2 Samuel 23:28

Zalmon the Ahohite, Maharai the Netophathite,

Zalmon {H6756} the Ahohite {H266}, Maharai {H4121} the Netophathite {H5200},

Tzalmon the Achochi, Mahrai the N'tofati,

Zalmon the Ahohite, Maharai the Netophathite,

Zalmon the Ahohite, Maharai the Netophathite,

Commentary

2 Samuel 23:28 introduces two more notable figures from the distinguished list of King David's mighty men: Zalmon the Ahohite and Maharai the Netophathite. These individuals were part of the elite group of warriors whose valor and loyalty were instrumental in establishing and maintaining David's kingdom.

Context

This verse is found within a specific section of 2 Samuel (chapters 23:8-39) that meticulously records the names and, in some cases, the heroic deeds of David's most valiant warriors. This list serves as a testament to the men who stood by David throughout his reign, from his early days as a fugitive to his establishment as king over all Israel. Following David's "last words" (see 2 Samuel 23:1-7), the inclusion of this roster underscores the human instruments God used to fulfill His promises to David.

Key Themes

  • Loyalty and Devotion: Zalmon and Maharai, like the others in this list, exemplify unwavering loyalty to King David and, by extension, to the kingdom God had established through him. Their inclusion signifies their steadfast commitment.
  • Valor and Strength: While specific deeds for these two men are not detailed here, their presence in this compilation indicates their exceptional military prowess and courage on the battlefield. They were part of a fighting force that was unmatched in their time.
  • Recognition and Remembrance: The very act of naming these individuals ensures their remembrance. The Bible honors their contributions, emphasizing that every person, regardless of their specific role, plays a part in God's unfolding plan. This list also has a parallel account in 1 Chronicles 11:26-47, highlighting the importance of these records.

Linguistic Insights

The descriptive titles "Ahohite" and "Netophathite" refer to the ancestral lineage or place of origin of these men, a common way of identification in ancient Israel.

  • The term Ahohite (Hebrew: אֲחֹחִי, 'Achôchî) likely indicates a descendant of Ahoah, possibly a clan within the tribe of Benjamin.
  • The term Netophathite (Hebrew: נְטֹפָתִי, Nĕṭôphâthî) identifies Maharai as being from Netophah, a town in Judah, near Bethlehem. This village is also mentioned in the context of the return from Babylonian exile (Ezra 2:22, Nehemiah 7:26), suggesting it was a significant settlement.

Practical Application

This verse, though brief, reminds us of the collective effort required for any great endeavor. Just as David's kingdom was built upon the varied strengths and unwavering commitment of many individuals, so too is God's work advanced by the faithful service of countless people, often in roles that may seem less prominent. It encourages us to appreciate the "behind-the-scenes" contributors and to recognize that God uses diverse gifts and backgrounds to accomplish His purposes. Every act of service, no matter how small, contributes to the larger picture of God's redemptive plan, echoing the principle of unity in the body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:12-27).

Note: If the commentary doesn’t appear instantly, please allow 2–5 seconds for it to load. It is generated by Gemini 2.5 Flash using a prompt focused on Biblical fidelity over bias. While the insights have been consistently reliable, we encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit.

Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • 1 Chronicles 27:13

    The tenth [captain] for the tenth month [was] Maharai the Netophathite, of the Zarhites: and in his course [were] twenty and four thousand.

  • 2 Kings 25:23

    And when all the captains of the armies, they and their men, heard that the king of Babylon had made Gedaliah governor, there came to Gedaliah to Mizpah, even Ishmael the son of Nethaniah, and Johanan the son of Careah, and Seraiah the son of Tanhumeth the Netophathite, and Jaazaniah the son of a Maachathite, they and their men.

  • 1 Chronicles 11:30

    Maharai the Netophathite, Heled the son of Baanah the Netophathite,
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