Now these are those who came to David to Ziklag, while he was a fugitive from Saul the son of Kish. They were among the mighty men, his helpers in war. They were armed with bows, and could use both the right hand and the left in slinging stones and in shooting arrows from the bow. They were of Saul’s relatives of the tribe of Benjamin. The chief was Ahiezer, then Joash, the sons of Shemaah the Gibeathite; Jeziel and Pelet, the sons of Azmaveth; Beracah; Jehu the Anathothite; Ishmaiah the Gibeonite, a mighty man among the thirty and a leader of the thirty; Jeremiah; Jahaziel; Johanan; Jozabad the Gederathite; Eluzai; Jerimoth; Bealiah; Shemariah; Shephatiah the Haruphite; Elkanah, Isshiah Azarel, Joezer, and Jashobeam, the Korahites; and Joelah and Zebadiah, the sons of Jeroham of Gedor.
Show the surrounding paragraph
1 Chronicles 12:1-7 sits inside this longer paragraph.
Now these are those who came to David to Ziklag, while he was a fugitive from Saul the son of Kish. They were among the mighty men, his helpers in war. They were armed with bows, and could use both the right hand and the left in slinging stones and in shooting arrows from the bow. They were of Saul’s relatives of the tribe of Benjamin. The chief was Ahiezer, then Joash, the sons of Shemaah the Gibeathite; Jeziel and Pelet, the sons of Azmaveth; Beracah; Jehu the Anathothite; Ishmaiah the Gibeonite, a mighty man among the thirty and a leader of the thirty; Jeremiah; Jahaziel; Johanan; Jozabad the Gederathite; Eluzai; Jerimoth; Bealiah; Shemariah; Shephatiah the Haruphite; Elkanah, Isshiah Azarel, Joezer, and Jashobeam, the Korahites; and Joelah and Zebadiah, the sons of Jeroham of Gedor. Some Gadites joined David in the stronghold in the wilderness, mighty men of valor, men trained for war, who could handle shield and spear; whose faces were like the faces of lions, and they were as swift as the gazelles on the mountains: Ezer the chief, Obadiah the second, Eliab the third, Mishmannah the fourth, Jeremiah the fifth, Attai the sixth, Eliel the seventh, Johanan the eighth, Elzabad the ninth, Jeremiah the tenth, and Machbannai the eleventh. These of the sons of Gad were captains of the army: he who was least was equal to one hundred, and the greatest to one thousand. These are those who went over the Jordan in the first month, when it had overflowed all its banks; and they put to flight all who lived in the valleys, both toward the east and toward the west. Some of the children of Benjamin and Judah came to the stronghold to David. David went out to meet them, and answered them, “If you have come peaceably to me to help me, my heart will be united with you; but if you have come to betray me to my adversaries, since there is no wrong in my hands, may the God of our fathers see this and rebuke it.” Then the Spirit came on Amasai, who was chief of the thirty, and he said, “We are yours, David, and on your side, you son of Jesse. Peace, peace be to you, and peace be to your helpers; for your God helps you.” Then David received them, and made them captains of the band. Some of Manasseh also joined David, when he came with the Philistines against Saul to battle; but they didn’t help them; for the lords of the Philistines sent him away after consultation, saying, “He will desert to his master Saul to the jeopardy of our heads.”
Parallel Translations
-
Now these are those who came to David to Ziklag, while he was a fugitive from Saul the son of Kish. They were among the mighty men, his helpers in war.
They were armed with bows, and could use both the right hand and the left in slinging stones and in shooting arrows from the bow. They were of Saul’s relatives of the tribe of Benjamin.
The chief was Ahiezer, then Joash, the sons of Shemaah the Gibeathite; Jeziel and Pelet, the sons of Azmaveth; Beracah; Jehu the Anathothite;
Ishmaiah the Gibeonite, a mighty man among the thirty and a leader of the thirty; Jeremiah; Jahaziel; Johanan; Jozabad the Gederathite;
Eluzai; Jerimoth; Bealiah; Shemariah; Shephatiah the Haruphite;
Elkanah, Isshiah Azarel, Joezer, and Jashobeam, the Korahites;
and Joelah and Zebadiah, the sons of Jeroham of Gedor.
-
Now these are they that came to David to Ziklag, while he yet kept himself close because of Saul the son of Kish: and they were among the mighty men, helpers of the war.
They were armed with bows, and could use both the right hand and the left in hurling stones and shooting arrows out of a bow, even of Saul’s brethren of Benjamin.
The chief was Ahiezer, then Joash, the sons of Shemaah the Gibeathite; and Jeziel, and Pelet, the sons of Azmaveth; and Berachah, and Jehu the Antothite,
And Ismaiah the Gibeonite, a mighty man among the thirty, and over the thirty; and Jeremiah, and Jahaziel, and Johanan, and Josabad the Gederathite,
Eluzai, and Jerimoth, and Bealiah, and Shemariah, and Shephatiah the Haruphite,
Elkanah, and Jesiah, and Azareel, and Joezer, and Jashobeam, the Korhites,
And Joelah, and Zebadiah, the sons of Jeroham of Gedor.
Show all 3 translations
-
Now these are they that came to David to Ziklag, while he was yet shut up because of Saul the son of Kish; and they were among the mighty men, his helpers in war.
They were armed with bows, and could use both the right hand and the left in slinging stones and in shooting arrows from the bow; they were of Saul's brethren of Benjamin.
The chief was Ahiezer, then Joash, the sons of Shemaah the Gibeathite; and Jeziel, and Pelet, the sons of Azmaveth; and Beracah, and Jehu the Anathothite;
and Ishmaiah the Gibeonite, a mighty man among the thirty, and over the thirty; (12-5) and Jeremiah, and Jahaziel, and Johanan, and Jozabad the Gederathite;
(12-6) Eluzai, and Jerimoth, and Bealiah, and Shemariah, and Shephatiah the Hariphite;
(12-7) Elkanah, and Isshiah, and Azarel, and Joezer, and Jashobeam, the Korahites;
(12-8) and Joelah, and Zebadiah, the sons of Jeroham of the troop.
Cross-references (23)
- Judges 3:15 (v2) But when the children of Israel cried to Yahweh, Yahweh raised up a savior for them: Ehud the son of Gera, the Benjamite, a left-handed…
- Judges 20:16 (v2) Among all these soldiers there were seven hundred chosen men who were left-handed. Every one of them could sling a stone at a hair and not…
- 1 Samuel 27:2-6 (v1) David arose, and passed over, he and the six hundred men who were with him, to Achish the son of Maoch, king of Gath. David lived with…
- 1 Chronicles 11:28 (v3) Ira the son of Ikkesh the Tekoite, Abiezer the Anathothite,
- Joshua 9:3 (v4) But when the inhabitants of Gibeon heard what Joshua had done to Jericho and to Ai,
Show all 23 cross-references
- Joshua 15:36 (v4) Shaaraim, Adithaim and Gederah (or Gederothaim); fourteen cities with their villages.
- Joshua 15:58 (v7) Halhul, Beth Zur, Gedor,
- Joshua 9:17-23 (v4) The children of Israel traveled and came to their cities on the third day. Now their cities were Gibeon, Chephirah, Beeroth, and Kiriath…
- 1 Samuel 11:4 (v3) Then the messengers came to Gibeah of Saul, and spoke these words in the ears of the people, then all the people lifted up their voice, and…
- 1 Samuel 17:49 (v2) David put his hand in his bag, took a stone, and slung it, and struck the Philistine in his forehead. The stone sank into his forehead, and…
- 2 Samuel 1:1 (v1) After the death of Saul, when David had returned from the slaughter of the Amalekites, and David had stayed two days in Ziklag;
- 2 Samuel 4:10 (v1) when someone told me, ‘Behold, Saul is dead,’ thinking that he brought good news, I seized him and killed him in Ziklag, which was the…
- 2 Samuel 21:6 (v3) let seven men of his sons be delivered to us, and we will hang them up to Yahweh in Gibeah of Saul, the chosen of Yahweh.” The king said,…
- 1 Chronicles 4:18 (v7) His wife the Jewess bore Jered the father of Gedor, Heber the father of Soco, and Jekuthiel the father of Zanoah. These are the sons of…
- 1 Chronicles 4:39 (v7) They went to the entrance of Gedor, even to the east side of the valley, to seek pasture for their flocks.
- 1 Chronicles 8:33 (v1) Ner became the father of Kish. Kish became the father of Saul. Saul became the father of Jonathan, Malchishua, Abinadab, and Eshbaal.
- 1 Chronicles 9:39 (v1) Ner became the father of Kish. Kish became the father of Saul. Saul became the father of Jonathan, Malchishua, Abinadab, and Eshbaal.
- 1 Chronicles 11:10 (v1) Now these are the chief of the mighty men whom David had, who showed themselves strong with him in his kingdom, together with all Israel,…
- 1 Chronicles 11:15 (v4) Three of the thirty chief men went down to the rock to David, into the cave of Adullam; and the army of the Philistines were encamped in…
- 1 Chronicles 11:19 (v1) and said, “My God forbid me, that I should do this! Shall I drink the blood of these men who have put their lives in jeopardy?” For they…
- 1 Chronicles 11:24-25 (v1) Benaiah the son of Jehoiada did these things, and had a name among the three mighty men. Behold, he was more honorable than the thirty, but…
- 1 Chronicles 11:33 (v3) Azmaveth the Baharumite, Eliahba the Shaalbonite,
- 1 Chronicles 12:29 (v2) Of the children of Benjamin, Saul’s relatives: three thousand, for until then, the greatest part of them had kept their allegiance to…
Cross-references from openbible.info (CC BY 4.0)
Explain this passage (23 sources)
Historical commentary, presented as a primary source — not an endorsement.
Private notes
Saved on this device only — never synced or sent anywhere.
Geneva Bible translators 1599 · Public Domain On vv1, 2, 7 To take his part against Saul, who persecuted him.
To take his part against Saul, who persecuted him.
Geneva Bible (1599) marginal notes — public domain.
John Trapp 1656 · Public Domain On vv1–2 1Ch 12:1 Now these [are] they that came to…
1Ch 12:1 Now these [are] they that came to David to Ziklag, while he yet kept himself close because of Saul the son of Kish: and they [were] among the mighty men, helpers of the war.
Ver. 1. Now these are they that came to David to Ziklag.] God left not David in his low estate, but provided him a place of repose, and some to comfort him and stand by him in his straits. Saul "saw this, and was grieved: he gnashed with his teeth," &c. {Psa 112:10}
Read full note →
While he yet kept himself close.] Heb., Being yet shut up, viz., in Ziklag, which was in the wilderness of Judah.
Helpers of the war.] Saul had lost their hearts by his impiety and cruelty, and now David was their darling, and for this they are here crowned and chronicled.
John Trapp, A Commentary or Exposition upon All the Books of the Old and New Testament (1647–1656) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword module.
Matthew Poole 1685 · Public Domain On vv1, 2, 4 While he yet kept himself close, or, was shut…
While he yet kept himself close, or, was shut up, or shut out, from his own land and people; for he speaks not of that time when he was shut up and hid himself in caves in the land of Judah, but when he was at Ziklag.
Matthew Poole's English Annotations on the Holy Bible (1683–1685) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword/MySword module.
Matthew Henry 1710 · Public Domain On v1 We have here an account of those that appeared…
We have here an account of those that appeared and acted as David's friends, upon the death of Saul, to bring about the revolution. All the forces he had, while he was persecuted, was but 600 men, who served for his guards; but, when the time had come that he must begin to act offensively, Providence brought in more to his assistance. Even while he kept himself close, because of Saul (Ch1 12:1), while he did not appear, to invite or encourage his friends and well-wishers to come in to him (not foreseeing that the death of Saul was so near), God was inclining and preparing them to come over to him with seasonable succours. Those that trust God to do his work for them in his own way and time shall find his providence outdoing all their forecast and contrivance. The war was God's, and he found out helpers of the war, whose forwardness to act for the man God designed for the government is here recorded to their honour.
