What is the meaning of 1 Chronicles 27:18?

over Judah was Elihu, one of David’s brothers

• “Over Judah was Elihu, one of David’s brothers” (1 Chronicles 27:18).

• David appoints a trusted sibling to oversee his own tribe, highlighting:

– Loyalty and accountability within the king’s household (cf. 1 Samuel 16:13; 2 Samuel 19:11).

– The importance of godly family partnerships in leadership, echoing earlier models of shared governance such as Moses and Aaron (Exodus 4:14; Exodus 18:21).

• Judah already held prominence—Jacob’s prophecy pointed to royal authority coming through this tribe (Genesis 49:10). By giving a brother charge of Judah, David preserves unity while keeping covenant promises in view.

• The listing verifies the historical record: Scripture names real people in real offices, reinforcing the factual accuracy of the chronicler’s account (1 Chronicles 4–6; 1 Chronicles 9:1).

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over Issachar was Omri son of Michael

• “Over Issachar was Omri son of Michael” (1 Chronicles 27:18).

• Issachar had earlier supplied “men who understood the times, with knowledge of what Israel should do” (1 Chronicles 12:32). David therefore selects Omri—evidently a respected, discerning leader—to continue that tradition.

• The appointment demonstrates:

– David’s appreciation for each tribe’s unique strengths (Numbers 2:5; Deuteronomy 33:18-19).

– Continuity from the days when Issachar rallied to crown David at Hebron (1 Chronicles 12:38-40).

– God’s providence in raising capable administrators so the kingdom functions in peace (Proverbs 29:2; Romans 13:3-4).

• Just as another Omri would later become king in the northern kingdom (1 Kings 16:16), this Omri shows how the Lord repeatedly raises leaders to fulfill specific purposes, whether on a tribal or national scale.

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summary

• 1 Chronicles 27:18 records two strategic appointments that buttress David’s reign with stability and integrity.

• Elihu’s oversight of Judah roots leadership in covenant lineage, while Omri’s stewardship of Issachar honors that tribe’s discernment and past loyalty.

• Together the verse illustrates God-given order, trustworthy administration, and the faithfulness of Scripture’s historical detail—all pointing forward to the ultimate King from Judah who will rule every tribe in perfect justice.