What number verse is 1 Chronicles 11:39 in the Bible?

1 Chronicles 11:39 is the 10,713th verse of the Bible. Counting straight through the King James canon — all 31,102 verses from Genesis 1:1 to Revelation 22:21 — 1 Chronicles 11:39 sits at position 10,713.

11:3811:38

1 Chronicles 11:39

Q: What exactly was the role of an "armourbearer" in ancient warfare?

The "armourbearer" (Hebrew: *nose' kelim*) was a highly trusted, intimate, and vital position in ancient armies. This individual was responsible for carrying the commander's weapons (such as a sword, spear, or shield), ensuring they were readily accessible and properly maintained. More than just a carrier, the armourbearer often fought directly alongside the commander, protecting him, assisting him in battle, and sometimes even finishing off wounded opponents or taking the lead in dangerous situations. This role required immense physical strength, unwavering courage, and absolute loyalty, as the commander's life often depended on the armourbearer's constant vigilance, quick action, and personal devotion. Notable examples include Jonathan's armourbearer in 1 Samuel 14:6-14 and Goliath's armourbearer in 1 Samuel 17:7. Naharai's position as Joab's armourbearer speaks volumes about his reliability, close relationship with David's chief general, and his indispensable contribution to the military success of David's kingdom.

11:4011:40

Translation

King James Version

Zelek the Ammonite, Naharai the Berothite, the armourbearer of Joab the son of Zeruiah,

Ask

KJV (with Strong's)

Zelek ^H6768 the Ammonite ^H5984, Naharai ^H5171 the Berothite ^H1307, the armourbearer ^{H5375 H3627} of Joab ^H3097 the son ^H1121 of Zeruiah ^H6870,

Ask

Complete Jewish Bible

Tzelek the 'Amoni, Nachrai the Be'eroti, armor-bearer of Yo'av the son of Tz'ruyah,

Ask

Berean Standard Bible

Zelek the Ammonite, Naharai the Beerothite, the armor-bearer of Joab son of Zeruiah,

Ask

American Standard Version

Zelek the Ammonite, Naharai the Berothite, the armorbearer of Joab the son of Zeruiah,

Ask

World English Bible Messianic

Zelek the Ammonite, Naharai the Berothite, the armor bearer of Joab the son of Zeruiah,

Ask

Geneva Bible (1599)

Zelek the Ammonite, Nahrai the Berothite, the armour bearer of Ioab, the sonne of Zeruiah,

Ask

Young's Literal Translation

Zelek the Ammonite, Naharai the Berothite, bearer of the weapons of Joab son of Zeruiah,

Ask

See on the biblical-era map

Map © Biblica Open Bible Maps · CC BY-SA 4.0

In the KJVVerse 10,713 of 31,102

Study This Verse

SUMMARY

1 Chronicles 11:39 introduces Zelek the Ammonite and Naharai the Berothite, two significant figures within David's elite fighting force, with Naharai specifically identified as the trusted armourbearer of Joab, David's formidable chief general. This verse, embedded within the detailed roster of David's mighty men, profoundly illustrates the diverse origins of those who served the king with unwavering loyalty, underscoring the vital role of support personnel in the kingdom's success and subtly hinting at God's broader, inclusive vision for His redemptive purposes.

