1 Chronicles 11:27

KJV

Shammoth the Harorite, Helez the Pelonite,

KJV (with Strong's)

Shammoth {H8054} the Harorite {H2033}, Helez {H2503} the Pelonite {H6397},

Complete Jewish Bible

Shammah the Harori, Heletz the P'loni,

Berean Standard Bible

Shammoth the Harorite, Helez the Pelonite,

American Standard Version

Shammoth the Harorite, Helez the Pelonite,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Chronicles 11:27 names Shammoth the Harorite and Helez the Pelonite, two individuals listed among David's elite corps of "mighty men." This verse, situated within a comprehensive roster in 1 Chronicles 11, underscores the meticulous record-keeping of the Chronicler, highlighting the diverse origins and specific contributions of the warriors who faithfully served King David, thereby demonstrating the strength and divine backing of his reign.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** 1 Chronicles 11:27 is embedded within a detailed and extensive catalogue of King David's most valiant warriors, often referred to as "David's mighty men," spanning from [1 Chronicles 11:10](/1_chronicles/11-10 "1 Chronicles 11:10 - David's Mighty Men Introduced") to [1 Chronicles 12:40](/1_chronicles/12-40 "1 Chronicles 12:40 - Conclusion of David's Supporters"). This list immediately follows the pivotal events of David's anointing as king over all Israel at Hebron ([1 Chronicles 11:1-3](/1_chronicles/11-1-3 "1 Chronicles 11:1-3 - David Anointed King")) and his subsequent capture of Jerusalem, establishing it as his capital ([1 Chronicles 11:4-9](/1_chronicles/11-4-9 "1 Chronicles 11:4-9 - Capture of Jerusalem")). The Chronicler's inclusion of such a comprehensive roster serves not merely as a historical record but as a theological statement, emphasizing the broad support David garnered and the divine favor that enabled him to gather such a formidable and loyal fighting force, crucial for the establishment and security of his kingdom. The parallel account in [2 Samuel 23:8-39](/2_samuel/23-8-39 "2 Samuel 23:8-39 - Parallel List of David's Mighty Men") provides a comparative perspective, though with some variations, affirming the historical significance of these figures.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Near Eastern monarchies, the strength and stability of a king's reign were often directly tied to the loyalty and prowess of his military elite. David's "mighty men" were more than just soldiers; they were a professional fighting force, a personal guard, and key strategists who had been with him through his wilderness years, demonstrating unwavering allegiance during his exile from Saul and throughout his rise to power. The descriptive titles like "the Harorite" and "the Pelonite" were common cultural markers, indicating geographical origin or tribal affiliation, crucial for identification in a society where personal names might be common. While the exact locations of "Haror" and "Pelon" remain somewhat obscure today, these suffixes underscore the diverse origins of David's loyalists, drawing from various regions and potentially even non-Israelite backgrounds (e.g., some Gittites are mentioned elsewhere), reflecting David's wide-ranging influence and the unifying nature of his leadership. This meticulous detailing of individuals highlights the ancient world's emphasis on lineage, place, and personal contribution to collective endeavors.
* **Key Themes:** The inclusion of individuals like Shammoth and Helez within this detailed list contributes to several overarching themes in Chronicles. Firstly, it powerfully illustrates the theme of **Divine Providence and Human Agency**, showing how God works through specific individuals to accomplish His overarching plan for His chosen king and nation. Secondly, it emphasizes **Loyalty and Faithful Service**, portraying these men as exemplars of dedication to God's anointed leader, a quality highly valued in the Chronicler's theological framework. Their unwavering commitment was instrumental in securing David's kingdom, a kingdom ultimately blessed by God. Thirdly, the sheer number and specific identification of these warriors underscore the **Strength and Legitimacy of David's Kingdom**, demonstrating that his rule was not only divinely appointed but also robustly supported by a capable and devoted military. This detailed record also reinforces the Chronicler's concern for **Historical Accuracy and Continuity**, providing a meticulous account of the foundational figures who contributed to the Davidic dynasty, which was central to Israel's identity and hope. These themes collectively reinforce the Chronicler's message that faithfulness to God and His chosen leaders leads to stability and blessing, a message particularly relevant to the post-exilic community for whom the book was written, as seen throughout [1 Chronicles](/1_chronicles/1 "1 Chronicles - The Book of David's Reign and Temple Preparations").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Shammoth (Hebrew, _šammōt_):** This name, while not carrying a specific etymological meaning readily applicable to its character, functions primarily as a proper noun identifying one of David's mighty men. Its inclusion in this specific list, alongside others, emphasizes the Chronicler's meticulous record-keeping and his desire to attribute credit to every individual who contributed to David's success. The name itself, like many ancient names, likely had a personal or familial significance lost to modern scholarship, but its importance here lies in its role as an identifier of a loyal warrior.
* **Harorite (Hebrew, _hărōrî_):** This descriptive title indicates Shammoth's place of origin or tribal affiliation. The suffix "-ite" is a common geographical or ethnic indicator in Hebrew. While the exact location of "Haror" is not definitively known, its mention serves to ground the individual in a specific geographical context, suggesting that David's support network extended beyond a single region, drawing strength from various parts of Israel or its environs. It highlights the diverse composition of David's elite forces.
* **Helez (Hebrew, _ḥēleṣ_):** Similar to Shammoth, Helez is a proper noun identifying another one of David's valiant warriors. The name itself might be related to a root meaning "strength" or "deliverance," which would be fitting for a mighty man. His inclusion further illustrates the Chronicler's commitment to documenting the specific individuals who formed the backbone of David's military and administrative success, underscoring the collective effort behind the establishment of the kingdom.
* **Pelonite (Hebrew, _pelōnî_):** This designation, like "Harorite," indicates Helez's geographical or tribal origin. The precise location of "Pelon" is also uncertain, but its presence signifies the diverse origins of David's loyalists. The specificity of these designations, even for seemingly minor figures in a long list, speaks to the Chronicler's historical rigor and his desire to present a comprehensive and authentic account of the foundational figures of the Davidic monarchy.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Shammoth the Harorite":** This phrase introduces the first of two individuals mentioned in this verse. Shammoth is identified not only by his personal name but also by his geographical or tribal affiliation, "the Harorite." This dual identification was crucial in ancient societies for distinguishing individuals, especially in military rosters. It signifies his specific background and contribution to David's forces, placing him within a broader network of loyalists from various regions.
* **"Helez the Pelonite":** Following a similar pattern, this phrase introduces the second individual, Helez, who is likewise identified by his name and his place of origin or tribal connection, "the Pelonite." The consistent use of these geographical identifiers throughout the list of mighty men underscores the diverse origins of David's supporters and the meticulous way in which the Chronicler documented these key figures, affirming their unique identities and contributions to the kingdom.