I. Some, even of Saul's brethren, of the tribe of Benjamin, and a-kin to him, came over to David, Ch1 12:2. What moved them to it we are not told. Probably a generous indignation at the base treatment which Saul, one of their tribe, gave him, animated them to appear the more vigorously for him, that the guilt and reproach of it might not lie upon them. These Benjamites are described to be men of great dexterity, that were trained up in shooting and slinging, and used both hands alike - ingenious active men; a few of these might do David a great deal of service. Several of the leading men of them are here named. See Jdg 20:16.
Read full note →
II. Some of the tribe of Gad, though seated on the other side Jordan, had such a conviction of David's title to the government, and fitness for it, that they separated themselves from their brethren (a laudable separation it was) to go to David, though he was in the hold in the wilderness (Ch1 12:8), probably some of his strong holds in the wilderness of Engedi. They were but few, eleven in all, here named, but they added much to David's strength. Those that had hitherto come in to his assistance were most of them men of broken fortunes, distressed, discontented, and soldiers of fortune, that came to him rather for protection than to do him any service, Sa1 22:2. But these Gadites were brave men, men of war, and fit for the battle, Ch1 12:8. For, 1. They were able-bodied men, men of incredible swiftness, not to fly from, but to fly upon, the enemy, and to pursue the scattered forces. In this they were as swift as the roes upon the mountains, so that no man could escape from them; and yet they had faces like the faces of lions, so that no man could out-fight them. 2. They were disciplined men, trained up to military exercises; they could handle shield and buckler, use both offensive and defensive weapons. 3. They were officers of the militia in their own tribe (Ch1 12:14), so that though they did not bring soldiers with them they had them at command, hundreds, thousands. 4. They were daring men, that could break through the greatest difficulties. Upon some expedition or other, perhaps this to David, they swam over the Jordan, when it overflowed all its banks, Ch1 12:15. Those are fit to be employed in the cause of God that can venture thus in a dependence upon the divine protection. 5. They were men that would go through with the business they engaged in. What enemies those were that they met with in the valleys, when they had passed Jordan, does not appear; but they put them to flight with their lion-like faces, and pursued them with matchless fury, both towards the east and towards the west; which way soever they turned, they followed their blow, and did not do their work by halves.
III. Some of Judah and Benjamin came to him, Ch1 12:16. Their leader was Amasai, whether the same with that Amasa that afterwards sided with Absalom (Sa2 17:25) or no does not appear. Now here we have,
1. David's prudent treaty with them, Ch1 12:17. He was surprised to see them, and could not but conceive some jealousy of the intentions of their coming, having been so often in danger by the treachery of the men of Ziph and the men of Keilah, who yet were all men of Judah. He might well be timorous whose life was so much struck at; he might well be suspicious who had been deceived in so many that he said, in his haste, All men are liars. No marvel that he meets these men of Judah with caution. Observe,
(1.) How he puts the matter to themselves, how fairly he deals with them. As they are, they shall find him; so shall all that deal with the Son of David. [1.] If they be faithful and honourable, he will be their rewarder: "If you have come peaceably unto me, to help me, though you have come late and have left me exposed a great while, though you bring no great strength with you to turn the scale for me, yet I will thankfully accept your good-will, and my heart shall be knit unto you; I will love you and honour you, and do you all the kindness I can." Affection, respect, and service, that are cordial and sincere, will find favour with a good man, as they do with a good God, though clogged with infirmities, and turning to no great account. But, [2.] If they be false, and come to betray him into the hands of Saul, under colour of friendship, he leaves them to God to be their avenger, as he is, and will be, of every thing that is treacherous and perfidious. Never was man more violently run upon, and run down, than David was (except the Son of David himself), and yet he had the testimony of his conscience that there was no wrong in his hands. He meant no harm to any man, which was his rejoicing in the day of evil, and enabled him, when he feared treachery, to commit his cause to him that judges righteously. He will not be judge in his own cause, though a wise man, nor avenge himself, though a man of valour; but let the righteous God, who hath said, Vengeance is mine, do both. The God of our fathers look thereon and rebuke it.
(2.) In this appeal observe, [1.] He calls God the God of our fathers, both his fathers and theirs. Thus he reminded them not to deal ill with him; for they were both descendants from the same patriarchs, and both dependents on the same God. Thus he encouraged himself to believe that God would right him if he should be abused; for he was the God of his fathers and therefore a blessing was entailed on him, and a God to all Israel and therefore not only a Judge to all the earth, but particularly concerned in determining controversies between contesting Israelites. [2.] He does not imprecate any fearful judgement upon them, though they should deal treacherously, but very modestly refers his cause to the divine wisdom and justice: The Lord look thereon, and judge as he sees (for he sees men's hearts), and rebuke it. It becomes those that appeal to God to express themselves with great temper and moderation; for the wrath of man works not the righteousness of God.
2. Their hearty closure with him, Ch1 12:18. Amasai was their spokesman, on whom the Spirit of the Lord came, not a spirit of prophecy, but a spirit of wisdom and resolution, according to the occasion, putting words into his mouth, unpremeditated, which were proper both to give David satisfaction and to animate those that accompanied him. Nothing could be said finer, more lively, or more pertinent to the occasion. For himself and all his associates, (1.) He professed a very cordial adherence to David, and his interest, against all that opposed him, and a resolution to stand by him with the hazard of all that was dear to him: Thine are we, David, and on thy side, thou son of Jesse. In calling him son of Jesse they reminded themselves that he was lineally descended from Nahshon and Salmon, who in their days were princes of the tribe of Judah. Saul called him so in disdain (Sa1 20:27; Sa1 22:7), but they looked upon it as his honour. They were convinced that God was on his side; and therefore, Thine are we, David, and on thy side. It is good, if we must side, to side with those that side with God and have God with them. (2.) He wished prosperity to David and his cause, not drinking a health, but praying for peace to him and all his friends and well-wishers: "Peace, peace, be unto thee, all the good thy heart desires, and peace be to thy helpers, among whom we desire to be reckoned, that peace may be on us." (3.) He assured him of help from heaven: "For thy God helpeth thee; therefore we wish peace may be, and therefore we doubt not but peace shall be, to thee and thy helpers. God is thy God, and those that have him for their God no doubt have him for their helper in every time of need and danger." From these expressions of Amasai we may take instruction how to testify our affection and allegiance to the Lord Jesus. His we must be without reservation or power of revocation. On his side we must be forward to appear and act. To his interest we must be hearty well-wishers: "Hosanna! prosperity to his gospel and kingdom;" for his God helpeth him, and will till he shall have put down all opposing rule, principality, and power.
3. David's cheerful acceptance of them into his interest and friendship. Charity and honour teach us to let fall our jealousies as soon as satisfaction is given us: David received them, and preferred them to be captains of the band.
IV. Some of Manasseh likewise joined with him, v. 19. Providence gave them a fair opportunity to do so when he and his men marched through their country upon this occasion. Achish took David with him when he went out to fight with Saul; but the lords of the Philistines obliged him to withdraw. We have the story, Sa1 29:4, etc. In his return some great men of Manasseh, who had no heart to join with Saul against the Philistines struck in with David, and very seasonably, to help him against the band of Amelekites who plundered Ziklag; they were not many, but they were all mighty men and did David good service upon that occasion, 1 Sa. 30. See how Providence provides. David's interest grew strangely just when he had occasion to make use of it, Ch1 12:22. Auxiliary forces flocked in daily, till he had a great host. When the promise comes to the birth, leave it to God to find strength to bring forth.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on the Whole Bible (1708–1710) — public domain (CC PDM 1.0). Text via the HelloAO Bible API.
John Gill 1763 · Public Domain On vv2–7 They were armed with bows,.... Much used in war…
They were armed with bows,.... Much used in war in those times:
and could use both the right hand and the left, in hurling stones, and shooting arrows out of a bow; they were ambidextrous; who could sling stones, or shoot arrows, with either, which was no small advantage to them:
Read full note →
even of Saul's brethren of Benjamin; they were of the tribe of Benjamin, of which Saul was, and so his brethren; and they might be, at least some of them, his relations and kinsmen; who observing the unreasonableness of Saul's enmity to David, and detesting his cruelty, and sensible of the innocence of David, and of the service he had done his country; and perhaps not being ignorant of his divine right and title to the kingdom, went over to him, to comfort, strengthen, and assist him.
John Gill's Exposition of the Whole Bible (1746–1763) — public domain (CC PDM 1.0). Text via the HelloAO Bible API.
John Wesley 1765 · Public Domain On vv1, 2, 4 The companies that came to David at Ziklag, ver.…
The companies that came to David at Ziklag, ver. 1-22. The armies that came to him at Hebron, ver. 23-40.
John Wesley, Explanatory Notes Upon the Whole Bible (1754–1765) — public domain. Text via the GEBible commentary corpus.
Adam Clarke 1810 · Public Domain On v1 The different persons, captains, c., who joined themselves
CHAPTER XII
The different persons, captains, c., who joined themselves
Read full note →
to David at Ziklag, 1-22.
Those who joined him at Hebron, out of the different tribes
Judah, Simeon, Levi, the house of Aaron, Benjamin, Ephraim,
Manasseh, Issachar, Zebulun, Naphtali, Dan, Asher, Reuben,
&c., to the amount of a hundred and twenty thousand, 23-37.
Their unanimity, and the provisions they brought for his
support, 38-40.
NOTES ON CHAP. XII
Verse 1. Came to David to Ziklag] Achish, king of Gath, had given Ziklag to David, as a safe retreat from the wrath of Saul.
Adam Clarke's Commentary on the Bible (1810–1826) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword/MySword module.
Joseph Benson 1811 · Public Domain On vv1, 2, 4 1Ch 12:1. Now these are they that came to…
1Ch 12:1. Now these are they that came to David, &c. — This author thought fit to do those the honour of having their names recorded, (which was omitted in the book of Samuel,) who came and joined themselves to him when he was in exile; and were afterward great assistants to him in his wars. While he kept himself close — Or was shut out from his own land and people: for the writer speaks not of that time when he was shut up, and hid himself in caves in the land of Judah, but when he was at Ziklag.
Joseph Benson's Commentary on the Old and New Testaments (1811–1818) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword module.
Albert Barnes 1834 · Public Domain On vv1–2 This chapter is composed wholly of matter that is…
This chapter is composed wholly of matter that is new to us, no corresponding accounts occurring in Samuel. It comprises four lists:
(1) One of men, chiefly Benjamites, who joined David at Ziklag 1Ch 12:1-7;
Read full note →
(2) A second of Gadites who united themselves to him when he was in a stronghold near the desert 1Ch 12:8-15;
(3) A third of Manassites who came to him when he was dismissed by the Philistines upon suspicion 1Ch 12:19-22; and
(4) A fourth of the numbers from the different tribes who attended and made him king at Hebron 1 Chr. 12:23-40.
Albert Barnes' Notes on the Bible (1834–1885) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword/MySword module.
Haydock's Catholic Bible Commentary 1859 · Public Domain On vv1, 2, 4, 6 Siceleg, which had been given to David for a…
Siceleg, which had been given to David for a retreat. Hither many brave men came to join him. --- Fled. Hebrew, "was shut up through fear." (Calmet) --- Septuagint, "was under anxiety." (Haydock)
George Leo Haydock (1774–1849), Haydock's Catholic Family Bible and Commentary, 1859 edition — public domain. Excludes Psalms (Douay-Rheims chapter numbering differs from Protestant) and Deuterocanonical books (Catholic canon only).
