1 Chronicles 11:35

KJV

Ahiam the son of Sacar the Hararite, Eliphal the son of Ur,

KJV (with Strong's)

Ahiam {H279} the son {H1121} of Sacar {H7940} the Hararite {H2043}, Eliphal {H465} the son {H1121} of Ur {H218},

Complete Jewish Bible

Achi'am the son of Sakhar the Harari, Elifal the son of Ur,

Berean Standard Bible

Ahiam son of Sachar the Hararite, Eliphal son of Ur,

American Standard Version

Ahiam the son of Sacar the Hararite, Eliphal the son of Ur,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Chronicles 11:35 meticulously lists Ahiam, son of Sacar the Hararite, and Eliphal, son of Ur, as two of King David's elite warriors. This verse, embedded within a comprehensive roster of David's mighty men, underscores the chronicler's dedication to preserving the historical record of those who faithfully served God's chosen king, highlighting the individual contributions that collectively established and defended the kingdom of Israel. It emphasizes the importance of loyal service and the divine orchestration behind David's successful reign.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** 1 Chronicles 11:35 is situated within a detailed account of King David's rise to power and the establishment of his kingdom. The chapter opens with the entire nation of Israel anointing David as king at Hebron, signifying the fulfillment of God's promise to him. Immediately following this pivotal event, the chronicler introduces David's "mighty men" or "valiant warriors," a select group of elite soldiers whose loyalty and bravery were instrumental in securing David's reign. Verses 10-47 meticulously enumerate these individuals, often including their lineage and place of origin, underscoring the historical precision and the importance of each person's contribution to the kingdom. This particular verse, 1 Chronicles 11:35, specifically names Ahiam and Eliphal, placing them within this distinguished military hierarchy. The inclusion of such a detailed roster emphasizes the collective effort behind David's success and provides a historical anchor for the divine orchestration of Israel's monarchy.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Israel, especially during the formative period of the monarchy, military strength and loyal service were paramount for consolidating power and defending the nation. King David's reign marked a significant transition from a tribal confederacy to a unified kingdom, a process that relied heavily on a disciplined and devoted army. The concept of "mighty men" (גִּבֹּרִים, *gibborim*) was common in the ancient Near East, referring to elite warriors renowned for their valor and skill. Genealogical records, such as "son of Sacar" or "son of Ur," were crucial for establishing identity, lineage, and tribal affiliation, which often determined social standing and responsibilities. The geographical designation "the Hararite" further specifies Ahiam's origin, indicating a connection to a specific region (likely a mountainous area, as "harar" means mountain), which could imply certain characteristics or tribal ties. These detailed records served not only as historical archives but also as a testament to the honor and legacy of those who contributed to the nation's security and the king's authority.
* **Key Themes:** The meticulous listing of individuals like Ahiam and Eliphal in 1 Chronicles 11:35 contributes to several overarching themes within the book of Chronicles. Firstly, it highlights the theme of **Loyalty and Service**, demonstrating the unwavering commitment of these warriors to King David, God's chosen leader. Their names are preserved as a testament to their faithful dedication to the kingdom, echoing the broader call to serve God's purposes. Secondly, the detailed enumeration underscores the **Divine Election and Human Agency** at play in the establishment of the monarchy; while God chose David, He worked through the faithful obedience and valor of these men. The Chronicler emphasizes that David's success was not solitary but a collective endeavor divinely orchestrated. Finally, this verse reinforces the theme of the **Value of Every Individual Contribution** to God's grand narrative. Even seemingly minor figures are remembered and honored, emphasizing that every person's role, no matter how small, is significant in building God's kingdom, a principle seen throughout the biblical narrative, from the detailed genealogies in [Genesis 5](/genesis/5 "Genesis 5 - Genealogies from Adam to Noah") to the comprehensive lists of those who returned from exile in [Ezra 2](/ezra/2 "Ezra 2 - Those Who Returned from Exile").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Ahiam (Hebrew, _ʼăḥîʼām_):** This name is derived from two Hebrew elements: אָח (*ʼaḥ*), meaning "brother," and אֵם (*ʼēm*), meaning "mother." Thus, it can be interpreted as "my brother is a mother" or "brother of the people." While its precise nuance is debated, the name likely suggests a strong familial or communal bond, perhaps indicating a person who was a protector or provider, akin to a mother, for his brethren or community. It points to a character of loyalty and care within his social unit.
* **Hararite (Hebrew, _ha-hărārî_):** This designation literally means "the mountaineer" or "from the mountain region." It is derived from the Hebrew word הַר (*har*), meaning "mountain." This geographical identifier is common in ancient Israelite naming conventions and serves to specify a person's origin. Being from a mountainous region often implied a certain hardiness, resilience, and perhaps a reputation for being formidable warriors, as such terrain often bred strong, independent individuals.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Ahiam the son of Sacar the Hararite":** This clause precisely identifies one of David's mighty men, Ahiam, by name, his paternal lineage ("son of Sacar"), and his geographical or tribal affiliation ("the Hararite"). This tripartite identification was standard in ancient Near Eastern records, serving to uniquely distinguish individuals within a large population. The inclusion of the father's name, Sacar, grounds Ahiam within a specific family unit, while "the Hararite" provides a regional or possibly tribal context, suggesting his origin from a mountainous area. This level of detail underscores the Chronicler's commitment to historical accuracy and the importance of each individual's identity within the national narrative.
* **"Eliphal the son of Ur":** Following the same pattern, this clause introduces another of David's elite warriors, Eliphal, identifying him by name and his father, Ur. The absence of a geographical or tribal designation for Eliphal, unlike Ahiam, is not uncommon in such lists, as sometimes only the most pertinent identifying details were included. This concise identification nonetheless places Eliphal firmly within the roster of those who served King David with valor, signifying his recognized status among the mighty men. The parallel structure with the preceding identification highlights the consistent methodology employed by the Chronicler in documenting these crucial figures.

