1 Chronicles 27:6

This [is that] Benaiah, [who was] mighty [among] the thirty, and above the thirty: and in his course [was] Ammizabad his son.

This is that Benaiah {H1141}, who was mighty {H1368} among the thirty {H7970}, and above the thirty {H7970}: and in his course {H4256} was Ammizabad {H5990} his son {H1121}.

This is the same B'nayah who was one of the thirty heroes and was over the thirty; his son 'Ammizavad was in his division.

This Benaiah was mighty among the Thirty and was over the Thirty, and his son Ammizabad was in charge of his division.

This is that Benaiah, who was the mighty man of the thirty, and over the thirty: and of his course was Ammizabad his son.

Commentary

Context of 1 Chronicles 27:6

First Chronicles, particularly chapters 23-27, details King David's extensive administrative and military organization for the kingdom of Israel. This meticulous record highlights David's foresight and leadership in preparing for the future, including the construction of the Temple and the establishment of a robust national structure. Chapter 27 specifically outlines the commanders of the twelve monthly military divisions, each comprising 24,000 men. This verse, 1 Chronicles 27:6, focuses on Benaiah, a highly distinguished warrior within this structured system.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Exceptional Leadership: Benaiah is singled out as "mighty among the thirty, and above the thirty." This emphasizes his extraordinary skill, courage, and leadership qualities, even among David's elite "mighty men". He was not just a participant but excelled beyond his peers.
  • Military Organization and Succession: The mention of Benaiah's "course" and Ammizabad his son indicates a highly organized military structure under David, which included designated divisions of service and, potentially, a system of succession or family involvement in leadership roles. This ensured continuity and stability within the army. Benaiah himself would later become commander of the army under King Solomon (1 Kings 2:35).
  • Recognition of Merit: The verse serves as a historical recognition of Benaiah's outstanding achievements and his significant role in David's kingdom, underscoring the importance of acknowledging those who serve faithfully and with distinction.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "mighty among the thirty, and above the thirty" is crucial. "The thirty" refers to David's elite group of warriors, often called the "mighty men" or "chiefs of the mighty men." Benaiah's distinction of being "above" them indicates he held a superior position or possessed exceptional valor even within this already distinguished group. He was, in fact, the commander of David's personal bodyguard, the Cherethites and Pelethites, a highly trusted role. The term "course" (Hebrew: ืžึทื—ึฒืœึนืงึถืช, machaloket) signifies a division, a class, or a turn of service, highlighting the systematic rotation and organization of the military divisions.

Practical Application

This verse, while specific to an ancient military context, offers timeless principles:

  • Value of Excellence: It reminds us that striving for excellence in our roles, whatever they may be, is commendable and recognized. Benaiah's example encourages us to perform beyond expectation.
  • Importance of Structure and Planning: David's detailed organization of his kingdom, including the military, demonstrates the value of good leadership, strategic planning, and preparing for the future. Effective organization is crucial for any successful endeavor, whether in family, community, or professional life.
  • Mentorship and Succession: The involvement of Ammizabad, Benaiah's son, in his "course" can be seen as an early example of training or succession planning. It highlights the importance of raising up the next generation of leaders and imparting wisdom and skills.

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Cross-References

  • 2 Samuel 23:20 (3 votes)

    And 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: he went down also and slew a lion in the midst of a pit in time of snow:

  • 2 Samuel 23:23 (3 votes)

    He was more honourable than the thirty, but he attained not to the [first] three. And David set him over his guard.

  • 1 Chronicles 11:22 (2 votes)

    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.

  • 1 Chronicles 11:25 (2 votes)

    Behold, he was honourable among the thirty, but attained not to the [first] three: and David set him over his guard.

  • 2 Samuel 22:20 (1 votes)

    He brought me forth also into a large place: he delivered me, because he delighted in me.

  • 2 Samuel 22:23 (1 votes)

    For all his judgments [were] before me: and [as for] his statutes, I did not depart from them.