After this, David defeated the Philistines and subdued them, and took Gath and its towns out of the hand of the Philistines. He defeated Moab; and the Moabites became servants to David, and brought tribute. David defeated Hadadezer king of Zobah to Hamath, as he went to establish his dominion by the river Euphrates. David took from him one thousand chariots, seven thousand horsemen, and twenty thousand footmen; and David hamstrung all the chariot horses, but reserved of them enough for one hundred chariots. When the Syrians of Damascus came to help Hadadezer king of Zobah, David struck twenty-two thousand men of the Syrians. Then David put garrisons in Syria of Damascus; and the Syrians became servants to David, and brought tribute. Yahweh gave victory to David wherever he went. David took the shields of gold that were on the servants of Hadadezer, and brought them to Jerusalem. From Tibhath and from Cun, cities of Hadadezer, David took very much bronze, with which Solomon made the bronze sea, the pillars, and the vessels of bronze.
When Tou king of Hamath heard that David had struck all the army of Hadadezer king of Zobah, he sent Hadoram his son to king David, to Greet him, and to bless him, because he had fought against Hadadezer and struck him (for Hadadezer had wars with Tou); and he had with him all kinds of vessels of gold and silver and bronze. King David also dedicated these to Yahweh, with the silver and the gold that he carried away from all the nations; from Edom, from Moab, from the children of Ammon, from the Philistines, and from Amalek. Moreover Abishai the son of Zeruiah struck eighteen thousand of the Edomites in the Valley of Salt. He put garrisons in Edom; and all the Edomites became servants to David. Yahweh gave victory to David wherever he went.
David reigned over all Israel; and he executed justice and righteousness for all his people. Joab the son of Zeruiah was over the army; Jehoshaphat the son of Ahilud was recorder; Zadok the son of Ahitub, and Abimelech the son of Abiathar, were priests; Shavsha was scribe; and Benaiah the son of Jehoiada was over the Cherethites and the Pelethites; and the sons of David were chief officials serving the king.
Geneva Bible translators 1599 · Public Domain On vv1, 2, 3, 6, 8, 10, 11, 12, 16, 17 Which in 2 Sam. 8:1, is called the bridle…
Which in 2 Sam. 8:1, is called the bridle of bondage, because it was a strong town, and kept the country round about in subjection.
Geneva Bible (1599) marginal notes — public domain.
John Trapp 1656 · Public Domain On v1 1Ch 18:1 Now after this it came to pass,…
1Ch 18:1 Now after this it came to pass, that David smote the Philistines, and subdued them, and took Gath and her towns out of the hand of the Philistines.
Ver 1.] This chapter is the same with 2Sa 8:1-18. {See Trapp on "2Sa 8:1"} &c.
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, 8 All this chapter is explained on 2Sa 8.
All this chapter is explained on 2Sa 8.
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 vv1, 9 After this, it is said (Ch1 18:1), David did…
After this, it is said (Ch1 18:1), David did those great exploits. After the sweet communion he had had with God by the word and prayer, as mentioned in the foregoing chapter, he went on his work with extraordinary vigour and courage, conquering and to conquer. Thus Jacob, after his vision, lifted up his feet, Gen 29:1.
We have taken a view of these victories before, and shall now only observe, 1. Those that have been long enemies to the Israel of God will be brought down at last. The Philistines had, for several generations, been vexatious to Israel, but now David subdued them, Ch1 18:1. Thus shall all opposing rule, principality, and power, be, at the end of time, put down by the Son of David, and the most inveterate enemies shall fall before him. 2. Such is the uncertainty of this world that frequently men lose their wealth and power when they think to confirm it. Hadarezer was smitten as he went to establish his dominion, Ch1 18:3. 3. A horse is a vain thing for safety, so David said (Psa 33:17), and it seems he believed what he said, for he houghed the chariot-horses, Ch1 18:4. Being resolved not to trust to them (Psa 20:7), he would not use them. 4. The enemies of God's church are often made to ruin themselves by helping one another, Ch1 18:5. The Syrians of Damascus were smitten when they came to help Hadarezer. When hand thus joins in hand they shall not only not go unpunished, but thereby they shall be gathered as the sheaves into the floor, Mic 4:11, Mic 4:12. 5. The wealth of the sinner sometimes proves to have been laid up for the just. The Syrians brought gifts, Ch1 18:6. Their shields of gold and their brass were brought to Jerusalem, Ch1 18:7, Ch1 18:8. As the tabernacle was built of the spoils of the Egyptians, so the temple of the spoils of other Gentile nations, a happy presage of the interest the Gentiles should have in the gospel church.
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 v1 See Chapter Introduction
See Chapter Introduction
Next: 1 Chronicles Chapter 19
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 v1 David conquers the Philistines, the Moabites, the king of…
David conquers the Philistines, the Moabites, the king of Zobah and the Syrians, ver. 1-8. Makes the king of Hamath and the Edomites pay tribute, ver. 9-13. His court and kingdom flourish, ver. 14-17.
John Wesley, Explanatory Notes Upon the Whole Bible (1754–1765) — public domain. Text via the GEBible commentary corpus.
Adam Clarke 1810 · Public Domain On vv1, 2, 9, 12, 15, 16, 17 David smites the Philistines, and takes Gath, 1.
CHAPTER XVIII
David smites the Philistines, and takes Gath, 1.
Read full note →
Reduces the Moabites, 2.
Vanquishes Hadarezer, king of Zobah, 3, 4.
Overcomes the Syrians of Damascus, and takes several of their
cities, 5-8.
Tou, king of Hamath, congratulates him on his victory, and
sends him vessels of silver, gold, and brass, 9, 10.
Those and the different spoils he had taken from the conquered
nations, he dedicates to God, 11.
Abishai defeats the Edomites, 12, 13.
David reigns over all Israel, 14.
His officers, 15-17.
NOTES ON CHAP. XVIII
Verse 1. David - took Gath and her towns] See the comparison between this chapter and 2Sa 8:1, &c., in the notes on the latter.
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, 3, 5, 10, 11, 13, 14 1Ch 18:1. Now after this David smote the Philistines…
1Ch 18:1. Now after this David smote the Philistines — After the sweet communion he had had with God by the word and prayer, as is recorded in the foregoing chapter, he went on in his work with an extraordinary vigour and courage, conquering and to conquer. The reader will find all this chapter explained in the notes on 2 Samuel 8. Nevertheless we shall here make two or three short observations upon some parts of it.
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 v1 Gath and her towns - In Samuel, Methegammah (see…
Gath and her towns - In Samuel, Methegammah (see the marginal reference note).
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, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, 11, 12, 16, 17 Daughters. Villages (See 2 Kings viii. 1.; Menochius) and…
Daughters. Villages (See 2 Kings viii. 1.; Menochius) and dependant towns. (Worthington)
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 ι.David’s Wars and Officers of State, especially his Victorious…
ι.David’s Wars and Officers of State, especially his Victorious Battles with the Ammonites and the Philistines: 1 Chronicles 18-20
1Ch_18:1 And after this it came to pass, that David smote the Philistines, and subdued them, and took Gath and her daughters out of the hand of the Philistines. 2And he smote Moab; and the Moabites became David’s servants, and brought gifts.
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3And David smote Hadadezer1 king of Zobah towards Hamath, as he went to set up his sign at the river Euphrates. 4And David took from him a thousand chariots, and seven thousand horsemen, and twenty thousand footmen: and 5David lamed all the teams, but reserved of them a hundred teams. And the Syrians of Damascus2 came to help Hadadezer king of Zobah; and David slew 6of the Syrians twenty and two thousand men. And David put [men3] in Syria Damascus; and the Syrians became David’s servants, and brought gifts: and the Lord preserved David wherever he went. 7And David took the arms of gold that were on the servants of Hadadezer, and brought them to Jerusalem. 8And from Tibhath and from Chun, cities of Hadadezer, David took very much brass, of which Solomon made the brazen sea, and the pillars, and the brazen vessels.
9And Tou king of Hamath heard that David had smitten all the host of Hadadezer king of Zobah. And 10he sent Hadoram his son to King David, to greet him and to bless him, because he had fought against Hadadezer and smitten him; for Tou was at war with Hadadezer; and [with him] all manner11of vessels of gold, and silver, and brass. These also King David dedicated unto the Lord, with the silver and the gold that he had taken from all the nations, from Edom, and from Moab, and from the sons of Ammon, and from the Philistines, and from Amalek.
12And Abshai the son of Zeruiah slew of Edom in the valley of salt eighteen thousand. 13And he put garrisons in Edom; and all the Edomites became servants of David: and the Lord preserved David wherever he went.
14And David reigned over all Israel, and executed judgment and justice for all his people. 15And Joab the son of Zeruiah was over the host; and Jehoshaphat the son of Ahilud was recorder. 16And Zadok the son of Ahitub, and Abimelech4 the son of Abiathar, were priests; and Shavsha was scribe. 17And Benaiah the son of Jehoiada was over the Cherethi and Pelethi; and David’s sons were the chief beside the king.
