1 Chronicles 19:19

And when the servants of Hadarezer saw that they were put to the worse before Israel, they made peace with David, and became his servants: neither would the Syrians help the children of Ammon any more.

And when the servants {H5650} of Hadarezer {H1928} saw {H7200} that they were put to the worse {H5062} before {H6440} Israel {H3478}, they made peace {H7999} with David {H1732}, and became his servants {H5647}: neither would {H14} the Syrians {H758} help {H3467} the children {H1121} of Ammon {H5983} any more.

When all Hadar'ezer's servants saw that they had been defeated by Isra'el, they made peace with David and became his subjects; and Aram would no longer help the people of 'Amon.

When Hadadezer’s subjects saw that they had been defeated by Israel, they made peace with David and became subject to him. So the Arameans were unwilling to help the Ammonites anymore.

And when the servants of Hadarezer saw that they were put to the worse before Israel, they made peace with David, and served him: neither would the Syrians help the children of Ammon any more.

Commentary

Commentary on 1 Chronicles 19:19

1 Chronicles 19:19 concludes a significant military campaign waged by King David against the Ammonites and their powerful Syrian allies. This verse highlights the decisive outcome of the conflict, particularly for the Aramean (Syrian) forces, who were led by Hadarezer, King of Zobah.

Context of the Verse

The conflict began when the Ammonites, led by their new king Hanun, severely insulted David’s ambassadors, who had been sent to offer condolences after the death of Hanun’s father (1 Chronicles 19:4). Realizing their grave error, the Ammonites hired vast numbers of Syrian mercenaries from various kingdoms, including Hadarezer, King of Zobah, to fight against Israel. David dispatched his general Joab, who skillfully divided the Israelite army and decisively defeated both the Ammonites at their city gate and the Syrians in the open field. This verse specifically describes the aftermath for Hadarezer’s forces after their crushing defeat, leading to their surrender and submission.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Divine Victory and Sovereignty: The defeat of the formidable Syrian forces underscores God's hand in granting victory to David and Israel. It demonstrates that no earthly power can ultimately stand against God’s purposes for His chosen people and king.
  • Consequences of Opposition: The Syrians, by allying with the Ammonites against David, found themselves on the losing side. Their defeat led to their submission and tribute, illustrating the severe consequences of opposing God's established order.
  • Expansion and Consolidation of David's Kingdom: This victory solidified David's regional dominance. The submission of Hadarezer's servants and their becoming tributaries significantly expanded the influence and security of David's kingdom, reducing threats from the north. This event is paralleled in 2 Samuel 10:19.
  • Peace Through Submission: The Syrians found "peace with David" only after being "put to the worse" and submitting to his authority. This illustrates a principle where true stability and an end to conflict often come through acknowledging and submitting to a greater, rightful power.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "put to the worse" (Hebrew: נִגְּפוּ - niggephu) is a strong term indicating a complete rout or decisive defeat. It suggests they were utterly struck down and unable to continue the fight, forcing their surrender and subsequent submission to David.

Practical Application

This historical account offers several timeless lessons. It reminds us that God is actively involved in the affairs of nations and that His plans will prevail. For believers, it provides assurance that God defends His people and causes. Just as the Syrians found peace through submission to David, we find ultimate peace and security by submitting to God's sovereign will and living according to His commands. The narrative also highlights the importance of seeking peace and avoiding unnecessary conflict, yet demonstrates that God will grant victory when His people are unjustly attacked and trust in Him.

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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.

Cross-References

  • 1 Kings 20:12 (2 votes)

    ¶ And it came to pass, when [Benhadad] heard this message, as he [was] drinking, he and the kings in the pavilions, that he said unto his servants, Set [yourselves in array]. And they set [themselves in array] against the city.

  • Joshua 9:9 (2 votes)

    And they said unto him, From a very far country thy servants are come because of the name of the LORD thy God: for we have heard the fame of him, and all that he did in Egypt,

  • Joshua 9:11 (2 votes)

    Wherefore our elders and all the inhabitants of our country spake to us, saying, Take victuals with you for the journey, and go to meet them, and say unto them, We [are] your servants: therefore now make ye a league with us.

  • Genesis 14:4 (2 votes)

    Twelve years they served Chedorlaomer, and in the thirteenth year they rebelled.

  • Genesis 14:5 (2 votes)

    And in the fourteenth year came Chedorlaomer, and the kings that [were] with him, and smote the Rephaims in Ashteroth Karnaim, and the Zuzims in Ham, and the Emims in Shaveh Kiriathaim,

  • Psalms 18:44 (2 votes)

    As soon as they hear of me, they shall obey me: the strangers shall submit themselves unto me.

  • 1 Kings 20:1 (2 votes)

    ¶ And Benhadad the king of Syria gathered all his host together: and [there were] thirty and two kings with him, and horses, and chariots: and he went up and besieged Samaria, and warred against it.