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Commentary on 1 Chronicles 11 verses 10–47
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.
11 And this is the number of the mighty men whom David had; Jashobeam, an Hachmonite, the chief of the captains: he lifted up his spear against three hundred slain by him at one time.
12 And after him was Eleazar the son of Dodo, the Ahohite, who was one of the three mighties.
13 He was with David at Pasdammim, and there the Philistines were gathered together to battle, where was a parcel of ground full of barley; and the people fled from before the Philistines.
14 And they set themselves in the midst of that parcel, and delivered it, and slew the Philistines; and the LORD saved them by a great deliverance.
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.
16 And David was then in the hold, and the Philistines' garrison was then at Bethlehem.
17 And David longed, and said, Oh that one would give me drink of the water of the well of Bethlehem, that is at the gate!
18 And the three brake through the host of the Philistines, and drew water out of the well of Bethlehem, that was by the gate, and took it, and brought it to David: but David would not drink of it, but poured it out to the LORD,
19 And said, My God forbid it me, that I should do this thing: shall I drink the blood of these men that have put their lives in jeopardy? for with the jeopardy of their lives they brought it. Therefore he would not drink it. These things did these three mightiest.
20 And Abishai the brother of Joab, he was chief of the three: for lifting up his spear against three hundred, he slew them, and had a name among the three.
21 Of the three, he was more honourable than the two; for he was their captain: howbeit he attained not to the first three.
22 Benaiah the son of Jehoiada, the son of a valiant man of Kabzeel, who had done many acts; he slew two lionlike men of Moab: also he went down and slew a lion in a pit in a snowy day.
23 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.
24 These things did Benaiah the son of Jehoiada, and had the name among the three mighties.
25 Behold, he was honourable among the thirty, but attained not to the first three: and David set him over his guard.
26 Also the valiant men of the armies were, Asahel the brother of Joab, Elhanan the son of Dodo of Bethlehem,
27 Shammoth the Harorite, Helez the Pelonite,
28 Ira the son of Ikkesh the Tekoite, Abiezer the Antothite,
29 Sibbecai the Hushathite, Ilai the Ahohite,
30 Maharai the Netophathite, Heled the son of Baanah the Netophathite,
31 Ithai the son of Ribai of Gibeah, that pertained to the children of Benjamin, Benaiah the Pirathonite,
32 Hurai of the brooks of Gaash, Abiel the Arbathite,
33 Azmaveth the Baharumite, Eliahba the Shaalbonite,
34 The sons of Hashem the Gizonite, Jonathan the son of Shage the Hararite,
35 Ahiam the son of Sacar the Hararite, Eliphal the son of Ur,
36 Hepher the Mecherathite, Ahijah the Pelonite,
37 Hezro the Carmelite, Naarai the son of Ezbai,
38 Joel the brother of Nathan, Mibhar the son of Haggeri,
39 Zelek the Ammonite, Naharai the Berothite, the armourbearer of Joab the son of Zeruiah,
40 Ira the Ithrite, Gareb the Ithrite,
41 Uriah the Hittite, Zabad the son of Ahlai,
42 Adina the son of Shiza the Reubenite, a captain of the Reubenites, and thirty with him,
43 Hanan the son of Maachah, and Joshaphat the Mithnite,
44 Uzzia the Ashterathite, Shama and Jehiel the sons of Hothan the Aroerite,
45 Jediael the son of Shimri, and Joha his brother, the Tizite,
46 Eliel the Mahavite, and Jeribai, and Joshaviah, the sons of Elnaam, and Ithmah the Moabite,
47 Eliel, and Obed, and Jasiel the Mesobaite.
We have here an account of David's worthies, the great men of his time that served him and were preferred by him. The first edition of this catalogue we had, Sa2 23:8, etc. This is much the same, only that those named here from Ch1 11:41 to the end are added. Observe,
I. The connexion of this catalogue with that which is said concerning David, Ch1 11:9. 1. David waxed greater and greater, and these were his mighty men. Much of the strength and honour of great men is borrowed from their servants and depends upon them, which cannot but somewhat diminish pomp and power in the opinion of those that are wise. David is great because he has great men about him; take these away, and he is where he was. 2. The Lord of hosts was with him, and these were the mighty men which he had. God was with him and wrought for him, but by men and means and the use of second causes. By this it appeared that God was with him, that he inclined the hearts of those to come over to him that were able to serve his interest. As, if God be for us none can be against us, so, if God be for us, all shall be for us that we have occasion for. Yet David ascribed his success and increase, not to the hosts he had, but to the Lord of hosts, not to the mighty men that were with him, but to the mighty God whose presence with us is all in all.
