1 Chronicles 12:15

These [are] they that went over Jordan in the first month, when it had overflown all his banks; and they put to flight all [them] of the valleys, [both] toward the east, and toward the west.

These are they that went over {H5674} Jordan {H3383} in the first {H7223} month {H2320}, when it had overflown {H4390} all his banks {H1415}{H1428}; and they put to flight {H1272} all them of the valleys {H6010}, both toward the east {H4217}, and toward the west {H4628}.

These are the men who crossed the Yarden during the first month, when it had overflowed all its banks, and drove out all those who lived in the valleys, both to the east and to the west.

These are the ones who crossed the Jordan in the first month when it was overflowing all its banks, and they put to flight all those in the valleys, both to the east and to the west.

These are they that went over the Jordan in the first month, when it had overflowed all its banks; and they put to flight all them of the valleys, both toward the east and toward the west.

Commentary

1 Chronicles 12:15 describes a remarkable act of courage and military prowess by the Gadites, a group of mighty warriors who allied themselves with David. This verse highlights their extraordinary determination to join David's cause, even in the face of severe natural obstacles. They crossed the Jordan River at its most dangerous time—in the first month (Nisan/Abib), when it was swollen and overflowing its banks due to spring floods from melting snow. Despite this perilous journey, they were successful in putting to flight the inhabitants of the valleys, securing territory both to the east and to the west.

Historical and Cultural Context

This verse is part of a larger section (1 Chronicles 12:1-22) detailing the various groups of valiant men who came to support David during his time of consolidation, first at Ziklag and later at Hebron, as he prepared to become king over all Israel. The Gadites, specifically characterized in 1 Chronicles 12:8-14, were renowned for their bravery, skill in battle, and loyalty. Their feat of crossing the Jordan at flood stage powerfully echoes the miraculous crossing led by Joshua and the Israelites, suggesting not only their incredible courage but also a sense of divine enablement or extraordinary faith that allowed them to overcome such a formidable natural barrier.

Key Themes

  • Courage and Faith: The act of crossing the Jordan River when it was at its most treacherous demonstrates immense bravery and a profound trust that they would succeed, possibly with divine assistance. It signifies a willingness to take bold steps despite overwhelming odds.
  • Overcoming Obstacles: The overflowing Jordan represents a seemingly insurmountable natural barrier. Their successful crossing symbolizes the ability to overcome significant challenges through determination, strength, and unwavering resolve.
  • Commitment to Leadership: These men were willing to face extreme danger and hardship to align themselves with David, signifying their deep loyalty and belief in his divinely appointed leadership and future kingdom.
  • Military Effectiveness: Their subsequent success in clearing out enemies from the valleys highlights their prowess as warriors and their valuable contribution to securing and expanding territory for Israel.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "when it had overflown all his banks" (Hebrew: male' al kol gedotayv) vividly portrays the swollen, dangerous state of the Jordan River. This is not merely a slight rise in water level; it describes a condition where the river has completely submerged its usual boundaries, making passage extremely difficult or impossible for ordinary travelers. This detail underscores the exceptional nature of the Gadites' achievement and their remarkable determination.

Practical Application

1 Chronicles 12:15 offers a powerful illustration for believers today. It inspires us to face our own "overflowing Jordans"—the significant challenges, obstacles, and seemingly impossible situations that appear in our lives. Just as the Gadites demonstrated extraordinary courage and resolve, we are called to approach difficulties with faith and determination, trusting that commitment and effort, often coupled with God's help, can lead to victory. This verse reminds us that sometimes, making significant progress or fulfilling our purpose requires bold steps taken in the face of daunting circumstances. It encourages us to be decisive and courageous in pursuing our God-given callings, even when the path ahead seems perilous.

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Cross-References

  • Joshua 3:15 (5 votes)

    And as they that bare the ark were come unto Jordan, and the feet of the priests that bare the ark were dipped in the brim of the water, (for Jordan overfloweth all his banks all the time of harvest,)

  • Joshua 4:18 (3 votes)

    And it came to pass, when the priests that bare the ark of the covenant of the LORD were come up out of the midst of Jordan, [and] the soles of the priests' feet were lifted up unto the dry land, that the waters of Jordan returned unto their place, and flowed over all his banks, as [they did] before.

  • Jeremiah 12:5 (2 votes)

    If thou hast run with the footmen, and they have wearied thee, then how canst thou contend with horses? and [if] in the land of peace, [wherein] thou trustedst, [they wearied thee], then how wilt thou do in the swelling of Jordan?

  • Jeremiah 49:19 (2 votes)

    Behold, he shall come up like a lion from the swelling of Jordan against the habitation of the strong: but I will suddenly make him run away from her: and who [is] a chosen [man, that] I may appoint over her? for who [is] like me? and who will appoint me the time? and who [is] that shepherd that will stand before me?