#### Literary Devices
The Chronicler's presentation of 1 Chronicles 11:27, within the broader list of David's mighty men, primarily employs the literary device of **Catalogue** or **Roster**. This systematic listing of names and their identifying epithets (e.g., "the Harorite," "the Pelonite") serves to provide a comprehensive and authoritative account of David's elite warriors. The **Repetition** of the "Name the Place/Tribe" pattern throughout the list creates a rhythmic effect, emphasizing the breadth and depth of support David commanded. This detailed enumeration also functions as a form of **Emphasis**, underscoring the formidable strength of David's kingdom, which was built upon the loyalty and prowess of these individually recognized heroes. By meticulously naming each man, the Chronicler implicitly conveys the idea that every individual contribution, no matter how seemingly small in the grand narrative, was valued and remembered, highlighting the collective effort that secured David's throne and established the Davidic dynasty.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
1 Chronicles 11:27, though a brief entry in a long list, carries significant theological weight by affirming the divine principle that every individual's contribution, however seemingly minor, is recognized and valued in God's grand design. Just as David's success was not solely his own but a collective effort of loyal individuals, so too is God's kingdom advanced through the diverse gifts and faithful service of many. The Chronicler's meticulous record-keeping here reflects a divine perspective that overlooks no one, reminding us that God sees and honors all who faithfully serve His purposes, whether in prominent or background roles. This verse implicitly teaches that faithfulness in one's specific calling, even if it means being a "Harorite" or a "Pelonite" in a vast army, contributes meaningfully to the greater work of God.