1Ch_19:1 And it came to pass after this, that Nahash king of the sons of Ammondied, and his son reigned in his stead. 2And David said, I will show kindness unto Hanun the son of Nahash, because his father showed kindness to me; and David sent messengers to comfort him concerning his father: and the servants of 3David came to the land of the sons of Ammon, to Hanun, to comfort him. And the princes of the sons of Ammon said to Hanun: Thinkest thou that David doth honour thy father, that he hath sent comforters unto thee ? are not his servants come to thee to search and to turn over, and to spy out the land? 4And Hanun took David’s servants, and shaved them, and cut off half their 5garments by the breech, and sent them away. And they went, and they told David about the men, and he sent to meet them; for the men were greatly ashamed: and the king said, Tarry at Jericho until your beard be grown, and then return.
6And the sons of Ammon saw that they had made themselves stink with David: and Hanun and the sons of Ammon sent a thousand talents of silver to hire them chariots and horsemen out of Mesopotamia, and out of Syria-maachah, and7out of Zobah. And they hired them thirty and two thousand chariots, and the king of Maachah and his people; and they came and pitched before Medeba: and the sons of Ammon gathered together from their cities, and came to battle. 8, 9And David heard,, and sent Joab, and all the host of the mighty men. And the sons of Amnion came out, and set the battle in array at the gate of the city; and the kings that were come stood by themselves in the field.
10And Joab saw that the battle was directed against him before and behind; and he chose out of all the choice in Israel, and drew up against the Syrians. 11And the rest of the people he gave into the hand of Abshai his brother, and they drew up against the sons of Ammon. 12And he said, If the Syrians be too strong for me, then thou shalt come to my help; and if the sons of Ammon be 13too strong for thee, then I will help thee. Be courageous, and let us do valiantly for our people and for the cities of our God; and the Lord do that which is good 14in His sight. And Joab, and the people that were with him, drew nigh before 15the Syrians to the battle; and they fled before him. And the sons of Ammon saw that the Syrians fled, and they also fled before Abshai his brother, and went into the city; and Joab went to Jerusalem.
16And when the Syrians saw that they were smitten before Israel, they sent messengers, and drew forth the Syrians that were beyond the river; and Shophach, captain of the host of Hadadezer, went before them. 17And it was told David; and he gathered all Israel, and passed the Jordan, and came to them,5 and drew up against them; and David drew up against the Syrians for battle, 18and they fought with him. And the Syrians fled before Israel; and David slew of the Syrians seven thousand teams, and forty thousand footmen; and he killed Shophach, captain of the host. 19And when the servants of Hadadezer saw that they were smitten before Israel, they made peace with David, and served him; and the Syrians would not help the sons of Ammon any more.
1Ch_20:1.And it came to pass, when the year was ended, at the time when the kings go out, that Joab led forth the strength of the host, and wasted the land of the sons of Ammon, and came and besieged Rabbah; but David tarried in Jerusalem; and Joab smote Rabbah, and destroyed it. 2And David took the crown of their king from his head, and found it in weight a talent of gold, and set with precious stones; and it was put upon David’s head, and he brought very much spoil out of the city. 3And he brought out the people that were in it, and cut them with saws, and iron threshing-carts and saws;6 and so David did to all the cities of the sons of Ammon; and David returned with all the people to Jerusalem.
4And it came to pass after this, that a war arose at Gezer with the Philistines; then Sibbecai the Hushathite slew Sippai, one of the sons of Rapha; and they were subdued. 5And there was a war again with the Philistines; and Elhanan the son of Jair slew Lachmi, brother of Goliath the Gittite; and his 6spear’s staff was like a weaver’s beam. And again there was war in Gath, where was a man of [great] stature, and his fingers were six and six, twenty and four 7[in all]; and he also was born to Rapha. And he reproached Israel; and Jonathan the son of Shima, David’s brother, slew him. 8These were born to Rapha in Gath; and they fell by the hand of David, and by the hand of his servants.
EXEGETICAL
Preliminary Remark.—The present group of war reports runs parallel to four sections of 2 Samuel, separated from one another by other accounts. To the present summary accounts of the victorious warfare of David with all surrounding enemies in general, in 1 Chronicles 18, corresponds 2 Samuel 8; to the more copious description of the peculiarly difficult war with Ammon, in 1 Chronicles 19, corresponds 2 Samuel 10; the close of this war, described in 1Ch_20:1-3, by the taking of Rabbah, has its parallel in 2Sa_12:26-31; the shorter reports of the several heroic acts of David’s warriors in conflict with giants from the land of the Philistines, 1Ch_20:4-8, corresponds with the section 2Sa_21:18-22. The statements of 2 Samuel coming between these sections (namely 1 Chronicles 9 and 1Ch_11:1-12; 1Ch_11:25; but also 1 Chronicles 13, 14-18) are particulars from the private life and domestic history of David, which the Chronist, in conformity with his plan, neither could nor would take up.
1. General Report of David’s Victorious Wars with his Neighbours: 1Ch_18:1-13. 1Ch_18:1 treats of the victories over the Philistines.—And took Gath and her daughters out of the hand of the Philistines. This statement is surprising, because 2Sa_8:1 has the more general and withal poetical expression: “and David took the arm-bridle from the hand of the Philistines”( מֶתֶג הָאַמָּה for גַּת וּבְנֹתֶיהָ). To assume a purely arbitrary change of text on the part of ourauthor is questionable; and against, at least, a passing seizure of the metropolis Gath with its daughter towns (1Ch_7:28) by David, it can scarcely be maintained that in Solomon’s time Gath was again an independent city under its own king.
1Ch_18:2. And the Moabites became David’s servants, and brought gifts, in short, became tributary subjects (1Ch_18:6). Why our author has omitted the notice, following here in 2Sa_8:2, of the severe handling of the Moabites by David, is uncertain. It scarcely rests on an apologetic tendency in favour of David; comp. in 1Ch_20:3 the account of the cruel punishment of Rabbath Ammon. Moreover, this war of David with Moab seems to be that in which Benaiah slew the two sons of the king of Moab, 1Ch_11:22.
1Ch_18:3-8. The War with Hadadezer of Zobah.—King of Zobah towards Hamath. This closer determination of the situation of Zobah (חֲמָתָה), which is peculiar to our text, places it pretty far north, not far from Hamath, the later Epiphania, on the Orontes; scarcely Haleb or Nisibis, both of which lay farther north than Hamath, and can scarcely, from an Israelitish point of view, be described as lying “towards Hamath” (against the Rabbis of the middle ages on the one hand, and J. D. Mich on the other). Zobah is perhaps = Zabe of Ptolemy; at all events, it is to be sought north or north-east of Damascus (with Ew., Then., Berth., etc.).7 On the spelling peculiar to Chronicles and 2Sa_10:16-19, Hadarezer (Sept. ’Αδρααζάρ) see Crit. Note.—As he went to set up his sign at the river Euphrates, to establish his power (properly “hand”) there; comp. 1Sa_15:12. Whether these words refer to David or Hadadezer is doubtful; the latter (which J. H. Mich., Ew., Berth., etc., assume) may be the more probable, on account of the mention of David as subject at the beginning of the following verse. The various reading in 2Sa_8:3 : לְהָשִׁיב יָדוֹ, “to turn his hand,” is perhaps to be amended from our passage, as it gives a less suitable sense.
1Ch_18:4. And David took from him a thousand chariots, and seven thousand horsemen, and twenty thousand footmen. For this 2Sa_8:4 has “1700 horsemen and 20,000 footmen,” perhaps defectively; after אֶלֶף, and before וּשְׁבַע־מְאוֹת, it appears necessary to insert רֶכֶב there, for which also the Sept. speaks. Yet comp. Wellh. on this passage, who questions the insertion of רֶכֶב, on account of the close of the verse.—And David lamed all the teams, but reserved of them a thousand teams, for his own use; in fact, therefore, he lamed only 900. For this custom of laming (עִקֵּר) war-horses, comp. Jos_11:6; Jos_11:9.
1Ch_18:6. And David put in Syria Damascus, men, soldiers, garrison troops. From 2Sa_8:6 and 1Ch_18:13 of our chapter the word נְצִיבִים appears to have fallen out after וַיָּשֶׂם דָּוִיד; comp. also 1Ch_13:3; 1Sa_10:5.
1Ch_18:7. And David took the arms (or equipments) of gold,שִׁלְטֵי־הַזָּהָב; so rightly the moderns, instead of the golden collars (κλοιοί) of the Sept., the quivers (pharetrœ) of the Vulg., and the golden shields of the Chald., of some Rabbis, and of Luther.—Which were on the servants of Hadadezer, his military servants, soldiers. On the addition of the Sept., in 2Sa_8:7 relative to the later capture and carrying away of these golden arms by Shishak of Egypt, under Rehoboam, comp. the expositors of that passage.
