1 Chronicles 11:23

KJV

And he slew an Egyptian, a man of [great] stature, five cubits high; and in the Egyptian's hand [was] a spear like a weaver's beam; and he went down to him with a staff, and plucked the spear out of the Egyptian's hand, and slew him with his own spear.

KJV (with Strong's)

And he slew {H5221} an Egyptian {H4713}, a man {H376} of great stature {H4060}, five {H2568} cubits {H520} high; and in the Egyptian's {H4713} hand {H3027} was a spear {H2595} like a weaver's {H707} beam {H4500}; and he went down {H3381} to him with a staff {H7626}, and plucked {H1497} the spear {H2595} out of the Egyptian's {H4713} hand {H3027}, and slew {H2026} him with his own spear {H2595}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Here is how he killed an Egyptian, a man who was very tall, seven-and-a-half feet: the Egyptian had a spear in his hand the size of a weaver's beam; he went down to him with only a stick, seized the spear from the Egyptian's hand and killed him with his own spear.

Berean Standard Bible

He also killed an Egyptian, a huge man five cubits tall. Although the Egyptian had a spear like a weaver’s beam in his hand, Benaiah went against him with a club, snatched the spear from his hand, and killed the Egyptian with his own spear.

American Standard Version

And he slew an Egyptian, a man of great stature, five cubits high; and in the Egyptian’s hand was a spear like a weaver’s beam; and he went down to him with a staff, and plucked the spear out of the Egyptian’s hand, and slew him with his own spear.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Chronicles 11:23 powerfully narrates one of Benaiah son of Jehoiada's most remarkable exploits, showcasing his extraordinary courage and ingenuity among King David's elite "mighty men." The verse details his audacious confrontation with an Egyptian giant of formidable stature, armed with a massive spear. Approaching with only a staff, Benaiah skillfully disarmed the giant and, with a stunning reversal, slew him with his own weapon. This concise yet vivid account underscores Benaiah's unparalleled combat prowess, strategic brilliance, and the divine enablement that characterized David's most trusted champions, cementing his place as a legendary warrior.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically placed within 1 Chronicles 11:10-47, a comprehensive and laudatory register of King David's most distinguished warriors, often referred to as his "mighty men." The Chronicler's primary purpose in compiling this detailed roster is not merely historical record-keeping but theological legitimation: to underscore the divine favor bestowed upon David's reign and the exceptional individuals God raised up to establish and protect his kingdom. Benaiah's individual feats are introduced in [1 Chronicles 11:22](/1_chronicles/11-22 "1 Chronicles 11:22 - Benaiah's Other Heroic Deeds"), which precedes this specific account, enumerating his other impressive accomplishments, such as slaying two "lion-like men of Moab" and a lion in a pit on a snowy day. The narrative of Benaiah's victory over the Egyptian giant finds a parallel in [2 Samuel 23:21](/2_samuel/23-21 "2 Samuel 23:21 - Benaiah's Exploit in 2 Samuel"), affirming its historical significance and its place within the broader biblical narrative of Israel's military history and the consolidation of David's throne. These accounts collectively serve to highlight the caliber of men serving God's anointed king and the divine hand in their victories.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The events described unfold during the early united monarchy under King David, a period marked by significant military expansion, territorial consolidation, and the establishment of Israel as a regional power. In this era, the strength and prowess of a king's army, particularly his elite personal guard, were crucial for maintaining control, deterring adversaries, and executing divine mandates. The presence of "giants" or men of unusual stature and strength was a recurring motif in ancient Near Eastern narratives, often representing formidable, seemingly invincible foes who posed existential threats to communities. The "Egyptian" opponent is significant, as Egypt was a powerful and often rival empire, making a victory over one of its champions particularly noteworthy. The description of the giant's weapon, "a spear like a weaver's beam," is not hyperbole but reflects the reality of massive, heavy weapons used in ancient warfare, designed for maximum destructive impact. Benaiah's approach with a "staff" dramatically highlights the stark contrast in weaponry, emphasizing his audacious courage, reliance on agility and skill over brute force, and perhaps a spiritual trust reminiscent of earlier biblical accounts of seemingly mismatched combatants, such as David and Goliath.