Lange's Commentary on the Holy Scriptures 1864 · Public Domain On v1 γ. Supplementary List of Brave Men who held to…
γ. Supplementary List of Brave Men who held to David during the Reign of Saul:
1Ch_12:1-22
Read full note →
1Ch_12:1.And these are they that came to David to Ziklag, while banished from Saul the son of Kish; and they were among the heroes, helpers of the war. 2Armed with bows, using both right hand and left with stones and with 3arrows on the bow:—Of the brethren of Saul of Benjamin. The chief Ahiezer and Joash, sons of Hashmaah the Gibeathite; and Jezuel1 and Pelet the 4sons of Azmaveth; and Berachah, and Jehu the Antothite. And Ishmaiah the Gibeonite, a hero among the thirty, and over the thirty;2 and Jeremiah, and Jahaziel, and Johanan, and Jozabad the Gederathite. 5Eluzai, and Jerimoth, 6and Bealiah, and Shemariah, and Shephatiah the Haruphite.3 Elkanah, 7and Ishiah, and Azarel, and Joezer, and Jashobam, the Korhites. And Joelah and Zebadiah the sons of Jeroham of Gedor.4
8And of the Gadites, separated themselves unto David at the hold in the wilderness, valiant heroes, men of the host for battle, handling shield and spear,5 with faces like lions, and like roes on the mountains for swiftness. 9, 10Ezer the chief, Obadiah the second, Eliab the third. Mishmannah the 11, 12fourth, Jeremiah the fifth. Attai the sixth, Eliel the seventh. Johanan the eighth, Elzabad the ninth. 13Jeremiah the tenth, Machbannai the eleventh. 14These were of the sons of Gad, heads of the host: one for a hundred, the least, and the greatest for a thousand. 15These are they that went over Jordan in the first month, when it had overflown all its banks;6 and they put to flight all the valleys to the east and to the west.
16And there came of the sons of Benjamin and Judah to the hold unto David. 17And David went out before them, and answered and said unto them, If ye be come peaceably unto me to help me, my heart shall be at one with you; but if to betray me to my enemies, with no wrong in my hands, the God of 18our fathers look on and rebuke it. And the spirit came upon Amasai the chief of the thirty,7 Thine are we, David, and with thee, son of Jesse; peace, peace be to thee, and peace to thy helpers; for thy God helpeth thee; and David received them, and made them captains of the troop.
19And of Manasseh some fell to David, when he came with the Philistines against Saul to battle; but they helped him not: for on advisement, the lords of the Philistines sent him away, saying, At the peril of our heads he 20will fall to his master Saul. When he went to Ziklag, there fell to him of Manasseh, Adnah, and Jozabad, and Jediael, and Michael, and Jozabad, and Elihu, and Zillethai, captains of the thousands of Manasseh. 21And they helped David against the troop; for they were all valiant heroes, and they 22became captains in the host. For day by day they came to David to help him, until the camp was great, like a camp of God.
δ. Supplementary Data concerning the Number of the Warriors who made David King in Hebron: 1Ch_12:23-40
23And these are the numbers of the heads of those armed for the host who came to David to Hebron, to turn the kingdom of Saul to him, according to 24the word of the Lord. The sons of Judah, bearing shield and spear, were 25six thousand and eight hundred, armed for the host. Of the sons of Simeon, 26valiant heroes for the host, seven thousand and one hundred. Of the sons of Levi, four thousand and six hundred. 27And Jehoiada was the leader of the Aaronites, and with him three thousand and seven hundred. 28And Zadok, a valiant young man, and his father’s house twenty and two captains. 29And of the sons of Benjamin, brethren of Saul, three thousand; for hitherto the most part of them kept the ward of the house of Saul. 30And of the sons of Ephraim, twenty thousand and eight hundred valiant heroes, famous men of their father-houses. 31And of the half-tribe of Manasseh, eighteen thousand, who were expressed by name, to come to make David king. 32And of the sons of Issachar, men having understanding of the times, to know what Israel had to do, their heads were two hundred, and all their brethren were at their 33command. Of Zebulun, those going to the host, ordering the battle with all weapons of war, fifty thousand, arraying themselves8 with a single heart. 34And of Naphtali, a thousand captains, and with them, with shield and spear, thirty and seven thousand. 35And of the Danites, ordering the battle, twenty and eight thousand and six hundred. 36And of Asher, those going to the host 37to order the battle, forty thousand. And beyond the Jordan, of the Reubenites, and the Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh, with all weapons of war for the battle, a hundred and twenty thousand.
38All these men of war, keeping rank,9 came with true heart to Hebron to make David king over all Israel; and all the rest10 of Israel also were of one 39heart to make David king. And they were there with David three days eating 40and drinking; for their brethren had prepared for them. Moreover, they that were nigh them, even to Issachar, and Zebulun, and Naphtali, brought bread on asses, and on camels, and on mules, and on oxen, bread of meal, fig and raisin cakes, and wine, and oil, and oxen, and sheep abundantly; for there was joy in Israel.
EXEGETICAL
Preliminary Remark.—The whole of the twelfth chapter is peculiar to the Chronist. Standing after that which is related in 1Ch_11:4 ff., it has the nature of an appendix, in the form of several military lists referring to the force of David before and at his accession to the sole sovereignty. The first of these lists consists properly of three smaller ones—a. That of the Benjamites and Jews that came to David during his residence at Ziklag: 1Ch_12:1-7; b. That of the Gadites and some other men from Judah and Benjamin who passed over to him during his residence in the hold: 1Ch_12:8-18; c. That of the Manassites who joined themselves to David shortly before the battle with the Philistines, and the death of Saul at Gilboa: 1Ch_12:19-22. To these lists referring to the Sauline period is then subjoined that of the contingents from all the tribes present at the anointing in Hebron: 1Ch_12:23-40.
1. The Benjamites and Jews who came to Ziklag: 1Ch_12:1-7.—And these are they that came to David to Ziklag. Ziklag, belonging to the tribe of Simeon (1Ch_6:30; Jos_19:5), assigned by Achish to David as a residence, was in a site not certainly determined. The sojourn of David there until his anointing at Hebron lasted (1Sa_27:7) a year and four months.—While banished from Saul (עוֹד עָצוּר) that is, while his return to Israel as king was still hindered by Saul: inter Israelitas publice versari prohibitus (J. H. Michaelis).—And they were among the heroes, helpers of the wars. They belonged to the heroes who served and stood by him in his earlier wars; comp. 1Ch_12:17-18; 1Ch_12:21-22.
1Ch_12:2. Armed with bows, or “aiming with the bow;” not really different from bending the bow (דֹּרְכֵי קֶשֶׁט), 1Ch_8:40; comp. 2Ch_17:17 and Psa_78:9.—Using both right and left with stones (in slinging, Jdg_20:16) and with arrows on the bow, namely, to shoot and surely hit with them.—Of the brethren of Saul of Benjamin. The second restriction serves to explain the first: אֲחֵי־שָׁאוּל do not mean near or blood relations. Comp. Gibeath-Saul, 1Sa_11:4, Isa_10:29, and as denoting the same place, Gibeath-Benjamin, 1Sa_10:16; 1Sa_15:34, or Gibeah of the sons of Benjamin, 1Ch_11:31.
1Ch_12:3. Sons of Hashmaah the Gibeathite, from the Gibeah of Benjamin just mentioned.
1Ch_12:4. And Ishmaiah the Gibeonite. That this Gibeonite (this Benjamite of Gibeon; comp. 1Ch_8:29, 1Ch_9:35, with 2Sa_21:2 ff.) Ishmaiah is described first as a hero among the thirty, and then as a leader over the thirty, may be explained by assuming a temporary command over this company. The absence of his name in 1 Chronicles 11, must be explained by this, that he was no longer alive at the time when this list was composed, and was therefore among the earliest members of the corps of the thirty.—And Jozabad the Gederathite; perhaps from Gederah (now Ghedera, one hour south-west of Jabneh), a Jewish locality in the Shephelah, Jos_15:36. That Jozabad, though coming from Gederah, belonged to some family of Benjamites dwelling there, is an unnecessary assumption of Keil. The following verses, especially the Geder, 1Ch_12:7, rather show that those here enumerated were by no means exclusively Benjamite.
1Ch_12:6. Elkanah . . . the Korhites. To think of another Korah as the ancestor of the Korhites than the known descendant of Levi is unnecessary; these may be Korhitic Levites settled in Benjamin who are here in question; and the names Elkanah and Azarel having a genuine Levitical ring, make it very probable that they are such; comp. Keil on the p. and Del. Psalter, p. 300. Yet it is possible that they may be descendants of the Jewish Korah mentioned ii. 43 (so Berth., Kamph., etc.).
1Ch_12:7. And Joelah . . . of Gedor, without doubt the Jewish city mentioned 1Ch_4:4, south-west of Bethlehem; so that here also non-Benjamites are included in the series, notwithstanding the announcement, 1Ch_12:2, which leads us to expect only Benjamites. Whether this contradiction between the announcement and the contents of the list arises from the whole series of names being greatly abridged and composed out of two originally distinct lists, one of pure Benjamites, and another containing Jews, as Berth, thinks, appears doubtful; comp. Keil, p. 134.
2. The Gadites and some other Jews and Benjamites who joined themselves to David while in the Hold: 1Ch_12:8-18.—a. The Gadites: 1Ch_12:8-15.—And of the Gadites (that is, of those belonging to the tribe of Gad, while the others adhered to Saul) separated themselves unto David at the hold in the wilderness. This was during the first year of his flight before Saul, 1Sa_22:1 ff.—לַמְצַד מִדְבָּרָה (so pointed for לָמְצָד מ׳, on account of the close connection of the two following words) denotes properly: “to the hold towards the wilderness.” A definite single hold (= מְצָד מְצוּדָה; comp. 1Ch_11:16) is here as little intended as in 1Ch_12:16, but rather the greater number of those holds of the wilderness of Judah (comp. בַּמִּדְבָּר בַּמְּצָדוֹת, 1Sa_23:14; 1Sa_24:1) in which David dwelt at that time; thus מצד is here general, as מְצוּדָה, 1 Sam. 24:23.—Men of the host for battle, practised in war; comp. 1Ch_7:11. On the following “handling (עֹרְכֵי) shield and spear,” comp. 1Ch_12:24 (“bearing shield and spear”) and Jer_46:3; for the comparison of the warriors with lions and roes, 2Sa_1:23; 2Sa_2:18. “The expressions in the description of their power and fleetness, 1Ch_12:8, remind us of such as are used in the historical books of heroes in the time of David, and are without doubt drawn from the source which our author here used” (Berth.).
1Ch_12:13. Machbannai the eleventh, literally, the eleven; comp. 1Ch_24:12.
1Ch_12:14. Heads of the host (so 1Ch_12:21 b), that is, chief warriors, not leaders.—One for a hundred the least, and the greatest for a thousand. The smallest of them was equal to one hundred other warriors, and the strongest to a thousand,—an expression of manifestly poetical colouring, reminding us of Lev_26:8 and of 1Sa_18:7; 1Sa_21:11, which our author certainly found in his source. The Sept, and the most of the older Rabbis rightly understood the passage, but the Vulg. wrongly: novissimus centum militibus prœerat et maximus mille, for which עַל instead of לְ, and another order of words, should be expected.
1Ch_12:15. These are they that went over Jordan, at the time when they separated themselves from the other Gadites of the host of Saul, and were forced to break through this to reach David. Their flight fell “in the first month,” that is, in the spring, when the Jordan was greatly swollen, and had overflown its bank. So much greater was the heroic deed.—And put to flight all the valleys to the east and to the west, on both sides of the river, just as if its overflowing waters were not present. עמקים, properly “valleys,” here inhabitants of the valleys, Hitzig (Gesch. Isr. p. 29) conceives to be the name of a people, that occurs also Jer_49:4 (comp. Jer_47:5), and is identical with the Anakim, Jos_15:14, and with the Amorites—with the latter really, with the former even in name (?). See, on the contrary, Keil on Jer. p. 480.—b. The men of Benjamin and Judah: 1Ch_12:16-18.—And there came of the sons of Benjamin and Judah. The names of these other followers of David when persecuted by Saul the Chronist does not give, either because his source did not contain them, or because they may have been included for the most part in the lists already communicated in 1 Chronicles 11. Amasai only, the leader of this troop, is named.