CONTEXT

Literary Context: This verse is situated within a pivotal section of 1 Chronicles (chapters 10-12) that chronicles David's anointing as king, the conquest of Jerusalem, and the assembly of his most loyal supporters and valiant warriors. Specifically, 1 Chronicles 11:10-47 presents an extensive and meticulously detailed roster of David's most courageous fighters, a list that largely parallels the account found in 2 Samuel 23:8-39. The Chronicler's inclusion of such a comprehensive list serves multiple purposes: it emphasizes the divine favor bestowed upon David, solidifies the strength and legitimacy of his kingdom, and highlights the profound loyalty he inspired. By naming each individual, even those in seemingly subordinate or supporting roles, the text underscores the importance of every person's unique contribution to God's unfolding plan through the establishment and consolidation of David's reign.
Historical & Cultural Context: The era of David's reign marked a period of significant military expansion and national consolidation for ancient Israel. The "mighty men" were not merely ordinary soldiers but an elite corps, often veterans who had accompanied David during his fugitive years, forming the very backbone of his army and administration. The position of an "armourbearer" (Hebrew: nose' kelim) was far more than a mere servant; it was a highly trusted, intimate, and often dangerous role, requiring immense loyalty, exceptional physical prowess, and an unwavering readiness to protect the commander at all costs. An armourbearer would carry the general's weapons, stand by him in the thick of battle, and often fight alongside him, sometimes even delivering the final blow to an opponent. This close proximity and shared peril meant the armourbearer was privy to strategic decisions and personal vulnerabilities, making Naharai's appointment as Joab's armourbearer a testament to his exceptional reliability, skill, and personal bond with the chief general. The mention of "Zelek the Ammonite" is particularly striking given the long-standing historical animosity between Israel and Ammon, exemplified by conflicts such as the one described in 1 Samuel 11. His presence among David's loyal elite demonstrates David's unique ability to transcend traditional tribal and national enmities, attracting devotion from diverse backgrounds and showcasing a kingdom that, under divine guidance, could be more expansive than ethnically defined.
Key Themes: The inclusion of Zelek and Naharai within this esteemed list contributes significantly to several overarching themes prominent in 1 Chronicles. Firstly, it highlights the theme of Loyalty and Devotion to David, emphasizing the deep personal allegiance that bound these warriors to their king, often forged through shared hardship and unwavering commitment. Secondly, the specific mention of Naharai as an "armourbearer" underscores the Strategic Importance of Supporting Roles. It powerfully illustrates that success in God's kingdom, whether in ancient Israel or the modern church, is not solely dependent on prominent leaders but also on the faithful, often unseen, service of those in crucial support capacities. This resonates deeply with the New Testament concept of the body of Christ, where every member, regardless of perceived prominence, is vital and contributes uniquely to the whole, as discussed in 1 Corinthians 12. Finally, Zelek's Ammonite origin introduces the profound theme of God's Inclusive Kingdom. Despite the historical enmity between Israel and Ammon, God's purposes, as mediated through David, could incorporate individuals from outside the traditional Israelite covenant community, foreshadowing the broader scope of God's redemptive plan for all nations, a theme also powerfully evident in the lineage of David and ultimately Christ, which includes figures like Rahab and Ruth, as seen in Matthew 1:5.

EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

Key Word Analysis

Zelek (Hebrew, Tseleq', H6768): This name, meaning "fissure" or "split," is less significant than the accompanying descriptor "the Ammonite." The Ammonites were a Semitic people, descendants of Ben-Ammi, son of Lot (Genesis 19:38), and were consistently portrayed as adversaries of Israel, often engaging in fierce battles and acts of cruelty (e.g., Amos 1:13). Zelek's inclusion among David's loyal warriors is therefore remarkable, signifying either a profound personal loyalty to David that transcended deep-seated ethnic conflict or a broader policy of integration within David's kingdom, perhaps even reflecting a divine hand at work in uniting diverse peoples under a righteous king.
Naharai (Hebrew, Nachăray', H5171): The name Naharai, possibly meaning "my snorter" or "my anger," may suggest a fierce or spirited temperament. He is identified as "the Berothite," linking him to Beeroth, one of the Gibeonite cities (Joshua 9:17). Like Zelek, his non-Israelite or at least distinct tribal origin (Gibeonites were a separate group initially deceived by Israel) further emphasizes the diverse composition of David's loyalists. His primary significance, however, is derived from his crucial role as Joab's armourbearer.
Armour (Hebrew, kᵉlîy', H3627): This term literally translates to "something prepared," encompassing any apparatus, implement, utensil, dress, vessel, or weapon. In the context of "armourbearer," it specifically refers to the weapons and defensive gear carried by the commander. The "bearer" (Hebrew: nâsâʼ, meaning "to lift" or "to bear") of these implements was responsible for ensuring the commander's readiness in battle. This dual concept of "bearer of armour/implements" highlights the practical and vital function of this role, where the armourbearer was entrusted with the very tools of war that determined the commander's effectiveness and survival.

