1 Chronicles 11:10

¶ These also [are] the chief of the mighty men whom David had, who strengthened themselves with him in his kingdom, [and] with all Israel, to make him king, according to the word of the LORD concerning Israel.

These also are the chief {H7218} of the mighty men {H1368} whom David {H1732} had, who strengthened {H2388} themselves with him in his kingdom {H4438}, and with all Israel {H3478}, to make him king {H4427}, according to the word {H1697} of the LORD {H3068} concerning Israel {H3478}.

These are David's chief warriors, who, under his rulership, joined forces with him and with all Isra'el to make him king, as ADONAI had said concerning Isra'el;

Now these were the chiefs of David’s mighty men, who, together with all Israel, bolstered and strengthened his kingdom, according to the word of the LORD concerning Israel.

Now these are the chief of the mighty men whom David had, who showed themselves strong with him in his kingdom, together with all Israel, to make him king, according to the word of Jehovah concerning Israel.

Commentary

Context

First Chronicles often focuses on the lineage, legitimate kingship, and spiritual aspects of David's reign, particularly emphasizing Jerusalem and the temple. This verse serves as a preamble to the detailed list of David's mighty men, a renowned group of elite warriors who were instrumental in establishing and maintaining his kingdom. It follows the account of all Israel gathering at Hebron to make David king, signaling a unified acceptance of his rule after the death of Saul.

Meaning and Key Themes

  • David's Elite Warriors: The verse introduces the "chief of the mighty men," a select group of skilled and loyal warriors who formed the backbone of David's military and administrative success. Their loyalty and prowess were essential to his reign.
  • Strengthening David's Kingdom: The phrase "strengthened themselves with him in his kingdom" highlights the active and intentional support these men gave to David. It wasn't just passive allegiance, but a deliberate commitment to empower his rule and solidify his position. This speaks to the importance of loyal and capable supporters in leadership.
  • Unified Israel's Role: The text notes that "all Israel" participated "to make him king," underscoring the national consensus and unity behind David's ascension. His kingship was not a solo endeavor but a collective affirmation by the tribes of Israel.
  • Divine Mandate: Most significantly, the verse concludes with "according to the word of the LORD concerning Israel." This emphasizes that David's kingship was divinely ordained, fulfilling God's promise. The chronicler repeatedly stresses that David's rule was legitimate because it was God's choice, not merely a human political maneuver. This connects to earlier prophecies and the Davidic covenant, where God promised to establish David's throne forever.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word translated "strengthened themselves" is chazaq (חָזַק), often meaning "to be strong," "to seize," or "to prevail." In this context, it implies an active, deliberate exertion of strength and influence to support David. It suggests these men were not merely present but actively engaged in consolidating David's power and ensuring the stability of his kingdom.

Practical Application

This verse offers several timeless lessons:

  • Importance of Support: Great leaders are often surrounded by strong, loyal, and competent individuals who actively support their vision and mission. This principle applies in all areas of life, from family to business to spiritual communities.
  • Divine Purpose: Recognizing that God often works through human agents to accomplish His will is crucial. David's kingship, though established by human effort, was ultimately "according to the word of the LORD." This encourages believers to seek God's guidance and recognize His hand in events, even when human actions are prominent.
  • Unity in Vision: The unity of "all Israel" in making David king highlights the power of shared purpose and collective action in achieving significant goals.
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Cross-References

  • 1 Chronicles 11:3 (3 votes)

    Therefore came all the elders of Israel to the king to Hebron; and David made a covenant with them in Hebron before the LORD; and they anointed David king over Israel, according to the word of the LORD by Samuel.

  • 1 Chronicles 12:38 (2 votes)

    All these men of war, that could keep rank, came with a perfect heart to Hebron, to make David king over all Israel: and all the rest also of Israel [were] of one heart to make David king.

  • 1 Samuel 16:12 (2 votes)

    And he sent, and brought him in. Now he [was] ruddy, [and] withal of a beautiful countenance, and goodly to look to. And the LORD said, Arise, anoint him: for this [is] he.

  • 1 Samuel 16:14 (2 votes)

    ¶ But the Spirit of the LORD departed from Saul, and an evil spirit from the LORD troubled him.

  • 2 Samuel 23:8 (2 votes)

    ¶ These [be] the names of the mighty men whom David had: The Tachmonite that sat in the seat, chief among the captains; the same [was] Adino the Eznite: [he lift up his spear] against eight hundred, whom he slew at one time.

  • 2 Samuel 23:39 (2 votes)

    Uriah the Hittite: thirty and seven in all.

  • 1 Samuel 16:1 (2 votes)

    ¶ And the LORD said unto Samuel, How long wilt thou mourn for Saul, seeing I have rejected him from reigning over Israel? fill thine horn with oil, and go, I will send thee to Jesse the Bethlehemite: for I have provided me a king among his sons.