* **Key Themes:** The narrative of Benaiah's triumph over the Egyptian giant contributes significantly to several overarching themes within 1 Chronicles and the broader biblical canon. Foremost among these is **Exceptional Valor and Courage**, as Benaiah willingly confronts a physically overwhelming adversary with seemingly inadequate weaponry, demonstrating a fearless spirit that defies conventional military logic. This act also powerfully underscores **Resourcefulness and Skill**, as Benaiah's ingenious strategy of disarming the giant and using the enemy's own weapon against him showcases remarkable tactical prowess, quick thinking, and adaptability. This echoes the strategic victory seen in [David's triumph over Goliath](/1_samuel/17 "1 Samuel 17 - David and Goliath"), where a seemingly weaker opponent overcomes a superior foe through unconventional means and divine enablement. Ultimately, the story highlights the theme of **Overcoming Overwhelming Odds**, portraying Benaiah's victory as a testament to the power of determination, skill, and, implicitly, the divine favor that empowers God's chosen instruments to achieve the seemingly impossible. Such narratives bolster the Chronicler's message that God is actively with David and his kingdom, granting them victory against all adversaries.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **stature (Hebrew, _middâh'_):** The term מִדָּה (_middâh_) refers to a measurement or dimension, specifically indicating height in this context. Describing the Egyptian as a "man of great stature, five cubits high" (approximately 7.5 feet or 2.3 meters) immediately establishes the immense physical challenge Benaiah faced. This detail is crucial for appreciating the magnitude of Benaiah's achievement, emphasizing the extraordinary physical disparity and setting the stage for a dramatic display of courage and skill against overwhelming odds. The word underscores the quantifiable and formidable nature of the opponent.
* **plucked (Hebrew, _gâzal'_):** The verb גָּזַל (_gâzal_) means "to pluck off," "strip," or "rob," often implying force or violence. In the context of Benaiah "plucking the spear out of the Egyptian's hand," this word conveys the swiftness, decisiveness, and forceful nature of his action. It highlights Benaiah's incredible agility and strength, enabling him to seize a formidable weapon from a giant. This is the pivotal moment of reversal, where Benaiah actively takes control of the battle by disarming his opponent, rather than merely reacting.
* **slew (Hebrew, _hârag'_):** The verb הָרַג (_hârag_) means "to smite with deadly intent," "kill," or "slay." This word signifies the decisive and final outcome of the confrontation. Benaiah's act of slaying the Egyptian with his own spear underscores the completeness of his victory and the poetic justice of the situation. It conveys the lethal effectiveness of Benaiah's counter-attack, ensuring the formidable foe was utterly defeated.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And he slew an Egyptian, a man of [great] stature, five cubits high;":** This opening clause immediately establishes the central action and introduces the two main figures: Benaiah (implied as "he") and his formidable adversary, an Egyptian. The description of the Egyptian's "great stature" and precise height of "five cubits" (approximately 7.5 feet or 2.3 meters) instantly conveys the immense physical disparity between the combatants. This detail is crucial for setting the stage, highlighting the "giant" quality of the foe and emphasizing the extraordinary nature of Benaiah's impending victory, which will defy conventional expectations of strength.
* **"and in the Egyptian's hand [was] a spear like a weaver's beam;":** This clause further amplifies the overwhelming advantage held by the Egyptian, not only in size but also in armament. The vivid simile "like a weaver's beam" powerfully describes the spear as exceptionally large, heavy, and unwieldy, suggesting it was a weapon of devastating power that only a giant could wield effectively. This detail intensifies the perceived invincibility of the Egyptian and underscores the sheer audacity and courage required for Benaiah to confront him.
* **"and he went down to him with a staff, and plucked the spear out of the Egyptian's hand, and slew him with his own spear.":** This final, climactic clause details Benaiah's audacious and ingenious strategy, bringing the narrative to its dramatic conclusion. Approaching a giant armed with a massive spear with only a "staff" demonstrates unparalleled courage, tactical brilliance, and perhaps a reliance on agility and cunning over brute force. The act of "plucking the spear out of the Egyptian's hand" is the turning point, showcasing Benaiah's incredible skill, speed, and decisive action in disarming his formidable opponent. The ultimate irony and triumph come in the final, decisive act: Benaiah "slew him with his own spear," turning the enemy's strength and weapon against him. This sequence highlights Benaiah's resourcefulness, the completeness of his victory, and the dramatic reversal of power.