Verse Breakdown

"Zelek the Ammonite": This phrase immediately identifies Zelek by his ethnicity, drawing attention to his non-Israelite background. His presence among David's elite warriors is a powerful testament to David's charismatic leadership and his ability to inspire loyalty that transcended traditional ethnic or national boundaries. It also subtly hints at the universal scope of God's kingdom, which can incorporate individuals from all peoples into His service.
"Naharai the Berothite": Naharai is identified by his place of origin, Beeroth, a Gibeonite city. This identification, similar to Zelek's, underscores the diverse origins of David's mighty men, suggesting that loyalty, skill, and dedication, rather than strict Israelite lineage, were paramount for inclusion in this highly esteemed group.
"the armourbearer of Joab the son of Zeruiah": This final clause specifies Naharai's crucial and intimate role. Joab, son of Zeruiah (David's sister), was David's chief general, a formidable, often ruthless, and indispensable commander. For Naharai to be his armourbearer signifies his exceptional trustworthiness, close personal relationship with Joab, and vital contribution to the military efforts of David's kingdom. It highlights the indispensable nature of supporting roles in achieving significant goals and the profound reliance of leaders on their faithful subordinates.

Literary Devices

The Chronicler employs several literary devices in this verse and throughout the broader list of mighty men. Listing/Genealogy is the primary organizational device, as the entire chapter is essentially a meticulously detailed roster of names. This comprehensive listing serves to legitimize David's reign by showcasing the breadth and depth of his support, emphasizing the divine blessing on his kingdom through the quality and loyalty of his followers. The specific identification of individuals by their ethnicity or place of origin (e.g., "the Ammonite," "the Berothite") functions as a form of Characterization through Association, subtly revealing aspects of David's inclusive leadership and the diverse nature of his kingdom. Furthermore, the inclusion of non-Israelites like Zelek can be seen as an instance of Inclusivity as a Narrative Device, foreshadowing the broader, universal scope of God's redemptive plan that extends beyond the chosen nation of Israel, a theme particularly resonant in the Chronicler's post-exilic context, where the identity of God's people was being redefined to encompass a wider community.

THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS

The seemingly simple listing of Zelek and Naharai in 1 Chronicles 11:39 carries profound theological weight. It demonstrates God's capacity to use individuals from all backgrounds—even those from historically antagonistic nations—for His divine purposes. David's kingdom, in this sense, becomes a microcosm of God's ultimate kingdom, where loyalty and service transcend ethnic and national boundaries. Furthermore, Naharai's role as an armourbearer underscores the biblical principle that every position of service, no matter how seemingly secondary or "behind the scenes," is vital and honored by God. The success of the "mighty men" and David's reign was not solely due to the prominent generals but to the faithful service of those who supported them, illustrating the interconnectedness and mutual dependence within God's people. This verse reminds us that God values faithfulness and skill in every calling, and that His kingdom is built by the collective, diverse contributions of all its members, each playing an indispensable part.

REFLECTION AND APPLICATION

1 Chronicles 11:39 offers rich insights for contemporary believers, despite being a brief mention in a long list. It challenges us to recognize and value every role within the body of Christ, no matter how seemingly small or "behind the scenes." Just as Naharai's faithful service enabled Joab to lead effectively and contribute to David's military successes, countless vital ministries in our churches and communities depend on the dedicated, often unseen, work of individuals who serve in support capacities. This verse encourages us to embrace our own roles with diligence, humility, and a deep sense of purpose, understanding that our faithfulness contributes significantly to the greater work of God's kingdom. Moreover, Zelek the Ammonite's presence serves as a powerful reminder of God's radical inclusivity. It calls us to look beyond superficial differences—whether ethnic, social, economic, or historical—and to embrace and empower all who demonstrate loyalty and a genuine desire to serve God. It should inspire us to actively welcome diverse gifts and backgrounds within our Christian communities, reflecting God's expansive heart for all peoples. Our service, like that of David's mighty men, should be marked by unwavering loyalty to our King and a willing, humble spirit to contribute wherever we are placed for His glory.

