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Commentary on 1 Chronicles 12 verses 1–22
We have here an account of those that appeared and acted as David's friends, upon the death of Saul, to bring about the revolution. All the forces he had, while he was persecuted, was but 600 men, who served for his guards; but, when the time had come that he must begin to act offensively, Providence brought in more to his assistance. Even while he kept himself close, because of Saul (Ch1 12:1), while he did not appear, to invite or encourage his friends and well-wishers to come in to him (not foreseeing that the death of Saul was so near), God was inclining and preparing them to come over to him with seasonable succours. Those that trust God to do his work for them in his own way and time shall find his providence outdoing all their forecast and contrivance. The war was God's, and he found out helpers of the war, whose forwardness to act for the man God designed for the government is here recorded to their honour.
I. Some, even of Saul's brethren, of the tribe of Benjamin, and a-kin to him, came over to David, Ch1 12:2. What moved them to it we are not told. Probably a generous indignation at the base treatment which Saul, one of their tribe, gave him, animated them to appear the more vigorously for him, that the guilt and reproach of it might not lie upon them. These Benjamites are described to be men of great dexterity, that were trained up in shooting and slinging, and used both hands alike - ingenious active men; a few of these might do David a great deal of service. Several of the leading men of them are here named. See Jdg 20:16.
II. Some of the tribe of Gad, though seated on the other side Jordan, had such a conviction of David's title to the government, and fitness for it, that they separated themselves from their brethren (a laudable separation it was) to go to David, though he was in the hold in the wilderness (Ch1 12:8), probably some of his strong holds in the wilderness of Engedi. They were but few, eleven in all, here named, but they added much to David's strength. Those that had hitherto come in to his assistance were most of them men of broken fortunes, distressed, discontented, and soldiers of fortune, that came to him rather for protection than to do him any service, Sa1 22:2. But these Gadites were brave men, men of war, and fit for the battle, Ch1 12:8. For, 1. They were able-bodied men, men of incredible swiftness, not to fly from, but to fly upon, the enemy, and to pursue the scattered forces. In this they were as swift as the roes upon the mountains, so that no man could escape from them; and yet they had faces like the faces of lions, so that no man could out-fight them. 2. They were disciplined men, trained up to military exercises; they could handle shield and buckler, use both offensive and defensive weapons. 3. They were officers of the militia in their own tribe (Ch1 12:14), so that though they did not bring soldiers with them they had them at command, hundreds, thousands. 4. They were daring men, that could break through the greatest difficulties. Upon some expedition or other, perhaps this to David, they swam over the Jordan, when it overflowed all its banks, Ch1 12:15. Those are fit to be employed in the cause of God that can venture thus in a dependence upon the divine protection. 5. They were men that would go through with the business they engaged in. What enemies those were that they met with in the valleys, when they had passed Jordan, does not appear; but they put them to flight with their lion-like faces, and pursued them with matchless fury, both towards the east and towards the west; which way soever they turned, they followed their blow, and did not do their work by halves.
III. Some of Judah and Benjamin came to him, Ch1 12:16. Their leader was Amasai, whether the same with that Amasa that afterwards sided with Absalom (Sa2 17:25) or no does not appear. Now here we have,
1.David's prudent treaty with them, Ch1 12:17. He was surprised to see them, and could not but conceive some jealousy of the intentions of their coming, having been so often in danger by the treachery of the men of Ziph and the men of Keilah, who yet were all men of Judah. He might well be timorous whose life was so much struck at; he might well be suspicious who had been deceived in so many that he said, in his haste, All men are liars. No marvel that he meets these men of Judah with caution. Observe,
(1.)How he puts the matter to themselves, how fairly he deals with them. As they are, they shall find him; so shall all that deal with the Son of David. [1.] If they be faithful and honourable, he will be their rewarder: "If you have come peaceably unto me, to help me, though you have come late and have left me exposed a great while, though you bring no great strength with you to turn the scale for me, yet I will thankfully accept your good-will, and my heart shall be knit unto you; I will love you and honour you, and do you all the kindness I can." Affection, respect, and service, that are cordial and sincere, will find favour with a good man, as they do with a good God, though clogged with infirmities, and turning to no great account. But, [2.] If they be false, and come to betray him into the hands of Saul, under colour of friendship, he leaves them to God to be their avenger, as he is, and will be, of every thing that is treacherous and perfidious. Never was man more violently run upon, and run down, than David was (except the Son of David himself), and yet he had the testimony of his conscience that there was no wrong in his hands. He meant no harm to any man, which was his rejoicing in the day of evil, and enabled him, when he feared treachery, to commit his cause to him that judges righteously. He will not be judge in his own cause, though a wise man, nor avenge himself, though a man of valour; but let the righteous God, who hath said, Vengeance is mine, do both. The God of our fathers look thereon and rebuke it.