1Ch_12:17. And David went out before them, or to meet them; comp. 1Ch_14:8.—My heart shall be at one with you. לֵב לְיָחַד, a phrase occurring only here, not essentially different from לֵב אֶחָד, 1Ch_12:38 (comp. 1Ch_12:33).—But if to betray me to my enemies. רִמָּה, with accus, of the object, means, “to practise fraud on any one.” For the following, compare, on the one hand, Job_16:17, Isa_53:9; on the other hand, 2Ch_24:22. For the phrase: “the God of our fathers,” namely, of the patriarchs Abraham, etc., comp. Exo_3:13; Ezr_7:27; 2Ch_20:6; Mat_22:32.
1Ch_12:18. And (the) Spirit came upon Amasai the chief of thirty. Here, as in the parallel Jdg_6:34, the Spirit of God is meant (comp. 2Ch_24:20), as the principle of higher inspiration to great and bold deeds. The Amasai of our passage is perhaps not different from Amasa (with א instead of י at the end) the son of Abigail, sister of David, 1Ch_2:17, who, at a later period, in the time of Absalom, performed a not unimportant part as commander (first under Absalom, and then under David), till Joab murdered him (2Sa_17:25; 2Sa_19:14; 2Sa_20:4 ff.). Much less probable is the identity assumed by others of this Amasai with Abshai the brother of Joab (1Ch_2:16, 1Ch_11:20).—Thine are we, David, to thee we belong, and with thee, we hold, Notwithstanding this simple and obvious completion, the Sept, has wholly misunderstood the words לך דויד ועמך, and made of them πορεύου καὶ ὁ λαός σου.—For thy God helpeth thee. This עֲזָֽרְךָ refers to the past aid which David had received from God (1Sa_18:12 ff.), but also to the further aid in prospect, which was to be imparted to him in future.—And made them captains of the troop, appointed them leaders of the several divisions of his army,—that army (נְּדוּד) of all kinds of people that had gathered about him; comp. 1Sa_22:2; 1Sa_27:8, etc.
3. The Seven Manassites who joined themselves to David before the Last Battle of Saul with the Philistines: 1Ch_12:19-22.—And of Manasseh some fell to David. נָפַל עַל, as in 2Ki_25:11;1Sa_29:3; comp. נָפַל אֶל at the close of the verse. For the historical situation, comp. 1Sa_29:2-11.—For on advisement, בעצה, on consultation, as Pro_20:18.—At the peril of our heads, literally, “for our heads, for the price of them;” comp. 1Sa_29:4.
1Ch_12:20. When he went to Ziklag, and thus before the great battle of Gilboa in which Saul fell; comp. 1Sa_29:11.—Captains of the thousands of Manasseh, of the great military divisions (regiments) into which the tribe of Manasseh was divided; comp. Num_31:14; Num_31:26; Num_27:1, and 1Ch_15:25.
1Ch_12:21. And they helped David against the troop, namely, his present foes, the Amalekites; comp. 1Sa_30:8; 1Sa_30:15, where the גְּדוּד here used (for which the Sept. perversely read a n. pr. Γεδδούρ) appears more definitely as the army of the Amalekites. Moreover, the seven here named Manassites only are the immediate and direct subject of the sentence, not all the heroes named from 1Ch_12:1 to 1Ch_12:20 (as Berth, thinks), though certainly the whole force of David (600 strong, 1Sa_30:9) was drawn out to fight with Amalek. But that by וְהֵמָּה only the seven Manassites can here be meant is shown by the following words: “and they became captains in the host,” which cannot apply to the whole troop.
1Ch_12:22. Until the camp was great, like a camp of God; comp. Gen_32:2 and phrases like mountains, cedars of God, Psa_36:7; Psa_80:11. The phrase is “only rhetorical, not idealizing or exaggerating” (Keil); it extends also clearly beyond the time when David had only 600 followers to the time when thousands, and then hundreds of thousands, followed him. The following description seizes the moment when out of the thousands of the first seven years of his reign at Hebron came the hundred thousands and more.
4. The Number of the Warriors who made David King over all Israel: 1Ch_12:23-40.—And these are the members of the heads of those armed for the host, or for military service (comp. Num_31:5; Jos_4:13). The “heads of those armed” are here not the captains or leaders (Vulg. principes exercitus, Berth., etc.), but the sums or masses of the warriors, as Jdg_7:16; Jdg_7:20; Jdg_9:34; Jdg_9:37; Jdg_9:44, 1Sa_11:11, or perhaps also the polls (Jdg_5:30); so that מִסְפַּר רָאשֵׁי would be the number of polls. For it cannot he proved (against Berth.) that only גֻּלְגֹלֶת, and not also ראש, can have this sense; and the following is not a list of leaders, but a poll list, that also originally bore this form, though the abbreviating changes of our author make it difficult to prove.—To turn the kingdom of Saul to him; comp. 1Ch_10:14, and for the following, 1Ch_11:3; 1Ch_11:10.
1Ch_12:24. The sons of Judah, bearing shield and spear; comp. on 1Ch_12:8. The enumeration begins with the two southern tribes, Judah and Simeon; next gives the priestly tribe of Levi, whose chief force lay at that time in and about Judah; and then, proceeding from south to north, names first the other western tribes, and then the three eastern ones.
1Ch_12:26. And Jehoiada was the leader of the Aaronites, literally, “the leader of Aaron,” that is, not the high priest (who was at that time Abiathar, 1Sa_23:9), but the head of the family of Aaron. Perhaps this was Jehoiada the father of Benaiah, 1Ch_6:22.
1Ch_12:28. And Zadok, a valiant young man, perhaps that descendant of Eleazar (5:34) whom Solomon, 1Ki_2:26, made high priest. That the house of this Zadok, at the time of David’s elevation, counted twenty-two chiefs or heads of families, proves how flourishing this branch of the Aaronites was at that time.
1Ch_12:29. And of the sons of Benjamin, brethren of Saul, three thousand. This number is indeed surprisingly small, but certainly original. The writer accounts for it also, first briefly, by the characteristic addition אֲחֵי שָׁאוּל, then more fully by the remark, “for hitherto (וְעַד הֵנָּה, as 1Ch_9:18) the most part of them kept the ward of Saul’s house;” that is, the most of them were still devoted to the interest of the kindred house of Saul (שָׁמַר מִשְׁמֶרֶת, as Num_3:38; comp. 1Ch_23:32; 2Ch_23:6), so that they turned to David only slowly, and when Ishbosheth was dead.
1Ch_12:30. Famous men of their father-houses, arranged according to their father-houses. The Ephraimites, on the whole, though their number was above 20,000, are called celebrated, famous men (comp. Gen_6:4), perhaps because they were distinguished by their warlike bravery, and had not merely a few able heroes or leaders.
1Ch_12:31. And of the half-tribe of Manasseh, the western half. The “being expressed by name” (נִקְּבוּ בְּשֵׁמוֹת, as Num_1:17; 1Ch_16:41) points to the formation of a list by the tribe authorities, in which all those warriors of the tribe were entered who were chosen to take part in the elevation of the new king at Hebron. All the other tribes may have formed similar lists for this purpose.
1Ch_12:32. And of the sons of Issachar, men having understanding of the times, to know what Israel had to do. This applies, not to the whole tribe, but only to the 200 heads of their forces; and it denotes, not every kind of activity in astronomical or physical science (Chald., several Rabbis, Cleric), but only that those leaders “saw what was most advisable to be done in the condition of the times” (Starke), that they were prudentes viri, qui quid, quando et quomodo agendum esset, varia lectione (?) et usu rerum cognoscebant (L. Lavater). “Men understanding,” literally, knowing judgment, יוֹדְעֵי בִינָה; comp. 2Ch_2:12 and the similar יוֹדְעֵי דַעַת, Dan_1:4. “ To know what Israel had to do,” in the present case, means to whom it had to apply as its king and supreme ruler. These men of Issachar were not dull and narrow “bony asses” (Gen_49:14), but prudent “judges of the signs of their time” (Mat_16:3).—And all their brethren were at their command. עַל פִּיהֶם, literally, “by their month,” namely, guided; comp. Gen_41:40; Num_4:27; Deu_21:5.
1Ch_12:33. Ordering the battle with all weapons of war, practised in the conflict with all kinds of weapons; comp. 1Ch_12:6.—Arraying themselves with a single heart, literally, “and to band together with not heart and heart.” For וְלַֽעֲדֹר, with some critical evidence (see Crit. Note), to read וְלַֽעֲוֹר is unnecessary and untenable, from the recurrence of עדר in 1Ch_12:38. From this parallel passage, this verb must mean, “to take rank for war, to stand in order of battle.” For לֵב וָלֵב, to denote double-mindedness or a divided heart, comp. Psa_12:3 and 1Ch_12:38; לִבָב שָׁלֵם and לֵב אֶהֽד.
1Ch_12:38. All these men of war, keeping rank; Sept. παρατασσόμενοι παράταξιν. The change of עֹדְרֵי into עֹרְכֵי (see Crit. Note) is unnecessary, and as little demanded by ערךְ in 1Ch_12:33; 1Ch_12:35-36 as by מַֽעֲרָכָה; comp. on 1Ch_12:33. “All these” points naturally to the whole troops enumerated from 1Ch_12:24 on.—And all the rest of Israel, etc. On לב אחד, “one, united heart,” comp 2Ch_30:12.
1Ch_12:39. And they were there with David three days, eating and drinking. Comp, the festivals described 1Sa_30:16, 1Ki_1:25; 1Ki_1:40, etc., and also from the most recent oriental history; for example, the enormous feast (100,000 sheep and wethers, 20,000 oxen, 40,000 gallons honey-wine, etc.) that was given in connection with the elevation of Kassai to be emperor (negus) of Abyssinia (Feb. 1872).—For their brethren had prepared for them (victuals), namely, the Jews about Hebron. Comp. on this הֵכִין, Gen_43:16; 2Ch_35:14, etc.
1Ch_12:40. Moreover, they that were nigh them (comp. Deu_13:8), all the neighbouring tribes of Judah on this side the Jordan; and not merely those immediately adjacent, but also the tribes in the middle, and some of those in the north of Palestine.—Brought bread (victuals) on asses, and camels, and mules, etc. Observe the purely epical character of the representation, that points to a very ancient historical source used by the Chronist.—Fig and raisin cakes. For the masses of dried figs (דְּבֵלִים) and raisins (צִמֻּקִים), as indispensable dainty additions to feasts, comp. 1Sa_25:18; 1Sa_30:12; Jer_40:10; Jer_40:12; Amo_8:1 f.; also Celsius, Hierobot. i. 377 ff.; Winer, Realw., Art. “Feigenbaum.’
Apologetic on 1Ch_12:23 ff.
