What number verse is 1 Chronicles 11:44 in the Bible?

1 Chronicles 11:44 is the 10,718th 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 11:44 sits at position 10,718.

Translation

King James Version

Uzzia the Ashterathite, Shama and Jehiel the sons of Hothan the Aroerite,

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KJV (with Strong's)

Uzzia ^H5814 the Ashterathite ^H6254, Shama ^H8091 and Jehiel ^H3273 the sons ^H1121 of Hothan ^H2369 the Aroerite ^H6200,

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Complete Jewish Bible

'Uziyah the 'Asht'rati Shama and Ye'i'el the sons of Hotam the 'Aro'eri,

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Berean Standard Bible

Uzzia the Ashterathite, Shama and Jeiel the sons of Hotham the Aroerite,

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American Standard Version

Uzzia the Ashterathite, Shama and Jeiel the sons of Hotham the Aroerite,

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World English Bible Messianic

Uzzia the Ashterathite, Shama and Jeiel the sons of Hotham the Aroerite,

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Geneva Bible (1599)

Vzia the Ashterathite, Shama and Ieiel the sonnes of Otham the Aroerite,

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Young's Literal Translation

Uzzia the Ashterathite, Shama and Jehiel sons of Hothan the Aroerite,

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Study This Verse

SUMMARY

1 Chronicles 11:44 meticulously records the names of Uzzia the Ashterathite, and Shama and Jehiel, the sons of Hothan the Aroerite, as integral members of King David's distinguished corps of "mighty men." This concise entry, part of a broader catalog of valiant warriors, underscores the Chronicler's commitment to preserving a comprehensive historical record, highlighting the foundational importance of individual loyalty and service in the establishment and consolidation of the Davidic kingdom, even for those whose specific exploits are not further detailed.

CONTEXT

Literary Context: 1 Chronicles 11 marks a pivotal transition in the Chronicler's narrative, immediately following David's anointing as king over all Israel in Hebron and the strategic capture of Jerusalem, which he established as the nation's capital. The chapter then shifts to an extensive and meticulous enumeration of the elite military leaders who formed the backbone of David's reign. This roster begins with the "three" most renowned warriors, followed by the "thirty" (or "thirty-seven" when including the chief three), a larger, highly esteemed company. Verse 44 is situated within this comprehensive list (1 Chronicles 11:26-47), which not only records names but often includes geographical origins, emphasizing the diverse yet unified support that bolstered David's kingdom. The sheer detail of this catalog, even for figures whose individual deeds are not elaborated upon elsewhere, underscores the Chronicler's intent to provide a thorough record of the human instruments through whom God worked to establish and secure His chosen king and the nascent monarchy. This literary device of listing reinforces the collective strength and broad base of loyalty that characterized David's rule.
Historical & Cultural Context: The period of David's reign (circa 1010-970 BCE) was a transformative era for ancient Israel, characterized by the consolidation of the monarchy, significant military expansion, and the establishment of Jerusalem as both the political and religious heart of the nation. David's "mighty men" were far more than ordinary soldiers; they constituted a highly trained, exceptionally loyal, and often elite fighting force. Their unwavering dedication was indispensable for maintaining internal order, defending against external adversaries, and unifying a kingdom where tribal allegiances remained potent. The inclusion of geographical identifiers such as "Ashterathite" and "Aroerite" is highly significant. These epithets indicate that David's military strength was drawn from diverse regions, including territories east of the Jordan River, which were often on the periphery of traditional Israelite control or inhabited by non-Israelite populations. This demonstrates David's remarkable capacity to forge a broad coalition and command loyalty across varied tribal and regional boundaries, effectively unifying the disparate elements of the nation under his singular leadership. Such detailed rosters were a common feature in ancient Near Eastern royal records, serving as a testament to a ruler's power, the extent of his dominion, and the valor of his subjects.
Key Themes: This verse, as an integral part of the larger list of David's warriors, contributes significantly to several overarching themes present in the book of Chronicles. A prominent theme is Divine Record and Remembrance. The Chronicler's meticulous preservation of names, even those without extensive accompanying narratives, powerfully underscores God's comprehensive knowledge and remembrance of all who faithfully serve His purposes. This resonates deeply with the biblical principle that no act of faithfulness, however seemingly small or obscure, goes unnoticed by God, a truth echoed in passages like Hebrews 6:10. Another crucial theme is Loyalty and Service. The inclusion of these warriors highlights the paramount value placed on unwavering dedication to the king and, by extension, to God's kingdom. Their steadfast service was foundational to the stability and success of David's reign, mirroring the importance of faithful service in God's broader redemptive plan for His people. Lastly, the Diversity of Origins among David's mighty men, clearly indicated by their geographical epithets, points to the inclusive nature of God's work. David's kingdom was strengthened by individuals from various backgrounds, foreshadowing the universal scope of God's redemptive plan to gather people from "every nation, tribe, people and language," a glorious vision depicted in Revelation 7:9.

EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

Key Word Analysis

Uzzia (Hebrew, ‘Uzzîyâ', H5814): This name, meaning "My strength is Yahweh," is significant as it subtly attributes the individual's strength and prowess not merely to human ability but to divine empowerment. While the verse provides no further details of his deeds, his inclusion among David's elite warriors suggests a recognition of his strength and loyalty, implicitly rooted in God's provision.
sons (Hebrew, bên, H1121): This term, derived from a root meaning "to build," signifies not just biological offspring but also those who build up or continue a family line, a nation, or a quality. In this context, "sons of Hothan" emphasizes a familial connection and potentially a generational legacy of loyalty and military service within David's elite corps, suggesting that valor and allegiance could be inherited or cultivated within specific lineages.
Aroerite (Hebrew, ‘Ărô‘êrîy, H6200): This patronymic indicates origin from Aroer, a city located in Transjordan, likely in Moabite or Ammonite territory. Its inclusion underscores the broad geographical reach of David's influence and his capacity to draw loyal supporters from regions beyond the traditional boundaries of Israel proper. It highlights the diverse composition of his kingdom and the widespread recognition of his authority.

Verse Breakdown

"Uzzia the Ashterathite": This initial clause introduces one of David's mighty men, Uzzia, whose name carries the theological meaning "My strength is Yahweh." The appended "the Ashterathite" immediately identifies his place of origin as Ashteroth, a city in Bashan, east of the Jordan River, historically associated with pagan worship. His inclusion in David's elite corps, despite his non-Israelite geographical background, highlights David's unifying leadership and the diverse composition of his loyal forces.
"Shama and Jehiel the sons of Hothan the Aroerite": This clause lists two additional individuals, Shama and Jehiel, explicitly identifying them as brothers and sons of Hothan. The familial connection ("sons of Hothan") suggests a lineage of service or a shared commitment to David's cause. Their origin as "the Aroerite" further emphasizes the widespread geographical support base of David's kingdom, drawing loyal warriors from Transjordanian territories. This detail reinforces the theme of David's ability to consolidate power and command allegiance across various regions, expanding the reach and influence of his nascent empire.

Literary Devices

The primary literary device employed in 1 Chronicles 11:44 and the surrounding verses is Cataloging or Listing. The Chronicler meticulously compiles a detailed roster of David's mighty men, emphasizing the breadth and depth of his loyal support. This serves to legitimize David's reign by showcasing the formidable military force at his command, while simultaneously honoring the individuals who contributed to the kingdom's success. Furthermore, the use of Geographical Markers (e.g., "Ashterathite," "Aroerite") is a key feature, providing specific origins for these warriors. This not only adds historical verisimilitude but also subtly highlights the diverse geographical and tribal reach of David's influence, demonstrating his ability to unify disparate elements under his leadership. While not deeply symbolic, the Onomastics (the study of names) of "Uzzia" ("My strength is Yahweh") can be seen as a subtle theological undertone, suggesting that even the strength of these warriors ultimately derived from God.

THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS

1 Chronicles 11:44, embedded within the comprehensive list of David's mighty men, offers profound theological insights that transcend its historical detail. It powerfully underscores the divine principle that every individual, regardless of their perceived prominence or the extent of their recorded deeds, plays a vital and recognized role in God's overarching plan. The Chronicler's meticulous record-keeping reflects God's own nature as one who sees, remembers, and values every act of faithfulness and service performed for His kingdom. These warriors, though many remain obscure to us, were instrumental in establishing the Davidic monarchy, which itself was a crucial step in God's unfolding redemptive history, pointing towards the ultimate King, Jesus Christ. Their loyalty to David foreshadows the call to unwavering allegiance to the King of Kings, reminding believers that their service, no matter how humble or hidden, is eternally significant in the building of God's spiritual kingdom.