(2.)In this appeal observe, [1.] He calls God the God of our fathers, both his fathers and theirs. Thus he reminded them not to deal ill with him; for they were both descendants from the same patriarchs, and both dependents on the same God. Thus he encouraged himself to believe that God would right him if he should be abused; for he was the God of his fathers and therefore a blessing was entailed on him, and a God to all Israel and therefore not only a Judge to all the earth, but particularly concerned in determining controversies between contesting Israelites. [2.] He does not imprecate any fearful judgement upon them, though they should deal treacherously, but very modestly refers his cause to the divine wisdom and justice: The Lord look thereon, and judge as he sees (for he sees men's hearts), and rebuke it. It becomes those that appeal to God to express themselves with great temper and moderation; for the wrath of man works not the righteousness of God.
2.Their hearty closure with him, Ch1 12:18. Amasai was their spokesman, on whom the Spirit of the Lord came, not a spirit of prophecy, but a spirit of wisdom and resolution, according to the occasion, putting words into his mouth, unpremeditated, which were proper both to give David satisfaction and to animate those that accompanied him. Nothing could be said finer, more lively, or more pertinent to the occasion. For himself and all his associates, (1.) He professed a very cordial adherence to David, and his interest, against all that opposed him, and a resolution to stand by him with the hazard of all that was dear to him: Thine are we, David, and on thy side, thou son of Jesse. In calling him son of Jesse they reminded themselves that he was lineally descended from Nahshon and Salmon, who in their days were princes of the tribe of Judah. Saul called him so in disdain (Sa1 20:27; Sa1 22:7), but they looked upon it as his honour. They were convinced that God was on his side; and therefore, Thine are we, David, and on thy side. It is good, if we must side, to side with those that side with God and have God with them. (2.) He wished prosperity to David and his cause, not drinking a health, but praying for peace to him and all his friends and well-wishers: "Peace, peace, be unto thee, all the good thy heart desires, and peace be to thy helpers, among whom we desire to be reckoned, that peace may be on us." (3.) He assured him of help from heaven: "For thy God helpeth thee; therefore we wish peace may be, and therefore we doubt not but peace shall be, to thee and thy helpers. God is thy God, and those that have him for their God no doubt have him for their helper in every time of need and danger." From these expressions of Amasai we may take instruction how to testify our affection and allegiance to the Lord Jesus. His we must be without reservation or power of revocation. On his side we must be forward to appear and act. To his interest we must be hearty well-wishers: "Hosanna! prosperity to his gospel and kingdom;" for his God helpeth him, and will till he shall have put down all opposing rule, principality, and power.
3.David's cheerful acceptance of them into his interest and friendship. Charity and honour teach us to let fall our jealousies as soon as satisfaction is given us: David received them, and preferred them to be captains of the band.
IV. Some of Manasseh likewise joined with him, v. 19. Providence gave them a fair opportunity to do so when he and his men marched through their country upon this occasion. Achish took David with him when he went out to fight with Saul; but the lords of the Philistines obliged him to withdraw. We have the story, Sa1 29:4, etc. In his return some great men of Manasseh, who had no heart to join with Saul against the Philistines struck in with David, and very seasonably, to help him against the band of Amelekites who plundered Ziklag; they were not many, but they were all mighty men and did David good service upon that occasion, 1 Sa. 30. See how Providence provides. David's interest grew strangely just when he had occasion to make use of it, Ch1 12:22. Auxiliary forces flocked in daily, till he had a great host. When the promise comes to the birth, leave it to God to find strength to bring forth.