II. The title of this catalogue (Ch1 11:10): These are the men who strengthened themselves with him. In strengthening him they strengthened themselves and their own interest; for his advancement was theirs. What we do in our places for the support of the kingdom of the Son of David we shall be gainers by. In strengthening it we strengthen ourselves. It may be read, They held strongly with him and with all Israel. Note, When God has work to do he will not want fit instruments to do it with. If it be work that requires mighty men, mighty men shall either be found or made to effect it, according to the word of the Lord.
III. That which made all these men honourable was the good service that they did to their king and country; they helped to make David king (Ch1 11:10) - a good work. They slew the Philistines, and other public enemies, and were instrumental to save Israel. Note, The way to be great is to do good. Nor did they gain this honour without labour and the hazard of their lives. The honours of Christ's kingdom are prepared for those that fight the good fight of faith, that labour and suffer, and are willing to venture all, even life itself, for Christ and a good conscience. It is by a patient continuance in well-doing that we must seek for glory, and honour, and immortality; and those that are faithful to the Son of David shall find their names registered and enrolled much more to their honour than these are in the records of fame.
IV. Among all the great exploits of David's mighty men, here is nothing great mentioned concerning David himself but his pouring out water before the Lord which he had longed for, Ch1 11:18, Ch1 11:19. Four very honourable dispositions of David appeared in that action, which, for aught I know, made it as great as any of the achievements of those worthies. 1. Repentance for his own weakness. It is really an honour to a man, when he is made sensible that he has said or done any thing unadvisedly, to unsay it and undo it again by repentance, as it is a shame to a man when he has said or done amiss to stand to it. 2. Denial of his own appetite. He longed for the water of the well of Bethlehem; but, when he had it, he would not drink it, because he would not so far humour himself and gratify a foolish fancy. He that has such a rule as this over his own spirit is better than the mighty. It is an honour to a man to have the command of himself; but he that will command himself must sometimes cross himself. 3. Devotion towards God. That water which he thought too good, too precious, for his own drinking, he poured out to the Lord for a drink offering. If we have any thing better than another, let God be honoured with it, who is the best, and should have the best. 4. Tenderness of his servants. It put him into the greatest confusion imaginable to think that three brave men should hazard their lives to fetch water for him. In his account it turns the water into blood. It is the honour of great men not to be prodigal of the blood of those they employ, but, in all the commands they give them, to put their own souls into their souls' stead.
V. In the wonderful achievements of these heroes the power of God must be acknowledged. How could one slay 300 and another the same number (Ch1 11:11, Ch1 11:20), another two lion-like men (Ch1 11:22), and another an Egyptian giant (Ch1 11:23), if they had not had the extraordinary presence of God with them, according to that promise, Jos 23:10, One man of you shall chase a thousand, for the Lord your God fighteth for you?
VI. One of these worthies is said to be an Ammonite (Ch1 11:39), another a Moabite (Ch1 11:46), and yet the law was that an Ammonite and a Moabite should not enter into the congregation of the Lord, Deu 23:3. These, it is likely, had approved themselves so hearty for the interest of Israel that in their case it was thought fit to dispense with that law, and the rather because it was an indication that the Son of David would have worthies among the Gentiles: with him there is neither Greek nor Jew.
Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 10–47. Public domain.
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SUMMARY
1 Chronicles 11:27 meticulously names Shammoth the Harorite and Helez the Pelonite, two distinguished individuals within King David's elite corps of "mighty men." This verse, embedded in a comprehensive roster in 1 Chronicles 11, profoundly underscores the Chronicler's commitment to detailed historical record-keeping, highlighting the diverse origins, unwavering loyalty, and specific contributions of the warriors who faithfully served King David, thereby illustrating the divine backing and formidable strength that characterized his reign.
CONTEXT
Literary Context: 1 Chronicles 11:27 is an integral part of the extensive and detailed catalogue of King David's most valiant warriors, commonly known as "David's mighty men." This significant list commences in 1 Chronicles 11:10 and extends through 1 Chronicles 12:40. The inclusion of this roster immediately follows the pivotal narrative of David's anointing as king over all Israel at Hebron (1 Chronicles 11:1-3) and his strategic capture of Jerusalem, which he established as his capital city (1 Chronicles 11:4-9). The Chronicler's deliberate decision to include such a comprehensive and specific enumeration serves not merely as a historical archive but as a profound theological affirmation. It underscores the widespread and diverse support David garnered, emphasizing the divine favor that enabled him to assemble such a formidable and loyal fighting force, which was absolutely critical for the secure establishment and enduring stability of his divinely appointed kingdom. A parallel, though slightly varied, account of these valiant figures can also be found in 2 Samuel 23:8-39, further affirming their historical significance.
