TRV
Translation
American Standard Version
the sons of Hashem the Gizonite, Jonathan the son of Shagee the Hararite,
World English Bible Messianic
the sons of Hashem the Gizonite, Jonathan the son of Shagee the Hararite,
Young's Literal Translation
the sons of Hashem the Gizonite, Jonathan son of Shage the Hararite,
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In the KJVVerse 10,708 of 31,102
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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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Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.
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SUMMARY
1 Chronicles 11:34 serves as a concise yet significant entry within the extensive register of King David's elite warriors, known as his "mighty men." This verse specifically names "The sons of Hashem the Gizonite" and "Jonathan the son of Shage the Hararite," highlighting individuals whose unwavering loyalty and dedicated service, though not detailed with specific heroic exploits in this particular passage, were foundational to the establishment and security of David's divinely appointed kingdom. Their inclusion underscores the Chronicler's meticulous record-keeping and the profound theological emphasis on the collective effort that underpinned God's work through His chosen leader.
CONTEXT
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
The primary literary device employed in 1 Chronicles 11:34, and indeed throughout the entire list of David's mighty men, is Cataloging or Roster. This is a pervasive ancient Near Eastern literary technique used to meticulously document and legitimize power structures, military strength, and the extensive support base of a ruler. The precise listing of names, even those that appear obscure to modern readers, serves to underscore the breadth and depth of David's loyal following, emphasizing the collective strength that enabled his successful reign. Another subtle yet significant device is Emphasis by Inclusion. By simply listing these names, the Chronicler implicitly highlights their importance and the profound value placed on their service, even without recounting specific heroic deeds. Their mere presence in this sacred historical record is a powerful act of honor and remembrance, ensuring their contribution is not forgotten. Furthermore, the Repetition of the "son of" (בֶּן, ben) formula throughout the list reinforces the patriarchal and lineage-based nature of Israelite society and the continuity of service within families and clans.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The inclusion of seemingly minor figures like those in 1 Chronicles 11:34 carries profound theological weight, extending beyond mere historical record-keeping. It speaks powerfully to God's meticulous attention to detail and His perfect remembrance of all who faithfully serve His purposes, regardless of their public prominence or the magnitude of their recorded exploits. Just as David's divinely appointed kingdom was built not solely on the grand exploits of its most famous heroes but also on the steadfast loyalty and quiet dedication of countless unsung individuals, so too is God's eternal kingdom advanced by the faithful, often unseen, service of every single believer. This verse serves as a profound reminder that every contribution, every act of faithfulness, no matter how small or unheralded by human standards, is seen, valued, and remembered by God. It underscores the profound principle that divine success is often a collective endeavor, where diverse gifts, varying roles, and different levels of prominence coalesce under God's sovereign hand to achieve His perfect will.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
1 Chronicles 11:34, though a simple enumeration of names, offers a profoundly powerful spiritual lesson for contemporary believers. It challenges us to fundamentally reconsider our definition of "significance" within the context of God's kingdom. In a world that often celebrates only the highly visible, the overtly heroic, and the publicly acclaimed, this verse quietly but firmly affirms the eternal value of faithful, consistent, and often unseen service. It encourages us to wholeheartedly embrace our unique roles, however humble or ordinary they may seem in human eyes, within the larger, interconnected body of Christ, trusting implicitly that God sees, knows, and remembers every single act of devotion. Our quiet faithfulness in our families, our diligent work in our workplaces, and our consistent service in our local communities contribute to the ongoing, glorious work of God's kingdom just as surely as the grand exploits of biblical heroes. It serves as a vital reminder that God's work is a collective enterprise, requiring the unique and indispensable contributions of every single member, and that true honor and lasting significance come not from human applause or public recognition, but from divine acknowledgment and remembrance.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why are these specific names listed without any accompanying heroic deeds?
Answer: The Chronicler's purpose in listing these names, even without detailing specific heroic deeds, is multifaceted and deeply significant. Firstly, it serves as a crucial historical record, authenticating the vast network of loyal supporters that King David had, which was absolutely essential for the legitimacy and stability of his reign. Secondly, and perhaps more profoundly, it underscores a vital theological principle: God values and meticulously remembers all who faithfully serve His divine purposes, not just the most prominent or those whose actions are recorded in dramatic narratives. The mere act of inclusion in this sacred text confers honor and signifies that their loyalty, their presence, and their support were vital to David's success and, by extension, to God's unfolding plan for the Davidic dynasty. It powerfully emphasizes the collective effort required to build and sustain God's kingdom, where every member's contribution, no matter how seemingly small, is significant and indispensable, as seen in the broader context of 1 Chronicles 11.
Are the lists of David's mighty men in 1 Chronicles and 2 Samuel identical?
Answer: No, while there is significant overlap and parallelism between the list in 1 Chronicles 11 and its counterpart in 2 Samuel 23, they are not entirely identical. There are minor differences in names, spellings, the order of some individuals, and occasional omissions or additions. Such variations are common in ancient textual traditions and do not undermine the historical authenticity of the accounts. They may reflect different sources used by the biblical authors, different periods of compilation, or simply variations in transcription over time. Both lists, however, serve the same primary purpose: to honor David's elite warriors and to emphasize the strength, loyalty, and divine support that underpinned his divinely appointed kingship.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While 1 Chronicles 11:34 meticulously lists the loyal warriors of an earthly king, it profoundly foreshadows the ultimate King, Jesus Christ, and the eternal nature of His spiritual kingdom. Just as King David's reign was established, maintained, and secured by the collective faithfulness and diverse contributions of his mighty men, Christ's spiritual kingdom is likewise built upon the varied, dedicated, and often unseen service of His followers, who constitute His Church. Every name in David's ancient roster, whether celebrated for grand exploits or merely noted for their presence, contributed to the stability and success of his earthly throne. Similarly, in the new covenant, every believer, regardless of their perceived prominence or the public recognition they receive, is an absolutely vital and indispensable member of Christ's body, contributing uniquely to the advancement and flourishing of His eternal kingdom (see 1 Corinthians 12:27). The divine remembrance of Hashem's sons and Jonathan in this ancient list prefigures God's perfect knowledge, meticulous care, and infinite valuing of every single one of His children, whose names are eternally inscribed in the Lamb's Book of Life (Revelation 21:27). Christ, as the true and greater David, gathers to Himself not merely mighty warriors, but all who believe in Him, empowering them by His Holy Spirit to participate actively in His redemptive mission. This demonstrates unequivocally that even the "least" among us are precious, beloved, and indispensable in His eyes (Matthew 25:40). The unwavering loyalty these men demonstrated to David finds its ultimate, perfected expression in the steadfast devotion believers are called to offer to their Savior and Lord, Jesus Christ, who is eternally proclaimed as King of kings and Lord of lords (Revelation 19:16).