1 Chronicles 12:21

And they helped David against the band [of the rovers]: for they [were] all mighty men of valour, and were captains in the host.

And they helped {H5826} David {H1732} against the band {H1416} of the rovers: for they were all mighty men {H1368} of valour {H2428}, and were captains {H8269} in the host {H6635}.

They helped David against the raiding band, for they were all strong, brave men who were commanders in the army.

They helped David against the raiders, for they were all mighty men of valor and commanders in the army.

And they helped David against the band of rovers: for they were all mighty men of valor, and were captains in the host.

Commentary

Commentary on 1 Chronicles 12:21 KJV

1 Chronicles 12:21 describes a specific group of valiant warriors who joined David during a critical period of his life, providing crucial support. This verse highlights their character and contribution to David's emerging kingdom.

Historical and Cultural Context

This verse is set during the time when David was a fugitive, fleeing from King Saul, and residing in Ziklag, a Philistine town (1 Samuel 27). Chapter 12 of 1 Chronicles meticulously lists the various tribes and individuals who came to David during this period of uncertainty, demonstrating their loyalty and belief in his eventual kingship. The "band [of the rovers]" refers to the Amalekites, who raided Ziklag and carried off David's family and possessions. This event, detailed in 1 Samuel 30, saw David and his men pursue and recover all that was lost. The men mentioned in this verse were instrumental in that successful recovery operation.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Loyalty and Commitment: These men demonstrated unwavering loyalty to David, joining him when he was still an outlaw rather than an established king. Their willingness to align with him during his wilderness years speaks volumes about their commitment.
  • Strength and Skill: The description "mighty men of valour" (Hebrew: gibborim) signifies their exceptional strength, courage, and military prowess. They were not merely followers but highly skilled warriors.
  • Effective Leadership: Being "captains in the host" indicates they held positions of authority and were capable of leading others effectively. Their leadership was vital in organizing and executing military actions.
  • Divine Provision: The chronicler emphasizes that God was raising up and providing David with capable and loyal men, essential for his future role as king of Israel. This support was part of God's plan for David's reign, as seen throughout the accounts of David's anointing.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "mighty men of valour" (Hebrew: gibborim) is a recurring descriptor in the Old Testament for elite warriors or heroes. It denotes not just physical strength but also courage, skill, and a willingness to fight valiantly. Their status as "captains in the host" further underscores their military rank and leadership capabilities within David's growing army.

Practical Application

This verse offers several timeless lessons:

  • The Value of Support: Great leaders are often surrounded by capable and loyal supporters. This highlights the importance of teamwork and the strength found in unity for achieving common goals.
  • Using Your Gifts: Just as these men used their military skills to help David, believers today are called to use their unique gifts and talents to serve others and advance God's purposes, whether in leadership or in supportive roles.
  • Faithfulness in Adversity: The men joined David when he was at his lowest, demonstrating faithfulness during his time of trial. This encourages steadfastness and loyalty even when circumstances are challenging.
  • Recognizing God's Provision: David's success was not just his own doing but also a result of God providing him with the right people at the right time. We can trust that God will also equip and provide for those He calls to leadership or service.
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Cross-References

  • 1 Chronicles 12:20

    As he went to Ziklag, there fell to him of Manasseh, Adnah, and Jozabad, and Jediael, and Michael, and Jozabad, and Elihu, and Zilthai, captains of the thousands that [were] of Manasseh.

  • 1 Samuel 30:1

    ¶ And it came to pass, when David and his men were come to Ziklag on the third day, that the Amalekites had invaded the south, and Ziklag, and smitten Ziklag, and burned it with fire;

  • 1 Samuel 30:17

    And David smote them from the twilight even unto the evening of the next day: and there escaped not a man of them, save four hundred young men, which rode upon camels, and fled.

  • 1 Chronicles 5:24

    And these [were] the heads of the house of their fathers, even Epher, and Ishi, and Eliel, and Azriel, and Jeremiah, and Hodaviah, and Jahdiel, mighty men of valour, famous men, [and] heads of the house of their fathers.

  • 1 Chronicles 11:10

    ¶ 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.

  • 1 Chronicles 11:21

    Of the three, he was more honourable than the two; for he was their captain: howbeit he attained not to the [first] three.

  • 1 Chronicles 11:22

    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.
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