1Ch_18:8. And from Tibhath and from Chun, etc. Tibhath (טִבְחַת), or, as it is perhaps to be read, Tebah (טֶבַח, for which, 2 Samuel 8, stands erroneously בֶּטַח), appears to be identical with the family mentioned, Gen_22:24, among the descendants of Nahor; whether it be the present Taibeh, on the caravan road between Aleppo and the Euphrates, is questionable. In place of בּוּן 2 Samuel gives בֵּרֹתַי(= Barathena, Ptol. v. 19? or בְּרֹתָה, Eze_47:16?). On what this diversity of name rests, whether on the corruption of the original בֵּרֹתַי into כּוּן, as Berth. thinks, or on a double name of the place in question, must remain doubtful.—Of which Solomon made the brazen sea, and the pillars, and the brazen vessels. These words, wanting in 2Sa_8:8 in the Masoretic text, are perhaps to be restored according to our passage, and according to the Sept. and Vulg.
1Ch_18:9-11. Embassy and Present of Tou King of Hamath to David. In the parallel account, 2Sa_8:9-12, this Tou is called Toi (תֹּעִי)
1Ch_18:10. And he sent Hadoram his son. 2 Samuel: “Joram,” at all events incorrect, as a name compounded with יְהוָֹה would scarcely have suited a member of a Syrian royal house; and the Sept. gives there ’Ιεδδουράμ(here’Αδουράμ)—To greet him, to wish him health. So is לִשְׁאָל־לוֹ לְשָׁלוֹם to be taken, according to the parallel passages, as Gen_43:27, not, with the Sept. and Vulg., in the sense of a prayer for peace (ut postulant ab eo pacem).—For Ton was at war with Hadadezer, literally, “For Hadadezer was a man of wars of Tou,” a constant assailant and adversary to him; comp. 1Ch_28:3; Isa_42:13. After these words, which form a parenthetical explanation to the foregoing, follows the wider object of וַיִּשְׁלַח: “and all manner of vessels of gold and silver and brass,” which Luther erroneously refers to 1Ch_18:11.
1Ch_18:11. With the silver and the gold that he had taken. For אֲשֶׁר נָשָׂא 2 Samuel presents אֲשֶׁר הִקְדִּישׁ, perhaps the original form.—From all the nations . . . and from Amalek. In 2 Samuel a more complete and probable text is found (in which, besides, מֵאֱדֹם is to be read for מֵאֲרָם.
1Ch_18:12-13. Abshai’s Victory over the Edomites in the Valley of Salt.—And Abshai . . . slew of Edom (literally, “slew Edom”) in the valley of salt, 18,000 men. In Bertheau’s combination of the very different reading in 2Sa_8:13 with our passage, for “Abshai son of Zeruiah” would have to be read “Joab, etc.,” and after “slew of Edom” would have fallen out the words “when he (Joab) returned from the conquest of Aram.” Otherwise Ew., Then., Wellh., Keil, etc., the latter of whom upholds the statement of Chronicles, that Abshai gained this victory, by reference to 1Ch_10:10 ff. of our book (where Abshai appears as commander under his brother Joab), and declares it consistent as well with Psa_60:2 as with 1Ki_11:15.
1Ch_18:14. And all the Edomites became servants of David. For this 2 Samuel has more fully, and perhaps originally: “and in all Edom he appointed officers; and all the Edomites became David’s servants.”
2. David’s Officers of State: 1Ch_18:14-17,—a list in 2 Samuel 8 also appended to the above summary war reports ( = 2Sa_8:15-18), that was certainly found here in the old common sources of both authors, introduced by the general remark on the ability and excellence of the government of David (1Ch_18:14).
1Ch_18:15. For Joab, comp. on 1Ch_2:16.—Jehoshaphat the son of Ahilud was recorder.מַזְכִּיר, properly “remembrancer,” that is, not annalist (Sept. ὁ ἐπὶ τῶν ὑπομνημάτων Vulg. a commentariis), but chancellor, who makes to the king a report of all that takes place in the kingdom, and conveys his commands; comp. the magister memoriœ of the later Romans, and the Waka Nuvis in the Persian court (Chardin, Voyages, v. p. 258).
1Ch_18:16. For Zadok, comp. on 1Ch 5:30 ff.—Abimelech the son of Abiathar. For אבימלךְ is certainly to be read, with the Sept., Vulg., and 2Sa_8:17, אחימלךְ; for so is this priest called in 1Ch_24:3; 1Ch_24:6; 1Ch_24:31, where he is likewise named as the representative of Ithamar with Zadok of Eleazar, and where he appears as the son of Abiathar. That Abiathar’s father was also called Ahimelech, 1Sa_22:20, does not warrant the assumption that in our passage, as in 24, there is an exchange of the father and the son; and thus a transposition of the names into “Abiathar the son of Ahimelech” is necessary (as Movers, Then., Ew., Wellh. think). Rather is our Ahimelech to be regarded as a son of the same name with his grandfather, according to the known Hebrew custom, who, even during his father’s lifetime, acted in the priestly office. Comp. the frequent recurrence of the grandfather’s name in the grandson in 1Ch 5:30–41.—And Shavsha was scribe, that is, secretary of state. This Shavsha (Luth. “Sausa”) is called in 1Ki_4:3 Shisha (שִׁישָׁא, differing only in spelling from שִׁוְשָׁא), but in 2Sa_20:25שְׁוָא (שְׁיָא) If 2Sa_8:17 exhibits שְׂרָיָה, this is to be considered, perhaps, an error of the pen.
1Ch_18:17. And Benaiah . . . was over the Cherethi and the Pelethi. So also 2Sa_8:18, with the more correct reading עַל הַכְּרֵתי for וְהַכְּרֵ׳, as in 2Sa_20:23. That “Cherethi and Pelethi” denote the two divisions of the royal guard (the σωματοφύλακες, Joseph. Antiq.vii. 5. 4) is undoubted, though, with Gesen., Then., Bähr (on 1Ki_1:36), Keil, etc., the former name be explained by confossores, lictores, executioners, the latter by celeres, ἄγγαροι, runners (couriers), and thus both appellatively, for which the passages 1Ki_2:25, 2Ki_11:1 appear to speak, or though (with Lakemacher, Movers, Ew., Berth., Hitz., etc.) they be regarded as the nationalities of the Cretans (Carians) and the Philistines. Comp. the latest discussion of this controversy by J. G. Müller (Die Semiten in ihrem Verhaltniss zu Chamiten und Japhetiten, 1872, p. 263 ff.), who decides for the latter interpretation. For Benaiah, comp. also 1Ch_11:22 ff.—And David’s sons were the chief beside the king, the next to him. In 2Sa_8:18 the ancient term כֹּהֲנִים, privy counsellors, is chosen to designate the high rank of the royal princes (comp. 1Ki_4:5).
3. The War with Ammon and Syria: 1Ch_19:1 to 1Ch_20:3; comp. 2 Samuel 10.—And it came to pass after this. The loose form of connection וַֽיְהִי אַֽחֲרֵי כֵן serves sometimes to introduce new reports, even if there be no strict chronological order, or if, as here (comp. 1Ch_18:3-5 with 1Ch_19:16 ff.), that which is to be related has been partly mentioned before. Comp. for example, 2Sa_8:1; 2Sa_10:1; 2Sa_13:1. For the Ammonite king Nahash, and his war with Saul, see 1 Samuel 11.—And his son reigned in his stead. The following certainly shows that this son was called Hanun; yet the name חָנוּן, from 2Sa_10:1, appears to have originally stood in the text after בְּנוֹ, as inversely there, the omitted name נָחָשׁ must apparently be supplied from our passage.
1Ch_19:3. Thinkest thou that David doth honour thy father? literally, “Does David honour thy father in thine eyes?” The emphasis in this question rests on the notion of honouring, of which the questioners doubt whether it really forms the object of David’s embassy.—To search and to turn over (turn up side down, examine thoroughly), and to spy out the land. This sentence is also in Hebrew a question, but, as an affirmative answer is expected, introduced, not with הֲ, but with ׃הֲלֹא “Are they not come to search, etc.?” In 2Sa_10:3, the sentence runs somewhat different, so that riot the land (הארץ), but the city (הָעִיר), is the object of the verbs, and the הָפַךְ removed to the end has the sense, not of turning over, but of destroying. But it is scarcely necessary to change our text accordingly (against Berth.).
1Ch_19:4. And shaved them. 2 Samuel more exactly: “shaved off the half (the one side) of their beard.”—And cut off half their garments by the breech.הַמִּפְשָׂעָה, properly, “the step, the step-region in the middle of the body,” here euphemistic for שְׁתוֹת, nates, which is used in 2 Samuel.
1Ch_19:5. And they went. This is wanting in 2 Samuel, but not therefore to be erased as superfluous (against Berth.).—And the king said, Tarry at Jericho. So far they were then come on their way to Jerusalem. The following “then return” is naturally completed by adding “to Jerusalem” or “hither.”