#### Literary Devices
The narrative in 1 Chronicles 11:23 masterfully employs several literary devices to amplify the drama and significance of Benaiah's extraordinary feat. **Contrast** is central to the verse, vividly depicted in the stark difference between the Egyptian's immense stature and massive "spear like a weaver's beam" and Benaiah's seemingly humble "staff." This highlights the seemingly insurmountable odds Benaiah faced and underscores his extraordinary courage and skill. The use of **Simile** ("spear like a weaver's beam") is highly effective, creating a powerful and immediate visual image of the spear's formidable size and weight, making Benaiah's act of disarming the giant all the more astonishing and emphasizing the danger involved. Furthermore, the narrative employs a potent form of **Irony** or **Poetic Justice** as Benaiah ultimately slays the Egyptian with his own weapon, turning the enemy's strength and instrument of power against him. This not only showcases Benaiah's ingenuity but also serves as a thematic echo of divine reversals, where the seemingly weak overcome the strong. The entire account functions as an **Encomium**, a formal expression of praise and celebration for Benaiah's exceptional valor and skill, thereby contributing to the Chronicler's broader aim of glorifying David's mighty men and, by extension, David's divinely favored kingdom.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Benaiah's extraordinary victory over the Egyptian giant is far more than a mere heroic tale; it is deeply imbued with profound theological significance, illustrating God's sovereign power to work through seemingly disadvantaged individuals to achieve remarkable triumphs. This narrative speaks powerfully to the theme of divine enablement, where human courage, skill, and strategic thinking are amplified and blessed by God's presence, allowing His servants to overcome what appears to be insurmountable opposition. It teaches that true strength is not solely physical might or superior weaponry, but often resides in faith, ingenuity, and the audacious willingness to step out against overwhelming odds, trusting in a greater, unseen power. It is a testament to the biblical principle that God often chooses the weak and ill-equipped to confound the strong, thereby demonstrating that the ultimate victory belongs to Him and redounds to His glory.

* [1 Samuel 17:45-47](/1_samuel/17-45-47 "1 Samuel 17:45-47 - David's Reliance on God Against Goliath")
* [Zechariah 4:6](/zechariah/4-6 "Zechariah 4:6 - Not by Might, Nor by Power, but by My Spirit")
* [2 Corinthians 12:9-10](/2_corinthians/12-9-10 "2 Corinthians 12:9-10 - God's Strength Perfected in Weakness")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The vivid account of Benaiah's triumph over the Egyptian giant offers profound and enduring lessons for contemporary believers navigating the complexities of life. We, too, frequently encounter "giants" in our lives—whether they manifest as overwhelming challenges, persistent temptations, debilitating fears, seemingly insurmountable obstacles to our faith, or formidable adversaries in our spiritual journeys. Benaiah's story encourages us to confront these metaphorical giants not with despair or resignation, but with audacious courage and resourceful faith, even when our own resources seem meager, symbolized by his humble "staff." His ingenuity in disarming the giant and then turning the enemy's own weapon against him teaches us to be strategic, discerning, and adaptable in our spiritual battles, recognizing that God can empower us to turn the very things that oppose us into instruments of our victory. Ultimately, Benaiah's feat reminds us that when we step out in faith, embracing our dependence on God even against overwhelming odds, His strength can be made perfect in our weakness, enabling us to achieve what is humanly impossible. It calls us to trust in divine enablement and to remember that the battle, in its truest sense, is the Lord's.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "giants" are you currently facing in your life, and what does Benaiah's audacious approach teach you about confronting them with courage and faith?**
* **In what ways can you cultivate greater resourcefulness and strategic thinking in your spiritual battles, perhaps even discerning how to turn perceived weaknesses or external pressures into opportunities for God's glory?**
* **How does Benaiah's reliance on a simple "staff" instead of a mighty weapon challenge your understanding of where true strength originates in the face of daunting adversity?**

