1 Chronicles 27:14
The eleventh captain for the eleventh month was Benaiah the Pirathonite, of the children of Ephraim: and in his course were twenty and four thousand.
1 Chronicles 27:14 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse from the Bible, we learn about the eleventh captain for the eleventh month, Benaiah the Pirathonite, who was from the children of Ephraim. Benaiah was responsible for leading a group of twenty-four thousand soldiers in his course. This verse emphasizes the organization and structure of the army in ancient times, particularly among the children of Israel. The mention of the captain's name, his origin, and the number of soldiers under his command provides insight into the military system during that period. It highlights the importance of leadership and strategic planning in warfare, as well as the unity and strength of the tribe of Ephraim. Understanding this verse helps us appreciate the historical context of the Bible and the role of military leaders in ancient civilizations.
Theological Overview
When examining the theological interpretation of the verse that mentions Benaiah the Pirathonite, it is important to consider the significance of his position as the eleventh captain for the eleventh month. In biblical numerology, the number eleven is often associated with chaos, disorder, and judgment. As the captain for this particular month, Benaiah may represent the need for order and discipline within the community of believers. Additionally, Benaiah being from the tribe of Ephraim is significant as Ephraim was one of the larger tribes of Israel and often symbolized prosperity and fruitfulness. This could suggest that Benaiah was chosen for his leadership qualities and ability to bring about abundance within his course. The mention of the number twenty-four thousand may also carry symbolic meaning, as twenty-four is associated with completion and fulfillment in various biblical contexts. Therefore, Benaiah's role as captain may signify the need for order, abundance, and fulfillment in the spiritual lives of believers during the eleventh month.
1 Chronicles 27:14 in other translations
American Standard Version
The eleventh [captain] for the eleventh month was Benaiah the Pirathonite, of the children of Ephraim: and in his course were twenty and four thousand.
World English Bible
The eleventh captain for the eleventh month was Benaiah the Pirathonite, of the children of Ephraim: and in his division were twenty-four thousand.
Douay-Rheims
The eleventh, for the eleventh month, was Banaias, a Pharathonite of the sons of Ephraim: and in his company were four and twenty thousand.
Geneva Bible (1599)
The eleueth for the eleuenth moneth was Benaiah the Pirathonite of the sonnes of Ephraim: and in his course foure and twentie thousand.