Historical & Cultural Context: In the ancient Near East, the stability, power, and prestige of a monarch's reign were inextricably linked to the loyalty, skill, and sheer prowess of his military elite. David's "mighty men" were far more than mere soldiers; they constituted a highly professional fighting force, a dedicated personal guard, and crucial strategic advisors who had stood by David through the arduous years of his wilderness exile from Saul and throughout his remarkable ascent to power. Their unwavering allegiance was a hallmark of their character. Descriptive titles such as "the Harorite" and "the Pelonite" were common cultural markers in this period, serving to indicate an individual's geographical origin, tribal affiliation, or even a specific family lineage. Such identifiers were vital for distinguishing individuals in a society where personal names might be common. While the precise locations of "Haror" and "Pelon" remain somewhat ambiguous to modern scholarship, these suffixes emphatically underscore the diverse geographical and tribal origins of David's loyalists. His forces drew strength from various regions of Israel and, in some cases (as seen with certain Gittites elsewhere), even from non-Israelite backgrounds, reflecting David's expansive influence and the unifying nature of his leadership. This meticulous detailing of individuals highlights the ancient world's profound emphasis on lineage, place, and the personal contribution of each individual to collective endeavors and national identity.
Key Themes: The meticulous inclusion of individuals like Shammoth and Helez within this detailed roster in 1 Chronicles 11 powerfully contributes to several overarching theological and narrative themes central to the book of Chronicles. Firstly, it vividly illustrates the theme of Divine Providence and Human Agency, demonstrating how God sovereignly works through specific, dedicated individuals to accomplish His overarching plan for His chosen king and nation. The success of David's reign was not accidental but a result of God's hand working through faithful men. Secondly, this list profoundly emphasizes Loyalty and Faithful Service, portraying these men as exemplary models of unwavering dedication to God's anointed leader, a quality held in exceptionally high regard within the Chronicler's theological framework. Their steadfast commitment was absolutely instrumental in securing and consolidating David's kingdom, a kingdom ultimately blessed and established by God Himself. Thirdly, the sheer number and precise identification of these warriors powerfully underscore the Strength and Legitimacy of David's Kingdom, demonstrating that his rule was not only divinely appointed but also robustly supported by a highly capable and profoundly devoted military force. This detailed record also reinforces the Chronicler's deep concern for Historical Accuracy and Continuity, providing a meticulous and authentic account of the foundational figures who contributed significantly to the establishment of the Davidic dynasty, which was central to Israel's identity, national hope, and future messianic expectations. These themes collectively reinforce the Chronicler's enduring message, particularly relevant to the post-exilic community for whom the book was written, that faithfulness to God and His chosen leaders leads directly to national stability, prosperity, and divine blessing, a truth echoed throughout the entire book of 1 Chronicles.
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
The Chronicler's presentation of 1 Chronicles 11:27, situated within the broader and extensive list of David's mighty men, primarily employs the literary device of Catalogue or Roster. This systematic and exhaustive listing of names, often accompanied by their identifying epithets (e.g., "the Harorite," "the Pelonite"), serves to provide a comprehensive, authoritative, and historically grounded account of David's elite warriors. The deliberate Repetition of the "Name the Place/Tribe" pattern throughout the entire list creates a rhythmic and almost litany-like effect, effectively emphasizing the vast breadth and profound depth of support that David commanded across various regions and peoples. This detailed enumeration also functions as a powerful form of Emphasis, underscoring the formidable strength and divinely blessed nature of David's kingdom, which was built upon the unwavering loyalty, exceptional prowess, and collective dedication of these individually recognized heroes. By meticulously naming each man, the Chronicler implicitly conveys the profound idea that every individual contribution, no matter how seemingly small or obscure within the grand narrative, was profoundly valued, remembered, and instrumental in securing David's throne and establishing the enduring Davidic dynasty.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
1 Chronicles 11:27, though a concise entry within a lengthy list, carries significant theological weight by affirming the profound divine principle that every individual's contribution, however seemingly minor or behind-the-scenes, is recognized, valued, and intricately woven into God's grand design. Just as King David's monumental success was not solely his own achievement but a collective effort of numerous loyal and diverse individuals, so too is God's eternal kingdom advanced and built through the varied gifts, faithful service, and unique contributions of many. The Chronicler's meticulous record-keeping here reflects a divine perspective that overlooks no one, reminding us that God sees, remembers, and honors all who faithfully serve His purposes, whether they occupy prominent leadership roles or serve diligently in more background capacities. This verse implicitly teaches a vital lesson: faithfulness in one's specific calling, even if it means being a "Harorite" or a "Pelonite" in a vast spiritual army, contributes meaningfully and indispensably to the greater, overarching work of God.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The seemingly mundane list of names in 1 Chronicles 11:27 offers surprisingly profound and practical insights for contemporary believers. It challenges us to deeply consider our own unique place and vital role within God's unfolding redemptive story, powerfully reminding us that every act of faithful service, no matter how obscure, small, or behind-the-scenes, contributes meaningfully and indispensably to the advancement of His eternal kingdom. Just as Shammoth and Helez were absolutely vital to the stability and success of King David's earthly reign, so too are we, as believers, called to be loyal, dedicated, and active participants in the ongoing work of Christ, our true and sovereign King. This verse profoundly encourages us to embrace our unique gifts, our specific callings, and our individual backgrounds, understanding that our particular "Harorite" or "Pelonite" identity—our specific skills, experiences, and heritage—are precisely what God can and will powerfully use for His glory. It fosters a deep sense of belonging, purpose, and mutual interdependence within the body of Christ, where the diversity of roles and gifts strengthens the entire whole. Ultimately, we are reminded that true significance and lasting impact are found not in worldly recognition or fleeting accolades, but in faithful obedience to God's divine call, knowing with absolute certainty that He sees, values, and remembers every heart devoted to His will and every contribution made in His name.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why does the Bible include such long lists of names, like the one in 1 Chronicles 11?