REFLECTION AND APPLICATION

The seemingly obscure names in 1 Chronicles 11:44 offer a profound and encouraging reminder of God's meticulous attention to detail and His infinite valuation of every individual's contribution to His divine purposes. In a world that often celebrates only the highly visible and publicly acclaimed, this verse quietly affirms the inherent worth of faithfulness in obscurity. Just as Uzzia, Shama, and Jehiel played their crucial part in securing David's kingdom, every believer is called to serve in the body of Christ, often in roles that may not garner widespread recognition or earthly accolades. Our faithfulness in these "unseen" ministries—whether in consistent prayer, quiet acts of service, steadfast witness, or humble obedience—is profoundly significant to God. This passage encourages us to embrace our unique calling with diligence and unwavering devotion, trusting implicitly that our labor in the Lord is never in vain. It assures us that God remembers and rewards every act of love and service, regardless of whether it is chronicled in human history. Ultimately, it challenges us to find deep contentment and purpose in simply being counted among God's faithful, contributing to His eternal kingdom in the specific ways He has ordained for each of us.

Questions for Reflection

How does the inclusion of seemingly obscure names like Uzzia, Shama, and Jehiel challenge our modern tendency to value only public recognition and visible achievements?
In what "unseen" or humble ways might you be called to serve God's kingdom, and how can this verse encourage your faithfulness in those areas?
How does the diversity of origins among David's mighty men speak to the inclusive nature of God's kingdom today, and what implications does this have for Christian community?

FAQ

Why are these specific names listed in the Bible if their deeds aren't elaborated upon?

Answer: The inclusion of these specific names, even without detailed accounts of their individual exploits, serves several important purposes within the Chronicler's narrative. First, it underscores the meticulous historical record-keeping, emphasizing the comprehensive nature of David's loyal support and the breadth of his kingdom. Second, and more profoundly, it highlights the value God places on every individual's contribution to His purposes, regardless of their public prominence. It suggests that even seemingly "minor" figures played a crucial role in establishing and securing the Davidic kingdom, which was central to God's redemptive plan. Their inclusion ensures that their loyalty and service are remembered and honored in the divine record, reflecting God's own attention to detail and His remembrance of all who serve Him faithfully, as noted in Malachi 3:16.

What is the significance of the geographical identifiers like "Ashterathite" and "Aroerite"?

Answer: The geographical identifiers "Ashterathite" and "Aroerite" are highly significant as they indicate the diverse origins of David's loyal warriors. Ashteroth was a city in Bashan, east of the Jordan, with historical ties to pagan worship, while Aroer was also a city east of the Jordan, likely in Moabite or Ammonite territory. Their inclusion demonstrates David's remarkable ability to command loyalty and forge a unified kingdom from a wide array of regions and potentially diverse backgrounds, extending beyond the traditional Israelite tribal territories. This illustrates the unifying power of David's leadership and foreshadows the universal scope of God's kingdom, which gathers people from "every tribe and language and people and nation," as envisioned in Revelation 5:9.

CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT

While 1 Chronicles 11:44 is a historical record of the earthly Davidic kingdom, it finds profound Christ-centered fulfillment in several compelling ways. David, as the anointed king of Israel, serves as a significant type of Jesus Christ, the ultimate King and Messiah, whose kingdom is eternal, spiritual, and universal. Just as David's reign was established and maintained by the loyal, diverse service of his "mighty men," Christ's spiritual kingdom is built upon the faithful devotion of His followers, the church. The inclusion of individuals from varied geographical and cultural backgrounds among David's warriors, such as the Ashterathite and Aroerite, powerfully prefigures the universal call of the Gospel, which extends to "all nations" (Matthew 28:19). In Christ, the old distinctions of ethnicity or social status are transcended, 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, the meticulous biblical record of seemingly obscure individuals highlights God's divine remembrance and valuation of every single person who serves His purposes. This resonates deeply with Christ's teaching that even the smallest act of service or faith, like giving "a cup of cold water to one of these little ones," is seen and rewarded by the Father (Matthew 10:42). Ultimately, these "mighty men" served an earthly king; believers today are called to serve the King of Kings, Jesus Christ, whose power is not in military might but in redemptive love, and whose kingdom will never end (Luke 1:33).

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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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