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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 11:43 meticulously records two more individuals within the extensive roster of David's elite warriors: Hanan the son of Maachah and Joshaphat the Mithnite. This verse is part of a comprehensive catalog of the valiant men who were instrumental in establishing and securing David's kingdom. Far from being a mere historical enumeration, its inclusion underscores the biblical principle of divine remembrance and the profound value placed on the individual contributions of those who faithfully served God's purposes, even in roles that might appear less prominent within the grand narrative of Israel's monarchy.
CONTEXT
Literary Context: 1 Chronicles 11 serves as a foundational chapter in the Chronicler's account, immediately following David's anointing as king over all Israel at Hebron, a pivotal moment fulfilling God's covenantal promises. The chapter then transitions into a detailed and extensive list of David's most formidable warriors, often referred to as "David's mighty men" or "David's Gibborim." This catalog, commencing in 1 Chronicles 11:10 and concluding at 1 Chronicles 11:47, stands as a powerful testament to the military strength, unwavering loyalty, and diverse support that underpinned David's successful reign. The list is carefully structured, first presenting the "Three" and the "Thirty" elite groups, and then expanding to include other notable individuals. Verse 43, specifically naming Hanan and Joshaphat, is situated within the latter portion of this comprehensive roll call, emphasizing the broad base of support and the varied geographical and tribal origins of those who served David with unwavering faithfulness. A parallel, though not entirely identical, account of these warriors is also found in 2 Samuel 23, highlighting the historical significance attributed to these figures by the biblical authors.
Historical & Cultural Context: David's reign (approximately 1010-970 BC) marked a transformative era for the nascent Israelite monarchy, transitioning from a loose tribal confederacy to a unified, centralized kingdom with Jerusalem as its capital. The establishment and consolidation of such a kingdom necessitated a robust military force and a dedicated core of skilled, loyal warriors. These "mighty men" were more than just soldiers; they formed an elite corps, often functioning as the king's personal champions, commanders, and trusted advisors. Their meticulous inclusion in a royal list reflects a common ancient Near Eastern practice of formally recording the names of individuals who rendered significant service to the monarch. This practice served to solidify their place in national memory and to legitimize the king's rule by showcasing the loyalty and capability of his most esteemed subjects. The mention of specific origins, such as "the Mithnite," further underscores the diverse geographical and tribal backgrounds from which these loyalists were drawn, illustrating David's remarkable ability to unite disparate factions under his leadership, a theme evident from the very beginning of his reign over all Israel (1 Chronicles 11:1-3).
Key Themes: This verse, as an integral part of the larger list of David's mighty men, contributes significantly to several overarching themes within 1 Chronicles and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it profoundly emphasizes the recognition of individuals. Despite being part of an extensive catalog, each name is meticulously recorded, underscoring the biblical emphasis on the inherent value and indispensable contribution of every person, regardless of the perceived prominence of their role. This reflects God's own meticulous attention to detail and His unwavering remembrance of those who serve His divine purposes, a theme beautifully echoed in passages like Malachi 3:16. Secondly, the list highlights the profound themes of loyalty and devoted service to God's anointed king. These individuals constituted the core group that enabled David to secure his kingdom and to implement God's sovereign will for Israel. Their inclusion in this revered list signifies their unwavering dedication and active participation during the formative years of the monarchy, serving as enduring examples of faithful commitment to a divinely appointed leader—a principle that remains profoundly relevant for all forms of service within God's kingdom today. Finally, the list serves as a crucial historical record, meticulously preserving the memory and legacy of those who played vital roles in Israel's history under the leadership of King David, ensuring that their faithfulness would not be forgotten.
