### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Tachkᵉmônîy**, represented by `{{H8461}}`, is a title used to identify a specific Israelite, defined as **sagacious; Tachkemoni, an Israelite; Tachmonite**. This is a rare term that appears only **1 time** across **1 unique verse** in the Bible. The name designates a distinguished and sagacious warrior in the service of King David.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H8461}}` is in the official list of King David's most elite warriors [[2 Samuel 23:8]]. The passage identifies "The **Tachmonite**{H8461} that sat{H3427} in the seat{H7675}" as the **chief**{H7218} among the **captains**{H7991}. This individual, who is also named **Adino**{H5722} the **Eznite**{H6112}, is credited with a singular act of prowess: he slew{H2491} eight{H8083} hundred{H3967} men at **one**{H259} **time**{H6471}. This context establishes the Tachmonite as the highest-ranking and most formidable of the **mighty men**{H1368} who served **David**{H1732}.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its only context help to define the role and character of the Tachmonite:
* `{{H1368}}` **gibbôwr** (warrior, champion): This term describes the elite group to which the Tachmonite belonged, the "mighty men" of David [[2 Samuel 23:8]]. It signifies being **powerful** and is used to describe valiant warriors, champions, and even God himself, as in "The mighty{H1368} God" [[Isaiah 9:6]].
* `{{H7218}}` **rôʼsh** (chief, head): This word denotes the Tachmonite's high rank as **chief** among the captains [[2 Samuel 23:8]]. It is used literally for a **head** and figuratively for a leader, ruler, or beginning, highlighting a position of supreme authority [[1 Chronicles 29:11]].
* `{{H7991}}` **shâlîysh** (captain, lord): This identifies the military officers over whom the Tachmonite presided [[2 Samuel 23:8]]. It refers to a high-ranking officer, such as a **general of the third rank**, a **prince**, or a **great lord** [[2 Kings 7:2]].
### Theological Significance
While appearing only once, the description of the Tachmonite points to significant theological themes:
* **Divinely Endowed Might:** The Tachmonite is the foremost of the **mighty men**{H1368}. While scripture warns against glorying in one's own might [[Jeremiah 9:23]], it often attributes true power to God. The LORD is described as a **mighty**{H1368} one who saves [[Zephaniah 3:17]], suggesting that the prowess of warriors like the Tachmonite is a reflection of divine strength.
* **Godly Leadership and Authority:** As the **chief**{H7218}, or **rôʼsh**, the Tachmonite held a position of supreme leadership. The concept of a "head" is theologically important, pointing to God's ultimate authority as **head**{H7218} above all [[1 Chronicles 29:11]] and prophetically to the Messiah as the cornerstone [[Psalms 118:22]].
* **Faithful Service:** The Tachmonite's identity is inseparable from his service to **David**{H1732}, God's anointed king. The loyalty and extraordinary deeds of these men were instrumental in establishing the Davidic kingdom, a key element in God's covenant with Israel.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8461}}` **Tachkᵉmônîy** is a title designating a preeminent warrior in King David's service. Although it appears just once, the verse [[2 Samuel 23:8]] provides a detailed account of his status as **chief**{H7218} of the captains and his remarkable military achievement. The context surrounding the Tachmonite connects his role to broader biblical themes of God-given strength, ordered leadership, and faithful service, making him the archetype of the **mighty men**{H1368} whose valor helped secure a pivotal era in Israel's history.
TRV