1 Chronicles 19:12

And he said, If the Syrians be too strong for me, then thou shalt help me: but if the children of Ammon be too strong for thee, then I will help thee.

And he said {H559}, If the Syrians {H758} be too strong {H2388} for me, then thou shalt help {H8668} me: but if the children {H1121} of Ammon {H5983} be too strong {H2388} for thee, then I will help {H3467} thee.

He said, "If Aram is too strong for me, you help me; but if the army of 'Amon is too strong for you, then I will help you.

“If the Arameans are too strong for me,” said Joab, “then you will come to my rescue. And if the Ammonites are too strong for you, then I will come to your rescue.

And he said, If the Syrians be too strong for me, then thou shalt help me; but if the children of Ammon be too strong for thee, then I will help thee.

Commentary

1 Chronicles 19:12 captures a critical strategic agreement between King David's top generals, Joab and Abishai, as they faced a formidable alliance of Ammonite and Syrian forces. This verse highlights the importance of mutual support and strategic planning in the face of overwhelming odds.

Context

This verse is set during a significant war between Israel and the Ammonites, who had allied with several Syrian kingdoms. The conflict began after King Hanun of Ammon grievously insulted David's messengers (1 Chronicles 19:4), provoking David to send his army under Joab. Faced with enemies on two fronts—the Ammonites at the city gate and the Syrians in the open field—Joab wisely divided his forces. He took command of the elite troops to face the Syrians, entrusting a portion of the army to his brother Abishai to confront the Ammonites. This instruction in verse 12 serves as a contingency plan, ensuring that neither flank would be overrun without immediate reinforcement. A parallel account of this battle and Joab's strategy can also be found in 2 Samuel 10:12.

Key Themes

  • Mutual Support and Solidarity: The core message of the verse is the commitment to aid one another when in need. Joab and Abishai exemplify a bond of brotherhood and strategic partnership, recognizing that their individual strength is amplified by their willingness to assist each other. This principle of mutual aid and collaboration is vital in any challenging endeavor.
  • Strategic Planning and Foresight: Joab's command demonstrates excellent military foresight. He anticipated potential weaknesses or overwhelming force on either side and established a clear protocol for assistance, minimizing risk and maximizing their chances of success. This reflects a practical wisdom in preparing for various outcomes.
  • Trust and Reliance: For this plan to work, there had to be deep trust between Joab and Abishai. Each had to rely on the other's commitment and ability to act swiftly when called upon, highlighting the importance of dependable allies.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "be too strong for me" (Hebrew: chazaq mimmenniy) or "be too strong for thee" (Hebrew: chazaq mimmecha) literally means "be stronger than I" or "be stronger than you." It conveys the idea of being overpowered or overwhelmed by the enemy's numbers or might. The simplicity and directness of Joab's language underscore the clarity and urgency of the agreement.

Practical Application

The principle embedded in 1 Chronicles 19:12 extends far beyond military strategy. It offers valuable lessons for life today:

  • Teamwork and Collaboration: In families, churches, workplaces, or communities, challenges often arise that are too great for one person to handle alone. This verse encourages us to work together, supporting one another's efforts and sharing burdens. We are called to bear one another's burdens.
  • Preparedness: While we cannot foresee every difficulty, having contingency plans and a network of support can make a significant difference when adversity strikes.
  • Reliance on God: Though Joab's statement is about human strategy, the broader narrative of the Bible often reminds us that ultimate strength and victory come from God. Even as we plan and support one another, our ultimate trust should be in God's strength and sovereignty, knowing that "the battle is the Lord's" (1 Samuel 17:47).

This verse serves as a timeless reminder of the power of unity and mutual commitment in facing life's battles.

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Cross-References

  • Nehemiah 4:20 (3 votes)

    In what place [therefore] ye hear the sound of the trumpet, resort ye thither unto us: our God shall fight for us.

  • Philippians 1:27 (3 votes)

    ¶ Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel;

  • Philippians 1:28 (3 votes)

    And in nothing terrified by your adversaries: which is to them an evident token of perdition, but to you of salvation, and that of God.

  • Galatians 6:2 (2 votes)

    Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.

  • Ecclesiastes 4:9 (2 votes)

    Two [are] better than one; because they have a good reward for their labour.

  • Ecclesiastes 4:12 (2 votes)

    And if one prevail against him, two shall withstand him; and a threefold cord is not quickly broken.