Hanan the son of Maacah, and Joshaphat the Mithnite,
Commentary
Context
First Chronicles chapter 11 details the anointing of David as king over all Israel and immediately transitions into a comprehensive list of his most valiant warriors, often referred to as David's mighty men. This roster highlights the individuals who stood with David during his rise to power and the establishment of his kingdom in Jerusalem. Verse 43, specifically mentioning Hanan the son of Maachah and Joshaphat the Mithnite, is part of this extensive roll call, emphasizing the breadth of support and diverse origins of those who served David faithfully.
Key Themes
Recognition of Individuals: Even in a long list, each name is recorded, underscoring the biblical emphasis on the value and contribution of every person, no matter how seemingly minor their role. God's Word takes care to acknowledge those who served His purposes.
Loyalty and Service: These individuals were part of the core group that helped David secure his kingdom and implement God's will for Israel. Their inclusion in this list signifies their dedication and active participation in the formative years of the monarchy.
Historical Record: The detailed nature of this list, found also in a similar but not identical form in 2 Samuel 23, serves as a crucial historical document, preserving the memory of those who played a vital role in Israel's history under King David's leadership.
Linguistic Insights
The names themselves, "Hanan" (meaning 'gracious' or 'he has shown favor') and "Joshaphat" (meaning 'the LORD has judged' or 'the LORD is judge'), carry traditional Hebrew meanings common in that era. "Maachah" is a personal or geographical name, and "Mithnite" likely refers to a place of origin, though its exact location is not definitively known, adding to the historical intrigue of these ancient figures.
Practical Application
While seemingly a mere list of names, this verse, like others in the catalog of David's mighty men, offers several insights for today:
Every Contribution Matters: It reminds us that every person's service, no matter how specialized or seemingly obscure, is valuable in God's grand plan. Just as Hanan and Joshaphat were recognized, our faithful efforts in our spheres of influence are seen.
Faithfulness in the Background: Not everyone is called to be a prominent leader, but faithfulness in supporting roles is essential for any great endeavor, including God's kingdom work.
God Remembers: The meticulous record-keeping in Scripture highlights God's attention to detail and His remembrance of those who serve Him. This echoes the sentiment that our names are written in heaven, assuring us that our service is never forgotten by God.
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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.
Commentary
Context
First Chronicles chapter 11 details the anointing of David as king over all Israel and immediately transitions into a comprehensive list of his most valiant warriors, often referred to as David's mighty men. This roster highlights the individuals who stood with David during his rise to power and the establishment of his kingdom in Jerusalem. Verse 43, specifically mentioning Hanan the son of Maachah and Joshaphat the Mithnite, is part of this extensive roll call, emphasizing the breadth of support and diverse origins of those who served David faithfully.
Key Themes
Linguistic Insights
The names themselves, "Hanan" (meaning 'gracious' or 'he has shown favor') and "Joshaphat" (meaning 'the LORD has judged' or 'the LORD is judge'), carry traditional Hebrew meanings common in that era. "Maachah" is a personal or geographical name, and "Mithnite" likely refers to a place of origin, though its exact location is not definitively known, adding to the historical intrigue of these ancient figures.
Practical Application
While seemingly a mere list of names, this verse, like others in the catalog of David's mighty men, offers several insights for today:
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.