1Ch_19:6. That they had made themselves stink with David, had drawn his hatred on them. For the Hithp. התבאשׁו 2 Samuel has the Niph. of the same verb, in the same reflexive sense.—Hanun . . . sent a thousand talents of silver to hire, etc. The statement that this hiring of auxiliaries took place is wanting in 2 Samuel, but is certainly genuine.—For Mesopotamia = Aram-naharaim, 2 Samuel names, as the first of the countries from which Hanun hired his auxiliaries, Aram-beth-rehob, which can scarcely be only another name of Mesopotamia (as some ancients have assumed, identifying the city Beth-rehob with Rehobath, now Rahabe, on the Euphrates, Gen_36:37), but the kingdom or territory of Beth-rehob, a Syrian city, Num_13:21, Jdg_18:28, lying south of Hamath. For the following name, Aram-Maachah, 2 Samuel 10. (as 1Ch_19:7 of our ch.) has only Maachah (on which region, bordering northward on the trans-jordanic Palestine, comp. Deu_3:14; Jos_12:5; Jos_13:11). On the contrary, Zobah is there called more fully: Aram-Zobah (comp. on 1Ch_18:3).
1Ch_19:7. And they hired them 32,000 chariots, that is, chariots with riders, רֶּכֶב וּפָרָשִׁים, as the foregoing verse shows. The number 32,000 agrees substantially with the deviating statement in 2 Samuel, in which these auxiliaries appear rather as footmen, and, indeed, consisting of 20,000 footmen from Aram and Aram-beth-rehob, 1000 men from Maachah, and 12,000 men from the kingdom of Tob (Jdg_11:3), which latter our author has left undistinguished.—And they came and pitched before Medeba, the city of the tribe of Reuben mentioned Jos_13:16, two miles (about nine English miles) south-east of Heshbon. This statement as well as the following, relative to the simultaneous assembling of the Ammonite troops, is wanting in 2 Samuel 10, but was found no doubt in the old sources used by our writer, in common with the author of the books of Samuel.
1Ch_19:8. And all the host of the mighty. Different, but merely in expression, from 2 Samuel: “the whole host, the mighty men.”
1Ch_19:9. And the sons of Ammon . . . at the gate of the city, before the gates of Rabbah, their capital. This reading: פֶּתַח הָעִיר, is to be preferred, as clearer than that in 2Sa_10:1פֶּתַח הַשַּׁעַר, “at the gate, outside the gate.”
1Ch_19:10. And Joab saw that the battle was directed against him before and behind, literally, “that the face of the battle ( = the front of the line) was before and behind him:” that before him stood the Ammonites, and in his rear the Syrians. Opposite the latter, as the stronger foe, Joab took his ground, while, 1Ch_19:11, he entrusted the engagement with the Ammonites to his brother Abshai.
1Ch_19:13. For our people, and for the city of our God: that these may not fall into the hands of the heathen, and from cities of the Lord become cities of idols.
1Ch_19:15. And went into the city, fled into their capital Rabbah, while Joab first returned to Jerusalem, reserving the siege and capture of this strong fortress for the following campaign.
1Ch_19:16-19. The Conquest of the Syrians allied with the Ammonites.—They sent messengers, and drew forth the Syrians that were beyond the river Euphrates, the Mesopotamians, who must have been somehow subject to Hadadezer, and laid under tribute; comp. 2Sa_10:16.
1Ch_19:17. And came to them. Instead of this notice, which is superfluous, along with the following words: “and drew up against them,” should be read, with 2Sa_10:16 (see Crit. Note): “and he came to Helam.” This elsewhere not occurring local name חֵילָם or חֵלָאם (Sept.Αἰλάμ, Vulg. Helam) the Chronist quite omits in its first place (in 2 Samuel 10, 16 = 1Ch_19:16 of our ch.), and changes it the second time, whether intentionally or not, into אליהם. Comp. Joseph. Antiq.vii. 6, 3, where the name is regarded as a proper name of a king beyond the Euphrates, the master of the general Shophach (Sabekos). It is, moreover, not impossible that the local name Helam corresponds to the Alamatha on the Euphrates in Ptolem. 1Ch_15:5, in which case 1Ch_18:3 might be combined with our passage, if the same war with Hadadezer and the Syrians be spoken of there as here.
1Ch_19:18. And David slew of the Syrians 7000 teams (chariot horses) and 40,000 footmen. On the contrary, 2 Samuel has 700 teams and 40,000 horsemen. Perhaps the smaller number of teams in 2 Samuel and the designation of the 40,000 as footmen in our text deserve the preference; comp. Wellh. p. 180.
1Ch_19:19. And when the servants of Hadadezer, here not his warriors, but his allies or subject kings (vassals); comp. 2Sa_10:19 : כָּל הַמְּלָכִים עַבְדֵי הֲדַדְעֶזֶו.—
1Ch_20:1-3. The Siege and Conquest of Rabbah, here more briefly related than in 2Sa_11:1; 2Sa_12:26-31, and therefore without any reference to the death of Uriah.—When the year was ended, at the time when the kings go out, in the spring, as most suitable for re-opening the campaign. The last described battle with the Syrians appears accordingly to have fallen in the autumn of the previous year.—Joab led forth the strength of the host; more circumstantially 2Sa_11:1 : “David sent Joab, and his servants with him, and all Israel.” On חֵיל הַצָּבָא, comp. the similar חֵיל צָבָא, 2Ch_26:13.—And Joab smote Rabbah, and destroyed it, properly, pulled it down; comp. Eze_16:39; Eze_26:4; Eze_26:12; Lam_2:2; Lam_2:17. Compared with 2Sa_12:26 ff, where it is reported that Joab first only took the so-called city of waters, but called King David to the taking of the proper fortress (citadel, acropolis), that the honour of completing the conquest and destruction of the city might be his, the present report appears brief and summary.
1Ch_20:3. And cut them with saws, and iron threshing-carts and saws.וַיָּשַׂר, ἅπ. λεγ., from the root שׂוּר, “cut”; comp. מַשּׂוֹר “saw,” from the cognate root נשׂר. In 2Sa_12:31, וַיָּשֶׂם is perhaps only an error of the pen for וַיָּשַׂר or וַֽיְשׂרֵם (Böttcher).—For וּבַמְּגֵרוֹת, as in 2 Samuel, וּבְמַגְזְרוֹת, “and with scythes” (or like iron-cutting instruments, scarcely “wedges,” as Luther, or “axes,” as Kamph., thinks), is perhaps to be read. A twofold mention of saws, first in the sing., then in plur., would be an intolerable tautology. Moreover, this cutting and grinding of the vanquished Ammonites with iron saws, threshing sledges, and the like, is in itself horrible and barbarous enough (comp. Pro_20:26; Amo_1:3); and we need not assume that the Chronist intentionally, and from an apologetic tendency, passed over a still more horrid kind of punishment then inflicted on the vanquished Ammonites, burning in tile-kilns (2Sa_12:31); comp. on 1Ch_18:2.
4. Appendix: Briefer Report of the Heroic Deeds of some of David’s Warriors in the Conflict with Philistine Giants: 1Ch_20:4-8.—This report is also treated as an appendix in 2 Samuel, where it is found quite at the end of the history of David, 1Ch_21:15-22, and, indeed, enlarged by a fourth heroic deed (1Ch_21:15-17), there related in the first place, but here wanting—the dangerous conflict of David with the giant Ishbi-benob, whom Abshai at length slew. It appears as if the Chronist had omitted this story intentionally, because it might have lessened the military fame of David. Comp. Lightfoot, Chronol. V. T. p. 1Chr 68: lllud prœlium, in quo David in periculum venit et unde decore et illœsus prodire non potuit, omissum est; as Starke: “The dangerous combat of David with Ishbi is not mentioned here, as the book of Chronicles, as some remark, conceals or passes over the shame of the saints; whence also nothing occurs here of the adultery and murder by David, or of the idolatry of Solomon.”
1Ch_20:4. And it came to pass after this. This formula stood here originally not so unconnected as in 1Ch_19:1; but the event to which it referred, 2Sa_21:18, was that history of the combat with Ishbi which is intentionally omitted by our author, on which account the formula does not now appear very suitable.—A war arose at Gezer.וַתַּֽעֲמֹד (perhaps arising out of וַתְּהִי עוֹד, 2Sa_21:18), here = וַתָּקָם, according to later usage. For Gezer (in the tribe of Ephraim, to the south-west, near the north border of the Philistines), sec 1Ch_7:28. For בְּגֶזֶר, moreover, we should apparently (2Sa_21:18) read בְּגֹב, or perhaps בְּנֹב; that passage is not inversely to be amended from ours (against Berth.).—Then Sibbecai the, Hushathite (one of David’s Gibborim; see 1Ch_11:29 and 1Ch_27:11) slew Sippai, one of the sons of Rapha, one of the Rephaites or descendants of Rapha, that gigantic tribe that before the invasion of the Philistines inhabited the south-west of Canaan, and of which several families of gigantic size still lived among the Philistines; comp. Jos_11:22; Deu_2:6; Deu_2:23.—And they were subdued, namely, by the conquest of this giant; comp. Jdg_11:33; 1Sa_7:13. The absence of this remark in 2 Samuel does not make its originality suspicious.
