2 Samuel 23 summary meaning ai explained commentary

2 Samuel 23 meaning explained in AI Summary

This chapter can be divided into two main parts:

Part 1: David's Last Words (verses 1-7)

David's Final Message (1-4): The chapter begins by emphasizing that these are the last words of David, a man chosen by God and empowered by His Spirit. He uses poetic language to describe a just and righteous ruler, comparing him to the light of the morning sun after the rain. This ideal king likely reflects David's own aspirations and his understanding of God's covenant with him.
God's Covenant with David (5-7): David acknowledges that his own house is not perfect, but he finds hope in God's everlasting covenant with him. This covenant promises an enduring dynasty and is described as "all my salvation and all my desire." This section highlights the importance of God's faithfulness, even when humans fall short.

Part 2: David's Mighty Warriors (verses 8-39)

Introduction of the Mighty Warriors (8-12): The narrative shifts to introduce David's mighty warriors, men of exceptional strength and courage who fought alongside him. The text highlights their individual feats, emphasizing their loyalty and bravery.
Exploits of the Three (13-23): The chapter focuses on the exploits of David's three most valiant warriors: Josheb-Basshebeth, Eleazar, and Shammah. Each story showcases their extraordinary courage and willingness to risk their lives for David, even in seemingly impossible situations.
List of the Thirty (24-39): The chapter concludes with a list of the names and brief descriptions of David's "Thirty," his elite fighting force. This list serves as a testament to the loyalty and strength of the men who fought alongside David, solidifying his legacy as a great warrior king.

Overall, 2 Samuel 23 serves as a powerful conclusion to David's reign. It highlights his faith in God's covenant, his leadership qualities, and the unwavering loyalty of his mighty warriors. The chapter ends on a note of triumph and remembrance, celebrating the legacy of David and his men.

2 Samuel 23 bible study ai commentary

This chapter serves as a literary and theological capstone to the main narrative of David's reign. It pairs David's final, inspired oracle about the ideal, God-fearing ruler—a prophecy ultimately fulfilled in the Messiah—with a commemorative honor roll of the heroic warriors who were instrumental in establishing his earthly kingdom. The chapter masterfully juxtaposes the divine promise of a perfect king with the human loyalty and sacrifice that built the kingdom, creating a testament to both God's covenant faithfulness and the valor of David's followers.

2 Samuel 23 context

Historically, this chapter, along with chapter 22 (David's song) and 24 (the census), forms an appendix to the books of Samuel. It is not in strict chronological order but is placed thematically to conclude the account of David's life. Such lists of elite warriors were common in ancient Near Eastern royal annals, serving to honor key figures and legitimize the king's power by showcasing the strength of his administration and military. The inclusion of Uriah the Hittite at the end of the list serves as a powerful and intentional literary device, reminding the original audience that even in glory, the shadow of David's great sin remains.

2 Samuel 23:1-7

1 Now these are the last words of David. The oracle of David the son of Jesse, the oracle of the man who was raised on high, the anointed of the God of Jacob, the sweet psalmist of Israel: 2 “The Spirit of the LORD speaks by me; his word is on my tongue. 3 The God of Israel has spoken; the Rock of Israel has said to me: When one rules justly over men, ruling in the fear of God, 4 he dawns on them like the morning light, like the sun shining forth on a cloudless morning, like rain that makes grass sprout from the earth. 5 For does not my house stand so with God? For he has made with me an everlasting covenant, ordered in all things and secure. For will he not make all my salvation and all my desire to grow? 6 But worthless men are all like thorns that are thrown away, for they cannot be taken with the hand; 7 but the man who touches them arms himself with iron and the shaft of a spear, and they are utterly burned with fire in their place.”

