֺאשׁ), in the succeeding expression, chief priest, belongs. Thus Jehoiada would be named here only priest. Yet see 1 Chronicles 12:27, where Jehoiada is called לְאַהֲרֹן חַגָּגִיד; and 2 Kings 25:18; where כֹּהֵן הָרלֺאשׁ stands for our הכֹּהֵן רלֺאשׁ, as applied to Seraiah. Benaiah was manifestly a Aaronite.
Parallel Commentaries ...
Hebrew The thirdהַשְּׁלִישִׁי֙(haš·šə·lî·šî)Article | Number - ordinal masculine singular
Strong's 7992:Third, feminine a, third, a third, a third-story cell)armyהַצָּבָ֤א(haṣ·ṣā·ḇā)Article | Noun - common singular
Strong's 6635:A mass of persons, reg, organized for, war, a campaigncommander,שַׂ֣ר(śar)Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 8269:Chieftain, chief, ruler, official, captain, princeas chiefרֹ֑אשׁ(rōš)Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 7218:The headfor the thirdהַשְּׁלִישִׁ֔י(haš·šə·lî·šî)Article | Number - ordinal masculine singular
Strong's 7992:Third, feminine a, third, a third, a third-story cell)month,לַחֹ֣דֶשׁ(la·ḥō·ḏeš)Preposition-l, Article | Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 2320:The new moon, a monthwas Benaiahבְּנָיָ֧הוּ(bə·nā·yā·hū)Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 1141:Benaiah -- 'Yah has built up', the name of several Israelitessonבֶן־(ḇen-)Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 1121:A sonof Jehoiadaיְהוֹיָדָ֛ע(yə·hō·w·yā·ḏā‘)Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 3077:Jehoiada -- 'the LORD knows', the name of several Israelitesthe priest.הַכֹּהֵ֖ן(hak·kō·hên)Article | Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 3548:Priest[There were] 24,000עֶשְׂרִ֥ים(‘eś·rîm)Number - common plural
Strong's 6242:Twenty, twentieth[men] inוְעַל֙(wə·‘al)Conjunctive waw | Preposition
Strong's 5921:Above, over, upon, againsthis division.מַחֲלֻקְתּ֔וֹ(ma·ḥă·luq·tōw)Noun - feminine singular construct | third person masculine singular
Strong's 4256:Division, course
Links 1 Chronicles 27:5 NIV1 Chronicles 27:5 NLT1 Chronicles 27:5 ESV1 Chronicles 27:5 NASB1 Chronicles 27:5 KJV
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OT History: 1 Chronicles 27:5 The third captain of the army (1 Chron. 1Ch iCh i Ch 1 chr 1chr) |