1Ch_20:5. And there was a war again with the Philistines, namely, 2Sa_21:19, at Gob (or Nob), and so at the same place as the former.—Elhanan the son of Jair slew Lachmi, brother of Goliath the Gittite. According to this certainly original reading is the defective text, 2Sa_21:19 : “Elhanan the son of Jaare-oregim, a Bethlehemite, slew Goliath the Gittite,” to be amended (with Piscat., Cleric, Mich., Mov., Then., Keil, Wellh.). “The form יערי, instead of יָעִרי of Chronicles, would be caused by the following ארגים, the accidental insertion of which from the line underneath is easily understood” (Wellh.). Besides, the here quite unexplained mention of the celebrated captain of David, Elhanan of Bethlehem (1Ch_11:26), will have occasioned a change of אֶת־לַחְמִי into בית הלמי. Accordingly, the question started by Berth., as defender of the originality of the text of Samuel: “Have there been two Goliaths?” falls to the ground as an idle one.
1Ch_20:6 ff. The Last of the Four Heroic Deeds.—Where was a man of (great) stature:אִישׁ מִדָּה = the אִישׁ מִדִּין, vir mensurarum, in 2 Samuel.—And his fingers were, six and six (namely, on the hands and the feet, therefore in all), twenty and four. Comp. the sedigiti mentioned by Plin. . H. N. xi. 43; also Trusen, Sitten, Gebräuche, and Krankheiten der alten Hebräer, p. 198 f.; Carlisle, “An account of a family having hands and feet with supernumerary fingers and toes” (in Philos. Transac. 1814, part 1, p. 94); Rosbach, Diss, de numiero digitorum adaucto, Bonn 1838; Blasius, Fall von Ueberzahl der Zehen, in Siebold’s Journ. für Geburtshülfe, vol. xiii. Art. 1; also Lond. Medic. Gaz. vol. xiv. Apr. 1834, and Friedrich, Zur Bibel, i. p. 298 f. Recently the well-known Arabian traveller F. v. Maltzan, in the Berlin Anthropological Society, reported as follows: “Among the Himyarites (in South Arabia), in the dynasty of Forli, the six fingers are hereditary, and the pride of the ruler and the people. Indeed, this property of six fingers, a sign of bodily or, if not bodily, of mental strength among the Arabs, is still kept up artificially, as the six-fingered princes of the reigning house are allowed to marry only six-fingered members of the family, to avoid as much as possible the appearance of five fingers. In short, the twenty-four fingers and toes of the ruler are the pride of the country; and any one out of the country might prove his nearer or further connection with the ruling house by a greater or smaller superfluity of fingers” (Correspondence Sheet of the German Society for Anthropology, Ethnol., etc., 1872, No. 8, p. 60).
1Ch_20:7. Jonathan the son of Shima, David’s brother, Slew him. Comp., on this Shima, 1Ch_2:13.
1Ch_20:8. These were born.אֵל for אֵלֶּה is an archaism, that occurs eight times in the Pentateuch, but always with the article (הָאֵל), and stands only here without it, for which reason it appears suspicious; the following נוּלְּדוּ also probably contains an error; comp. the regular אֵלֶה יֻלְּדוּ in 2Sa_21:22, Where it is preceded by the number “four” (Which is naturally omitted by the Chronist).—And they fell by the hand of David, and by the hand of his servants, namely, by David’s hand in a mediate way, as he was the supreme commander and military chief of the victorious Israelites, but immediately by the hand of his so-called servants or heroes. The whole remark forms a concluding subscription, that appears no less suitable in our passage than in 2Sa_21:22 (against Berth.).
Footnotes:
[1] הֲדַדְיעְזֶר is the Kethib in all passages of our chapter, but the Keri: הֲדַרְעֶזֶר (so in 2Sa_10:16-19). The first form, the more usual in the books of Samuel and Kings, is also the more original, because הֲדַד, a Syrian idol name, occurs in other Syrian proper names.
[2]Properly Darmascus (דַּרְמֶשֶׂק—so here and 1Ch_18:6, also 2Ch_16:2; 2Ch_24:23, without variation; elsewhere always דַּמֶּשֶׂק).
[3]After וַיָּשֶׂם דָּוִיד there seems to have fallen out נְצִיבִים; comp. Sept. (φρουράν) and Vulg. (milites), and see Exeg. Expl.
[4]For אבימלך read rather (with the Sept., Vulg., and 1Ch_24:3; 1Ch_24:6) אֲחִימֶלֶךְ.
[5]For וַיָּבֹא אֲלֵהֶם the text in Samuel (2Sa_10:17) has וַיָּבֹא חֶלָאמָה, “and went to Helam,” perhaps more correct and original (comp. Exeg. Expl.), though all translations and mss. conform the אֲלֵיהֶם of our passage.
[6]Rather, perhaps, “and scythes,” as for וּבַמְּגֵרוֹת is (with 2Sa_12:31) no doubt וּבְמַגְזְרוֹת to be read.
[7]Recently Th. Bischoff (Das Ausland, 1873, p. 136) thinks he has found the ruins of Zobah south-east of Aleppo, near the salt lake Jabul. He appears to mean the same ruins which J. W. Helfer (Helfer’s Reisen in Vorderasien, by Countess Pauline Nostitz, Leipz. 1873, i. p. 174 ff.) saw in 1830.
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, 3, 4, 8, 9, 17 he smote Moab--The terrible severities by which David's conquest…
he smote Moab--The terrible severities by which David's conquest of that people was marked, and the probable reason of their being subjected to such a dreadful retribution, are narrated (Sa2 8:2).
the Moabites . . . brought gifts--that is, became tributary to Israel.
Jamieson, Fausset & Brown — Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible (1871) — public domain (CC PDM 1.0). Text via the HelloAO Bible API.
The Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges 1878 · Public Domain On vv1–17 Ch. 1Ch_18:1-13 (= 2Sa_8:1-14). A Summary of David’s Foreign…
Ch. 1Ch_18:1-13 (= 2Sa_8:1-14). A Summary of David’s Foreign Wars
1. after this] The phrase is adopted from 2Sa_8:1 and probably came originally from a still earlier book of annals, in which the context may have been different. We cannot therefore say at what period of David’s reign the conquest of Gath took place.
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took Gath and her towns] In 2Sa_8:1, took the bridle of the mother city (R.V.), a poetical expression which the Chronicler has turned into prose.
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 vv1–17 (1) Now after this it came to pass.—Literally, And…
(1) Now after this it came to pass.—Literally, And it befel afterwards. This expression does not put the contents of this chapter into direct chronological sequence with those of the last. (Comp. Note on 1Ch_17:1.) The formula of the original history, from which both Samuel and Chronicles have derived a chief part of their substance, has been taken over without modification, after the manner of Oriental compilers. We may, therefore, regard the phrase as a mere mark of transition in the narrative.
Gath and her towns.—Heb., her daughters, that is, outlying dependencies. Samuel has, “And David took the bridle [control, supremacy] of the metropolis [mother-city] out of the hand,” &c. The chronicler or his authority has interpreted this curious expression (mètheg hâ’ammâh). If at the time Gath was the chief city of Philistia, and David made it recognise his suzerainty by payment of tribute, the phrases of both books are intelligible. In Solomon’s time Gath was ruled by a king, Achish (1Ki_2:39), but he was hardly independent of Solomon. ( Comp. 1Ki_4:24. ) The general sense is the same if mètheg hâ’ammâh be rendered the bridle of the arm—i.e., the sovereign control, or supremacy.
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(1-3) Reduction of the Philistines, Moabites, and Arameans of Zobah.
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, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14, 15, 16, 17 The course of last chapter"s parallel is continued here,…
The course of last chapter"s parallel is continued here, and answers closely 2Sa_8:1-18. The present chapter contains the wars and victories of David (vers. 1-13), with the arrangements consequent upon them; and (vers. 14-17) an enumeration of some of his chief officers.
Took Gath and her towns out of the hand of the Philistines; literally, her daughters. The compiler of Chronicles gives us this plain statement where, in the parallel place, we find, "took Metheg-ammah," or more exactly, Metheg-ha-ammah, the explanation of which word (see 2Sa_8:1) is not yet ascertained. Its literal signification is "the bridle or curb of the mother city," and may mark a special strong position which commanded Gath, or it may describe Gath as owning itself to such a position. Gesenius understands it to mean that David "subjected the metropolis of the Philistines to himself," quoting the Arabian proverb, To give one s bridle to any one, as equivalent to submitting to him. He quotes Job_30:11. It may be noted that Ammah is spoken of (2Sa_2:24) as the name of a hill, otherwise unknown, however. Although David subdued so many places, he reigned over them, i.e, over many of them, still by "their own kings" (1Ki_4:24; 2Ch_9:26) Hence we find Gath with a king still in 1Ki_2:39.
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Vers. 1-17.
The chapter that offers the sermons of facts with fewest words.