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
The predominant literary device employed in 1 Chronicles 11:43, and indeed throughout the latter half of the chapter, is Cataloging or List-Making. This technique involves the systematic enumeration of names, places, or events. Far from being a mere dry record, it functions as a powerful rhetorical tool to emphasize completeness, authority, and historical continuity. By meticulously listing each warrior, the Chronicler underscores the vast and diverse network of support David commanded, thereby highlighting the divine blessing upon his reign. Closely related to this is the specific use of Patronymics ("the son of Maachah") and Ethnonyms/Toponyms ("the Mithnite"), which are precise forms of identification that firmly root these individuals within their historical and social contexts. These details lend an undeniable authenticity and weight to the narrative, transforming what might otherwise be a generic account into a precise and verifiable historical document. Furthermore, the very act of naming, or Nominalism, carries profound theological weight in biblical thought. To be named and remembered signifies inherent value, purpose, and a place within God's divine plan, suggesting that God's meticulous record-keeping extends even to those who might appear to play supporting roles in His grand redemptive narrative.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The inclusion of seemingly minor figures like Hanan and Joshaphat in the sacred text of 1 Chronicles 11:43 carries profound theological weight, underscoring a consistent biblical theme: God sees, values, and remembers every individual's contribution to His sovereign purposes, regardless of their human prominence. Just as the names of the most celebrated heroes are meticulously recorded, so too are those whose faithful service might have been less publicly acclaimed, yet equally vital to the unfolding of God's plan. This meticulous record-keeping reflects God's own character—He is a God who remembers, who does not overlook the diligent work and loving service of His people. Their inclusion serves as a powerful testament to the collective, interdependent effort required to build God's kingdom, reminding us that every member of the body, no matter their perceived stature, is indispensable and uniquely gifted. This principle profoundly encourages faithfulness in all callings, knowing that true significance is measured not by human applause or worldly recognition, but by divine acknowledgment and eternal remembrance.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The detailed listing of David's mighty men, including figures like Hanan and Joshaphat, might initially appear to be a mere historical footnote, yet it offers profoundly rich ground for contemporary reflection and spiritual application. It serves as a powerful and enduring reminder that in God's divine economy, every act of faithfulness, every commitment to service, and every individual contribution matters immensely. In our modern world, we are often tempted to measure our significance by visibility, influence, or public acclaim. However, this verse profoundly challenges that worldly perspective, asserting that God's meticulous record-keeping extends to those who operate in supporting roles, behind the scenes, or in seemingly ordinary capacities. It encourages us to embrace our unique callings with diligence, integrity, and humility, knowing that our ultimate audience is God Himself, who sees, remembers, and values all. Our faithfulness in the "small" or unseen things often serves as the crucial foundation for the "great" achievements of God's kingdom, and our names, like Hanan and Joshaphat, are intimately known to Him.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why does the Bible include such detailed lists of names, like those of David's mighty men?
Answer: The inclusion of detailed lists of names, such as those of David's mighty men found in 1 Chronicles 11 and 2 Samuel 23, serves multiple crucial purposes. Historically, these lists authenticate the biblical narrative, providing verifiable records of real individuals who played pivotal roles in Israel's history and the establishment of the monarchy. Theologically, they underscore God's meticulous attention to detail and His profound remembrance of every individual who serves His purposes. They demonstrate that every person, regardless of their perceived prominence or earthly renown, is valuable and indispensable in God's grand redemptive plan, and that their faithfulness is never forgotten by Him. Spiritually, these lists provide enduring examples of loyalty, courage, and dedication, inspiring future generations to similar service and commitment to God's kingdom.
Are Hanan and Joshaphat mentioned elsewhere in the Bible, or are they only in this list?
Answer: Hanan the son of Maachah and Joshaphat the Mithnite are specifically and uniquely mentioned together in this particular list of David's mighty men in 1 Chronicles 11:43. While the names "Hanan" and "Joshaphat" do appear elsewhere in the Bible, referring to different individuals (for example, King Jehoshaphat of Judah, or other persons named Hanan), this specific pairing with their distinct patronymic or geographical identifier is exclusive to this comprehensive list. This highlights the particularity and precision of the Chronicler's record, focusing on their unique and specific contribution to David's elite corps of warriors.
What is the significance of the "Mithnite" designation for Joshaphat?
Answer: The "Mithnite" designation for Joshaphat is a gentilic term that most likely refers to his place of origin, "Mithni" (or Methen). While the exact geographical location of Mithni is not definitively known to modern scholars, its inclusion is significant for several key reasons. Firstly, it demonstrates the remarkable diversity of geographical and tribal origins among David's loyal supporters, indicating that his burgeoning kingdom drew strength and allegiance from various parts of Israel and beyond. Secondly, it adds to the historical precision and verifiability of the biblical text, grounding these figures in specific, identifiable (even if now obscure) locations. This meticulous detail reinforces the historical reality of these individuals and their tangible contributions to the consolidation and defense of David's kingdom.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The meticulous catalog of David's mighty men, including figures like Hanan and Joshaphat, finds its ultimate and profound Christ-centered fulfillment in the New Testament concept of the Church as the living body of Christ and the spiritual kingdom He eternally establishes. David, as God's anointed king, serves as a powerful type and foreshadowing of Jesus Christ, the true and eternal King, whose kingdom is not of this world yet profoundly impacts it (John 18:36). Just as King David relied on a diverse and loyal group of warriors to establish and defend his earthly kingdom, so too does Christ build His spiritual, eternal kingdom through a vast and varied company of believers, each uniquely gifted, called, and consecrated to serve Him. Every member of Christ's body, from the most prominent apostle to the humblest servant, is intimately known by name and profoundly valued by the King of kings (1 Corinthians 12:12-27). The meticulous record of David's men points forward to the divine ledger where the names of all who belong to Christ are eternally written in the Book of Life (Philippians 4:3, Revelation 3:5). In Christ, our service, no matter how seemingly small, unseen, or uncelebrated by human eyes, is eternally remembered, honored, and rewarded by our gracious Lord, who Himself came not to be served but to serve and to give His life as a ransom for many (Mark 10:45).