#### Literary Devices
The primary literary device employed in 1 Chronicles 11:35, as in the entire chapter, is **Cataloging** or **Listing**. This meticulous enumeration of names, lineages, and origins serves to provide a comprehensive and authoritative record of King David's elite warriors. This device is not merely a dry historical account but functions to underscore the breadth of support David commanded and the collective strength that built his kingdom. Closely related is the use of **Genealogy**, as indicated by the repeated phrase "the son of," which establishes the identity and familial connections of each individual. This genealogical structure reinforces the historical authenticity of the account and highlights the importance of lineage in ancient Israelite society. Furthermore, the very act of naming each man, rather than simply stating a number, serves as a form of **Emphasis**, elevating the individual contributions of these warriors. It transforms them from anonymous soldiers into recognized heroes, whose loyalty and valor were deemed worthy of perpetual remembrance in the sacred text. This deliberate act of recording each name underscores the Chronicler's theological point: that God remembers and values the service of every one of His people.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The inclusion of individuals like Ahiam and Eliphal in this esteemed list carries significant theological weight. It demonstrates that while God sovereignly chooses and anoints leaders like David, the establishment and success of His kingdom on earth invariably involve the faithful and courageous participation of His people. These mighty men represent the human agency that cooperates with divine will, serving as instruments in God's redemptive plan. Their names, preserved for millennia, testify to the enduring value God places on individual loyalty, skill, and dedication in the service of His anointed. This passage reminds us that every contribution, no matter how seemingly small or behind-the-scenes, is recognized and honored by God, forming an integral part of His unfolding narrative of salvation and kingdom building.