Answer: The inclusion of detailed lists of names, such as the one featuring Shammoth the Harorite and Helez the Pelonite in 1 Chronicles 11, serves multiple crucial and interconnected purposes. Firstly, it profoundly underscores the historical veracity and authenticity of the biblical narrative, demonstrating a meticulous concern for documenting real people, places, and events, thereby grounding the sacred story in tangible, verifiable reality. Secondly, these lists highlight the profound importance of individuals in God's overarching plan, showing that even seemingly minor or briefly mentioned figures play vital and indispensable roles in His grand purposes. They serve as a powerful reminder that every person's contribution, no matter how small, is seen, known, and valued by God. Thirdly, they often function as a compelling testimony to divine blessing and support, showcasing the breadth and depth of human resources God providentially provided to His chosen leaders, like King David, enabling them to achieve great things for His kingdom. For the post-exilic community, the primary audience of the Chronicler, these lists also served to establish lineage, identity, and continuity, powerfully connecting them to their glorious past and reinforcing their national, tribal, and spiritual heritage, providing hope for the future.
Are Shammoth the Harorite and Helez the Pelonite mentioned elsewhere in the Bible, or are they only in 1 Chronicles?
Answer: Shammoth the Harorite and Helez the Pelonite are primarily known from the extensive list of David's mighty men, which is a central feature of the Chronicler's account. Shammoth the Harorite is specifically mentioned in 1 Chronicles 11:27. His name appears with a slight variation as "Shammah the Harodite" in the parallel account found in 2 Samuel 23:25. This minor variation in spelling or geographical designation is common in ancient texts and does not diminish the historical reality or significance of the individual. Helez the Pelonite is also prominently mentioned in 1 Chronicles 11:27 and is further noted in 1 Chronicles 27:10, where he is listed among the monthly commanders of David's army, specifically serving in the seventh month. This additional mention in 1 Chronicles 27 indicates that Helez was not merely a valiant warrior but also held a significant and ongoing leadership position within David's administrative and military structure, further underscoring the profound importance of these "mighty men" beyond their roles in mere combat.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The meticulous enumeration of David's mighty men, including figures like Shammoth the Harorite and Helez the Pelonite, finds its ultimate and most profound Christ-centered fulfillment in the spiritual army of believers who faithfully serve Jesus Christ, the true, eternal, and sovereign King of kings. Just as these ancient warriors pledged their unwavering loyalty, strength, and lives to an earthly king to establish and secure his kingdom, so too are believers called to dedicate their lives, unique gifts, and all their resources to the advancement of Christ's heavenly and everlasting kingdom. David's mighty men engaged in physical battles against earthly foes; Christ's followers, by contrast, are called to engage in spiritual warfare, equipped not with swords and shields of this world, but with the divine "armor of God" (Ephesians 6:10-18). The Chronicler's powerful emphasis on every individual's contribution, no matter how seemingly small, profoundly foreshadows the New Testament teaching that every single member of the body of Christ, no matter how seemingly obscure or behind-the-scenes, is absolutely vital, uniquely gifted by the Holy Spirit, and indispensable for the common good and effective functioning of the whole (1 Corinthians 12:4-11). The unwavering loyalty these men demonstrated to King David powerfully prefigures the supreme and ultimate allegiance owed to Jesus, who is majestically proclaimed as "King of kings and Lord of lords" (Revelation 19:16). Ultimately, the strength, security, and earthly triumphs of David's kingdom, built upon the shoulders of these mighty men, serve as a powerful type and shadow pointing to the eternal, unshakable, and ever-expanding kingdom of God, which was definitively established by Christ's sacrificial death and glorious resurrection, and is continually sustained by the faithful, Spirit-empowered service of His redeemed people, who are, in Him, "more than conquerors through Him who loved us" (Romans 8:37).