1 Kings 11:24

KJV

And he gathered men unto him, and became captain over a band, when David slew them [of Zobah]: and they went to Damascus, and dwelt therein, and reigned in Damascus.

KJV (with Strong's)

And he gathered {H6908} men {H582} unto him, and became captain {H8269} over a band {H1416}, when David {H1732} slew {H2026} them of Zobah: and they went {H3212} to Damascus {H1834}, and dwelt {H3427} therein, and reigned {H4427} in Damascus {H1834}.

Complete Jewish Bible

when David killed the men from Tzovah. Rezon rallied men to himself and became the leader of a band of marauders; they went to Dammesek and settled there, while he became king of Dammesek.

Berean Standard Bible

and had gathered men to himself. When David killed the Zobaites, Rezon captained a band of raiders and went to Damascus, where they settled and gained control.

American Standard Version

And he gathered men unto him, and became captain over a troop, when David slew them of Zobah: and they went to Damascus, and dwelt therein, and reigned in Damascus.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Kings 11:24 introduces Rezon, a significant adversary raised by God against King Solomon. This verse details how Rezon, an escaped officer from the defeated kingdom of Zobah, gathered a band of men, seized control of Damascus, and established himself as king. His rise to power was not a random historical event but a direct consequence of Solomon's unfaithfulness and idolatry, serving as a tangible manifestation of God's declared judgment against the king and his kingdom.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically placed within a pivotal chapter that marks the tragic decline of King Solomon. Following a lengthy account of Solomon's unparalleled wisdom, wealth, and building projects, [1 Kings 11](/1_kings/11 "1 Kings 11 - Solomon's Apostasy and God's Judgment") details his spiritual apostasy. Specifically, [1 Kings 11:1-8](/1_kings/11-1 "1 Kings 11:1-8 - Solomon's Foreign Wives and Idolatry") describes how his numerous foreign wives turned his heart away from the Lord, leading him to worship pagan deities. As a direct result, [God became angry with Solomon](/1_kings/11-9 "God's Anger at Solomon") and declared that He would tear the kingdom from his son's hand, though not entirely for David's sake ([1 Kings 11:11-13](/1_kings/11-11 "1 Kings 11:11-13 - God's Judgment on Solomon")). Rezon is introduced immediately after Hadad the Edomite ([1 Kings 11:14-22](/1_kings/11-14 "1 Kings 11:14-22 - Hadad the Edomite")), both presented as instruments of divine judgment, highlighting the escalating external threats that plagued Solomon's later reign due to his spiritual compromise. The narrative structure emphasizes the direct causal link between Solomon's sin and the rise of these adversaries.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The events described in [1 Kings 11:24](/1_kings/11-24 "1 Kings 11:24 - Rezon's Rise in Damascus") are rooted in the geopolitical landscape of the late 10th century BCE. Zobah was a powerful Aramean kingdom located north of Israel, centered around the Beqaa Valley in modern-day Lebanon and Syria. Its king, Hadadezer, was a formidable regional power until [King David decisively defeated his forces](/2_samuel/8-3 "2 Samuel 8:3 - David's Victory Over Hadadezer") during his expansionist campaigns ([2 Samuel 8:3-8](/2_samuel/8-3 "2 Samuel 8:3-8 - David's Conquests")). This victory brought much of Aram under Israelite control. Rezon, an officer under Hadadezer, escaped this slaughter. In the aftermath of such conflicts, it was common for remnants of defeated armies or ambitious individuals to form "bands" (guerrilla groups or mercenary forces) and seize opportunities in power vacuums. Damascus, a strategically vital city controlling major trade routes between Mesopotamia, Anatolia, and Egypt, would have been a prime target for such an opportunistic leader. Rezon's ability to "dwell therein, and reign in Damascus" indicates a successful consolidation of power, transforming a city that was likely under Israelite influence or control after David's conquests into an independent, hostile kingdom.
