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1 Chronicles 27:22 meaning

Azarel’s appointment as prince of Dan highlights the cohesive structure of David’s reign where each tribe, including Dan, bore leadership and responsibility.

“Of Dan, Azarel the son of Jeroham. These were the princes of the tribes of Israel” (v.22). This verse describes one of the appointed tribal leaders serving under King David’s administration. The text names Azarel, whose father was Jeroham, and identifies him as a representative of the tribe of Dan. Each of Israel’s tribes had a specific leader, or “prince,” who governed administrative and military matters, highlighting the collective unity woven throughout Israel’s organization. By placing Azarel in this official roster, 1 Chronicles underscores the shared responsibility each tribe carried in supporting David’s rule.

The tribe of Dan held a distinct geographical location within Israel’s territorial allotments. Originally assigned a region in the southwest, Dan later migrated north, establishing themselves near the city of Laish (Judges 18:27-29). This tribe’s story contains complexities, including instances of spiritual waywardness. Notably, some genealogical lists omit Dan, such as in 1 Chronicles 4-7, indicating a complicated legacy for a group once counted among Israel’s twelve tribes. Even so, at the time of David, Dan’s presence was still recognized and formally represented by individuals like Azarel who served the kingdom.

In the broader tapestry of scripture, this appointment of tribal figures reveals God’s inclusive attention to all branches of His people, despite Dan’s later difficulties. While numerous biblical accounts focus on tribes like Judah and Levi, the mention of Dan’s prominent official here illustrates Israel’s interconnected body under David’s monarchy. It also foreshadows the unifying message of Jesus, who called followers from every corner of Israel to join in God’s kingdom purposes (Matthew 10:6).

Azarel’s recognition affirms Dan’s ongoing role among the covenant people of God, demonstrating that each tribe had a place and function in Israel’s communal life.

1 Chronicles 27:22