* [2 Samuel 23:8-39](/2_samuel/23-8 "2 Samuel 23:8-39 - David's Mighty Men")
* [Hebrews 11:32-34](/hebrews/11-32 "Hebrews 11:32-34 - Heroes of Faith in Action")
* [Romans 12:4-5](/romans/12-4 "Romans 12:4-5 - Many Members, One Body in Christ")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
While 1 Chronicles 11:35 might appear to be a mere historical record, it offers profound lessons for contemporary believers. It challenges us to consider the significance of our own contributions within the larger body of Christ. Just as Ahiam and Eliphal were integral to David's kingdom, every believer is called to play a vital role in God's ongoing work, whether in prominent leadership positions or in quiet, consistent service. This verse reminds us that true strength in God's kingdom comes from unity, mutual support, and unwavering loyalty to Christ and His purposes. Our faithfulness, even in seemingly ordinary tasks, is not overlooked by God; rather, it contributes to a collective testimony that endures through generations, shaping the spiritual landscape and advancing the Gospel. We are part of a grand narrative, and our dedicated service, no matter its scale, leaves an eternal mark.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How do you view your own contributions to God's kingdom, especially in roles that may seem less prominent or recognized?**
* **In what ways can you better support the leaders God has placed over you, recognizing their need for faithful and courageous allies?**
* **What does the enduring legacy of these "mighty men" teach us about the long-term impact of consistent faithfulness and humble service?**

### FAQ
**Why does the Bible include such detailed lists of names, like the one in 1 Chronicles 11:35?**

Answer: The inclusion of detailed lists of names and genealogies in biblical texts serves multiple purposes. Historically, they provided authentic records for lineage, tribal affiliation, and land inheritance in ancient Israel. Theologically, they underscore God's meticulous attention to detail and His remembrance of every individual who participates in His plan. These lists emphasize the value God places on human agency and faithful service, ensuring that even those who might seem "minor" are remembered for their contributions to His kingdom. They also demonstrate the continuity of God's covenant promises through generations, as seen in the extensive genealogies from [Genesis 5](/genesis/5 "Genesis 5 - Genealogies from Adam to Noah") or the lists of returnees in [Ezra 2](/ezra/2 "Ezra 2 - Those Who Returned from Exile").

**Do the specific names in 1 Chronicles 11:35, like Ahiam and Eliphal, carry hidden spiritual meanings?**

Answer: While some biblical names certainly carry prophetic or symbolic significance (e.g., "Jesus" meaning "Yahweh saves"), the names Ahiam, Sacar, Hararite, Eliphal, and Ur in 1 Chronicles 11:35 primarily function as historical identifiers. "Ahiam" (meaning "my brother is a mother") might suggest a character trait of care or communal connection, and "Hararite" simply denotes a geographical origin ("from the mountain"). Their primary spiritual significance lies not in the etymology of the names themselves, but in the fact that these individuals were recorded as faithful servants of God's anointed king, David. Their inclusion in the sacred text highlights the biblical principle that God values and remembers the loyal service of all His people, regardless of their prominence, as evidenced by the comprehensive record of David's mighty men in [1 Chronicles 11](/1_chronicles/11 "1 Chronicles 11 - David Becomes King and His Mighty Men").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The list of David's mighty men, including Ahiam and Eliphal, serves as a powerful Old Testament type, foreshadowing the ultimate King and His devoted followers. Just as David, God's anointed king, gathered around him a loyal band of warriors who fought for the establishment and defense of his earthly kingdom, so too does Jesus Christ, the true King of Kings, call forth a company of disciples to advance His eternal kingdom. These mighty men faced physical battles, but Christ's followers are equipped for spiritual warfare, fighting against sin, death, and the powers of darkness (see [Ephesians 6:12](/ephesians/6-12 "Ephesians 6:12 - Spiritual Warfare")). Every believer, like Ahiam and Eliphal, is called to be a "mighty one" in Christ, contributing their unique gifts and unwavering loyalty to the body of Christ (as described in [1 Corinthians 12:12-27](/1_corinthians/12-12 "1 Corinthians 12:12-27 - The Body of Christ")) and to the spread of the Gospel (as commanded in [Matthew 28:19-20](/matthew/28-19 "Matthew 28:19-20 - The Great Commission")). Their names are recorded not for earthly fame, but for their faithful service to the King, much like the "book of life" where the names of Christ's true followers are eternally inscribed (see [Revelation 20:12](/revelation/20-12 "Revelation 20:12 - The Book of Life")). Thus, 1 Chronicles 11:35 ultimately points to the greater reality of Christ's kingdom, built not by human might alone, but by the Spirit-empowered faithfulness of His redeemed people.

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.