* **Key Themes:** The introduction of Rezon powerfully reinforces several key themes in [1 Kings](/1_kings/1 "1 Kings - The History of the Kings of Israel and Judah"). Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Divine Retribution and the Consequences of Sin**. Solomon's unprecedented blessings were contingent upon his faithfulness, and his turning away from God directly led to the rise of adversaries like Rezon, illustrating the biblical principle that [sin inevitably brings adverse consequences](/proverbs/14-34 "Proverbs 14:34 - Righteousness Exalts a Nation"). Secondly, it highlights **The Cost of Compromise**. Solomon's compromises with foreign religions and his disregard for God's commands undermined the spiritual and political stability of his kingdom, demonstrating that apparent peace gained through unholy alliances is ultimately fragile. The establishment of Rezon's hostile kingdom in Damascus became a constant thorn in Israel's side, foreshadowing the eventual division and weakening of the united monarchy. Finally, the narrative emphasizes **God's Control Over Nations**. Rezon's ascent to power is not presented as mere historical chance but as part of God's overarching plan to discipline His people and fulfill His word, demonstrating that [He is sovereign over all earthly kingdoms](/daniel/2-21 "Daniel 2:21 - God Changes Times and Seasons").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Captain (Hebrew, _sar'_):** This term denotes a chief, prince, or military commander. In this context, it signifies Rezon's leadership role within a military unit. His transformation from an escaped officer to a "captain" suggests a rise in status and influence, indicating his ability to command loyalty and organize a fighting force.
* **Band (Hebrew, _gedud'_):** This word refers to a troop, company, or raiding party. It often carries connotations of a marauding or predatory group, distinct from a formal army. Rezon's "band" was likely a mobile, opportunistic force, capable of seizing territory and establishing control through military prowess and strategic advantage, rather than through established dynastic succession.
* **Zobah (Hebrew, _Tsova'_):** A powerful Aramean kingdom in central Syria, frequently at odds with Israel. Its defeat by David ([2 Samuel 8:3-8](/2_samuel/8-3 "2 Samuel 8:3-8 - David's Conquests")) was a major turning point, establishing Israelite hegemony in the region. Rezon's origin from Zobah connects him directly to a pre-existing animosity towards David's kingdom, making him a natural instrument of divine judgment against Solomon.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And he gathered men unto him":** This phrase introduces Rezon's initiative and leadership. After escaping David's slaughter of Hadadezer's forces, Rezon did not remain a fugitive but actively sought to rebuild his power base. This implies charisma, military skill, and a reputation that attracted followers, likely disaffected soldiers, mercenaries, or those seeking opportunity in the power vacuum left by David's conquests.
* **"and became captain over a band":** This denotes Rezon's establishment of a legitimate (in a military sense) leadership role over a formidable fighting unit. This "band" was not merely a collection of individuals but an organized force under his command, capable of executing military objectives. His status as "captain" signifies his authority and the group's cohesion.
* **"when David slew them [of Zobah]":** This clause provides the crucial historical context for Rezon's origins and motives. It links Rezon directly to the prior conflict between David and Hadadezer of Zobah, explaining why Rezon would harbor animosity towards the Israelite kingdom. The parenthetical "[of Zobah]" in the KJV clarifies that "them" refers to Hadadezer's defeated forces, from which Rezon escaped.
* **"and they went to Damascus, and dwelt therein, and reigned in Damascus":** This describes the culmination of Rezon's efforts: the successful capture and establishment of his rule over Damascus. This was not a temporary occupation but a permanent settlement ("dwelt therein") and the establishment of a new, hostile kingdom ("reigned in Damascus"). This act transformed Damascus into a persistent source of trouble for Israel, fulfilling God's promise to raise up adversaries against Solomon.