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SUMMARY
1 Chronicles 12:5 is an integral part of a detailed roster enumerating the valiant warriors and skilled archers from the tribe of Benjamin who pledged their allegiance to David during his time of refuge and exile at Ziklag. This specific verse continues the enumeration of these loyal individuals—Eluzai, Jerimoth, Bealiah, Shemariah, and Shephatiah the Haruphite—highlighting the growing and diverse support for God's anointed king even while he was an outcast from King Saul's court, thereby demonstrating the divine orchestration in the establishment of David's kingdom.
CONTEXT
Literary Context: This verse is situated within 1 Chronicles 12, a pivotal chapter dedicated to listing the diverse groups of mighty men who joined David, first at Ziklag (verses 1-7) and later at Hebron (verses 23-40). The Chronicler's primary purpose in this chapter is to legitimize David's kingship by meticulously documenting the widespread and divinely orchestrated support he received from all tribes of Israel. Verses 1-7 specifically focus on the Benjamites, a tribe from which King Saul originated, making their defection to David particularly significant as it signaled a shift in divine favor. The inclusion of these names, which might appear as dry lists, underscores the Chronicler's emphasis on the historical continuity of God's covenant people and the specific individuals God used to fulfill His purposes, particularly the establishment of the Davidic dynasty, as seen in the broader narrative of 1 Chronicles.
Historical & Cultural Context: The period described in 1 Chronicles 12 is a transitional and tumultuous one in Israel's history, as King Saul's reign was waning and David was emerging as God's chosen king. David was a fugitive, hiding from Saul's relentless pursuit (1 Samuel 27). For men from Benjamin, Saul's own tribe, to abandon their tribal king and join David was a profound act of loyalty and faith, indicating a recognition of God's hand upon David. In ancient Israel, tribal identity and loyalty were paramount, making such a shift of allegiance a weighty decision that often carried significant risks. The detailed listing of names also reflects the cultural importance of genealogies and military rosters, which served to validate claims of lineage, land inheritance, and contributions to the nation's well-being, as seen in other historical records like Numbers 1.
Key Themes: The names listed in 1 Chronicles 12:5 contribute to several overarching themes in the chapter and the book. First, Loyalty and Commitment are paramount, as these individuals chose to align themselves with David during his vulnerable period, demonstrating unwavering faith in God's anointed leader despite the personal cost. Second, Divine Providence is profoundly evident; the extensive lists throughout Chronicles highlight how God meticulously orchestrates events through specific individuals, raising up supporters and allies to fulfill His sovereign purposes, such as establishing David's kingdom and ensuring the continuity of the covenant line. Third, the Importance of Every Contributor is emphasized; while these names might seem like mere entries, their inclusion signifies that every person who contributes to God's work, no matter how seemingly small their role, is remembered and valued in the divine record, echoing the New Testament concept of the body of Christ where each part is essential. Finally, the chapter illustrates Unity in Purpose, as various tribal groups and individuals came together under a common leader, demonstrating the power and effectiveness of collective effort in pursuing a righteous, God-ordained goal.
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
The primary literary device at play in 1 Chronicles 12:5, and indeed throughout much of 1 Chronicles 12, is Enumeration (or Listing). This involves the systematic cataloging of names, places, or events. In this context, it serves to meticulously document the individuals who comprised David's early support base. This detailed listing lends historical credibility and weight to the Chronicler's narrative, emphasizing the breadth and depth of loyalty David commanded. Furthermore, the chapter employs a Roster or Genealogical Style, which is a common feature in Chronicles. While not strictly a genealogy in the sense of tracing family lines, it functions as a military and political roster, identifying key figures and their tribal affiliations. This technique highlights the importance of individual contributions within the collective body of Israel and underscores the divine orchestration of specific people at specific times to fulfill God's purposes. The very act of naming these individuals ensures their remembrance and signifies their importance in the grand narrative of God's kingdom building.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The seemingly simple list of names in 1 Chronicles 12:5 carries profound theological weight, underscoring God's meticulous and sovereign work in establishing His kingdom through human agents. These individuals, by their courageous and loyal commitment to David, embody the principle that God often works through the faithful obedience of many, rather than just a few prominent figures. Their willingness to join David during his vulnerable period illustrates a deep trust in God's anointing, even when circumstances were precarious. This divine orchestration of diverse individuals from various tribes, including Saul's own, highlights God's ability to shift allegiances and gather the necessary resources—human and otherwise—to accomplish His redemptive purposes, ultimately leading to the establishment of the Davidic covenant and the line through which the Messiah would come.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
1 Chronicles 12:5, though a mere list of names, offers powerful lessons for believers today. It reminds us that every individual's contribution, no matter how seemingly small or obscure, is vital in God's grand design. Just as these men faithfully served David, we are called to be loyal and committed to Christ and His church, especially in times of difficulty or when the path seems uncertain. Our allegiance should be to God's truth and His appointed leaders, even when it requires personal sacrifice or goes against popular opinion. The fact that God saw fit to record these names in His inspired Word underscores the divine value placed on faithful service and the collective effort of His people. It encourages us to find our place within the body of Christ, recognizing that our unique gifts and willingness to serve contribute to the overall health and effectiveness of the church in advancing God's kingdom. We are part of a larger story, and our faithfulness, like that of Eluzai and his companions, is remembered and honored by God.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why does the Bible include such detailed lists of names, like those in 1 Chronicles 12:5?
Answer: The inclusion of detailed lists of names throughout the Bible, particularly in books like 1 Chronicles, serves several crucial purposes. Historically, these lists provided a meticulous record of genealogies, tribal affiliations, and military rosters, which were vital for establishing lineage, land inheritance, and national identity in ancient Israel. Theologically, they demonstrate God's personal involvement in human history, showing how He raises up specific individuals to fulfill His purposes. Every name represents a person whom God knew and used. For the Chronicler, these lists also legitimized David's kingship by showing the widespread support he received from all tribes, underscoring that his reign was divinely ordained, not merely a human coup. Finally, they emphasize the importance of every individual's contribution to God's kingdom, reminding us that even seemingly minor roles are significant in God's eyes, as seen in the broader context of 1 Chronicles 12.
What is the significance of men from the tribe of Benjamin joining David, as seen in 1 Chronicles 12:5?
Answer: The fact that Eluzai, Jerimoth, Bealiah, Shemariah, and Shephatiah the Haruphite were from the tribe of Benjamin is highly significant because King Saul, whom David was to succeed, was also from Benjamin (1 Samuel 9:1-2). This meant that these men were defecting from their own tribal king to support David, who was from Judah. Their decision highlights a profound shift in loyalty, indicating that God's anointing on David was becoming increasingly evident, even to those most closely associated with the reigning monarch. It demonstrates that God was actively orchestrating events to transfer the kingdom from Saul to David, drawing supporters from unexpected quarters and overcoming traditional tribal loyalties to establish His chosen king, as prophesied in 1 Samuel 15:28.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The gathering of loyal and skilled warriors around David, God's anointed king, as detailed in 1 Chronicles 12:5 and the surrounding verses, powerfully foreshadows the ultimate gathering of believers around Jesus Christ, the true and eternal King. Just as these men left their former allegiances and risked their lives to join David during his time of obscurity and persecution, so too do believers today forsake the kingdoms of this world to pledge their allegiance to Christ, who was once rejected but is now exalted as Lord of all. The diverse origins of David's supporters—from various tribes and backgrounds—mirrors the universal call of the Gospel, which draws people from every tribe, tongue, people, and nation into the body of Christ. Each individual, like Eluzai or Shephatiah, contributes uniquely to the building of God's spiritual kingdom, serving under the headship of Christ, who is the head of the church. The Chronicler's meticulous record of these names underscores that no faithful act of service to God's anointed king goes unnoticed, pointing to the ultimate day when Christ will reward those who have faithfully served Him in His kingdom (Matthew 25:34).