1 Chronicles 11:44

1 Chronicles 11:44 is a verse within a detailed roster of King David's elite warriors, often referred to as his "mighty men." This particular verse lists three individuals: Uzzia the Ashterathite, and Shama and Jehiel, the sons of Hothan the Aroerite.

Context of 1 Chronicles 11:44

The Book of 1 Chronicles meticulously records the genealogies and early history of Israel, with a significant focus on the reign of King David and the establishment of the Temple. Chapter 11 recounts David's anointing as king over all Israel and then transitions into a comprehensive list of his most valiant soldiers. This list begins with the "three" (the very chief of the mighty men) and the "thirty" (a larger group of distinguished warriors), highlighting the military prowess and loyalty that underpinned David's kingdom. Verse 44 falls within this extended catalog, emphasizing the importance of each individual who served David faithfully.

• For the introduction to David's mighty men, see 1 Chronicles 11:10.
• Another reference to the "thirty" can be found in 1 Chronicles 11:25.

Key Themes and Messages

• Divine Record and Remembrance: Even seemingly minor figures, or those whose specific deeds are not detailed, are preserved in the biblical record. This reflects God's meticulous nature and His remembrance of all who contribute to His purposes, no matter how small their role may seem.
• Loyalty and Service: The inclusion of these names underscores the value placed on loyalty and dedicated service to the king and, by extension, to God's kingdom. These men were vital to David's success and the security of Israel. Their faithfulness was foundational to the stability of David's reign.
• Diversity of Origins: The geographical identifiers like "Ashterathite" and "Aroerite" indicate that David's mighty men came from various regions within Israel, and possibly beyond, demonstrating a broad coalition of support for his leadership.

Linguistic and Geographical Insights

The suffixes "Ashterathite" and "Aroerite" refer to the places of origin for Uzzia and Hothan's family, respectively. Ashterath likely refers to Ashteroth, a town in Bashan (modern-day Syria/Jordan), known in biblical history. Aroer refers to a city east of the Jordan River, possibly in Moab or Ammonite territory, indicating the widespread influence and recruitment base of David's army.

Practical Application

While 1 Chronicles 11:44 lists names that might seem obscure to a modern reader, its inclusion in the biblical narrative offers valuable insights:

1. Every Contribution Matters: This verse reminds us that every individual's contribution to God's work is seen and valued, even if their specific actions aren't extensively chronicled. Just as these warriors supported King David, every believer plays a role in the body of Christ.
2. Faithfulness in Obscurity: It encourages faithfulness in our callings, even when our service might not bring public recognition. The Lord remembers and rewards the loyal heart.
3. The Strength of Community: David's success was not solitary but built on the collective strength and dedication of many individuals. This highlights the importance of community and mutual support in achieving God-given goals, whether in a nation or a church.