1 Chronicles 12:40

Moreover they that were nigh them, [even] unto Issachar and Zebulun and Naphtali, brought bread on asses, and on camels, and on mules, and on oxen, [and] meat, meal, cakes of figs, and bunches of raisins, and wine, and oil, and oxen, and sheep abundantly: for [there was] joy in Israel.

Moreover they that were nigh {H7138} them, even unto Issachar {H3485} and Zebulun {H2074} and Naphtali {H5321}, brought {H935} bread {H3899} on asses {H2543}, and on camels {H1581}, and on mules {H6505}, and on oxen {H1241}, and meat {H3978}, meal {H7058}, cakes {H1690} of figs, and bunches of raisins {H6778}, and wine {H3196}, and oil {H8081}, and oxen {H1241}, and sheep {H6629} abundantly {H7230}: for there was joy {H8057} in Israel {H3478}.

Moreover, those who were near them - and even those as far as Yissakhar, Z'vulun and Naftali - brought food on donkeys, camels, mules and oxen: baked goods, fig cakes, clusters of raisins, wine, oil, and oxen and sheep in abundance; for there was joy in Isra'el.

And their neighbors from as far away as Issachar, Zebulun, and Naphtali came bringing food on donkeys, camels, mules, and oxen—abundant supplies of flour, fig cakes and raisin cakes, wine and oil, oxen and sheep. Indeed, there was joy in Israel.

Moreover they that were nigh unto them, even as far as Issachar and Zebulun and Naphtali, brought bread on asses, and on camels, and on mules, and on oxen, victuals of meal, cakes of figs, and clusters of raisins, and wine, and oil, and oxen, and sheep in abundance: for there was joy in Israel.

Commentary

1 Chronicles 12:40 concludes a significant passage detailing the widespread support and immense gathering of warriors who came to David at Hebron to make him king over all Israel. This verse highlights the practical outpouring of support and the prevailing atmosphere of celebration.

Context and Historical Significance

Following the detailed enumeration of the mighty men and leaders from various tribes who joined David, 1 Chronicles 12:40 focuses on the provisioning of this vast assembly. The tribes mentioned—Issachar, Zebulun, and Naphtali—were located in the northern regions of Israel, demonstrating that support for David's kingship was not confined to a single area but extended across the entire nation. This grand assembly at Hebron marked a pivotal moment in Israelite history: the unification of the tribes under God's chosen king, culminating years of civil strife following Saul's death. The provisions brought on various animals signify the immense scale of the gathering and the dedication of the people.

Key Themes and Messages

  • National Unity and Support: The bringing of provisions from distant tribes underscores the profound unity and enthusiastic backing David received. This was a true national consensus, solidifying his reign as the rightful leader of a united Israel.
  • Abundance and Generosity: The extensive list of foodstuffs and livestock—"bread... meat, meal, cakes of figs, and bunches of raisins, and wine, and oil, and oxen, and sheep abundantly"—speaks volumes about the generosity of the people and the divine blessing upon this momentous occasion. It portrays a time of great provision and shared resources.
  • Overwhelming Joy: The culminating phrase, "for there was joy in Israel," captures the essence of the event. This was not merely a political transition but a period of profound rejoicing. This joy was rooted in the establishment of God's anointed king and the promise of peace and stability for the nation, reflecting a spiritual celebration as much as a political one.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "joy" here is simchah (שִׂמְחָה), which often describes a deep, communal rejoicing, frequently associated with feasts, festivals, or divine blessings. It's a profound sense of gladness, not merely fleeting happiness. The term "abundantly" emphasizes the overflowing nature of the provisions, highlighting the lavishness of their support and the prosperity present at this time of national unity.

Practical Application

This verse offers timeless lessons for believers today:

  • The Power of Unity: Just as the tribes united under David, believers are called to preserve the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace within the church. When God's people come together in purpose and support, great things can be accomplished.
  • Generosity in Service: The people's willingness to bring abundant provisions illustrates the spirit of generosity. Our resources, time, and talents can be used to support God's work and bless others, contributing to a shared vision.
  • Joy in God's Plan: The overwhelming joy in Israel reminds us that true and lasting joy comes from seeing God's purposes unfold and participating in His work. When we align ourselves with His will, there is a profound sense of celebration, much like the fullness of joy found in God's presence.
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Cross-References

  • 1 Samuel 25:18 (5 votes)

    ¶ Then Abigail made haste, and took two hundred loaves, and two bottles of wine, and five sheep ready dressed, and five measures of parched [corn], and an hundred clusters of raisins, and two hundred cakes of figs, and laid [them] on asses.

  • 2 Samuel 16:1 (3 votes)

    ¶ And when David was a little past the top [of the hill], behold, Ziba the servant of Mephibosheth met him, with a couple of asses saddled, and upon them two hundred [loaves] of bread, and an hundred bunches of raisins, and an hundred of summer fruits, and a bottle of wine.

  • Proverbs 29:2 (2 votes)

    ¶ When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice: but when the wicked beareth rule, the people mourn.

  • 2 Kings 11:20 (2 votes)

    And all the people of the land rejoiced, and the city was in quiet: and they slew Athaliah with the sword [beside] the king's house.

  • Jeremiah 23:5 (2 votes)

    Behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that I will raise unto David a righteous Branch, and a King shall reign and prosper, and shall execute judgment and justice in the earth.

  • Jeremiah 23:6 (2 votes)

    In his days Judah shall be saved, and Israel shall dwell safely: and this [is] his name whereby he shall be called, THE LORD OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS.

  • 2 Samuel 17:27 (2 votes)

    And it came to pass, when David was come to Mahanaim, that Shobi the son of Nahash of Rabbah of the children of Ammon, and Machir the son of Ammiel of Lodebar, and Barzillai the Gileadite of Rogelim,