Over the increase of the vineyards, &c.— And over the wine-cellars, which were in the vine-yards, &c. Houbigant.
REFLECTIONS.—1st, The military establishment was divided into twelve courses of twenty-four thousand men, serving monthly, amounting in all to 288,000 men. This regulation, though now mentioned, seems to have taken place early in David's reign, Asahel, 1 Chronicles 27:7 being killed while David reigned in Hebron. Without the expence of a standing army, a vast force was thus always ready; a well ordered militia, the nation's best security. The chief fathers, 1 Chronicles 27:1 were not the real fathers of the soldiers, but the general officers, who had the chief superintendance. Note; It is wise to be always ready for our spiritual warfare, and never to think ourselves so safe, as not to need a constant watch and guard against our enemies.
2nd, 1. Every tribe seems to have still a president, or prince; who, though subject to the king, had great authority under him among his brethren. Among these we find a son of Abner: his father's opposition to David prevented not the son's preferment.
2. About his person and court David had select persons eminent for their wisdom. One was preceptor to his children: he knew the advantage of a good education, and was desirous therefore to train up his sons betimes in the way they should go. Others were his counsellors, and, among them, Ahitophel. Hushai had the distinguished honour of being his companion and friend. Note; (1.) A wicked man may be a wise counsellor. (2.) Though a good king may find it necessary to make use of such in his cabinet for counsel, he will chuse a better man for his companion and friend.