1 Chronicles 11:15

Now three of the thirty captains went down to the rock to David, into the cave of Adullam; and the host of the Philistines encamped in the valley of Rephaim.

Now three {H7969} of the thirty {H7970} captains {H7218} went down {H3381} to the rock {H6697} to David {H1732}, into the cave {H4631} of Adullam {H5725}; and the host {H4264} of the Philistines {H6430} encamped {H2583} in the valley {H6010} of Rephaim {H7497}.

Three of the thirty leaders went down to the rock and came to David during harvest season at the cave of 'Adulam when the army of the P'lishtim had set up camp in the Refa'im Valley.

Three of the thirty chief men went down to David, to the rock at the cave of Adullam, while a company of Philistines was encamped in the Valley of Rephaim.

And three of the thirty chief men went down to the rock to David, into the cave of Adullam; and the host of the Philistines were encamped in the valley of Rephaim.

Commentary

1 Chronicles 11:15 introduces a dramatic scene from David's early career, highlighting the unwavering loyalty and remarkable courage of his most elite warriors. This verse sets the stage for one of the most celebrated acts of devotion in the Old Testament, illustrating the perilous circumstances David and his men faced while he was a fugitive.

Historical and Cultural Context

At this period, David was not yet the unified king of Israel but a leader of a band of loyal, though often marginalized, men. He was on the run from King Saul, and the cave of Adullam served as a strategic refuge where he gathered those who were distressed, in debt, or discontented. The "three of the thirty captains" mentioned here refer to the most prominent members of David's elite fighting force, known as his mighty men. Their journey to David was fraught with danger, as the "host of the Philistines encamped in the valley of Rephaim" indicates a significant military presence. The Valley of Rephaim was a well-known battleground southwest of Jerusalem, frequently contested between Israel and their perennial enemies, the Philistines. This proximity of the enemy underscores the bravery required for these captains to reach David.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Unwavering Loyalty: The primary theme is the profound loyalty of David's men. Despite David's fugitive status and the immediate danger posed by the Philistines, these captains risked their lives to be with him.
  • Courage in Adversity: The verse highlights the immense courage of David and his followers. Operating under constant threat, their willingness to confront danger for their leader is a testament to their valor.
  • Setting the Stage for Heroism: This verse serves as the crucial introduction to the subsequent narrative in 1 Chronicles 11:16-19, where these same three captains perform an extraordinary feat of bravery to retrieve water for David from the well of Bethlehem (see 1 Chronicles 11:17).

Practical Application

1 Chronicles 11:15 offers timeless lessons on commitment and valor. It prompts us to reflect on:

  • Support in Difficult Times: How do we support leaders or causes we believe in, especially when they are facing significant challenges or adversity?
  • Courageous Service: Are we willing to step out of our comfort zones and demonstrate courage when circumstances demand it, even if it involves personal risk?

The actions of these mighty men serve as an enduring example of devotion, reminding us of the strength found in faithful companionship and the willingness to sacrifice for a greater purpose.

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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • 1 Chronicles 14:9

    And the Philistines came and spread themselves in the valley of Rephaim.

  • Isaiah 17:5

    And it shall be as when the harvestman gathereth the corn, and reapeth the ears with his arm; and it shall be as he that gathereth ears in the valley of Rephaim.

  • 2 Samuel 5:18

    The Philistines also came and spread themselves in the valley of Rephaim.

  • 2 Samuel 23:13

    And three of the thirty chief went down, and came to David in the harvest time unto the cave of Adullam: and the troop of the Philistines pitched in the valley of Rephaim.

  • 2 Samuel 23:39

    Uriah the Hittite: thirty and seven in all.

  • Joshua 15:8

    And the border went up by the valley of the son of Hinnom unto the south side of the Jebusite; the same [is] Jerusalem: and the border went up to the top of the mountain that [lieth] before the valley of Hinnom westward, which [is] at the end of the valley of the giants northward:

  • Joshua 12:15

    The king of Libnah, one; the king of Adullam, one;
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