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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 11:45 meticulously records Jediael, son of Shimri, and his brother Joha, identified as the Tizite, as integral members of King David's elite corps of warriors. This verse, part of a comprehensive roster of David's mighty men, highlights the Chronicler's profound emphasis on the individual contributions and loyal service of those who supported God's chosen king, underscoring the divine recognition of every participant in the establishment and maintenance of God's kingdom on earth.
CONTEXT
Literary Context: 1 Chronicles 11 serves as a pivotal chapter, marking the inauguration of David's reign as king over all Israel and the establishment of Jerusalem as his capital. Following David's anointing at Hebron and the strategic capture of the stronghold of Zion, the narrative transitions from grand national events to a detailed enumeration of the warriors who formed the backbone of his nascent kingdom. Verses 10-47 present a comprehensive list of these "mighty men," beginning with the "three mighty ones" (1 Chronicles 11:11-19) and then transitioning to a larger group often referred to as "the thirty" (1 Chronicles 11:26-47), though the actual number exceeds thirty. This roster is largely paralleled in 2 Samuel 23:8-39, with some variations, suggesting the Chronicler's deliberate choice to include these specific names. This meticulous inclusion emphasizes the broad, collective support that legitimized and empowered David's divinely appointed rule, underscoring the Chronicler's desire to acknowledge the wide base of loyal service that contributed to David's success.
Historical & Cultural Context: David's ascension to the throne marked a crucial period in ancient Israelite history, unifying the disparate tribes under a single monarchy and establishing a central capital in Jerusalem. The formation of an elite fighting force, loyal directly to the king, was a common and essential practice in ancient Near Eastern monarchies, providing both military strength and political stability. These "mighty men" were more than mere soldiers; they were often trusted advisors, administrators, and personal guards, embodying the loyalty, prowess, and dedication essential for maintaining a nascent kingdom. The meticulous recording of names and lineages, as seen in this chapter and throughout Chronicles, reflects the ancient Israelite value placed on tribal identity, family honor, and the preservation of historical records, particularly those pertaining to significant national figures and events. Such lists served not only as historical documents but also as affirmations of the divine hand in Israel's history, demonstrating how God raised up individuals to serve His purposes through His chosen king.
Key Themes: The inclusion of Jediael and Joha within this extensive list contributes to several overarching themes in 1 Chronicles. Firstly, it powerfully illustrates the recognition of faithful service. The Chronicler's detailed enumeration ensures that no loyal contributor, regardless of the scale of their recorded deeds, is forgotten. This highlights a profound biblical principle that God values every act of faithfulness, whether prominent or behind-the-scenes, a theme echoed in the New Testament's emphasis on the diverse yet equally vital roles within the body of Christ. Secondly, the list underscores the theme of loyalty and support for God-chosen leadership. These men were not merely mercenaries; they were dedicated to David, recognizing his divine appointment, and their collective strength enabled the establishment of God's kingdom on earth through him. Their unwavering allegiance was crucial for securing the kingdom and carrying out God's will through David, much as faithful support is vital for the advancement of God's kingdom today. Lastly, the painstaking detail of these genealogical and military rosters reflects the theme of divine providence in detail. The Chronicler's emphasis on names and lineages, from Adam onward, demonstrates God's meticulous involvement in human history, showing how He orchestrates individual lives and collective efforts to fulfill His overarching redemptive plan, ensuring that every person has a place in His grand narrative.
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
The Chronicler employs several literary devices in 1 Chronicles 11:45 and the surrounding list. The primary device is Enumeration, the systematic listing of names, which serves to create a comprehensive historical record and underscore the vast number of individuals who contributed to David's kingdom. This meticulous cataloging emphasizes the collective effort behind David's success, rather than focusing solely on individual heroic feats. Closely related is the use of Patronymic, as seen in "Jediael the son of Shimri," which anchors individuals within their family structures and tribal identities, reinforcing the continuity of Israel's history and the importance of ancestral heritage. Furthermore, the entire list functions as a Historical Record, providing a verifiable account of David's loyal supporters. This device lends credibility to the Chronicler's narrative, demonstrating that David's kingdom was built not just on divine favor but also on the tangible, dedicated service of real people, whose contributions were deemed worthy of permanent biblical inscription.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
1 Chronicles 11:45, though a seemingly minor detail within a long list, carries significant theological weight. It serves as a powerful reminder that God sees and values every act of faithfulness, no matter how obscure or seemingly insignificant in the grand narrative. Just as Jediael and Joha were integral to the physical establishment of David's earthly kingdom, so too are all believers essential to the building of God's spiritual kingdom. This verse challenges the modern tendency to only value prominent roles or visible achievements, instead affirming that God's economy recognizes and rewards quiet, consistent loyalty. It encourages believers to find contentment and purpose in their unique contributions to the body of Christ, knowing that their service is not overlooked by the sovereign God who meticulously records every detail of His redemptive plan and whose eyes are on the faithful.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
This seemingly ordinary verse invites profound reflection on the nature of service and divine recognition. In a world that often celebrates only the spectacular and the visible, 1 Chronicles 11:45 reminds us that God's perspective is far more encompassing and discerning. It encourages us to embrace our unique calling within the larger body of Christ, understanding that every faithful contribution, whether in the spotlight or behind the scenes, is invaluable to the advancement of His kingdom. Just as Jediael and Joha played their part in securing David's reign, so too are our seemingly small acts of obedience, kindness, and dedication woven into God's grand tapestry of redemption. This verse fosters humility, encourages perseverance in the face of obscurity, and instills confidence that our labor in the Lord is never in vain, for He is the one who "knows" us and our service. It challenges us to serve not for human applause or fleeting recognition, but for the enduring approval of the One who sees all and remembers every name.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why does the Bible include such long lists of names, like the one in 1 Chronicles 11?
Answer: The inclusion of detailed lists of names, genealogies, and military rosters in the Bible, particularly in books like 1 Chronicles, serves several crucial purposes. Historically, they provide verifiable records, authenticating the narrative and demonstrating the reality of the people and events described. Theologically, these lists underscore God's meticulous involvement in human history; every individual, every family, and every tribe plays a part in His overarching plan. For the Chronicler, these lists also emphasize continuity, showing how God's covenant promises are fulfilled through specific lineages and how the nation of Israel, and specifically David's kingdom, was built upon the collective faithfulness of many individuals. They also serve as a testament to the importance of every person's contribution, no matter how seemingly small, to the larger work of God, reinforcing that God sees and remembers all who serve Him, as seen in the detailed record of David's mighty men.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While 1 Chronicles 11:45 directly concerns the establishment of David's earthly kingdom, it powerfully foreshadows the nature of Christ's spiritual kingdom and the role of His followers. David, as the anointed king, serves as a profound type of Christ, and the loyal service of his mighty men prefigures the dedication of those who serve the true King, Jesus. Just as Jediael and Joha contributed to David's reign, every believer is called to be a vital member of Christ's body, the Church, contributing their unique gifts and faithful service to the advancement of His eternal kingdom. The meticulous recording of names in Chronicles finds its ultimate fulfillment in the Lamb's Book of Life, where the names of all who belong to Christ are eternally inscribed. This reminds us that our service, no matter how hidden, is seen and valued by the King of kings, who promises that even a cup of cold water given in His name will not go unrewarded. Ultimately, the collective strength and loyalty of David's men enabled his kingdom to flourish, much as the unified and faithful service of believers empowers the Church to fulfill its mission, demonstrating the power of God through His people until Christ returns to establish His kingdom in its full and glorious form.