### FAQ
**Was the Egyptian giant related to Goliath or other giants mentioned in the Bible?**

Answer: While the Egyptian giant shares the characteristic of immense stature with other formidable figures in the Old Testament, such as Goliath (famously described in [1 Samuel 17](/1_samuel/17 "1 Samuel 17 - David and Goliath")) or the Rephaim, the biblical text does not explicitly state a direct familial or tribal relationship between Benaiah's Egyptian opponent and these other giants. The description of his "great stature" and specific height of "five cubits" (approximately 7.5 feet or 2.3 meters) places him within the category of exceptionally large individuals, a phenomenon attested in various ancient cultures and in other biblical accounts. However, he is presented as distinct from the Philistine giants like Goliath or Ishbi-Benob (mentioned in [2 Samuel 21:16](/2_samuel/21-16 "2 Samuel 21:16 - Ishbi-Benob")), who are typically associated with specific groups like the Anakim or Rephaim. The focus of 1 Chronicles 11:23 is on his individual formidable nature as an opponent and the extraordinary feat of Benaiah in overcoming him, rather than on his specific lineage or broader giant-kinship.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Benaiah's remarkable victory over the Egyptian giant, where he disarms his formidable foe and slays him with his own spear, serves as a profound Old Testament type, powerfully foreshadowing the ultimate triumph of Jesus Christ over the forces of evil. Just as Benaiah confronted a physically imposing enemy with seemingly inadequate means (a staff) and ingeniously turned the enemy's strength against him, Christ confronted the spiritual giants of sin, death, and Satan with the apparent "weakness" of the cross. Through His crucifixion, which appeared to be the ultimate defeat, Jesus effectively "disarmed the powers and authorities and put them to open shame, by triumphing over them in him" ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Christ's Triumph Over Powers")). He conquered death by dying, using the very "weapon" of the enemy—death itself—to destroy "him who holds the power of death—that is, the devil" ([Hebrews 2:14](/hebrews/2-14 "Hebrews 2:14 - Christ's Victory Over Death and the Devil")). Christ's resurrection is the ultimate demonstration of this divine reversal, where the enemy's greatest perceived victory became his greatest and most decisive defeat, securing eternal life and freedom for all who believe ([Romans 6:9-10](/romans/6-9-10 "Romans 6:9-10 - Christ's Victory Over Death")). Thus, Benaiah's courage and ingenuity in overcoming a literal giant point to the far greater, cosmic victory of the Lamb of God over all spiritual adversaries, demonstrating that God's power is perfected in apparent weakness.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

1 Samuel 17:7

And the staff of his spear [was] like a weaver's beam; and his spear's head [weighed] six hundred shekels of iron: and one bearing a shield went before him.

1 Samuel 17:51

Therefore David ran, and stood upon the Philistine, and took his sword, and drew it out of the sheath thereof, and slew him, and cut off his head therewith. And when the Philistines saw their champion was dead, they fled.

1 Samuel 17:4

And there went out a champion out of the camp of the Philistines, named Goliath, of Gath, whose height [was] six cubits and a span.

1 Chronicles 20:5

And there was war again with the Philistines; and Elhanan the son of Jair slew Lahmi the brother of Goliath the Gittite, whose spear staff [was] like a weaver's beam.

Deuteronomy 3:11

For only Og king of Bashan remained of the remnant of giants; behold, his bedstead [was] a bedstead of iron; [is] it not in Rabbath of the children of Ammon? nine cubits [was] the length thereof, and four cubits the breadth of it, after the cubit of a man.