The chapter which to indifferent reading might seem most bare of religious instruction will yield to careful attention the most forcible lessons. Facts bring the most impressive lessons to our lives. Facts teach the most impressive aspects of the Divine character to our present power of apprehending that character. For all we read and memory retains it, for all we hear and faith believes it, for all we think, and think we see it well and clearly, that which we feel and experience from the hard facts of life or the joyful facts of life performs a thousand times over the largest and most valuable part in our education. This chapter is a narration of facts almost exclusively this and nothing else. But they were facts full of personal interest to David, and full of illustration of Divine goodness and faithfulness. The chapter tells indeed the simplest tale of events that made the joy of a human life, strengthened the faith of a Divine life, rewarded the endurance and preparation of years past of a suffering and painful life, and gives God the praise that was his due. To notice well such facts is to listen well to God"s own sermons. Let us notice how they part here so very naturally into those which illustrate the gracious attributes of the Teacher God, and those which illustrate the better qualities of the learner David. We have here
I THE GOD "FAITHFUL AND JUST" TO BRING ON THE TIME OF THE "RECOMPENSE OF REWARD." That time is not always to be expected in the present world. There are sometimes manifest reasons why this cannot be, or why it should not be likely, or why it were even to be deprecated. It is also one of the chiefest distinctions, nay, even the differentiae of the Christian temper and essential quality, "to seek for glory and honour and immortality by patient continuance in well-doing," with the eye fixed on one thing alone as the rewardeternal life." Yet sometimes it is the case that a manifest, ample, revealed recompense of reward comes after trial and sorrow borne, and work earnestly done, even before the partial scene of this present has passed. It is so now. Long had been the discipline of David, frequent the strokes by which heart and life had been smitten, keen and agonizing the misconceptions from which he had suffered, and the misconstructions put upon his generous conduct, and sharply had the iron of disappointment entered into his susceptible nature. But now, "tis no longer the chapter of accidents; it is the chapter of victories. A series of joyful successes, of triumphs, of honours, came to him. And it was because God "remembered" him and "visited" him and blessed him no longer with the more hidden mercies proper to the time of preparation and discipline, but with these manifest, published mercies proper to one who had" borne the yoke in his youth," and who had in his measure "seen affliction by the rod of his wrath.
II THE GOD WHO LENGTHENS OUT HIS PROVIDENTIAL PROTECTION OF HIS SERVANT. How true it is that "the gifts and calling of God are without repentance"! He has never forsaken David. He does not weary of him. He does not change for caprice" sake his servant, to use a younger, a fresher, a choicer. No, he keeps by him, and "preserves him whithersoever he" goes. He is his Shield and Buckler and Defence. He guides him by day and guards him by night. He makes his enemies either fall before him or flee before him. He counsels him and surrounds him with faithful counsellors, captains of his armies, priests of the Church. This is the time that, through the goodness of a faithful Providence, his corn and his wine, and his gold and silver, are increased, and a "table is spread before him, e"en in the presence of his enemies."! Not a day just now but David feels what a glory it is to be the servant of God, and what safety there is with him.
III THE CONTINUED FAITHFUL DEVOTION ON THE PART OF THE SERVANT OF LIFE AND POWER TO HIS GREAT MASTER. His wars are against the enemies of God and the people of God. There is no sign of personal and ambitious objects in what David is doing. He "reigns over all Israel," and thus reigning he "executes judgment and justice among all his people." He does not forget his responsibilities in the time of rank, dignity, luxury, nor surrender himself to indulgence. It is evident he holds himself, still the servant of God, the willing, conscious, intelligent instrument for his use. In undoubted "authority," his conduct is not that, his bearing is not that, that ever exposes him to the finger of just satire or ridicule as one who is dressed in a "little brief authority," and for reality and true dignity satisfies himself with display. The reaction from poverty, persecution, subordination, and grief is not what many bear well. Thus far David has come through the trial well. He bears the burden nobly, even as bravely he lifted it to his shoulders; and if God has not forgotten his servant, neither does David show any sign of forgetting that he is God"s servant.
IV THE UNDIMINISHED INTEREST OF A GREAT RELIGIOUS DEVOTION STILL POSSESSING THE THOUGHT AND HEART OF DAVID. There were no doubt considerations which we may suppose to nave been present to the mind of David, in the destined promotion and dignity of Solomon, ancillary to his own continued deep interest in the projected temple. Yet we should not be justified in putting all his sustained devotion down to this source. The project had been a native of ms own heart. And he does not mean to disown "the better part" of faith because he is disappointed in sight. David was now one of the honoured rank of those "kings and prophets who desired to see a certain sight, but died without seeing it. The Pisgah-glimpse possible to him is that which could come of faith indeed, but of faith only. Yet his disappointment has not soured him, his refusal has not turned him sulky. He loves to think of that "habitation of God"s house" still. He can"t envy his own son; and to console nevertheless his disappointment that he shall not see the glorious stones laid one upon another, towering aloft, and the picked cedars, and the gold flashing again in the sun, his thoughts fill the time with collecting, and getting, and giving, and dedicating for these ends. It was always now in David"s thought. The shields of gold and the brass and the silver are all sacred at once in his thought to one purpose. This is some of the noblest of the Divine working in the heart and life that are but human after all. The eye of David shall not see the reared temple, but his thought and purpose and love are laid with its foundations, and reach to its highest pinnacle. And the most magnificent block of its stone, the finest timber of all its cedar, the gold that reflected most brilliantly the light, of all that was in it, may have been those which the eye and the hand too of David did surely and literally touch. Such confidence may all the servants of God entertain.
HOMILIES BY W. CLARKSON Vers. 1-12.
The Christian campaign.
As "David smote the Philistines and subdued them," so we, engaged in a holy warfare, must live to smite and to subdue the enemies of God. Our Christian life cannot be fully represented under any one image, but if it can be said to be one thing more than another, it is a long spiritual campaign. We ask what are
I THE ENEMIES WHOM WE HAVE TO SLAY. These are not visible Philistines, Moabites, Syrians, such as presented themselves against David, sword in hand. The adversaries of our souls and of God are:
1. Invisible spiritual forces. (Eph_6:12)
2. Evil things embodied in the outer world. In
(1) ungodly men, who deliberately tempt us to depart from rectitude; and
(2) unfaithful Christian men, whose tone or type of character is lower than our own, and who, unwittingly to themselves and imperceptibly to us, draw us down towards their own spiritual level;
(3) unchristian institutions.
3. Evil forces within our own soul. A man"s worst foes are those of thehousehold of his own heart his own tendencies to pride, to self-will, to indulgence, to worldliness.
II THE WEAPONS OF OUR WARFARE. David"s weapons on his fields of battle were sword and shield, spear and bow, war-chariots and horses. "The weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty to the pulling down of strongholds". (2Co_10:4) They are:
1. The sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God.
2. The force of Christian sympathy and zeal.
3. The co-operation of single-minded, earnest men.
III OUR HOPE OF SUCCESS. David looked to
(1) his own generalship;
(2) the support of his "mighty men;
(3) the valour and discipline of his troops; but especially and mainly to
(4) the presence and power of the living god.
We look to
(1) the perfect fitness of the truth we preach for the hearts and wants of men;
(2) the presence and power of the Almighty Spirit of our God. He it is who "causeth us to triumph.
IV THE SPOILS OF VICTORY. These in David"s wars were towns (ver. 1), subjects (vers. 2, 6), gifts (vers. 2, 6), chariots and horses (ver. 4), gold and brass (vers. 7, 8), political alliance (vers. 9, 10). Other spoils than these are the reward of victory in the Christian strife. They are:
1. Regenerated human souls. "He that converteth a sinner," etc.. (Jam_5:20) "What is our crown of rejoicing? Are not even ye," etc.?. (1Co 2:18) Those whom we have been the means of enlightening and redeeming are the spoils we "bring home," the crown we wear.
2. Faculties and forces restored to their rightful use. David took "very much brass wherewith Solomon made the brazen sea," etc. (ver. 8), for the house of the Lord (ver. 11; 2Ch_4:12, 2Ch_4:15, 2Ch_4:16) Thus were the possessions of the enemy made to contribute to the service of Jehovah. It is the truest of all triumphs when we succeed in so changing the spirit of men that the time, the thought, the money, the energy which they had given to the service of sin they now devote to the cause of Christ and to the wellbeing of the world. C.
HOMILIES BY F. WHITFIELD Vers. 1-5, 12, 13.
David"s wars.
This chapter opens with an account of David"s wars, followed by a succession of brilliant victories. Following on the previous chapter, though separated from it by a considerable length of time, it brings before us much spiritual instruction. The previous chapter contains an account of the many "exceeding great and precious promises" made to David, his confidence in them, and also that which invariably flows out of such grace his communion with God. Communion with God is the outcome of grace received. But out of realized grace and communion with God flow warfare and victory. This is the opening record of this chapter. The former supplies strength for the latter, and he who goes forth from his knees to fight the good fight of faith will, in every battle, be "more than conqueror" through him that loves him. And mark how David is single-handed among many foes, and all of diverse character. "Edom, Moab, the children of Ammon, the Philistines, Amalek, and the Syrians. What a host, and how diverse! Yet God"s eye follows the single-handed servant amid all these foes. A "wall of fire" is round about him Lord preserved David whithersoever he went." So is it with every servant of God who goes forth to fight the Lord"s battles direct from communion. "Victory!" is inscribed on his banner. He is invincible, because "strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might." He may be single-handed, and his foes may be legion and of every character, but he triumphs over all and, like David here, lays all the trophies of victory at the Saviour"s feet. 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 vv1, 14 Now after this it came to pass that David…
1Ch_18:1-12
Now after this it came to pass that David smote the Philistines.
