Topical Bible: the Tribe of Zebulun: Officer Appointed Over by David

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The Tribe of Zebulun, one of the twelve tribes of Israel, holds a significant place in biblical history. Originating from Jacob's sixth son with Leah, Zebulun, this tribe was allotted a region in the northern part of Canaan, as described in the Book of Joshua (Joshua 19:10-16). The territory of Zebulun was strategically located, bordered by the tribes of Asher, Naphtali, and Issachar, and it played a crucial role in the socio-economic and military landscape of ancient Israel.

During the reign of King David, the tribes of Israel were organized and administered with great care. David, known for his leadership and organizational skills, appointed officers over the various tribes to ensure effective governance and military readiness. In 1 Chronicles 27, we find a detailed account of the officers appointed over the tribes, including Zebulun. The officer appointed over the tribe of Zebulun was Ishmaiah son of Obadiah. The Berean Standard Bible states:

"Over Zebulun was Ishmaiah son of Obadiah." (1 Chronicles 27:19)

Ishmaiah's appointment as the officer over Zebulun indicates the tribe's importance in the administrative and military structure of David's kingdom. The officers were responsible for mobilizing the tribes for military campaigns, collecting taxes, and ensuring the welfare of their people. Zebulun, known for its warriors, contributed significantly to David's military endeavors, as evidenced by the large number of soldiers from Zebulun who joined David at Hebron to turn the kingdom of Saul over to him, according to the word of the LORD (1 Chronicles 12:33).

The tribe's reputation for bravery and loyalty is further highlighted in the Song of Deborah, where Zebulun is praised for risking their lives on the battlefield (Judges 5:18). This valor and commitment to the cause of Israel were qualities that David likely valued when appointing Ishmaiah as the officer over Zebulun.

In addition to their military prowess, the people of Zebulun were known for their involvement in trade and commerce, benefiting from their proximity to the sea and key trade routes. This economic activity would have been an essential aspect of the tribe's contribution to the united monarchy under David.

The appointment of Ishmaiah as the officer over Zebulun reflects the tribe's integral role in the united kingdom of Israel. It underscores the importance of strong leadership and organization in maintaining the stability and prosperity of the nation during David's reign.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

1 Chronicles 27:19
Of Zebulun, Ishmaiah the son of Obadiah: of Naphtali, Jerimoth the son of Azriel:
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

The Child-Life in Nazareth
... own history - that of his tribe, clan, perhaps ... teacher - generally the Chazzan, or
Officer of the ... the ancient possessions of Issachar, Zebulun, Naphtali, and ...
/.../the life and times of jesus the messiah/chapter ix the child-life in.htm

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... all the families which constituted the half-tribe of Manasseh ... rule over you, or that
one rule over you? ... them of a certain Zebul, the officer and representative ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm