1 Chronicles 11:33

1 Chronicles 11:33 continues the detailed enumeration of King David's elite warriors, often referred to as his "mighty men" or "valiant warriors." This specific verse names two individuals: Azmaveth the Baharumite and Eliahba the Shaalbonite.

Context of David's Mighty Men

This verse is part of a longer passage in 1 Chronicles 11 (verses 10-47) that meticulously lists the names of David's most loyal and capable military leaders. These men were instrumental in David's rise to power and the establishment of his kingdom. The Chronicler's detailed record serves to highlight the strength and divine favor upon David's reign, emphasizing the individuals who contributed significantly to Israel's stability and success under David's leadership. This list parallels a similar account found in 2 Samuel 23:8-39, though with some variations, reflecting the importance of these figures in the historical narrative.

Key Themes and Significance

• Loyalty and Service: The inclusion of these names, even those less prominent than the "chief three," underscores the value placed on loyalty and dedicated service to God's anointed king. Each man, regardless of his specific feat, was part of a collective effort that secured David's throne and established Israel's standing.
• Divine Providence: The formation of such a formidable group of warriors was not merely by chance but points to God's hand in raising up and equipping individuals to serve His purposes. David's success was inextricably linked to the men God brought alongside him, demonstrating God's favor upon David's kingdom.
• Historical Record and Remembrance: The careful listing of each man's name and origin (e.g., "the Baharumite," "the Shaalbonite") ensures that their contributions were not forgotten. It serves as a historical testament to their valor and commitment, reminding future generations of the foundations upon which their nation was built.

Linguistic Insights

While the names themselves are proper nouns, their inclusion with geographical identifiers ("the Baharumite," "the Shaalbonite") indicates their place of origin. This detail provides a glimpse into the diverse backgrounds of David's fighting force, drawing men from various regions of Israel and beyond who were united under his leadership. The name Azmaveth, for instance, can mean "strength of death," perhaps hinting at a formidable warrior, though this is speculative regarding the individual's character.

Practical Application

For a modern reader, this seemingly simple list of names offers several profound applications:

• Valuing Every Contribution: Just as every man on David's roster was important, so too are all individuals in a community or spiritual body. Every act of faithful service, no matter how seemingly small or unheralded, contributes to the greater work.
• The Power of Unity: David's kingdom flourished because of the collective strength and loyalty of his diverse group of warriors. This highlights the importance of unity and mutual support in achieving common goals, whether in families, churches, or organizations.
• Remembering Our Foundations: The Bible's meticulous recording of these historical details encourages us to remember the foundational figures and principles that have shaped our faith and heritage. We stand on the shoulders of those who came before us, and their legacies continue to inspire.