With respect to the credibility of the numbers of our section, it is to be remarked in general, that the sum total of about 340,000 men,11 resulting from the data relative to the military contingents of the several tribes, agrees, on the whole, with other known data concerning the sum of the people of Israel equipped for war (for example, the 600,000 men in the time of Moses, the 800,000 Israelites and 500,000 Jews in the census of David), as, indeed, a full call of all those fit to bear arms could not be expected on the present occasion. On the contrary‚ the relation of the numbers in the several tribes presents much that is surprising. The strength of the three eastern tribes (120,000), exceeding a third of the sum total, and the likewise considerable strength of Zebulun (50,000), Naphtali (37,000), and Asher (40,000), seem to contrast in a manner scarcely conceivable with the small contingents of Judah, Simeon, Levi, and Benjamin. But—1. With regard to Benjamin, the ground of his only small share in the festivities at Hebron is expressly stated, and in a way entirely satisfactory, and admitting of no further objection. 2. The number of the Levites is, in 1Ch_12:27-28, not fully given, inasmuch as of the third division of them, the house of Zadok, only the number of the chiefs (22) and not that of the common order is stated (as in Issachar only the number of the chiefs or heads is expressed, 1Ch_12:32). 3. Of Judah and Simeon are certainly only comparatively very small numbers given, for this reason, that the warriors of this tribe had long since, seven years before, ranged themselves on the side of David, and therefore, in the review on the occasion of the solemnities of his anointing, did not need to be represented in their full military strength (which would have reached in itself to between 100,000 and 200,000 men). These warriors of Judah and Simeon had rather to act as commissaries, to make provision for the greater bodies of troops; and most of them were to be sought, not among the רָאשֵׁי הֶחָלוּץ לַצָּבָה (1Ch_12:24-25 ff.), but among the אֲחֵיהֶם הַמֵּכִינִים 4. Yet highly surprising is the numerical relation of the middle and northern tribes west of the Jordan, namely, the smallness of Ephraim (20,800) beside Zebulun and Naphtali. “But if we consider that Ephraim, which had 40,500 men at the first census under Moses at Mount Sinai, had diminished to 32,500 at the second on the steppes of Moab, this tribe may not at this time have been very strong in men-at-arms, as it may have suffered and been weakened most of all the tribes in the last wars of Saul with the Philistines, and in the battles of Abner for the recovery of the region occupied by the Philistines for Ishbosheth. Moreover, perhaps Ephraim, in his jealousy of Judah, dating from the time of the Judges, might not be altogether inclined to make David king over all Israel. That, however, Zebulun and Naphtali are here so numerously represented, though they played no important part in the history of Israel, is not enough to cast suspicion on the numbers given. As Zebulun under Moses numbered 57,400, and afterwards 60,500, and Naphtali then 53,400, afterwards 45,400 men-at-arms (comp. Numbers 1-3. with Numbers 26), the former might send 50,000, the latter 37,000, men to David at, Hebron” (Keil). The subsequent smallness and insignificance of these tribes (comp Evangelical-Ethical Reflections on 1 Chronicles 1-9, No. 2, p. 92) is simply explained by their only imperfect restoration after the destruction of the kingdom of Israel by Shalmaneser.—The credibility of the data of our list cannot in general be doubted according to all this, that is, irrespective of particular corruptions of the text that are always to be admitted as possible. It would much more present matter for well-founded doubts if the numerical strength of the several tribes attested in it were exactly proportional to the data of Numbers regarding the early relations of the military divisions. The appearance of something surprising in the present numerical data speaks directly for their true historical origin, and imposes the greatest caution on the modern critic of the contents of our chapter, that exhibit so many traces of fresh originality and high antiquity. This also may perhaps be urged as a proof of the essentially unchanged transmission of the present documents from the author, that the tribe of Dan, which is elsewhere often omitted, as it seems intentionally, by the Chronist, is here expressly mentioned, and in no disparaging way; comp. 1Ch_12:35 with Introd. § 6, No. 1, p. 24, and with the remarks on 1Ch_6:46 and 1Ch_7:12.
Footnotes:
[1] Keri: Jeziel (יְזִיאֵל).
[2]With וְעַל הַשְּׁלשִׁים the fourth verse closes in the mss. and older editions, even that of R. Norzi, so that the whole chapter contains forty-one verses.
[3] Keri: “the Hariphite” (הַֽחֲרִיפִי); comp. בְּנֵי חָרִיף, Neh_7:24.
[4]For הַגְּדוּד is certainly to be read הַגְּדוֹר; comp. 1Ch_4:4.
[5]For וָרֹמַח the Bibl. Venet. Rabb. has וּמָגֵן: so some old prints, but not the mss.
[6]The Kethib גִּדְיֹתָיו, if correct, would be the plur. of גִּדְיָה, and occur only here. With the Keri גְּדֹתָיו comp. Jos_3:15; Jos_4:18; Isa_8:8.
[7] Kethib: הַשְּׁלוֹשִׁים; Keri, as usual: הַשָּׂלִישִׁים. The Sept. and Vulg. agree with the Kethib.
[8]For וְלַֽעֲדֹר nine mss., the Sept. (βοηθῆσαι), and the Vulg. read וְלַֽעֲזֹר.
[9]These mss. change עֹדְרֵי into עֹרְכֵי unnecessarily. See Exeg. Expl.
[10] שֵׁרִית, defective for שְׁאֵרִית, occurring only here; hence some mss. have the scr. plena.
[11]
Namely, from Judah,6,800 men.” Simeon7,100 men.” Levi,4,600 men.Also with Jehoiada,3,700 men (with 22 chiefs of the house of Zadok)From Benjamin,3,000 men.” Ephraim,20,800 men.” Half-Manasseh,18,000 men.” Issachar,? men (200 chiefs “and all their brethren”).” From Zebulun,50,000 men.” Naphrali,37,000 men. (with 1000 chiefs).” Dan,28,000 men.” Asher,40,000 men.From the three eastern Tribes,120,000 men. Sum,339,00 men (with 1222 cheifs and heads).
Lange's Commentary on the Holy Scriptures (Critical, Doctrinal, and Homiletical), ed. John Peter Lange, English translation edited by Philip Schaff (1864–1880) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword module.
Robert Jamieson, A. R. Fausset & David Brown 1871 · Public Domain On vv2, 4 of Saul's brethren of Benjamin--that is, of the tribe…
of Saul's brethren of Benjamin--that is, of the tribe of Benjamin (compare Ch1 12:29), but some of them might be relatives of the king. This movement to which the parties were led, doubtless by the secret impulse of the Spirit, was of vast importance to the cause of David, as it must have been founded on their observation of the evident withdrawal of God's blessing from Saul, and His favoring presence with David, to whom it was universally known the Divine King of Israel had given the crown in reversion. The accession of the Benjamites who came first and their resolution to share his fortunes must have been particularly grateful to David. It was a public and emphatic testimony by those who had enjoyed the best means of information to the unblemished excellence of his character, as well as a decided protest against the grievous wrong inflicted by causelessly outlawing a man who had rendered such eminent services to his country.
Jamieson, Fausset & Brown — Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible (1871) — public domain (CC PDM 1.0). Text via the HelloAO Bible API.
Daniel D. Whedon 1874 · Public Domain On vv1–2 1. Ziklag — See on 1Sa_27:5-12.
1. Ziklag — See on 1Sa_27:5-12.
While he yet kept himself close because of Saul — Rather, while he was yet shut up from the presence of Saul; that is, during the time of his exile, when, on account of Saul’s designs against his life, (1Sa_27:1,) he dared not appear in the presence of that monarch, nor publicly move through the coasts of Israel.
Read full note →
Helpers of the war — Assistants of David in such wars as are referred to in 1Ch_12:15; 1Ch_12:21; 1Sa_23:5; 1Sa_27:8; 1Sa_30:8-18.
Daniel D. Whedon (gen. ed.), Commentary on the Old and New Testaments (1874–1909) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword module.
The Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges 1878 · Public Domain On vv1, 2, 3, 4, 6 1–7. Benjamite Adherents of David
1–7. Benjamite Adherents of David
1. to Ziklag] David at Ziklag was a client of Achish, king of Gath (1Sa_27:5-6), so that the Benjamites in joining him were putting themselves under their hereditary enemies the Philistines. The yoke of Saul seemed heavy even to his own tribe (cp. 1Sa_8:11-18).
Read full note →
while he yet kept himself close] Render, while he was yet shut up. David was shut in, as in a prison, and unable to move freely through the land of Israel.
helpers of the war] R.V. his helpers in war.
The Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges (gen. ed. J. J. S. Perowne; Cambridge University Press, 1878–1918) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword module.
Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers 1878 · Public Domain On vv1–7 (1) To Ziklag.—A place within the territory of Judah…
(1) To Ziklag.—A place within the territory of Judah allotted to Simeon (Jos_19:5; 1Ch_4:30). The Philistines seized it, and Achish of Gath gave it to David, whose headquarters it remained sixteen months, until the death of Saul.
While he yet kept himself close.—The Hebrew is concise and obscure, but the Authorised Version fairly renders it. David was still shut up in his stronghold, or restrained within bounds, because of, i.e., from dread of King Saul. Or perhaps the meaning is “banished from the presence of Saul.”
Read full note →
Helpers of the war.—The helpers in war, allies, or companions in arms of David. They made forays against Geshur, Gezer, and Amalek (1Sa_27:8; comp. also 1Ch_12:17; 1Ch_12:21 below).
(1-7) Men of Benjamin and Judah who joined David at Ziklag. (Comp. 1 Samuel 27)
A Bible Commentary for English Readers, edited by Charles John Ellicott (1878–1897) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword module.
The Pulpit Commentary 1880 · Public Domain On vv1–7 This chapter is retrospective, and the contents of it…
This chapter is retrospective, and the contents of it are not found elsewhere. It is occupied, first (vers. 1-22), with the names and some accounts of those who had come to the help of David in three great crises in time past, to join themselves to him and his cause. And afterwards (vers. 23-40), with an enumeration of those representatives from the tribes who (1Ch_11:1, 1Ch_11:3) to support the proceedings of the occasion when he was being made king of the whole people. Thus the chapter would divide really into four parts, to which the following sections will be found sufficiently to answer: viz. vers. 1-7; 8-18; 19-22; 23-40.
To Ziklag. The occasion referred to is evidently that recorded 1Sa_27:1, 1Sa_27:2, 1Sa_27:6, 7 30:1, 26; and generally in those and the intermediate chapters. David stayed at Ziklag a year and four months, a period which closed for him with the death of Saul. Ziklag, in Joshus"s original allotment, was the possession of Simeon. (Jos_19:5) It was situated south of Judah, and came into the hands of Judah when Achish made it a gift to David for a rest-deuce. (1Sa_27:5-7) The site of it has not been identified in later times. It witnessed one of the narrowest and most remarkable of the escapes of David, on an occasion which brought danger, not so much from acknowledged foes, as from the maddened grief and despair of his own friends and people. (1Sa_30:3-6) The whole scene of the broken-hearted grief of David and his people, when, on discovering the successful raid of the Amalekites upon Ziklag, "they lifted up their voice and wept, until they had no more power to weep," is one of the most dramatic on record. The rapid reverse to good fortune, when David turns away their heedless anger against himself and proposal to stone him, by pursuing and overcoming the enemy, and recovering their captives and their goods near the brook Besor, completes the effectiveness of the scene. The middle voice form of expression in this verse, kept himself close, means to say that David was, by fear of Saul and by force of his enemies, more or less hemmed up in Ziklag.
Read full note →
HOMILIES BY W. CLARKSON Vers. 1-15, 19-22.
The service of the supreme King.
In the attitude of David and in the services rendered to him at this juncture in his history we have hints as to our true bearing toward the King of kings at all times.
I THAT WE MAY SOMETIMES SERVE GOD BEST BY PATIENT WAITING. For some years after David knew that he was to be King of Israel, he had to "bide his time." His duty was to "keep himself close" (ver. 1). Any positive effort to acquire the royal seat would have been premature; it would have been disloyal, and would only have defeated his own end. There are times when we have to wait for opportunity to offer
(e.g. the missionaries of Madagascar until the death of the cruel Ranavalona). Patience as well as zeal is a factor in the service of the Supreme. "All things come to him who knows how to wait." Our eagerness must not run into impatience; activity should be early, but not premature.
II THAT IN THE ACTIVE SERVICE OF GOD WE SHOULD EMPLOY ALL OUR AVAILABLE RESOURCES. The men of Benjamin "could use both the fight hand and the left," etc. (ver. 2). "Of the Gadites there separated themselves men of might, and men of war, fit for the battle, that could handle shield and buckler," etc. (ver. 8). These soldiers of the army of David were men that were thoroughly and perfectly equipped for their work. No mere "food for powder" were they; they were trained and skilled, competent to do all that was possible in the military achievements of the age. As soldiers in the nobler spiritual campaign for which we have enlisted, we are to be masters of the art of war; we are to be able to do all that is possible to skilled and faithful men. To be this we must:
1. Serve with all our spiritual faculties; cultivate strength and speed, be asthe lion for one and as the roe for the other; we must summon all our mental and moral capabilities to the work memory, reflection, reason, imagination, emotion, etc.; we must employ argument, wit, illustration, remonstrance, entreaty, etc.