In-depth-analysis

v. 1: David is identified by his humble origins ("son of Jesse") and his divinely appointed status ("raised on high," "anointed").
- Word: nə'um (oracle). A term for a divine utterance, often used by prophets, elevating these words beyond mere personal reflection to the level of prophecy.
- Word: māšîaḥ (anointed one/Messiah). Directly connects David’s role to the Messianic line, establishing him as a type of the ultimate anointed King.
v. 2: David claims direct divine inspiration for this poem, asserting that the Spirit of the LORD is the source of his words. This establishes the authority and prophetic nature of the following verses.
v. 3-4: This is the core of the oracle. It presents the ideal for a ruler, a standard that David himself did not always meet, but which points to a future, perfect King.
- The rule is defined by justice (beṣedeq) and reverence (bəyir'at 'ĕlōhîm').
- The effect of such a rule is described with powerful, life-giving metaphors: light, sun, a clear morning, and flourishing growth. This contrasts sharply with the chaos and death under poor leadership.
v. 5: A statement of faith and humility. David acknowledges his own house's imperfection ("is not so with God"), but his confidence is not in his own performance but in God's "everlasting covenant" (berîṯ 'ôlām). This covenant, detailed in 2 Samuel 7, is his ultimate security and hope.
v. 6-7: A stark contrast to the righteous ruler. The "worthless men" (belîyaal`, often a term for deep-seated evil) are compared to thorns. They are dangerous, useless for good, and destined for fiery judgment. This depicts the fate of those who oppose God's anointed and His kingdom.

Bible references

2 Sam 7:16: 'And your house and your kingdom shall be made sure forever before me. Your throne shall be established forever.' (The everlasting covenant that is the basis of David's hope in v. 5).
Isa 11:1-5: 'There shall come forth a shoot from the stump of Jesse... And the Spirit of the LORD shall rest upon him... with righteousness he shall judge the poor...' (A prophetic expansion of the ideal ruler described here).
Acts 2:30: 'Being therefore a prophet, and knowing that God had sworn with an oath to him... he foresaw and spoke about the resurrection of the Christ.' (The New Testament confirming David as a prophet who spoke of the Messiah).
Heb 1:3: 'He is the radiance of the glory of God...' (Christ described with the same light/radiance imagery used for the ideal king in v. 4).
Matt 13:40-42: 'So it will be at the end of the age. The Son of Man will... gather out of his kingdom all causes of sin and all law-breakers, and throw them into the fiery furnace.' (The judgment of the worthless/thorns described in v. 7).

Cross references

2 Tim 2:13 (God's faithfulness despite our unfaithfulness), Mal 4:2 (sun of righteousness rising), Isa 55:3 (everlasting covenant), Matt 3:10 (trees not bearing fruit cut down and burned), Rev 22:16 ("I, Jesus, have sent my angel... I am the root and the descendant of David, the bright morning star.").

2 Samuel 23:8-12

8 These are the names of the mighty men whom David had: Josheb-basshebeth a Tahchemonite; he was chief of the three. He wielded his spear against eight hundred whom he killed at one time. 9 And next to him among the three mighty men was Eleazar the son of Dodo, son of Ahohi. He was with David when they defied the Philistines who were gathered there for battle, and the men of Israel withdrew. 10 He rose and struck down the Philistines until his hand was weary, and his hand clung to the sword. And the LORD brought about a great victory that day... 11 And next to him was Shammah, the son of Agee the Hararite. The Philistines gathered together at Lehi, where there was a plot of ground full of lentils, and the people fled from the Philistines. 12 But he took his stand in the midst of the plot and defended it and struck down the Philistines, and the LORD brought about a great victory.

In-depth-analysis

This section introduces the elite special forces unit of David's army, "The Three." These are the most celebrated of all his warriors.
v. 8: Josheb-basshebeth (also called Jashobeam in 1 Chronicles 11:11). The text here is likely corrupted; the name in Chronicles is considered more original. The feat of killing 800 (Chronicles has 300) highlights his exceptional prowess. The numbers may be literal or symbolic of a great slaughter.
v. 9-10: Eleazar’s story emphasizes steadfastness. While others retreated, he stood his ground. His hand "clinging" or "freezing" to the sword is a graphic image of relentless combat. Crucially, the verse credits God: "the LORD brought about a great victory."
v. 11-12: Shammah’s story is similar. He defends a plot of land—a field of lentils. This seems mundane, but it symbolized defending the inheritance and livelihood of Israel from invaders. He refuses to yield even a small piece of the promised land. Again, the victory is attributed to God.

Bible references

1 Chron 11:11: 'This is the list of the mighty men whom David had: Jashobeam, the son of Hachmoni, chief of the three. He wielded his spear against three hundred whom he killed at one time.' (The parallel account, showing textual variations in name and number).
1 Sam 17:50: 'So David prevailed over the Philistine with a sling and with a stone...' (An earlier instance of God bringing a great victory through one man against the Philistines).
Eph 6:13: 'Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm.' (Echoes the theme of "taking a stand" as Shammah did).

