1 Chronicles 18:13

And he put garrisons in Edom; and all the Edomites became David's servants. Thus the LORD preserved David whithersoever he went.

And he put {H7760} garrisons {H5333} in Edom {H123}; and all the Edomites {H123} became David's {H1732} servants {H5650}. Thus the LORD {H3068} preserved {H3467} David {H1732} whithersoever he went {H1980}.

David stationed garrisons in Edom, and all the people of Edom became subject to him. ADONAI gave victory to David wherever he went.

He placed garrisons in Edom, and all the Edomites were subject to David. So the LORD made David victorious wherever he went.

And he put garrisons in Edom; and all the Edomites became servants to David. And Jehovah gave victory to David whithersoever he went.

Commentary

First Chronicles 18:13 recounts a significant military victory for King David over the nation of Edom, emphasizing God's direct intervention and preservation throughout his reign. This verse encapsulates both David's expanding kingdom and the divine favor that rested upon him, ensuring his success in all his campaigns.

Context

This verse is part of a broader summary (1 Chronicles 18:1-17) detailing King David's extensive military conquests after he had firmly established his throne in Jerusalem. Prior to this account of Edom, David had already defeated the Philistines, Moabites, and the Arameans (Syrians) from Zobah and Damascus. The subjugation of Edom was particularly important as it secured Israel's southern border and gave David control over vital trade routes, including the King's Highway. The Edomites were descendants of Esau, Jacob's brother (Genesis 25:30), and historically maintained an antagonistic relationship with Israel.

Key Themes

  • Divine Preservation and Sovereignty: The concluding phrase, "Thus the LORD preserved David whithersoever he went," is the theological anchor of the verse. It asserts that David's military successes were not merely due to his strategic brilliance or military might, but were a direct result of God's active protection and guidance. This theme resonates throughout David's life, emphasizing that God was fulfilling His covenant promises to him (2 Samuel 7:16) and was his ever-present help and deliverer (Psalm 18:2).
  • David's Expanding Kingdom: The establishment of "garrisons in Edom" and the Edomites becoming "David's servants" signifies the significant territorial expansion and consolidation of the Israelite kingdom under David's rule. This demonstrates the fulfillment of prophecies concerning Israel's dominion and influence over surrounding nations.
  • Conquest and Dominion: David's subjugation of Edom illustrates the strength and authority of his kingdom. It implies the establishment of control, the collection of tribute, and the securing of peace on Israel's borders, essential for national stability.

Linguistic Insights

  • The Hebrew word for "garrisons" is netzivim (ื ึฐืฆึดื™ื‘ึดื™ื), which can refer to military posts, appointed officers, or even pillars. In this context, it clearly denotes military outposts or governors placed by David to maintain control over the conquered territory and ensure its submission.
  • The verb "preserved" comes from the Hebrew root yasha (ื™ึธืฉึทืืข), meaning to save, deliver, or give victory. It powerfully conveys the idea of divine deliverance and assistance, reinforcing that God was the ultimate source of David's safety and success in all his military campaigns.

Practical Application

First Chronicles 18:13 offers profound encouragement for believers today. Just as God preserved David in all his ways, we can trust in His faithfulness to guide and protect us through life's challenges. This verse reminds us that true success, whether in personal endeavors, spiritual battles, or professional pursuits, ultimately comes from recognizing and relying on God's sovereign hand. It encourages us to acknowledge God as the source of our strength and victory, giving Him the glory for every triumph and trusting Him for every journey, knowing that His preservation is constant.

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Cross-References

  • 1 Chronicles 18:6 (4 votes)

    Then David put [garrisons] in Syriadamascus; and the Syrians became David's servants, [and] brought gifts. Thus the LORD preserved David whithersoever he went.

  • Genesis 27:37 (3 votes)

    And Isaac answered and said unto Esau, Behold, I have made him thy lord, and all his brethren have I given to him for servants; and with corn and wine have I sustained him: and what shall I do now unto thee, my son?

  • 2 Corinthians 11:32 (2 votes)

    In Damascus the governor under Aretas the king kept the city of the Damascenes with a garrison, desirous to apprehend me:

  • Psalms 144:10 (2 votes)

    [It is he] that giveth salvation unto kings: who delivereth David his servant from the hurtful sword.

  • Psalms 18:48 (2 votes)

    He delivereth me from mine enemies: yea, thou liftest me up above those that rise up against me: thou hast delivered me from the violent man.

  • Psalms 18:50 (2 votes)

    Great deliverance giveth he to his king; and sheweth mercy to his anointed, to David, and to his seed for evermore.

  • Numbers 24:18 (2 votes)

    And Edom shall be a possession, Seir also shall be a possession for his enemies; and Israel shall do valiantly.