2. Turn our physical as well as our spiritual faculties to account.
3. Know how to defend as well as to attack, how to use shield as well assword (ver. 8).
4. Lay hold on favourable occasion (vers. 15, 19-21). And in thus puttingout all our talents (Mat_25:14-30) we must remember that
(1) only patient continuance in holy effort will make us skilful and serviceable; the Benjamites must have had to go through much discipline before they could shoot as well with one hand as with the other. We must not be daunted or discouraged by the crudeness or even the clumsiness of our first attempts.
(2) Faithful service will make its mark on ourselves as well as others (ver. 8); we shall acquire the lion-face, the countenance which will say, without words, "Let no man trouble me; for I bear in my body the marks of the Lord Jesus." Thus will the strength of our soul pass into our eye, and body and spirit will be allies in the cause of the King,
III THAT WE MUST BE READY TO TAKE THE PLACE FOR WHICH GOD HAS FITTED US. "Of the sons of Gad, one of the least was over a hundred, and the greatest over a thousand "(ver. 14). It is in our human nature to covet the highest place; but we are to learn of Christ of his example and of his Word to take with cheerfulness the humbler seat. And we may do this, not only because it is essentially Christian, but also because
(1) it is right and reasonable that they who have the greater qualifications should occupy the more responsible posts; and because
(2) it will contribute to our own peace and joy of heart to have as much as, but no more than, we are able to execute placed in our hands.
IV THAT THE CAUSE OF GOD IS ONE THAT GATHERS STRENGTH BY CONTINUAL ACCESSION. (Ver. 22.) There may come times in the history of the great spiritual struggle in which the Church is occupied when large accessions are made to the ranks of God. But this triumph has been preceded by long, incessant toil; moreover, it is not the rule, but the exception. "The kingdom of God cometh not with observation;" it is "day by day" that souls come in, until the army of the great King is made and the "host of God" is complete. C.
HOMILIES BY F. WHITFIELD Vers. 1-22.
David"s mighty men: the Gadites, Benjamites, and Judah.
This chapter contains three lists of those who joined the standard while he yet kept himself close because of the jealousy of Saul. While he was in the Philistine town of Ziklag these joined him in rapid succession, and they afterwards contributed so much to the glory of his reign. Preferring the exile and reproach of David to the honour of the court of Saul they gave up all for love to him. Vers. 1-15 give us the first list; vers. 16-22 the second list; vers. 23-40 the third list. The children of Benjamin joining his standard must have been peculiarly grateful to David. These were of the kindred of Saul, and included probably many of his relatives. They could only have joined David"s standard under the influence of the Spirit of God, perceiving the evident withdrawal of God"s favours from Saul and his favour to David. It was a public and emphatic protest by those who had means of knowing David better than others of the excellence of his character and the grievous wrong done by outlawing one who had rendered such eminent services. We see how David was naturally suspicious of these Benjamites joining him. In order to remove David"s suspicion of their being traitors from the house of Saul, they had probably asked the children of Judah to accompany them (vers. 16-18). The Spirit of God, speaking through Arousal, removed all fears. David"s confidence in God in an extremity which might have been fatal to his life and the existence of his kingdom, is instructive. He casts himself upon God. A "good conscience" enables him to do this, "seeing there is no wrong in mine hands." With a "good conscience" towards God, men may never fear in any emergency, however trying. The Spirit of the Lord will always lead the way. Though the cloud may hang very long and look very dark, the result is as certain as the most certain thing in the world. To such a soul there will be one final issue peace" (ver. 18); yes, "perfect peace" (Isa_26:3) to all such. W.
The Pulpit Commentary (1880–1919), ed. H.D.M. Spence-Jones & Joseph S. Exell — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword module.
The Biblical Illustrator 1887 · Public Domain On v1 Now these are they that came to David to…
1Ch_12:1
Now these are they that came to David to Ziklag.
Read full note →
Good men centres of lawful activity
The good and the great draw others after them; they lighten and lift up all who are within reach of their influence. They are so many living centres of beneficent activity. Let a man of energetic and upright character be appointed to a position of trust and authority, and all who serve under him become, as it were, conscious of an increase of power. (S. Smiles.)
The Biblical Illustrator, edited by Joseph S. Exell (c. 1880s–1900s) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword module.
The Preacher's Complete Homiletical Commentary 1892 · Public Domain On v1 CRITICAL NOTES.] This chapter entirely new matter—supplementary to Samuel—contains…
CRITICAL NOTES.] This chapter entirely new matter—supplementary to Samuel—contains a list of those who joined David in time of Saul (1Ch_12:1-22), and of those who came to make him king over Israel (1Ch_12:23-40).
1Ch_12:1-7.—Benjamin and Judah came to Ziklag. A town which belonged to Simeon (Jos_19:5), but given to David for residence it fell to Judah. Close, hidden (cf. 1Sa_17:30). Brethren, i.e., Benjamites, i.e., members of the same tribe; disgusted with his treatment of David or persuaded that God was with him. 1Ch_12:3. Azmav. (1Ch_8:13; 1Ch_8:30; 1Ch_11:33). 1Ch_12:4. Geder. (Jos_15:36). 1Ch_12:5. The Haruph., sons of Hariph (Neh_7:24), probably Benjamites. 1Ch_12:6. Korahites, not of tribe of Levi, but descendants of some Korah of Judah. 1Ch_12:7. Gedor (ch. 1Ch_4:4).
Read full note →
1Ch_12:8-15.—Gadites aided David. Hold, cave of Adullam, or a fort in wilderness of Judah (1Sa_22:5); faces (cf. 2Sa_1:2-3; 2Sa_2:18); buckler, lance or spear (1Ch_12:24). 1Ch_12:15. Jordan, to help brethren (cf. Jos_3:15), first month, in spring, when river is swollen; valleys, literally all the valley on both sides Jordan. 1Ch_12:14. Over, equal to (as in margin).
1Ch_12:16-18.—Men of Judah and Benjamin. 1Ch_12:17. Meet. David reason to suspect perhaps, feared treachery and required a solemn declaration. 1Ch_12:18. Came upon, literally clothed. A. spoke not of himself, but as the Spirit of God prompted him.
1Ch_12:19-22.—Men of Manasseh. Seven are given who joined David, when dismissed by Philistines from their army (cf. 1Sa_29:1-11). 1Ch_12:21. Band, the troop of Amalek (1Sa_30:8), which sacked Ziklag during absence of David. 1Ch_12:22. Host of God, a formula for great things.
1Ch_12:23-40.—Different tribes who attended and made David king at Hebron. 1Ch_12:24-25. Judah and Simeon, two southern tribes, had already acknowledged David. 1Ch_12:26-28. Many of the Levites closely associated with these tribes. Jehoiada, father of Benaiah (1Ch_11:22); leader, commander of priestly troops. Zadok became high-priest at a later time (2Sa_8:17; 1Ki_1:8). 1Ch_12:29. Benjamites few, for greater part still in service of Saul’s house. 1Ch_12:30. Famous, men of name or renown. 1Ch_12:31. Expressed, i.e., nominated and deputed by the rest of the tribe to go to Hebron and make David king [Speak. Com.]. 1Ch_12:32. Understanding, best interpreted politically (Est_1:13) [Speak. Com.]. 1Ch_12:33. Not of double heart, falling into rank not with double heart, i.e., with firm and faithful mind. Naphtali decided, Dan in full strength, and Asher in great force. 1Ch_12:37. A large contingent from eastern tribes.
1Ch_12:38-40.—Great majority enthusiastic, agreed in heart, i.e., had a common wish (2Ch_30:12) to make David king. 1Ch_12:40. Tribes, near and distant, brought provisions on beasts of burden; every one made it a festival of joy.
HOMILETICS
THE ASSEMBLY AT ZIKLAG.—1Ch_12:1-22
These joined David in the time of Saul, were early helpers in the time of exile and danger.
I. The ingenious tribe (1Ch_12:1-7). Benjamites, Saul’s kinspeople, and for some reason not satisfied with his rule. Several leading men given. Men of great dexterity.
1. Skilful archers. “Shooting arrows out of a bow.”
2. Famous slingers. “Hurling stones.”
3. Well disciplined. Active and wonderful in “use of right hand and left.”
II. The courageous tribe (1Ch_12:8-14). Gadites.
1. Able-bodied. “Men of might and men of war fit for battle.”
2. Specially trained. “Could handle shield and buckler.”
3. Remarkably fleet. “Swift as the roes upon the mountains,” not in flying from the foe, but in pursuing, so that none escaped. “He maketh my feet like hinds’ feet, &c.” (2Sa_22:34; Hab_3:19).
4. Splendidly courageous. (a) They went over Jordan in time of floods. (b) They put to flight the people of the valley.
5. Awfully determined. “Whose faces were like the faces of lions.” Saul and Jonathan “swifter than eagles and stronger than lions” (2Sa_1:23).
III. The suspected tribes (1Ch_12:16-18). Some of Benjamin and Judah. Benjamites probably invited Judahites to go with them to prevent suspicion; their anticipations well founded, as seen by results. David thought they were secret emissaries of Cush (Psalms 7 inscription), but soon persuaded otherwise, by (a) their entire submission, “Thine are we David and on thy side;” (b) their earnest prayer for his success, “Peace be unto thee.”
IV. The volunteer tribe (1Ch_12:19-22). These “fell” not by lot, but by desertion from one to another. These persons left the service of Saul for that of David. Transfer allegiance from a bad to a good master, from a losing to a winning cause. Nothing else known of these seven captains. But one noble act may immortalise.
HOMILETIC HINTS AND SUGGESTIONS
Saul’s brethren. Some akin to Saul came over to David.
1. A testimony to unblemished character.
2. A protest against grievous wrong (done to David).
3. A determination to share the fortunes of the king. “It is God who worketh men’s hearts and fashioneth their opinions. Paul had friends in Nero’s court, and Luther in the Pope’s” [Trapp].
1Ch_12:2. Both right hand and left. The word “left-handed” (in Septuagint) in Jdg_3:15 is rendered both-handed.
1. Some are left-handed, weak and awkward in every good work.
2. Others are right-handed, active, but single-handed after all.
3. Both hands required. Head, hands, heart, and all for Christ. “Both hands earnestly” for good, not for evil.
“Take my hands; and let them move
At the impulse of Thy love.”
1Ch_12:8. Separated themselves.
1. From what connections? Service of Saul and other Gadites who remained with him.
2. For what purpose? To serve David, the anointed king.
3. At what time? When David was in distress and danger. We must come out of the world, separate from evil company, and never be ashamed of Christ and his cause. Thus shall we be renowned and registered with his people.
1Ch_12:17-18. Notice—I. The earnest appeal.
1. In its spirit. He does not imprecate nor condemn.
2. In its purpose. What are you come for, peace or war?
3. In its requirement. Loyalty to me. II. The grounds of the appeal.
1. Their intimate relation. Both parties descended from the same ancestors and dependent upon the same God. “The God of our fathers.”
2. His solemn declaration of innocence. “Seeing there is no wrong in mine hands.”
3. His reliance upon divine interposition. An appeal to God as righteous and omniscient judge to rebuke, avenge, and help. III. The response to the appeal. Amasai gave a beautiful, prompt, and earnest reply.
1. In unconditional submission to the king. “Thine, David.”
2. In sincere pledge of their services. “With thee, son of Jesse.”
3. In wishing success to his cause. “Peace to thee,” everything thy heart desires. “Peace to thy helpers,” among whom we wish to be numbered.
4. In assurance of divine help. “For thy God helpeth thee.” IV. The results of the appeal. When David saw the passionate earnestness and the loyal surrender—
1. He received them heartily. “Then David received them.”
2. He trustfully promotes them. “And made them captains of the band.” Submit to God, follow him implicitly, and you shall be promoted to honour.
1Ch_12:14-15. Sons of Gad. Honourable mention.
