2 Samuel 23:25

Shammah the Harodite, Elika the Harodite,

Shammah {H8048} the Harodite {H2733}, Elika {H470} the Harodite {H2733},

Shammah the Harodi, Elika the Harodi,

Shammah the Harodite, Elika the Harodite,

Shammah the Harodite, Elika the Harodite,

Commentary

2 Samuel 23:25 is a brief but significant entry within the esteemed roster of King David's elite warriors, often referred to as "David's Mighty Men." This verse specifically names "Shammah the Harodite, Elika the Harodite," two individuals whose inclusion underscores their loyalty and contribution to David's kingdom.

Context

This verse is part of a longer list spanning 2 Samuel 23:8-39, which chronicles the most valiant and faithful soldiers who served under King David. This list serves as a testament to the strength and character of the individuals who helped establish and secure David's reign over Israel. A parallel account, though with some variations in names and order, can be found in 1 Chronicles 11:26-41. The "Harodite" designation indicates their geographical origin, likely from the area of Harod, perhaps near the Jezreel Valley.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Loyalty and Service: The primary theme conveyed by the inclusion of these names is the unwavering loyalty and dedicated service these men offered to David. They were not merely soldiers but trusted companions in his rise to power and consolidation of the kingdom.
  • Recognition and Honor: The very act of naming these individuals in sacred scripture highlights their importance and the honor bestowed upon them. It shows that even those who might not be as famous as the "Three Mightiest" (like Jashobeam, Eleazar, and Shammah son of Agee) were still valued and remembered for their contributions.
  • Foundation of the Kingdom: These mighty men were instrumental in David's military victories and the stability of his rule. Their bravery and skill were vital to the establishment of Israel as a formidable nation under God's chosen king.

Linguistic Insights

The names themselves offer some insight, though less significant than their actions. Shammah (Hebrew: ืฉึทืืžึธึผื”, Shammah) can mean "astonishment" or "desolation," while Elika (Hebrew: ืึฑืœึดื™ืงึธื, 'Eliqa') has a less certain meaning, possibly related to "my God is Qฤ'" or "my God has spit forth." The more significant descriptor is "the Harodite," which anchors them to a specific place, a common practice in ancient Israel to identify individuals by their hometown or tribal affiliation.

Practical Application

While these specific individuals are only briefly mentioned, their inclusion in David's honor roll offers timeless lessons:

  • Value in Every Contribution: This verse reminds us that every person's faithful service, no matter how seemingly small or unheralded, contributes to a larger purpose. Just as Shammah and Elika played their part in David's kingdom, so too does each individual's faithfulness contribute to God's work today.
  • Faithfulness is Remembered: God, like David, remembers and honors the loyal and faithful. As Hebrews 6:10 states, "For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love."
  • Support for Leadership: The existence of these mighty men highlights the importance of a strong, loyal support system for leaders. David's success was not solely his own but was built on the dedication of those who served alongside him.
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Cross-References

  • 1 Chronicles 11:27 (2 votes)

    Shammoth the Harorite, Helez the Pelonite,

  • 1 Chronicles 11:28 (2 votes)

    Ira the son of Ikkesh the Tekoite, Abiezer the Antothite,

  • Judges 7:1 (2 votes)

    ยถ Then Jerubbaal, who [is] Gideon, and all the people that [were] with him, rose up early, and pitched beside the well of Harod: so that the host of the Midianites were on the north side of them, by the hill of Moreh, in the valley.