Cross references

Josh 1:9 (be strong and courageous), Deut 32:30 (one can chase a thousand with God), Judg 15:14-15 (Samson's victory at Lehi).

2 Samuel 23:13-17

13 And three of the thirty chief men went down and came about harvest time to David at the cave of Adullam, when a troop of Philistines was encamped in the Valley of Rephaim. 14 David was then in the stronghold, and the garrison of the Philistines was then at Bethlehem. 15 And David said longingly, “Oh, that someone would give me water to drink from the well of Bethlehem that is by the gate!” 16 Then the three mighty men broke through the camp of the Philistines and drew water from the well of Bethlehem... and brought it to David. But he would not drink it; he poured it out to the LORD 17 and said, “Far be it from me, O LORD, that I should do this. Shall I drink the blood of the men who went at the risk of their lives?” Therefore he would not drink it. These things the three mighty men did.

In-depth-analysis

This story is an interlude showing the character of David and the profound loyalty he inspired. The "three" mentioned here are likely chief men from the "Thirty," not the same top three from vv. 8-12.
v. 15: David's sigh is a nostalgic, private longing, not a command. Bethlehem was his hometown, now occupied by the enemy.
v. 16: The men’s action is one of extravagant loyalty. They hear his wish and risk their lives to fulfill it, breaking through an enemy garrison.
v. 16-17: David’s reaction is profound. He sees the water not as H2O but as the life-blood of his men. To drink it would be to treat their lives lightly. By pouring it out "to the LORD," he consecrates it, treating it as a sacred offering too precious for a mortal king to consume. This act elevates the value of his men's lives above his own desires.
- Polemics: This story is a powerful reversal of David's earlier sin. In chapter 11, he sacrificed Uriah's life to satisfy his own desire (for Bathsheba). Here, he sacrifices his own desire to honor the lives of his men. It demonstrates significant character growth.

Bible references

2 Sam 11:15: 'In the letter he wrote, “Set Uriah in the forefront of the hardest fighting, and then draw back from him, that he may be struck down, and die.”' (The stark contrast to his valuation of life here).
Phil 2:3-4: '...in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.' (An exhortation that David exemplifies in this moment).
John 4:14: '...whoever drinks of the water that I will give him will never be thirsty again. The water that I will give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.' (Jesus as the source of Living Water, fulfilling a deeper thirst).

Cross references

1 Sam 22:1-2 (The cave of Adullam as David's early base), Lev 17:11 (life is in the blood), Mk 14:3-9 (The anointing at Bethany, an act of extravagant devotion that others misunderstand).

2 Samuel 23:18-23

18 Now Abishai, the brother of Joab, the son of Zeruiah, was chief of the thirty. And he wielded his spear against three hundred men and killed them and won a name beside the three. 19 He was the most renowned of the thirty and became their commander, but he did not attain to the three. 20 And Benaiah the son of Jehoiada was a valiant man of Kabzeel, a doer of great deeds. He struck down two ariels of Moab. He also went down and struck down a lion in a pit on a snowy day. 21 And he struck down an Egyptian, a handsome man. The Egyptian had a spear in his hand, but Benaiah went down to him with a staff and snatched the spear out of the Egyptian's hand and killed him with his own spear. 22 These things did Benaiah the son of Jehoiada, and won a name beside the three mighty men. 23 He was renowned among the thirty, but he did not attain to the three. And David set him over his bodyguard.

In-depth-analysis

This section describes the commanders of the "Thirty," a larger group of elite warriors. They are renowned but explicitly ranked below the first "Three."
v. 18-19: Abishai, David's nephew, is noted for his prowess (killing 300) and leadership, yet a clear distinction is made: "he did not attain to the three." This emphasizes the unparalleled status of the first group.
v. 20-23: Benaiah's deeds are legendary.
- Word: ariel (translated "ariels" or "lion-like heroes"). The exact meaning is uncertain, but it clearly refers to formidable Moabite champions.
- The "lion in a pit on a snowy day" is a famous feat, highlighting bravery in treacherous conditions against a fearsome foe.
- Killing an impressive Egyptian warrior with his own weapon demonstrates immense skill and cunning, not just brute strength.
- His reward was command of David's personal bodyguard (mišmaaṯ`), the inner circle of security.