1. High in command. “Captains of the host.”
2. Physically strong. “Least could resist an hundred, &c.” (cf. margin and Lev_26:8).
3. Brave in danger. Exploit well known in crossing Jordan, only needed simple allusion.
4. Victorious in fight. They overcame all in the valleys, east and west of the river.
“I sing the warrior and his mighty deeds.”
1Ch_12:18. The spirit came upon (clothed) Amasai. An unusual expression. We hear constantly in O. T. of “the Spirit of God,” but only here (and possibly in 1Ch_28:12) of “the Spirit” absolutely. Clear, however, the two expressions mean the same (cf. Jdg_6:34 and 2Ch_24:20). A. spoke not of himself, but as God’s spiritual influence moved him [Speak. Com.]. The need of the Holy Spirit to submit to Christ and recognise him king—to preach his word and carry on his cause. Tarry until ye be endued (clothed) with power from on high (Luk_24:49).
“Angels give thee in command
What to the smallest tittle thou shalt say.”
HOMILETICS
THE HOST OF GOD.—1Ch_12:22
In distress David had few friends, 600 who served as guards. When he had to act for God many were disposed to help from different tribes. All welcome. So the army grew “like the host of God,” great in numbers, valour, and success.
I. Animated by the presence of God. David counted for something. “How many do you reckon me?” said a leader to his fainting soldiers. What inspiration and strength to have” the Captain of salvation” with the Church! Wellington, one day in battle, rode into the midst of his wavering men. One who saw him cried, “There’s the Duke; God bless him!” Then followed a tremendous cheer, and the tide was turned. “I am with you always.”
II. Increased by the grace of God. God only makes “willing in the day of power” (Psa_110:3); the power of his Spirit and word. Numbers not always increase and efficiency. Many desert or weaken the cause. Grace adds such as are being saved (Act_2:47). “The Lord make his people a hundred times so many more as they be.”
III. Successful through the help of God.
1. In gathering numbers. Confederates came to David in successive bands “day by day,” as emergencies required. A gradual, constant accession, incessant progress in the army and cause of Christ.
2. In gaining victories. Everything possible to David’s captains, counsellors, and friends. “Men of might and men of war.” In service of God warriors numerous as dewdrops of the morning; strong in the strength of the Lord of Hosts; certain to overpower all opposition. “There is no disputing,” said one to Cæsar, “with him that commands legions.” “For the Lord your God, he it is that fighteth for you, as he hath promised you.”
THE ASSEMBLY AT HEBRON.—1Ch_12:23-40
This was seven years after Saul’s death. “They should have come sooner,” says Trapp; “but better late than never.” Briefly classify and describe different tribes.
1. Judah, the equipped tribe. “Ready armed” (1Ch_12:24); expecting and prepared to fight. Though fewer than others, they entertained those from afar. “Given to hospitality.”
2. Simeon, the tribe of valour. “Mighty men of valour for the war” (1Ch_12:25).
3. The Levites, the priestly tribe (1Ch_12:26-28). Earnest, led by famous men and recognised the providence of God in call of David. “Priestly troops” required now to fight and to pray.
4. Benjamites, the tribe small in number. Affection for their kin and jealousy for their honour kept many in army of Saul. All must be left for Christ. “Kindred should never over-rule conscience.”
5. Ephraim, the renowned tribe. “Famous throughout the house of their fathers” (1Ch_12:30).
6. Manasseh, the deputed tribe. “Expressed by name” (1Ch_12:31). “Deputed by the rest of the tribe to represent them” [Speak. Com.].
7. Issachar, the intelligent tribe (1Ch_12:32).
(1) Men of political sagacity. “Had understanding of the times.” No longer “a strong ass” (Gen_49:14).
(2) Men of insight. Knew “what Israel ought to do” in their critical condition.
(3) Men of authority. For “all their brethren were at their command.” Some knew how to rule and the rest how to obey.
8. Zebulon, the enthusiastic tribe (1Ch_12:33).
(1) Sincere in heart. “Not of double heart,” not of doubtful and divided mind.
(2) Fixed in purpose. Not of distracted mind, divided purpose, and half a heart; but one in effort and interest.
(3) United in discipline. They “could keep rank,” in the march and on the field. Ever obedient to command and united with the companies.
9. Other tribes are given (1Ch_12:34-37). Naphtali very decided (1Ch_12:34). Dan in great strength (1Ch_12:35). Asher expert, able to marshal war (1Ch_12:36). Eastern tribes grouped together, make a large contingent and well-equipped (1Ch_12:37). Thus came friends and adherents, to make David king and render loyal obedience to him.
FITNESS FOR THE SERVICE OF THE GREAT KING
Each tribe noted for some special quality. Sum all up and describe qualifications needful in God’s service.
I. Intelligence is required. Knowledge enough for personal salvation and for communication. Ignorance is unfitness and must never be excused. Knowledge must be the mind’s nutriment, “vigour of mind;” must become wisdom and power in action. Many generals opposed to Napoleon were acquainted with military science, but he excelled where victory depended upon wise movement and sudden thought. We must understand the times in which we live and the duties we have to perform.
II. Courage is required. “Woe be to fearful hearts and faint hands,” says the son of Sirach. A stout heart a great blessing. Cheering to see men in humble life and public conflict suffering in patience and triumphing in their integrity. Instances of courage in daily life and fields of action. “The heroic example of other days is in a great part the source of the courage of each generation; and men walk up composedly to the most perilous enterprises, beckoned onwards by the shades of the brave that were” [Helps]. “Be strong and of good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed.”
III. Unity is required. Divided counsel leads to broken ranks. Party spirit and envy will frustrate design. Rank must be kept in Christian efforts and co-operation given in national interests. “United we stand,” broken we are scattered from the field. Tacitus said of Germans what the world says of Christians, “Whilst fighting separately, all are conquered together.” “One body, one spirit.”
IV. Enthusiasm is required. This makes up for lack in numbers and weapons. Ardour is a help in life, a useful and energetic motive-power. How often does it cool down by time, get repressed by toil and sneers! To succeed, enthusiasm must be contagious in our ranks and never die out. “Every great and commanding movement in the annals of the world is the triumph of enthusiasm” [Emerson]. “Stir up (blow up, keep alive, as a dull fire) the gift of God within thee” (2Ti_1:6). Thus are we to qualify and equip ourselves for the warfare of life. “Men of understanding,” “mighty men of valour,” and “ready armed;” unity, spiritual sagacity and enthusiasm, all needful in leaders of tribes and soldiers of the “host of God.”
THE PROPRIETY OF CONSIDERING TIMES AND CIRCUMSTANCES.—1Ch_12:32
From the character here given of the men of Issachar we shall take occasion to show—I. That our conduct must often be affected by times and circumstances of whatever nature. 1, Civil; 2, Social; 3, Personal. But your conduct must be influenced by them in temporal matters. There is still reason to inquire—II. How far it may be properly affected by them in the concerns of religion.
1. That we may attend to times, &c., is certain (example of Christ and apostles).
2. But how far is not easy to determine. III. What there is in the times, &c., of the present day to affect our conduct. Application: suggest a caution or two.
1. Guard against yielding to any corrupt bias.
2. The future judgment will be according to motives.
3. Seek for wisdom that is profitable to direct [C. Simeon, M.A.].
THE JOYOUS ENTERTAINMENT.—1Ch_12:38-40
Supplies of provisions furnished in abundance by neighbours and others from distant parts. All enthusiastic for David, and wished to feast on a liberal and magnificent scale worthy of the occasion.
I. The cause of joy. Three reasons for it.
1. United under one king. End of divided rule. Prospect of settlement under strong government.
2. A king chosen of God. Divine frown, clouds and darkness taken away. A king given under different circumstances, “a man after God’s own heart.”
3. Universal loyalty to the chosen king. All joined in the choice, submission, and gratitude.
II. The manifestation of joy. A cause or religion without expression or room for joy neither suits the wants of man nor accords with the will of God.
1. In unity of purpose. “To make David king.”
2. In sincerity of feeling. “With a perfect heart.” No deception, no half-hearted, no double-hearted. “Were of one heart and one soul.” This oneness expressed in thought and act towards each other and towards their sovereign.
3. In social fellowship. Three days feasting. Not selfish, individual joy; but domestic, social, and national.
III. The extent of the joy. “All the men of war” and “all the rest of Israel” (1Ch_12:38). The soldier and the priest, the weak and the strong—all ages, all classes participated—none shut out from national feasting and rejoicing. This suggests the pure and unmixed joy in crowning and serving Christ as our king—the perfect happiness and order when he shall become the chosen of all nations, kindreds, and tribes. “The Lord reigneth, let the earth rejoice.”
HOMILETIC HINTS AND SUGGESTIONS
1Ch_12:28. Zadok the warrior priest (cf. 2Sa_8:17; 1Ki_1:8). Notice—
1. His profession. A soldier and priest. The cause, a “holy war.”
2. His qualifications. (a) “A young man.” (b) “Mighty of valour.” The need of young, valiant men, religious and devoted to God. “The history of heroes is the history of youth” [Lord Beaconsfield].
1Ch_12:32. Understanding. Noscentes scite tempora, such as well knew what was to be done and when to do it, by a singular sagacity, gotten by long experience, rather than by skill in astrology. See Est_1:13. David set a high price upon these; so doth God on such as regard and use the season of well-doing [Trapp].
1Ch_12:33. Not of a double heart. Heb., without a heart and a heart; plain-hearted; non aliud in ore promptum, aliud in pectore conclusum habentes; downright dealers [Trapp].
1. Men of fluctuating sentiments. “A double-minded man” (having two minds) “is unstable in all his ways” (Jas_1:7).
2. Men of compromising habits. “Woe be to the sinner that goeth two ways” (Sir_2:12).
3. Men of hypocritical worship. “Come not unto the Lord with a double heart” (Sir_1:28).
Unity of purpose. Its strength and advantage. “Napoleon gained his victories by consolidation. Austria and Russia attacked in columns and separate bodies; he concentrated his forces and fell on one point like an avalanche. So it must be with the Church. Scepticism will never be broken, Popery will never be dissipated, till the whole Christian Church is more thoroughly at one with each other” [Dr. Cumming].
1Ch_12:38. Under discipline. I. What keeping rank involves.
1. Obedience to authority.
2. Regard to the general peace of the whole.
3. Mutual help. II. The importance of keeping rank in church life and action [Bib. Museum].
ILLUSTRATIONS TO CHAPTER 12
1Ch_12:1. These came to David. The good and the great draw others after them; they lighten and lift up all who are within reach of their influence. They are so many living centres of beneficent activity. Let a man of energetic and upright character be appointed to a position of trust and authority, and all who serve under him become, as it were, conscious of an increase of power [S. Smiles].
“Whose spirit lent a fire
Even to the dullest peasant in his camp”
[Shakespeare].
1Ch_12:8. Separated themselves.
“The man whom I
Consider as deserving of the name,
Is one whose thoughts and actions are for others,
Not for himself alone; whose lofty aim,
Adopted on just principles, is ne’er
Abandoned while earth or heaven afford
The means of its accomplishment”
[Blanchard].
1Ch_12:32. Men of understanding. Happy are those that, knowing in their births they are subject to uncertain changes, are still prepared and arm’d for either fortune; a rare principle, and with much labour learn’d in wisdom’s school [Massinger].
1Ch_12:40. Joy in Israel. Joy is regarded as a happy accident of the Christian life, an ornament and luxury rather than a duty [Dr. Dale]. Joy in the Lord is strength, positive actual power for ministry. It creates around us the most favourable atmosphere for evoking our resources; raises our entire nature to the highest pitch of energy, and gives unwonted elasticity and capacity of tension to all our faculties. When the heart is brimming over with gladness, labour is acceptable, opposition helpful, duty a delight, and responsibility a privilege [Dr. Clifford]. “The joy of the Lord is your strength” [stronghold, marg.] (Neh_8:10).