* [Romans 12:4-5](/romans/12-4-5 "Romans 12:4-5 - Many Members, One Body")
* [1 Corinthians 12:12-27](/1_corinthians/12-12-27 "1 Corinthians 12:12-27 - The Body of Christ")
* [Hebrews 6:10](/hebrews/6-10 "Hebrews 6:10 - God Remembers Our Work")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The seemingly mundane list of names in 1 Chronicles 11:27 offers profound insights for contemporary believers. It challenges us to consider our own place within God's unfolding story, reminding us that every act of faithful service, no matter how obscure or behind-the-scenes, contributes to the advancement of His kingdom. Just as Shammoth and Helez were vital to King David's reign, so too are we called to be loyal and dedicated participants in the work of Christ, our true King. This verse encourages us to embrace our unique gifts and callings, understanding that our specific "Harorite" or "Pelonite" identity, our background and skills, are precisely what God can use. It fosters a sense of belonging and purpose within the body of Christ, where diversity of roles strengthens the whole. We are reminded that true significance is found not in worldly recognition, but in faithful obedience to God's call, knowing that He sees and values every heart devoted to His will.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways might I be overlooking or underestimating the value of my own unique contributions to God's work, or the contributions of others?**
* **How does the idea that God meticulously records and values every individual's service encourage me in my daily tasks and spiritual walk?**
* **What does it mean to be "loyal" and "faithful" to Christ, our King, in the same way David's mighty men were loyal to him?**

### 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](/1_chronicles/11 "1 Chronicles 11 - David's Mighty Men"), serves multiple crucial purposes. Firstly, it underscores the **historical veracity** of the biblical narrative, demonstrating a meticulous concern for documenting real people and events, grounding the sacred story in tangible reality. Secondly, these lists highlight the **importance of individuals** in God's plan, showing that even seemingly minor figures play vital roles in His overarching purposes. They remind us that every person's contribution is seen and valued by God. Thirdly, they often function as a **testimony to divine blessing and support**, showcasing the breadth of human resources God provided to His chosen leaders, like David, enabling them to achieve great things. For the post-exilic community, the Chronicler's audience, these lists also served to establish **lineage and identity**, connecting them to their glorious past and reinforcing their national and spiritual heritage.

**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 list of David's mighty men. Shammoth the Harorite is specifically mentioned in [1 Chronicles 11:27](/1_chronicles/11-27 "1 Chronicles 11:27 - Shammoth the Harorite and Helez the Pelonite"). His name appears as "Shammah the Harodite" in the parallel account in [2 Samuel 23:25](/2_samuel/23-25 "2 Samuel 23:25 - Shammah the Harodite (Parallel)"). This slight variation in spelling or geographical designation is common in ancient texts and does not diminish the historical reality of the individual. Helez the Pelonite is also mentioned in [1 Chronicles 11:27](/1_chronicles/11-27 "1 Chronicles 11:27 - Shammoth the Harorite and Helez the Pelonite") and again in [1 Chronicles 27:10](/1_chronicles/27-10 "1 Chronicles 27:10 - Helez the Pelonite, a Captain in David's Army"), where he is listed among the monthly commanders of David's army, serving in the seventh month. This additional mention in [1 Chronicles 27](/1_chronicles/27 "1 Chronicles 27 - David's Military and Civil Officials") indicates that Helez was not just a warrior but also held a significant leadership position within David's administration, further underscoring the importance of these "mighty men" beyond mere combat roles.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The detailed enumeration of David's mighty men, including figures like Shammoth the Harorite and Helez the Pelonite, finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in the spiritual army of believers who serve Jesus Christ, the true and eternal King. Just as these ancient warriors pledged their unwavering loyalty and strength to an earthly king to establish his kingdom, so too are believers called to dedicate their lives, gifts, and resources to Christ's heavenly kingdom. David's mighty men fought physical battles; Christ's followers engage in spiritual warfare, equipped not with swords and shields, but with the "armor of God" ([Ephesians 6:10-18](/ephesians/6-10-18 "Ephesians 6:10-18 - The Armor of God")). The Chronicler's emphasis on every individual's contribution foreshadows the New Testament teaching that every member of the body of Christ, no matter how seemingly small or obscure, is vital and uniquely gifted by the Holy Spirit for the common good ([1 Corinthians 12:4-11](/1_corinthians/12-4-11 "1 Corinthians 12:4-11 - Gifts of the Spirit")). The loyalty these men showed David prefigures the supreme allegiance owed to Jesus, who is "King of kings and Lord of lords" ([Revelation 19:16](/revelation/19-16 "Revelation 19:16 - King of Kings and Lord of Lords")). Ultimately, the strength and security of David's earthly kingdom, built on the shoulders of these mighty men, points to the eternal and unshakable kingdom of God, established by Christ's sacrifice and sustained by the faithful service of His redeemed people, who are "more than conquerors through Him who loved us" ([Romans 8:37](/romans/8-37 "Romans 8:37 - More Than Conquerors")).

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

2 Samuel 23:25

Shammah the Harodite, Elika the Harodite,

2 Samuel 23:26

Helez the Paltite, Ira the son of Ikkesh the Tekoite,