#### Literary Devices
The narrative in [1 Kings 11:24](/1_kings/11-24 "1 Kings 11:24 - Rezon's Rise") employs several literary devices to convey its theological message. There is clear **Foreshadowing**, as Rezon's establishment of a hostile kingdom in Damascus anticipates the later conflicts between Israel and Aram, and ultimately the division of the united monarchy. The rise of Rezon, a seemingly independent political actor, is presented as an act of **Divine Sovereignty**, where God uses human actions and historical events to execute His judgment. This highlights the theological concept that God is actively involved in the affairs of nations, even through the actions of adversaries. There is also a subtle **Irony** in that Solomon, who achieved unprecedented peace and dominion, now faces threats from figures like Rezon, who emerged from the very conquests of his father David, demonstrating how a legacy of strength can be undermined by spiritual failure. The narrative also uses **Juxtaposition** by placing the account of Rezon's rise immediately after Hadad the Edomite, showcasing a pattern of divine judgment through multiple, diverse adversaries.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The rise of Rezon in Damascus, as presented in [1 Kings 11:24](/1_kings/11-24 "1 Kings 11:24 - Rezon's Rise"), serves as a potent theological statement about the consequences of spiritual compromise and God's active governance of history. It demonstrates that God is not a passive observer but an engaged sovereign who uses both internal and external forces to fulfill His declared will. Solomon's unfaithfulness, despite his wisdom and initial devotion, directly invited divine discipline, which manifested in the form of persistent adversaries. This narrative underscores the covenantal principle that blessings are contingent upon obedience and that disobedience inevitably leads to adverse consequences, even for those who have been greatly favored. Rezon's story is a stark reminder that God can raise up instruments of judgment from unexpected places, even from the remnants of past conflicts, to hold His people accountable.

* [Deuteronomy 28:15-68](/deuteronomy/28-15 "Deuteronomy 28:15-68 - Curses for Disobedience")
* [Isaiah 10:5-7](/isaiah/10-5 "Isaiah 10:5-7 - God Uses Assyria as His Rod")
* [Romans 8:28](/romans/8-28 "Romans 8:28 - God Works All Things for Good")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The account of Rezon's rise in [1 Kings 11:24](/1_kings/11-24 "1 Kings 11:24 - Rezon's Rise") offers profound lessons for contemporary believers. Just as Solomon's spiritual decline opened the door for external threats and internal strife, our own compromises with worldly values, neglect of spiritual disciplines, or direct disobedience to God's word can create vulnerabilities in our lives, families, and communities. This narrative challenges us to examine the "secret" or subtle areas where our hearts might be turning away from God, reminding us that seemingly minor deviations can lead to significant consequences. It encourages a posture of constant vigilance and unwavering commitment to God's commands, not out of fear, but out of a deep love and understanding of His character. Furthermore, it reminds us that even in the face of adversity, God remains sovereign. Rezon was an adversary, but he was also an instrument in God's hand, demonstrating that God can work through all circumstances—even those that seem chaotic or adversarial—to achieve His purposes and bring about repentance and restoration.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life might I be compromising my faith, similar to Solomon's turning away from God?**
* **How does the principle of "consequences for sin" manifest in my own life or in the world around me today?**
* **How can I cultivate a heart of unwavering obedience and vigilance to avoid spiritual decline?**
* **How does understanding God's sovereignty over adversaries like Rezon impact my perspective on difficulties or opposition I face?**

### FAQ

**Who was Rezon, and why is his story significant?**
Answer: Rezon was an Aramean officer who served under Hadadezer, king of Zobah. After King David defeated Hadadezer's forces, Rezon escaped the slaughter. He then gathered a band of men, seized control of Damascus, and established himself as king there. His story is significant because his rise to power is explicitly presented as a divine judgment against King Solomon due to Solomon's idolatry and unfaithfulness to the Lord ([1 Kings 11:9-13](/1_kings/11-9 "1 Kings 11:9-13 - God's Anger and Judgment on Solomon")). Rezon became a persistent adversary of Israel, demonstrating how God uses even seemingly independent political figures to fulfill His purposes.