The Preacher's Complete Homiletical Commentary (gen. ed. Joseph S. Exell; Funk & Wagnalls, c. 1892) — public domain (pre-1929). A full-Bible homiletical/sermon-outline anthology covering 65 of 66 books (2 John is absent from the source module). Text from a community e-Sword module.
J. R. Dummelow 1909 · Public Domain On v1 Various Statistics
Various Statistics
This chapter is entirely supplementary to what is related in 2 S, and gives particulars respecting certain companies that joined David at various times, and the numbers that came to crown David at Hebron.
Read full note →
2. The right hand and the left] For this faculty in connexion with Benjamin cp. Jdg_3:15; Jdg_20:15, Jdg_20:16. Saul's brethren] i.e. fellow-tribesmen: cp. 1Ch_12:29.
4. Among the thirty] not included in the lists of 2Sa_23:24. 1Ch_11:26., and presumably belonging to the thirty at a different period.
8. Buckler] RV 'spear.'
14. Was over] RV 'was equal to': cp. Lev_26:8.
15. The first month] Nisan(=March-April), when the river was in flood after the melting of the snow. Put to flight, etc.] Their endeavours to join David were opposed on both sides of the river, but unsuccessfully.
17. If ye.. come peaceably] The advances of a second body of deserters made David suspicious of treachery.
18. The spirit came upon, etc.] Amasai's decision to throw in his lot with David was due, like every other wise resolve, to the inspiration of the Divine Spirit.
19. They] i.e. David and his men: see on 1Sa_28:1-2; 1 Samuel 29. Upon advisement] i.e. upon reflection: cp. 1Ch_21:12.
21. The band] i.e. the Amalekites who attacked and burned Ziklag during David's absence with the Philistines (1 Samuel 30).
29. Kept the ward, etc.] i.e. maintained their allegiance to Saul (2 Samuel 2), a fact which accounted for so small a number assembling at Hebron.
32. Had understanding, etc.] possessed practical statesmanship: cp. Est_1:13.
All their brethren] The rank and file were obedient to their chiefs. The full numbers of Issachar are not given.
39. Eating and drinking] A covenant was usually accompanied by a feast (see Gen_31:44, Gen_31:46), and the passage doubtless has in view a compact made between the new sovereign and his people: cp. 1Ki_1:9.
40. They that were nigh] i.e. relations.
The total numbers of those who assembled to crown David at Hebron, as enumerated in 1Ch_12:23-40, amount to 340,822, a military force (1Ch_12:23) which contrasts remarkably with the 30,000 (described as 'all the chosen men of Israel') of 2Sa_6:1. It is noteworthy, too, that 128,600 come from the three northern and most distant tribes, Rebulun, Naphtali, and Asher; 120,000 from the eastern tribes, Reuben, Gad, and half Manasseh; and only 6,800 from Judah. Some corruption of the numbers may be suspected.
J. R. Dummelow, A Commentary on the Holy Bible (Macmillan, 1909) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword module.
Arno C. Gaebelein 1922 · Public Domain On v1 2. David’s Warriors and Friends
2. David’s Warriors and Friends
CHAPTER 12
Read full note →
1. The Benjamite warriors with David at Ziklag (1Ch 12:1-7)
2. The other warriors (1Ch 12:8-22)
3. Those who came to make him king (1Ch 12:23-40)
And now those are given by name who stood by David, when he was an outcast, rejected and persecuted by Saul. They were mighty men, his helpers in war. The leading company were of Benjamin, the tribe to which Saul belonged. These joined him when he was at Ziklag. In the wilderness of Judah certain of the Gadites separated themselves unto him, “whose faces were like the faces of lions and they were as swift as the roes upon the mountains.” May we remember again that all this is written for our learning. Our Lord is rejected and we can stand by Him, as these mighty men stood by David. Men with faces like lions, bold and courageous, are needed, as well as those as swift as the roes upon the mountains, in doing His bidding in true service. They braved the floods of Jordan and swept all hindrances out of the way to reach David, and when David spoke to them to ascertain why they had come, the Spirit of God sent through Amasai a message which must have greatly cheered his heart. “Thine are we, David, and on thy side, thou son of Jesse.” May we say to Him whose we are and whom we serve, “Thine we are, O Lord, and on Thy side, Thou Son of God.” Other valiant men of Manasseh also joined him and helped him greatly.
Then a wonderful gathering took place. From everywhere they gathered to make David king. Even from the most northern parts of the land, from issachar, Zebulun and Naphtali they came for one of the greatest events which happened in Israel’s history. If we tabulate the figures given in verses 23-37 we have the following results:
Of Judah
6,800 Men
Of Simeon
7,100 Men
Of Levi
4,600 Men
With Jehoiada, the “prince” (not high-priest of Aaron)
3,700 Men
Zadok and his father’s house
22 chiefs.
Of Benjamin
3,000 Men
Of Ephraim
20,800 Men
Of half Manasseh
18,000 Men
Of Issachar
200 leaders.
Of Zebulun
50,000 Men
Of Naphtali
37,000 Men
1,000 chiefs.
Of Dan
28,600 Men
Of Asher
40,000 Men
Of the 2-1/2 tribes east of Jordan
120,000 Men
Total
339,600 Men
1,222 chiefs. etc.
This immense company of people came and they had all one desire and one thought, “to make David king.” They were not of a double heart. There was no dissenting voice; they were of one heart, they came with a perfect heart to make David king.
A great feast was kept. They 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. There was joy in Israel. But how much greater will be the joy, and what a feast will be made, when He is made King, not alone over Israel, but when He will be enthroned as King of kings and Lord of lords!
Arno C. Gaebelein, The Annotated Bible (1913–1922) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword module.
Paul E. Kretzmann 1924 · Public Domain On v1 The Companies that came to David at Ziklag
The Companies that came to David at Ziklag
v. 1. Now, these are they that came to David to Ziklag, in the Philistine country, 1Sa 27:6, while he yet kept himself close because of Saul, the son of Kish, his return to the country of Israel being still hindered by the enmity of Saul; and they, the men who joined David there, were among the mighty men, helpers of the war.
Read full note →
v. 2. They were armed with bows, their work consisting in bending the bow in shooting, and could use both the right hand and the left in hurling stones, as slingers, and shooting arrows out of a bow, thus having ambidextrous skill, even of Saul’s brethren of Benjamin, members of the very tribe to which Saul belonged who were in some miraculous manner induced to share the fortunes of David.
v. 3. The chief was Ahiezer, then Joash, the sons of Shemaah (or Hasmaah) the Gibeathite; and Jeziel and Pelet, the sons of Azmaveth; and Berachah, and Jehu the Antothite,
v. 4. and Ismaiah the Gibeonite, a mighty man among the thirty and over the thirty, at least temporarily in command of these heroes; and Jeremiah, and Jahaziel, and Johanan, and Josabad the Gederathite,
v. 5. Eluzai, and Jerimoth, and Bealiah, and Shemariah, and Shephatiah the Haruphite,
v. 6. Elkanah, and Jesiah, and Azareel, and Joezer, and Jashobeam, the Korhites, the last-named being men of Judah,
v. 7. and Joelah, and Zebadiah, the sons of Jeroham of Gedor.
v. 8. And of the Gadites, members of the tribe of Gad, there separated themselves unto David into the hold to the wilderness, during the first year of his flight before Saul, 1 Samuel 22, men of might and men of war fit for the battle, trained soldiers, that could handle shield and buckler, whose faces were like the faces of lions, set in lines denoting bravery, and were as swift as the roes upon the mountains, trained for fleetness as well as for valor, for pursuit as well as for offense:
v. 9. Ezer, the first; Obadiah, the second; Eliab, the third;
v. 10. Mishmannah, the fourth; Jeremiah, the fifth;
v. 11. Attai, the sixth; Eliel, the seventh;
v. 12. Johanan, the eighth; Elzabad, the ninth;
v. 13. Jeremiah, the tenth; Machbanai, the eleventh.
v. 14. These were the sons of Gad, captains of the host, all of them officers in David’s army; one of the least was over an hundred and the greatest over a thousand; even the least of these heroes was able to with. stand a hundred enemies, while the most valiant of them could cope with a thousand.
v. 15. These are they that went over Jordan in the first month, when it had overflown all his banks, during the spring rise; and they put to flight all them of the valleys, both toward the east and toward the west. Having separated themselves from the Gadites who clung to Saul, they were obliged to cut their way through the host of Saul and, at the same time, to negotiate the swollen river, a doubly heroic deed.
v. 16. And there came of the children of Benjamin and Judah to the hold unto David, the reference here being to a special band that came to join David.
v. 17. And David went out to meet them, and answered and said unto them, If ye be come peaceably unto me to help me, mine heart shall be knit unto you, their mutual friendship would be so firm as to make their hearts one; but if ye be come to betray me to mine enemies, seeing there is no wrong in mine hands, he being innocent of any deed of violence, the God of our fathers look thereon and rebuke it. Years of persecution had made David suspicious of all men, so that he feared treachery.
v. 18. Then the spirit came upon Amasai, enveloping him like a cloak. who was chief of the captains, 2Sa 17:25, and he said, Thine are we, David, and on thy side, thou son of Jesse. Peace, peace be unto thee, and peace be to thine helpers; for thy God helpeth thee. He expressed the unanimous conviction of all his followers that the cause of David was owned and blessed of God, and therefore pledged the loyalty of them all. Then David received them and made them captains of the band.
v. 19. And there fell some of Manasseh to David when he came with the Philistines against Saul to battle, when Achish, the Philistine king, took him along to the Plain of Jezreel, 1Sa 29:2. But they helped them not; for the lords of the Philistines, upon advisement, sent him away, saying, He will fall to his master Saul to the jeopardy of our heads, literally, "for our heads," that is, for the price of their heads, which they would have to sacrifice in return for their foolishness in keeping David as an ally, 1Sa 29:4.
v. 20. As he went to Ziklag, when he was returning home after this incident, there fell to him of Manasseh, Adnah, and Jozabad, and Jediael, and Michael, and Jozabad, and Elihu, and Zilthai, captains of the thousands that were of Manasseh.
v. 21. And they helped David against the band of the rovers, those who had plundered Ziklag during his absence, 1Sa 30:1 to 1Sa 9:10; for they were all mighty men of valor, and were captains in the host.
v. 22. For at that time day by day there came to David to help him, gradually increasing the number of his followers, until it was a great host, like the host of God. From having only six hundred men loyal to him, his army soon grew so as to include hundreds, thousands, and finally hundreds of thousands, a great and powerful host. Thus the Lord, who directs the hearts of men as the rivers of water, helped the cause of David, who put his trust in Him alone.
Paul E. Kretzmann, Popular Commentary of the Bible (1921–1924) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword module.
unfoldingWord translationNotes 2017 · CC BY-SA 4.0 On vv1, 3, 5 while he was still banished from the presence of
while he was still banished from the presence of
This can be stated in active form. AT: "during the time when he could not be in the presence of" (See: Active or Passive)
Read full note →
could use both the right hand and the left in slinging stones and in shooting arrows
"could use either their right hands or their left hands to sling stones and shoot arrows"
slinging stones
The sling was a strip of leather that a person would use to throw a stone long distances.
translationWords
David
Saul (OT)
bow and arrow
stone
Benjamin
tribe
unfoldingWord translationNotes — © Distant Shores Media and the Door43 World Missions Community, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0. Source: git.door43.org/Door43/en_tn.
Tyndale Open Study Notes 2022 · CC BY-SA 4.0 On v1 12:1-22 Support for making David king did not begin…
12:1-22 Support for making David king did not begin with Saul’s demise. When Saul was king and David was a fugitive, warriors went to David and eventually became a vast camp of various tribes, representing all of Israel. Even relatives of Saul deserted to David and supported him as king (12:2). Of course, David was prudent about such deserters (12:17), making sure they were not traitors who would betray him to Saul. Before David’s actual anointing took place at Hebron, the will of the people reflected the will of God that David should become king.
Tyndale Open Study Notes — © Tyndale Open Resources, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0. Text via the HelloAO Bible API.