Bible references

1 Sam 26:6-9: '...Abishai said to David, "God has given your enemy into your hand this day..." But David said... "Do not destroy him..."' (Shows Abishai's characteristic boldness and loyalty from early on).
1 Kings 2:25: 'And King Solomon sent Benaiah the son of Jehoiada, and he struck him down, and he died.' (Shows Benaiah's continued loyalty and service under Solomon).

Cross references

2 Sam 2:18 (Abishai's first mention), 1 Chron 11:20-25 (parallel account), 1 Chron 27:5-6 (Benaiah's role in the administration).

2 Samuel 23:24-39

24 Asahel the brother of Joab was one of the thirty; Elhanan the son of Dodo of Bethlehem, 25 Shammah of Harod, Elika of Harod, ... [list continues] ... 35 Helem the son of Arah the Archite, 36 Igal the son of Nathan of Zobah, Bani the Gadite, 37 Zelek the Ammonite, Naharai of Beeroth, the armor-bearer of Joab the son of Zeruiah, 38 Ira the Ithrite, Gareb the Ithrite, 39 Uriah the Hittite: thirty-seven in all.

In-depth-analysis

This is the muster roll of the famed group known as "The Thirty."
The Number: The text says they were "thirty-seven in all" (v. 39). The list itself contains around 31 names, not including the commanders Abishai and Benaiah. The term "The Thirty" likely functioned as a unit designation (like the "SAS" or "Navy SEALs") rather than a strict headcount. The total number likely includes commanders and men who replaced those killed in action over many years.
Notable Inclusions:
- v. 24, Asahel: Abishai's brother, who was killed early in the civil war by Abner (2 Sam 2:23). His inclusion shows this list is a composite roll call spanning David's entire reign.
- v. 37, Armor-bearer of Joab: His inclusion is unique, as he is named not for his own lineage but for his role serving another warrior, highlighting the honor in loyal service.
v. 39, Uriah the Hittite: The final name on the list is a stunning, tragic, and intentional literary punch. It forces the reader to end David's roll of honor by remembering his most dishonorable act: the murder of one of his most loyal, elite foreign-born soldiers to cover up adultery. It is a permanent, sobering reminder that God's grace to David does not erase the sin or its consequences.

Bible references

1 Chron 11:26-47: (The parallel list in Chronicles, which contains additional names, suggesting it was compiled from slightly different sources or for a later period).
2 Sam 2:18-23: 'And Asahel was as swift of foot as a wild gazelle... And Abner said to him, "Turn aside..." But he refused to turn aside. Therefore Abner struck him...' (The story of Asahel's death, who is named first in this part of the list).
2 Sam 11:3, 17, 21: 'Is not this Bathsheba, the daughter of Eliam, the wife of Uriah the Hittite?... the men of the city came out and fought with Joab, and some of the servants of David fell, and Uriah the Hittite also died... Who killed Abimelech...? Did not a woman throw an upper millstone on him...? Why did you go so near the wall?ʼ—then you shall say, ‘Your servant Uriah the Hittite is dead also.’' (The entire sordid affair, brought crashing back into the narrative by the simple inclusion of his name).

Cross references

2 Sam 20:23 (Benaiah over the guard), 1 Kings 1:8 (Benaiah's support for Solomon), 2 Sam 12:9-10 (Nathan's condemnation of David's sin against Uriah).

2 Samuel 23 chapter analysis

Structural Juxtaposition: The chapter's genius lies in its two-part structure. It begins with the divine ideal (the Messianic King's prophecy) and ends with human reality (a list of warriors, culminating in the victim of the human king's greatest failure). This highlights the gap between the kingdom's ultimate hope and its flawed, earthly administration.
Theology of Kingdom Building: The chapter makes it clear that David's kingdom was not a solo effort. It was built on the backs of courageous, fiercely loyal men. However, the recurring phrase, "and the LORD brought about a great victory," ensures that God remains the ultimate agent of success, working through human instruments.
The Remnant Principle: A key theme is how a few dedicated individuals can turn the tide of battle when others flee (Eleazar, Shammah). This echoes a broader biblical theme of God using a faithful remnant to accomplish his purposes.
Grace and Sin: Placing Uriah's name at the end of the honor roll is a masterstroke. It's an indelible stain. It means that the story of David's glory can never be told without also remembering his sin. It stands as a final testimony that David, the "sweet psalmist" and "anointed one," was still a fallen man who was utterly dependent on God's "everlasting covenant" of grace, not on his own merit.
Inclusivity: The list includes non-Israelites like "Zelek the Ammonite" and "Uriah the Hittite," demonstrating that service and loyalty to God's anointed king, not ethnicity, were the basis for honor in his kingdom. This foreshadows the gospel's universal reach.

