Jerimoth son of Azriel
A tribal leader of Naphtali who served as a high-ranking official during the administration of the Divided Monarchy.
Jerimoth son of Azriel was a significant administrative figure during the era of the Divided Monarchy. He is specifically identified in the biblical record as the official appointed 'over Naphtali,' signifying his role as the tribal chief or prince (nasi) responsible for the logistics and governance of that specific northern territory.
His inclusion in the genealogical and administrative records of 1 Chronicles indicates he held a position of considerable authority and trust. As the son of Azriel, Jerimoth represented his ancestral line within the sophisticated bureaucratic structure that managed the tribal affairs, military recruitment, and regional oversight of the Israelite people.
Background and Family
Jerimoth was the son of a man named Azriel. While the specific lineage of Azriel is not detailed in the immediate context of 1 Chronicles 27, the association with the tribe of Naphtali defines Jerimoth’s social and political identity. The name Jerimoth itself, meaning 'He who is high' or 'swollen,' was a common name during the monarchic periods, yet this specific individual is distinguished by his father’s name and his regional jurisdiction over the land of Naphtali.
Major Life Events
The primary record of Jerimoth’s life is his appointment to the administrative oversight of the tribe of Naphtali. According to the chronicler, he was one of the 'officers over the tribes of Israel.' This position was not merely honorary; these leaders were responsible for the tribal census, the organization of labor, and the mobilization of troops. Jerimoth functioned as the primary liaison between the central government and the northern tribal territory of Naphtali, an area known for its fertile lands and strategic importance near the Sea of Galilee.
Relationship to Other Biblical Figures
Jerimoth served alongside a cohort of other tribal leaders. His contemporaries included Ishmaiah son of Obadiah (who oversaw Zebulun) and other princes listed in the administrative rolls of the kingdom. While he reported to the central monarchic authority, his immediate sphere of influence was among the families and clans of Naphtali. His father, Azriel, is noted as his primary familial link, grounding Jerimoth’s authority in a recognized patriarchal line.
Spiritual Significance
Though the biblical text provides no direct quotes or specific acts of worship from Jerimoth, his inclusion in the sacred record serves a specific theological purpose. The chronicler emphasizes the orderly administration of Israel as a reflection of God’s sovereignty over the nation. By listing Jerimoth son of Azriel, the text affirms that every tribe—even the northern ones like Naphtali—remained an integral part of the covenant community. His service represents the biblical ideal of stewardship and the structured governance required to maintain a nation dedicated to the Lord's service.
Spiritual Significance
Jerimoth son of Azriel represents the administrative stability of the Israelite tribes. His role highlights the importance of localized leadership within the broader national identity of Israel. In the context of 1 Chronicles, his name contributes to the 'all Israel' theme, ensuring that the northern tribe of Naphtali is recognized as having legitimate, recorded leadership within the divine order of the kingdom.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tribe did Jerimoth son of Azriel belong to?
Jerimoth belonged to or was the administrative head over the tribe of Naphtali.
Who was Jerimoth's father?
His father was a man named Azriel.
What was Jerimoth's primary role?
He was a tribal leader and officer appointed to oversee the affairs and people of the territory of Naphtali.
In which book of the Bible is this Jerimoth mentioned?
He is mentioned exclusively in the book of 1 Chronicles, specifically in chapter 27.
Connected Figures
Categories
Mentions by Book
- 1 Chronicles1
Family & Relationships
Parent
1 Chronicles 27:19
Others Named Jerimoth son of Azriel
Jerimoth, Son of David2 Chronicles 11:18
A son of King David and a member of the royal house of Judah whose daughter, Mahalath, married King Rehoboam.
Jerimoth, Overseer of the Divided Monarchy2 Chronicles 31:13
An official and overseer during the reign of King Hezekiah, Jerimoth was responsible for managing the sacred tithes and contributions in the Temple.
Jerimoth of the Divided Monarchy1 Chronicles 12:5
One of the mighty men who defected from Saul's army to support David at Ziklag during the early years of the Divided Monarchy period.
Jerimoth, Levite Musician of the Divided Monarchy1 Chronicles 25:4
A Levite musician and son of Heman the king's seer, Jerimoth was chosen by lot to lead the fifteenth division of musicians in the temple during the reign of King David.
Jerimoth, Levite of the Egypt and Wilderness Era1 Chronicles 24:30
A Levite of the Merarite clan and son of Mushi, Jerimoth served as a head of a household during the wilderness period and tribal organization of Israel.
Jerimoth, Son of Bela1 Chronicles 7:7
A Benjamite leader and son of Bela, recognized as a head of a family and a mighty man of valor during the era of the Egyptian sojourn and the early formation of the tribes.