2 Samuel 23:11

And after him [was] Shammah the son of Agee the Hararite. And the Philistines were gathered together into a troop, where was a piece of ground full of lentiles: and the people fled from the Philistines.

And after {H310} him was Shammah {H8048} the son {H1121} of Agee {H89} the Hararite {H2043}. And the Philistines {H6430} were gathered together {H622} into a troop {H2416}, where was a piece {H2513} of ground {H7704} full {H4392} of lentiles {H5742}: and the people {H5971} fled {H5127} from {H6440} the Philistines {H6430}.

After him was Shammah the son of Age the Harari. The P'lishtim had assembled at Lechi, where there was a plot of ground full of lentils; and the people fled from the P'lishtim.

And after him was Shammah son of Agee the Hararite. When the Philistines had banded together near a field full of lentils, Israel’s troops fled from them.

And after him was Shammah the son of Agee a Hararite. And the Philistines were gathered together into a troop, where was a plot of ground full of lentils; and the people fled from the Philistines.

Commentary

2 Samuel 23:11 introduces Shammah, one of King David's elite warriors, known as the "mighty men." This verse details a specific act of extraordinary bravery where Shammah stood alone against a Philistine troop to defend a field of lentiles after all others had fled.

Historical and Cultural Context

This verse is part of a significant passage in 2 Samuel 23 (verses 8-39) that lists and describes the heroic deeds of David's mighty men. These men were crucial to David's military success and the establishment of his kingdom. The Philistines were a constant threat to Israel throughout the period of the Judges and early monarchy, frequently engaging in skirmishes and major battles for control of the land. The mention of a "piece of ground full of lentiles" highlights the practical value of the land, as crops like lentiles were vital for sustenance. The fact that "the people fled" underscores the overwhelming fear the Philistine presence instilled, making Shammah's stand even more remarkable.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Individual Courage and Faithfulness: Shammah's willingness to stand alone against an enemy troop, even when his own people fled, exemplifies immense personal courage and commitment. His action preserved a valuable food source for his community.
  • Protecting the Vulnerable: While a field of lentiles might seem insignificant in the grand scheme of warfare, its defense represents the protection of the people's livelihood and resources. Shammah fought for what was essential for his community's survival.
  • Distinction in Adversity: This account highlights how true character and heroism are often revealed in moments of crisis and widespread fear. Shammah's deed earned him a place among David's most honored warriors.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "troop" (gedud) refers to a raiding band or detachment, suggesting these Philistines were likely a smaller, but still formidable, group intent on plunder or harassment. The simplicity of the narrative emphasizes the directness and singular nature of Shammah's action, without elaborate descriptions of battle, focusing solely on his steadfastness.

Practical Application

Shammah's story challenges believers to consider what they are willing to stand for, even when others retreat. It teaches us about:

  • Standing Firm: In spiritual warfare or societal challenges, there are times when we are called to stand firm against opposition, even if it feels like we are alone.
  • Valuing the "Small" Things: Sometimes, the battles we fight are for seemingly small or ordinary things—a principle, a truth, or even a basic resource. Shammah's defense of a lentil field reminds us that all things God entrusts to us are worth defending.
  • Inspiring Others: Acts of courage, even from one individual, can inspire greater faithfulness and ultimately lead to victory, demonstrating the power of singular devotion in the face of fear.

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Cross-References

  • 1 Chronicles 11:13 (4 votes)

    He was with David at Pasdammim, and there the Philistines were gathered together to battle, where was a parcel of ground full of barley; and the people fled from before the Philistines.

  • 1 Chronicles 11:14 (4 votes)

    And they set themselves in the midst of [that] parcel, and delivered it, and slew the Philistines; and the LORD saved [them] by a great deliverance.

  • 1 Chronicles 11:27 (4 votes)

    Shammoth the Harorite, Helez the Pelonite,

  • 2 Samuel 23:33 (3 votes)

    Shammah the Hararite, Ahiam the son of Sharar the Hararite,