**What was the kingdom of Zobah, and how does it relate to Rezon?**
Answer: Zobah was a powerful Aramean kingdom in central Syria, a significant regional power during the time of David and Solomon. Its king, Hadadezer, was a formidable opponent whom David decisively defeated, bringing much of Aram under Israelite control ([2 Samuel 8:3-8](/2_samuel/8-3 "2 Samuel 8:3-8 - David's Conquests")). Rezon was an officer in Hadadezer's army. His escape from David's victory and subsequent rise to power in Damascus meant that a remnant of the defeated Aramean power, fueled by animosity towards Israel, was re-established as a hostile kingdom, directly impacting Solomon's reign.

**How does Rezon's rise connect to King Solomon's reign?**
Answer: Rezon's rise is presented as a direct consequence and instrument of divine judgment against King Solomon. Solomon's heart had turned from the Lord due to his many foreign wives, who led him into idolatry and the worship of pagan gods ([1 Kings 11:1-8](/1_kings/11-1 "1 Kings 11:1-8 - Solomon's Foreign Wives and Idolatry")). As a result, God declared that He would tear the kingdom from Solomon's son ([1 Kings 11:11-13](/1_kings/11-11 "1 Kings 11:11-13 - God's Promise to Tear the Kingdom")). Rezon, along with Hadad the Edomite ([1 Kings 11:14-22](/1_kings/11-14 "1 Kings 11:14-22 - Hadad the Edomite")), was specifically raised up by God as an adversary to trouble Solomon, illustrating the painful consequences of the king's spiritual decline and disobedience.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The narrative of Rezon's rise, set against the backdrop of Solomon's spiritual failure, points profoundly to the necessity and glory of Jesus Christ. Solomon, the son of David, was meant to be the ideal king, bringing peace and wisdom, but his apostasy led to the very adversaries God promised to raise up. This highlights the inherent flaw in human kingship and the brokenness of even the most blessed human leaders. In contrast, Jesus Christ is the true and faithful Son of David, the King who never compromises, whose heart never turns from the Father ([Hebrews 4:15](/hebrews/4-15 "Hebrews 4:15 - Jesus, our High Priest")). While Solomon's sin introduced adversaries like Rezon, Christ, through His perfect obedience and sacrificial death, disarmed all spiritual adversaries and powers ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Christ's Triumph Over Evil")), establishing a kingdom that will never be divided or troubled by external threats ([Daniel 7:14](/daniel/7-14 "Daniel 7:14 - The Everlasting Kingdom of the Son of Man")). Rezon's temporary reign in Damascus, a thorn in Israel's side, is ultimately swallowed up by the eternal reign of Christ, the [King of kings and Lord of lords](/revelation/19-16 "Revelation 19:16 - King of Kings and Lord of Lords"), who has overcome the world and all its opposition ([John 16:33](/john/16-33 "John 16:33 - Jesus Overcomes the World")). He is the true source of lasting peace and security, fulfilling God's promises far beyond Solomon's temporary and flawed reign.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

2 Samuel 10:8

And the children of Ammon came out, and put the battle in array at the entering in of the gate: and the Syrians of Zoba, and of Rehob, and Ishtob, and Maacah, [were] by themselves in the field.

2 Samuel 10:18

And the Syrians fled before Israel; and David slew [the men of] seven hundred chariots of the Syrians, and forty thousand horsemen, and smote Shobach the captain of their host, who died there.

1 Kings 20:34

And [Benhadad] said unto him, The cities, which my father took from thy father, I will restore; and thou shalt make streets for thee in Damascus, as my father made in Samaria. Then [said Ahab], I will send thee away with this covenant. So he made a covenant with him, and sent him away.

Acts 9:2

And desired of him letters to Damascus to the synagogues, that if he found any of this way, whether they were men or women, he might bring them bound unto Jerusalem.

1 Kings 19:15

And the LORD said unto him, Go, return on thy way to the wilderness of Damascus: and when thou comest, anoint Hazael [to be] king over Syria:

Genesis 14:15

And he divided himself against them, he and his servants, by night, and smote them, and pursued them unto Hobah, which [is] on the left hand of Damascus.