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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 11:38 meticulously records two additional names, Joel the brother of Nathan and Mibhar the son of Haggeri, as esteemed members of King David's elite corps of "Mighty Men" or "The Thirty." This verse, embedded within a comprehensive roster of David's most valiant warriors, underscores the diverse individuals whose unwavering loyalty, exceptional courage, and dedicated service were indispensable to the establishment, defense, and flourishing of David's divinely ordained kingdom, highlighting the collective effort that underpinned his reign.
CONTEXT
Literary Context: This verse is situated within a pivotal section of 1 Chronicles (chapters 11-12) that immediately follows David's anointing as king over all Israel in Hebron and his subsequent capture of Jerusalem, making it the capital. The Chronicler, writing for a post-exilic audience, meticulously emphasizes the legitimacy and divine backing of David's dynasty. After establishing David's kingship and the strategic importance of Jerusalem, the narrative transitions to a detailed enumeration of the individuals who rallied to David's cause, forming his formidable military and administrative core. The extended list of "The Thirty" (commencing in 1 Chronicles 11:26 and concluding in 1 Chronicles 11:47) serves as a powerful testament to the strength, loyalty, and divine favor bestowed upon David's inner circle. Its inclusion reinforces the Chronicler's commitment to detailed historical documentation and the recognition of every individual's contribution to God's unfolding plan, particularly those who "strengthened themselves with him in his kingdom" (1 Chronicles 11:10).
Historical & Cultural Context: In the geopolitical landscape of the ancient Near East, the stability and longevity of a king's reign were intrinsically linked to the loyalty and military prowess of his elite fighting force. David's remarkable ascent from a humble shepherd to a unified monarch, especially after years as a fugitive, necessitated the formation of a highly dedicated and exceptionally skilled personal army. These "mighty men" were not merely soldiers; they often functioned as close confidantes, commanders, and even administrators, embodying a feudal-like system where personal allegiance to the sovereign was paramount. Their inclusion in a royal roster, akin to an ancient honor roll, vividly reflects the cultural value placed on valor, military achievement, and unwavering devotion to the monarch. The identification through familial relationships ("brother of Nathan," "son of Haggeri") further underscores the importance of lineage, tribal identity, and clan affiliations within Israelite society, where family ties frequently determined social standing, military roles, and political alliances. The textual variations observed when comparing this list with the parallel account in 2 Samuel 23 also provide insight into the fluid nature of ancient record-keeping and the potential for different scribal traditions or interpretations.
Key Themes: The Chronicler's deliberate inclusion of these mighty men contributes significantly to several overarching theological and narrative themes. Firstly, it powerfully illustrates Valor and Loyalty, showcasing the extraordinary courage, unwavering commitment, and sacrificial service of individuals who risked their lives to support David's God-given leadership. These men were instrumental in securing the kingdom and executing God's sovereign will. Secondly, the meticulous cataloging highlights the theme of Divine Remembrance and Historical Documentation, ensuring that the contributions of these faithful servants, regardless of their prominence, were not forgotten. It reinforces the profound biblical idea that God remembers and honors those who serve His purposes, even those who might appear to be minor figures. Thirdly, and perhaps most centrally for the Chronicler's theological agenda, this section underscores God's Providence and the Establishment of the Davidic Kingdom. While focusing on human agents and their remarkable feats, the broader narrative consistently points to God's active hand in establishing David's rule and fulfilling His covenant promises, particularly the eternal dynasty promised in 2 Samuel 7. The strength and effectiveness of David's army, epitomized by these mighty men, served as a tangible manifestation of God's blessing and His active work in bringing about His kingdom through chosen leaders and their loyal followers.
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
The Chronicler's presentation in 1 Chronicles 11:38, as an integral part of the broader list of David's mighty men, employs several significant literary devices. Primarily, it utilizes a Catalog or List format, a common ancient Near Eastern literary technique for meticulously documenting significant individuals, events, or possessions. This detailed enumeration serves to underscore the historical authenticity and comprehensive nature of David's support system, lending credibility to his reign. Furthermore, the use of Prosopography is evident, as the Chronicler provides concise, identifying details for each person, such as familial relationships ("brother of Nathan," "son of Haggeri") or tribal affiliations. This technique personalizes the historical record, transforming abstract numbers into concrete individuals whose lives contributed to the narrative. The implicit Comparison and Contrast with the parallel account in 2 Samuel 23 also functions as a literary device, inviting readers to engage with textual variations and consider the process of biblical transmission, even if the Chronicler's primary aim was to present his own authoritative record rather than highlight discrepancies. Ultimately, the entire list, including this specific verse, functions as Symbolism, representing the formidable strength, divine favor, and broad-based support that characterized David's kingdom, showcasing the human instruments through whom God worked to establish His chosen king.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The inclusion of seemingly less prominent figures like Joel and Mibhar within the esteemed list of David's mighty men carries profound theological weight. It powerfully underscores the biblical principle that every individual's contribution, no matter how seemingly small, obscure, or unheralded, is deeply valued and eternally remembered by God. The Chronicler's meticulous record-keeping reflects a divine perspective that acknowledges the faithfulness and devoted service of all who participate in God's grand redemptive plan. These men, through their valor, loyalty, and willingness to serve, were instrumental instruments in establishing God's chosen king and securing the kingdom of Israel. Their lives demonstrate that God sovereignly works through human agency to accomplish His divine purposes. Their presence in the sacred text affirms that faithfulness in supporting roles, behind-the-scenes contributions, and steadfast dedication are just as vital and honored in God's eyes as prominent leadership, contributing holistically to the overall strength and success of God's work in the world.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The inclusion of Joel the brother of Nathan and Mibhar the son of Haggeri in this ancient honor roll serves as a profound and timeless reminder that God values every act of faithful service, irrespective of its public recognition, perceived significance, or the stature of the one performing it. In a contemporary culture that often celebrates only the highly visible, the powerfully influential, or the widely acclaimed, these names speak eloquently to the enduring legacy of those who serve diligently and faithfully in supporting roles. They remind us that the true strength and lasting impact of any great endeavor—be it a nation, a church, a community, or a family—resides not solely in its prominent leaders, but equally, if not more so, in the quiet, consistent, and sacrificial faithfulness of its countless members. Our ultimate calling as believers is not necessarily to attain fame or public acclaim, but rather to cultivate unwavering faithfulness; not to seek the spotlight, but to serve with integrity, humility, and wholehearted devotion wherever God has sovereignly placed us. Every unique skill, every dedicated hour, every ounce of strength, and every prayer offered in service to God's kingdom contributes immeasurably to its overall flourishing and is meticulously recorded in His divine ledger, ensuring that no act of love or service is ever forgotten.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
What is the significance of the textual variation between 1 Chronicles 11:38 ("Mibhar the son of Haggeri") and 2 Samuel 23:36 ("Igal the son of Nathan of Zobah")?