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Spoils from Edom
If we have conquered an enemy we must hold the conquest as an illustration of the power of God rather than of the skill of our own might or hand. The idols which we bring away from the lands of darkness are to be set up in Gods house, and are to mark points in the progress of Christian civilisation. They are to be regarded as indications of a universal conquest which Christ has yet to win over the nations of the whole world. If we have brought back spoils--such as art, music, or any form of pleasure by which the popular mind can be touched and moved in an upward direction--we are to remember that in all these spoils we are to see the Divine power, and not proofs of our own military genius. (J. Parker, D. D.)
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, parallel with 2 Samuel 8,…
CRITICAL NOTES.] This chapter, parallel with 2 Samuel 8, gives an account of David’s wars (1Ch_18:1-13); and a list of his chief officers.
1Ch_18:1-2.—Gath, “the arm bridle,” so called (2Sa_8:1) for its supremacy, as capital of Philistia, over other towns, or because in its capture and dependencies, David gained complete control of his restless neighbours. Moab. Severities by which they were treated, and probable reason for such retribution, given in Sam. Gifts, i.e., became tributary to Israel.
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1Ch_18:3-8.—Zobah conquered. Had., “derived from Hadad, a Syrian deity. It seems to have become the official and hereditary title of the rulers of that kingdom” [Jam.]. 1Ch_18:4. Chariots. Great discrepancy between this and 2Sa_8:3-14. Houghed, i.e., cut the sinews, lamed the horses, and made chariots useless. 1Ch_18:6. Garrisons, not in text, rightly restored from Sam. [Speak. Com.]. 1Ch_18:7. Shields, indicative of wealth. 1Ch_18:8. These places specially given on account of brass or copper obtained there.
1Ch_18:9-11.—Congratulations from Tou (Toi in Sam.). 1Ch_18:10. Had., Joram. Enquire, “to greet him and congratulate him.” Had war, lit. was a man of wars (cf. Isa_41:12). 1Ch_18:11. Edom, from Aram; more fully in 2 Samuel 8.
1Ch_18:12-13.—Edomites, having provoked David, he sent an army, subdued and made their country a tributary province. Valley of Salt south of Salt Sea. This annexation of Edom enlarged Israel on south-east to Red Sea, fulfilled divine prediction (Exo_23:31), and gave command of its ports.
1Ch_18:14-17.—Officers of the King. Joab, supreme command, minister of war. Jehos., not keeper of records merely; but referee on internal affairs, the chancellor, who drew up and issued royal decrees. Zadok, became high-priest after David’s accession, through his father Ahitub, a descendant of Aaron’s son Eleazar. Abim., Ahimelech, through Abiathar from Ithamar, younger son of Aaron (1Ch_24:3-6). Shavsha, a variant from “Shisha” (1Ki_4:3); the “Sheva” of 2Sa_22:25, and the “Seraiah” of 2Sa_8:17, are probably corrupt readings [Speak. Com.]. Scribe, State Secretary. 1Ch_18:17. Ben., a mighty warrior of Kabzeel (2Sa_23:20-23). Cher. and the Pel., the royal body-guard attached to the king’s court and person. Chief, heads or princes, officers in the palace.
HOMILETICS
DAVID’S WARS.—1Ch_18:1-8
A short time elapsed between events of last chapter and events of this, but David ready for active service. Wonderful promises stirred up to brave deeds.
I. The Philistines are subdued (1Ch_18:1). Ancient inveterate enemies, finally smitten, bereft of their capital and their towns. “David smote the Philistines and subdued (humbled) them” (2Sa_8:1). All must fall before the authority of Christ.
II. The Moabites are smitten. Why Moab was at enmity with David not known, formerly on friendly terms (1Sa_22:3-4). The severe punishment inflicted upon them implies some grave offence. They became servants and paid tribute for a long time. Balaam’s prediction now fulfilled (Num_24:17).
III. Hadarezer, king of Zobah, defeated. A powerful king, reigned over a country central and convenient for help.
1. Defeated when trying to enlarge his kingdom. “He went to stablish his dominion” shaken by Saul and to confirm after regaining it. One thing lost by grasping at another. Worldly possessions uncertain. Wealth, power, and empire often taken when possessors seek to stablish them.
2. Defeated when allied with Syrians. Allies in vain when God is opposed. Hand may join hand, enemies of God’s people may contribute their men and their stores, but they often combine to ruin themselves. Their wealth aid up for the just, and the spoils of nations help to adorn the house and kingdom of God.
IV. The Edomites are conquered (1Ch_18:13). David’s splendour increased by another victory. Edomites fancied that David’s wars in north would give them quiet possession of the southern part of Israelitish territory. But returning from the conquest of Aramœans and Ammonites he engaged Edomites in Valley of Salt, slew eighteen thousand, and garrisoned the country. Thus, from north to south, Israel’s enemies were overcome. David’s wars were wars of God. He overcame, as we must overcome, by God’s presence and help. “He causeth us to triumph.”
CONGRATULATIONS OF THE KING OF HAMATH.—1Ch_18:9-11
Toi heard of the decisive victory over Hadarezer, sent an embassy to greet David and congratulate him on success. Look at this—
I. As an Eastern custom. “Who in the East has not witnessed similar things? Has a man gained a case in a court of law; has he been blessed by the birth of a son; has he given his daughter in marriage; has he gained a situation under government; has he returned from a voyage or a journey, or finished a successful speculation; then his friends and neighbours send messengers to congratulate him—to express the joy they feel in his prosperity; so much so that had it come to themselves their pleasure could not have been greater” [Roberts].
II. As a stroke of policy. Had carried on constant war with Toi. Hence joy at deliverance from an enemy and anxiety to be friendly with the conqueror. It is our interest to be on terms with God and his people. “Kiss the son (be subject to him and reverance him), lest he be angry, and ye perish from the way when his wrath is kindled but a little” (Psa_2:12).
III. As an expression of friendship. Toi sent his son to seek friendly alliance. The rich presents an expression of respect and submission. Friendship with God procured by dedication of heart and life to him.
CONSECRATED SPOILS.—1Ch_18:11
Need not approve of all David’s actions in war, but may commend his spirit and example in the disposal of his booty.
I. As an evidence of loyalty to God. Many princes adorned their palaces, beautified the arms of their soldiers, or preserved the spoils of the enemy for their own aggrandisement. David set them apart from profane to sacred use, put them into the treasury of the sanctuary. An instance of gratitude to God, by whose aid he had gained them, seldom imitated by victorious kings. Men not always faithful in prosperity. If we are successful in studies, business, and pursuits, let us devote our spoils, our knowledge, wealth, and influence to him from whom comes every gift.
II. As a help to the furtherance of God’s cause. David gained subjects, territories, and political alliance; received gifts of horses and chariots, gold and brass, but all consecrated to lawful use. Presents of friends and spoils of enemies devoted to the Lord, and helped to rear and adorn the temple. Many refuse gifts from worldly men for religious purposes, disparage liberality on the ground that God cares not for material wealth. But God connects the wealth with the work of men. Christ regards whatever is done to his people as done to himself, and heathens will turn and bring presents to him (Isa_60:6).
DAVID’S ADMINISTRATION AND OFFICERS.—1Ch_18:13-17
Besides military exploits and activity, a description of internal government with its officials and their duties.
I. David’s government was righteous government. One or two qualities chronicled. “He executed judgment and justice among all the people.” Right and purity not always connected with authority. Society is maintained and its advantages consolidated by justice. Just rulers make contented and united people. Justice in the court, on the bench, and in the ranks exalts a nation, and gives it a sacred mission to the world.
II. David’s officers were eminent men. The most eminent of the age composed his cabinet. The commander-in-chief, clever, courageous, and renowned for military achievements. Faithful to the king, not always to principle. The chancellor correctly published royal decrees and registered events in the State archives. The body-guard round the king and priests before the altar, each in his place and work, gave influence to the reign, and felt honoured in the service. Thus David’s rule not only associated with military prowess, but poetic genius and personal piety. Remarkable for men of rank and administrative ability, and did more for Israel than Charlemagne did for Europe or Alfred for England.
HOMILETIC HINTS AND SUGGESTIONS
1Ch_18:1 to 1Ch_3:1. How trying the life of David! Its wars, toils, hardships, and perils great and numerous.
2. Yet how happy the life of David! God preserved him, gave honour and success. He rendered true service; never separated any part from God to keep for self. This severs from divine care. If we take our lives wilfully into our hands, and devote them to our own selfish pursuits, God withdraws special grace, we fall into the enemy’s hands, and fail to accomplish the work we might have done.
1Ch_18:13. The Lord preserved David.
