1 Chronicles 11:27

Context of 1 Chronicles 11:27

1 Chronicles 11:27 is part of a detailed roster of David's mighty men, an elite group of warriors who were instrumental in establishing and maintaining his kingdom. This chapter immediately follows David's anointing as king over all Israel and the capture of Jerusalem. The list serves to highlight the strength, loyalty, and divine favor upon David's reign, acknowledging the individuals who contributed significantly to his military successes. The names "Shammoth the Harorite" and "Helez the Pelonite" are specific entries within this extensive catalogue of valiant individuals, demonstrating the meticulous record-keeping of the chronicler. A parallel account of these warriors can be found in 2 Samuel 23:25-26, though with slight variations in some names or spellings.

Key Themes and Messages

• Loyalty and Service: This verse, like the entire list, underscores the importance of faithful service and loyalty to God's anointed leader. These men were dedicated warriors who helped David fulfill his divine calling as king.
• Strength of David's Kingdom: The sheer number and specific identification of these mighty men illustrate the formidable military power and deep support David commanded, reflecting God's blessing on his rule.
• Divine Providence in Individuals: Even seemingly minor names in a long list are recorded, suggesting that every individual's contribution, no matter how small or specific, is recognized and plays a part in God's larger plan and the unfolding of His purposes.
• Historical Accuracy: The detailed nature of these lists emphasizes the historical grounding of the biblical narrative, showing a concern for documenting specific people and places.

Linguistic Insights

The descriptive titles "the Harorite" and "the Pelonite" are geographical or tribal identifiers, indicating the places of origin or tribal affiliations of Shammoth and Helez, respectively. These designations help to locate these individuals within the broader Israelite or regional landscape, though the exact locations of "Haror" and "Pelon" are not definitively known today. These suffixes were common ways to distinguish individuals in ancient cultures.

Practical Application

For a general audience, 1 Chronicles 11:27, though seemingly just a list of names, offers valuable lessons:

• Every Contribution Matters: This verse reminds us that even individuals whose names might not be widely known played vital roles in significant historical and spiritual movements. It encourages us to value every person's contribution, however seemingly small, to God's work.
• Faithful Service is Honored: Just as these warriors were recorded for their service to King David, the Bible often highlights the faithfulness of individuals. It speaks to the principle that diligence and loyalty in our callings, whether prominent or behind the scenes, are significant in God's eyes.
• The Power of Community: David's success was not solely his own but was built upon the collective strength and dedication of many individuals like Shammoth and Helez. This highlights the importance of community and teamwork in achieving God-given goals, whether in church, family, or society.