Answer: This textual variation is a classic and fascinating example of the complexities inherent in ancient biblical manuscripts and their transmission over centuries. While it might initially appear as a contradiction, biblical scholars offer several compelling explanations. One common and widely accepted theory, supported by the meaning of "Mibhar" (Hebrew for "choice" or "select"), suggests that "Mibhar" in 1 Chronicles 11:38 could be a descriptive title rather than a proper name. In this view, it would indicate that the individual was a "choice one" or "select warrior" from the son of Haggeri, whose actual proper name was "Igal," as listed in 2 Samuel 23:36. Another possibility is that these are two distinct individuals, or that scribal errors occurred during the long process of copying ancient texts. It's also plausible that "Nathan of Zobah" in 2 Samuel 23:36 refers to a different Nathan than the brother of Joel mentioned in 1 Chronicles 11:38. Regardless of the precise historical reconciliation, these minor variations remind us that the Bible is an ancient text transmitted through human hands, and such textual nuances do not undermine its overall divine inspiration, theological truth, or reliability. Instead, they invite deeper textual study and a greater appreciation for the meticulous work of ancient scribes and modern biblical scholars.
Why does the Chronicler include such detailed lists of names, even for seemingly obscure individuals?
Answer: The Chronicler's meticulous inclusion of detailed lists, such as the one found in 1 Chronicles 11, serves multiple crucial purposes, both historical and theological. Historically, it provides a comprehensive and authentic record of the specific individuals who contributed significantly to the establishment, defense, and strength of David's kingdom, thereby validating the legitimacy and divine appointment of his reign. Theologically, these lists underscore the Chronicler's profound emphasis on the importance and value of every single member within God's covenant community. It powerfully demonstrates that God remembers and honors the faithfulness, loyalty, and dedicated service of all His people, not solely the prominent leaders or those who achieve widespread fame. For the post-exilic audience, to whom the Chronicler was writing, these extensive lists would have served as a vital reminder of their rich heritage, providing a tangible sense of continuity, identity, and encouragement. They were called to emulate the unwavering loyalty and devotion of their ancestors in the challenging task of rebuilding their own community and spiritual life. Ultimately, these lists reinforce the profound biblical idea that God's grand redemptive plan unfolds through the collective, interdependent efforts of many individuals, each playing a uniquely vital and indispensable role.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The faithful service and unwavering loyalty of Joel, Mibhar, and the other mighty men of David, though significant in their own right, ultimately foreshadow the ultimate and perfect service rendered by Jesus Christ, the true and eternal King of Israel. David's earthly kingdom, established and secured through the valor and sacrifice of his loyal followers, was but a temporal shadow and a prophetic type of the eternal kingdom of God, which Christ inaugurates, perfectly rules, and will bring to glorious consummation (Luke 1:33). Just as David's mighty men rallied around him to secure his earthly reign, so too does Christ gather His own "mighty men and women"—His disciples and the Church—who are called to serve Him with unwavering loyalty, self-denial, and sacrificial love (Matthew 16:24). The profound value placed on every individual's contribution within David's army finds its ultimate and most glorious fulfillment in the body of Christ, where every member, no matter how seemingly small, hidden, or unheralded, is indispensable, uniquely gifted, and vital for the building up of the kingdom and the edification of the saints (1 Corinthians 12:12-27). Christ Himself is the "choice one" (reflecting the potential meaning of Mibhar) of God, the perfectly chosen Servant who accomplished salvation through His ultimate act of obedience, self-sacrifice, and atoning death on the cross (Isaiah 42:1; Philippians 2:8). Thus, the loyalty and devoted service of David's warriors serve as a powerful pointer to the supreme loyalty and perfect service of Christ, and in turn, illuminate our own call to be faithful servants in His ever-expanding, eternal, and glorious kingdom.