1. From spiritual pride. In exaltation, power and success in battle.
2. From personal injury in war. Often in danger, but an unseen hand sustained him.
3. From disgraceful defeat. Many commanders lost their lives, and kings their crowns.
4. From unjust government. He began with no fatal blunder, levied no unjust taxes, introduced no unwise policy, nor created any disloyalty. He reigned in the affections of the people, gave the glory to God, and was preserved in honour and prosperity.
1Ch_18:9-13. Lessons from David’s years of warfare.
1. A pious man may have many enemies.
2. A pious man may be required to spend much of his life in war.
3. A pious man may be compelled to inflict severe punishments.
4. A pious man, even though not always prospered or preserved, is always guided and blessed.
5. A pious man will rejoice to consecrate the richest results of his struggles and toils to God [Lange. 2 Samuel 8].
ILLUSTRATIONS TO CHAPTER 18
1Ch_18:4. Houghed. The reason of this mutilation was that, horses being forbidden by the Mosaic constitution to the Hebrews, both in war and in agriculture, it was of no use to keep them; and their neighbours placing much dependence on cavalry, but having, for want of a native breed, to procure them by purchase, the greatest damage that could be done to such enemies was to render their horses unserviceable in war (cf. Gen_49:6; Jos_11:6-9) [Jamieson].
1Ch_18:11. Dedicate. Eastern princes have always been accustomed to hoard up vast quantities of gold [see Layard, “Nineveh and its Remains,” II., p. 344]. This is the first instance of a practice uniformly followed by David, of reserving, after defraying expenses and bestowing suitable rewards upon his soldiers, the remainder of the spoil taken in war, to accumulate for the grand project of his life—the erection of a national temple at Jerusalem [Ibid.].
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 David's Wars and Officers of State
David's Wars and Officers of State
This chapter is closely parallel to 2Sa_8:1-18, but with some variations in names and numbers.
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1. Gath] probably meant to explain the difficult phrase 'Metheg-ammah' which occurs in 2Sa_8:1. Gath was independent in the time of Solomon: 1Ki_2:39.
3. Hadarezer] 2Sa_8:3 has 'Hadadezer,' which is more correct,' Hadad' being the name of a Syrian god and 'Hadadezer' being a formation parallel to 'Eliezer.'
4. An hundred chariots] RV 'for an hundred chariots.'
8. The pillars] i.e. the two columns in front of the porch of the Temple.
12. Abishai] In Psalms 60 (title) this success is attributed to Joab, and the number of the slain is stated at 12,000.
16. Abimelech the son of Abiathar] This should be 'Abiathar the son of Abimelech': see on 1Sa_22:20; 2Sa_15:29; 2Sa_20:25.
17. Chief about the king] 2Sa_8:18; AV has 'Chief rulers,' but the RV has 'Priests.' For the latter word the Chronicler. substitutes a different expression, because the sons of David belonged not to the priestly tribe of Levi but to Judah.
J. R. Dummelow, A Commentary on the Holy Bible (Macmillan, 1909) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword module.
C. I. Scofield 1917 · Public Domain On vv8, 12 Called Betah, and Berothai. 2Sa 8:8.
Tibhath
Called Betah, and Berothai. 2Sa 8:8.
The Scofield Reference Bible (1917 edition), notes by C. I. Scofield — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword module.
Arno C. Gaebelein 1922 · Public Domain On v1 8. David’s Wars and Successful Reign
8. David’s Wars and Successful Reign
CHAPTER 18
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1. War with the Philistines (1Ch 18:1)
2. War with Moab (1Ch 18:2)
3. War with Zobah (1Ch 18:3-4)
4. War with Damascus (1Ch 18:5-11)
5. Wars with Edom (1Ch 18:12-13)
6. David’s administration (1Ch 18:14-17)
After such glorious experiences David went forth as the victorious warrior-king to conquer the enemies of Israel. He first smote the Philistines, subdued them and took Gath and her towns. Gath, the chief city of the Philistines, is called in 2Sa 8:1 “Metheg-aminah,” which means “the bridle of the mother city.” Then he smote Moab and they became his servants and brought presents. Great are the conquests and victories of David recorded in this chapter. From Hadarezer, King of Zobah, he took 1,000 chariots, 7,000 horsemen and 20,000 footmen. (2Sa 8:4 has 700, which is a copyist’s error.) Then the Syrians came to help the King of Zobah and lost 22,000 men. Then the Syrians also became his servants and brought presents. “And the LORD gave victory to David whithersoever he went.” In all this we see foreshadowed the triumphs of our Lord Jesus Christ, when He comes as the victorious King and His enemies shall all be subdued.
All the spoil taken, the shields of gold, were brought to Jerusalem. From Tibhath and from Chun, cities which belonged to Hadarezer, David took very much brass. The brazen sea, the pillars and the vessels of brass for the temple were made by Solomon out of this material. Silver and gold which he carried away from all the conquered nations were all dedicated unto the Lord. And in a future day shall the silver and the gold of the Gentiles be brought to Jerusalem (Isa 60:6; Isa 60:17; Psa 72:10). So David reigned over all Israel, and executed judgment and justice among all his people.
Arno C. Gaebelein, The Annotated Bible (1913–1922) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword module.
Paul E. Kretzmann 1924 · Public Domain On vv1, 9 War With The Philistines, Moabites, and Syrians
War With The Philistines, Moabites, and Syrians
v. 1. Now, after this it came to pass that David smote the Philistines, over whom he had already gained two victories, 1Ch 14:8-16, and subdued them, and took Gath and her towns, one of the five Philistine city-states, out of the hands of the Philistines.
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v. 2. And he smote Moab, the heathen nation southeast of the Dead Sea; and the Moabites became David’s servants, his tributary vassals, and brought gifts. Cf 2Sa 8:1-2.
v. 3. And David smote Hadarezer (or Hadadezer), king of Zobah, unto, rather, toward, Hamath, his territory lying north or northeast of Damascus, as he went to stablish his dominion by the river Euphrates, in an effort to get the supremacy of the Syrian states.
v. 4. And David took from him a thousand chariots and seven thousand horsemen and twenty thousand footmen. The apparent discrepancy between this statement and that of 2Sa 8:4 is due to the fact that in the latter passage the Hebrew text is a trifle corrupt. David also houghed all the chariot horses, by hamstringing them, but reserved of them an hundred chariots, probably for a triumphal procession upon his return.
v. 5. And when the Syrians of Damascus, who now held the supremacy in the Syrian countries, came to help Hadarezer, king of Zobah, David slew of the Syrians, in defeating their army utterly, two and twenty thousand men.
v. 6. Then David put garrisons in Syria-damascus, as in a tributary country. And the Syrians became David’s servants and brought gifts, regular tribute money. Thus the Lord preserved David whithersoever he went.
v. 7. And David took the shields, the arms or equipments, of gold that were on the servants of Hadarezer, with which his soldiers were equipped, and brought them to Jerusalem, into the treasury of the Sanctuary.
v. 8. Likewise from Tibbath (probably Tebah) and from Chun, cities of Hadarezer, towns through which the main caravan road to the Euphrates ran, brought David very much brass, wherewith Solomon made the brazen sea, and the pillars, and the vessels of brass, 1Ki 7:15-23. Thus the kingdom of David was extended as far as the Euphrates, because the Lord was with him. Even so the believers prosper under God’s blessings in all that His goodness bestows upon them.
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, 7, 9, 12, 14 After this
After this
"After God's promise to bless David"
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it came about
This phrase is used here to mark the beginning of a new part of the story. If your language has a way for doing this, you could consider using it here.
translationWords
David
Philistines
Gath
Moab
tribute
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 vv1, 2, 14 18:1–20:8 This section recounts David’s wars and military achievements,…
18:1–20:8 This section recounts David’s wars and military achievements, presenting David as the great warrior of Israel’s history. This account relates the public and political aspects of David’s enemies, but it deals very little with their private affairs. • Three distinct sections reflect accounts in Samuel: (1) the battles in the expansion of the kingdom (18:1-17; see 2 Sam 8:1-16); (2) the battle against the Ammonites (1 Chr 19:1–20:3; see 2 Sam 10:1–11:1; 12:30-31); and (3) the exploits of David’s mighty men (1 Chr 20:4-8; see 2 Sam 21:18-22). Each section begins with a chronological transition (after this) that loosely joins these events (1 Chr 18:1; 19:1; 20:4).
18:1-17 These war records tell the story of David’s expanding kingdom in conquering the Philistines (18:1), Moab (18:2), Zobah (18:3-4), Damascus (18:5-6), and Edom (18:12-13); these include records of David’s international relations, spoils, and tribute (18:7-11). A recurring theme is that the Lord made David victorious wherever he went (18:6, 13).
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18:1 The Philistines posed a constant threat to David’s kingdom (see study notes on Josh 13:2; 19:43; Judg 3:3). They remained entrenched in their coastal settlements; although David conquered Gath and its surrounding towns, a Philistine king remained in Gath at the end of David’s reign (1 Kgs 2:39).
Tyndale Open Study Notes — © Tyndale Open Resources, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0. Text via the HelloAO Bible API.