from אִישׁ and חַיִל; man of might; by defective transcription (2 Samuel 23:20) אִישׁ־חַיxlit ʼÎsh-Chay corrected to ʼÎysh-Chay; as if from אִישׁ and חַי; living man; Ishchail (or Ish-chai), an Israelite; a valiant man.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew phrase **ʼÎysh-Chayil**, represented by `{{H381}}`, is a compound term meaning **man of might** or **a valiant man**. It is formed from the words `{{H376}}` **ʼîysh** and `{{H2428}}` **chayil**. It appears 4 times across 4 unique verses, used to describe men of exceptional character, courage, and capability.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{H381}}` identifies individuals and groups who demonstrate remarkable bravery and strength. It describes the men of Jabesh who risked their lives to retrieve the bodies of King Saul and his sons from the wall of Bethshan [[1 Samuel 31:12]]. The term also quantifies the military strength of Israel and Judah, with a census counting eight hundred thousand **valiant men** who could draw the sword [[2 Samuel 24:9]]. The phrase is also used to describe a person's heritage, as Benaiah is identified as the son of a **valiant man** known for his many acts [[2 Samuel 23:20]]. Finally, it can refer to a person's character, as when Adonijah identifies Jonathan, son of Abiathar the priest, as a **valiant man** and therefore a bringer of good tidings [[1 Kings 1:42]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide deeper context for what it means to be a "man of might":
* `{{H376}}` **ʼîysh** (man): As the foundational word for "man," it is the first part of the phrase. It is used to count the men of Judah in the same census that numbers the "valiant men" of Israel [[2 Samuel 24:9]].
* `{{H2428}}` **chayil** (valor, strength, army): This word forms the second half of the phrase and denotes the quality of might or valor. It is used to describe armies, wealth, and virtuous character, such as the "virtuous woman" in [[Proverbs 31:10]].
* `{{H2719}}` **chereb** (sword): This term is closely associated with the military duties of a valiant man, as seen when the men of Israel are described as those "that drew the **sword**" [[2 Samuel 24:9]].
* `{{H1141}}` **Bᵉnâyâh** (Benaiah): The son of a valiant man, Benaiah himself performed many great acts, including slaying two **lionlike men** of Moab [[2 Samuel 23:20]].
### Theological Significance
The concept of the `{{H381}}` carries significant thematic weight, illustrating an ideal of biblical manhood.
* **Courageous Loyalty:** The men of Jabesh demonstrate that valor extends beyond the battlefield to acts of profound loyalty, undertaking a dangerous night mission to honor their fallen king [[1 Samuel 31:12]].
* **National Strength:** The term is a key indicator of a nation's security and power. The census in [[2 Samuel 24:9]] uses the number of "valiant men" to measure the military might of Israel under its king.
* **Reputable Character:** In [[1 Kings 1:42]], the phrase is used to describe Jonathan's reliable and trustworthy nature. His reputation as a "valiant man" means his news is assumed to be good, connecting valor with integrity.
* **Heroic Legacy:** Benaiah's identity is tied to his father, a "valiant man" who had "done many acts" [[2 Samuel 23:20]]. This highlights that valor was a respected heritage passed down through generations.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H381}}` **ʼÎysh-Chayil** signifies more than just a strong warrior. While it certainly denotes military prowess and physical courage, it also encompasses loyalty, honorable character, and a legacy of significant deeds. The term provides a rich picture of the biblical ideal for men who were depended upon to defend the nation, honor their commitments, and act with integrity.
TRV