MPV Commentary

Twelve Captains for Every Month.

The standing military force of Israel was organized in a unique way under David's leadership. A militia had been formed at the beginning of his reign (1Ch 27:7), and it was raised in the following order: Twelve legions, corresponding to the number of tribes, were enlisted in the king's service. Each legion consisted of twenty-four thousand men who served for a month at a time, either at Jerusalem or wherever they were needed.

This system provided a sufficient force for ordinary state purposes as well as for responding to sudden attacks or popular uprisings. When extraordinary emergencies arose, the entire standing army could be mobilized, totaling two hundred eighty-eight thousand soldiers, including twelve thousand officers who served under the twelve princes (1Ch 27:16-24). This military establishment was not burdensome to the country or the royal treasury because serving in this capacity was considered a mark of honor and distinction. The militiamen likely bore their own expenses or received support from their tribes.

The brief period of service did not disrupt the normal course of affairs, as soldiers returned to their private lives after completing their month-long duty. It is uncertain whether the same individuals were always enrolled; however, it's probable that as long as the required number was met, no strict scrutiny was applied. This system allowed for a rotation of men and encouraged all subjects to develop skills in arms, which was part of David's policy.

The commanders of these legions were known as "the chief fathers," referring to the hereditary heads of tribes who held significant power and influence. These leaders oversaw the organization of their respective divisions into regiments of one thousand soldiers and companies of a hundred men, each led by subalterns.

2-3 The first captain in this rotation was Jashobeam, son of Zabdiel (1Ch 11:11; 2Sa 23:8). His father's name was Hachmoni, and Zabdiel might have been an ancestor or a different individual with the same name. In this system, precedence was given to the hero based on their past achievements.

4 The second month's captain was Dodai (or Dodo), but the text seems to require the addition of "Eleazar the son of Dodo" (2Sa 23:9).

7 Asahel, who had been killed at the beginning of David's reign (2Sa 2:23), was likely honored by having his name given to this division. His son took command in his place.