Questions for Reflection

What "armourbearer" roles exist in my life, church, or community, and how can I better recognize, appreciate, and support those who serve in them?
In what ways might I be unconsciously limiting God's work by excluding or devaluing individuals based on their background, perceived differences, or the perceived prominence of their role?
How can I cultivate the kind of unwavering loyalty and faithfulness to God and His purposes that characterized David's mighty men, even in seemingly ordinary or unnoticed tasks?
What specific, often overlooked, contributions are essential for the functioning of my church or ministry, and how can I actively participate in or advocate for them?

FAQ

Why is an Ammonite listed among David's mighty men, given their historical enmity with Israel?

Answer: Zelek the Ammonite's inclusion is highly significant and highlights several profound points. Historically, the Ammonites were indeed persistent adversaries of Israel, often engaging in fierce conflicts and acts of cruelty (e.g., 1 Samuel 11:1-11). His presence among David's elite warriors demonstrates David's unique and divinely-enabled ability to inspire loyalty and devotion even from those outside traditional Israelite circles. It suggests that David's kingdom, by God's design, was capable of transcending ethnic and national boundaries, embracing skilled and loyal individuals regardless of their origin. Theologically, it powerfully foreshadows the broader, inclusive nature of God's redemptive plan, which ultimately extends to all nations and peoples, as seen in the New Testament (e.g., Ephesians 2:11-22). It underscores that God looks at the heart and loyalty, not merely at lineage or national identity.

What exactly was the role of an "armourbearer" in ancient warfare?

Answer: The "armourbearer" (Hebrew: nose' kelim) was a highly trusted, intimate, and vital position in ancient armies. This individual was responsible for carrying the commander's weapons (such as a sword, spear, or shield), ensuring they were readily accessible and properly maintained. More than just a carrier, the armourbearer often fought directly alongside the commander, protecting him, assisting him in battle, and sometimes even finishing off wounded opponents or taking the lead in dangerous situations. This role required immense physical strength, unwavering courage, and absolute loyalty, as the commander's life often depended on the armourbearer's constant vigilance, quick action, and personal devotion. Notable examples include Jonathan's armourbearer in 1 Samuel 14:6-14 and Goliath's armourbearer in 1 Samuel 17:7. Naharai's position as Joab's armourbearer speaks volumes about his reliability, close relationship with David's chief general, and his indispensable contribution to the military success of David's kingdom.

CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT

The diverse loyalty and indispensable supporting roles highlighted in 1 Chronicles 11:39 find their ultimate fulfillment and expansive reality in Jesus Christ and the New Covenant. David's remarkable ability to draw an Ammonite like Zelek into loyal service, transcending deep-seated historical enmity, powerfully foreshadows Christ's radical inclusivity. Jesus, through His atoning work, breaks down "the dividing wall of hostility" between Jew and Gentile, creating "one new humanity" in Himself (Ephesians 2:14-15). In Christ, the old distinctions are abolished, for there is "neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus" (Galatians 3:28). Furthermore, Naharai's crucial, though often unsung, role as Joab's armourbearer beautifully illustrates the New Testament emphasis on the body of Christ, where every member, regardless of perceived prominence, is indispensable and uniquely gifted for service. Jesus Himself taught that the greatest among us is the one who serves (Matthew 20:26-28), and He perfectly modeled this by taking on the very form of a servant (Philippians 2:7). The unwavering loyalty these mighty men showed David ultimately points to the supreme loyalty due to Christ, our true King, who calls all people to Himself, empowering them with diverse gifts to build His eternal kingdom, where every act of faithful service, no matter how small or hidden, is seen, valued, and rewarded by God (Colossians 3:23-24).

Copy as

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.

Copy as

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.

Copy as

Continue studying 1 Chronicles 11:39 across the web’s major study libraries — every link below opens this exact verse, chapter, or book on the destination site.