2 Samuel 23 summary

David’s final prophetic words describe the ideal Messianic king, grounding his hope in God's everlasting covenant. This is followed by a memorial list honoring the elite warriors who secured his kingdom through incredible acts of loyalty and bravery, with each victory ultimately attributed to the LORD. The chapter poignantly concludes the list with the name "Uriah the Hittite," a final, sober reminder of David's deep sin and his absolute need for the very grace his oracle celebrated.

2 Samuel 22 AI 2 Samuel 24 AI

2 Samuel 23 AI Image Audio and Video

2 Samuel chapter 23 kjv

¹ Now these be the last words of David. David the son of Jesse said, and the man who was raised up on high, the anointed of the God of Jacob, and the sweet psalmist of Israel, said,
² The Spirit of the LORD spake by me, and his word was in my tongue.
³ The God of Israel said, the Rock of Israel spake to me, He that ruleth over men must be just, ruling in the fear of God.
⁴ And he shall be as the light of the morning, when the sun riseth, even a morning without clouds; as the tender grass springing out of the earth by clear shining after rain.
⁵ Although my house be not so with God; yet he hath made with me an everlasting covenant, ordered in all things, and sure: for this is all my salvation, and all my desire, although he make it not to grow.
⁶ But the sons of Belial shall be all of them as thorns thrust away, because they cannot be taken with hands:
⁷ But the man that shall touch them must be fenced with iron and the staff of a spear; and they shall be utterly burned with fire in the same place.
⁸ These be the names of the mighty men whom David had: The Tachmonite that sat in the seat, chief among the captains; the same was Adino the Eznite: he lift up his spear against eight hundred, whom he slew at one time.
⁹ And after him was Eleazar the son of Dodo the Ahohite, one of the three mighty men with David, when they defied the Philistines that were there gathered together to battle, and the men of Israel were gone away:
¹⁰ He arose, and smote the Philistines until his hand was weary, and his hand clave unto the sword: and the LORD wrought a great victory that day; and the people returned after him only to spoil.
¹¹ And after him was Shammah the son of Agee the Hararite. And the Philistines were gathered together into a troop, where was a piece of ground full of lentils: and the people fled from the Philistines.
¹² But he stood in the midst of the ground, and defended it, and slew the Philistines: and the LORD wrought a great victory.
¹³ And three of the thirty chief went down, and came to David in the harvest time unto the cave of Adullam: and the troop of the Philistines pitched in the valley of Rephaim.
¹⁴ And David was then in an hold, and the garrison of the Philistines was then in Bethlehem.
¹⁵ And David longed, and said, Oh that one would give me drink of the water of the well of Bethlehem, which is by the gate!
¹⁶ And the three mighty men brake through the host of the Philistines, and drew water out of the well of Bethlehem, that was by the gate, and took it, and brought it to David: nevertheless he would not drink thereof, but poured it out unto the LORD.
¹⁷ And he said, Be it far from me, O LORD, that I should do this: is not this the blood of the men that went in jeopardy of their lives? therefore he would not drink it. These things did these three mighty men.
¹⁸ And Abishai, the brother of Joab, the son of Zeruiah, was chief among three. And he lifted up his spear against three hundred, and slew them, and had the name among three.
¹⁹ Was he not most honorable of three? therefore he was their captain: howbeit he attained not unto the first three.
²⁰ And Benaiah the son of Jehoiada, the son of a valiant man, of Kabzeel, who had done many acts, he slew two lionlike men of Moab: he went down also and slew a lion in the midst of a pit in time of snow:
²¹ And he slew an Egyptian, a goodly man: and the Egyptian had a spear in his hand; but he went down to him with a staff, and plucked the spear out of the Egyptian's hand, and slew him with his own spear.
²² These things did Benaiah the son of Jehoiada, and had the name among three mighty men.
²³ He was more honorable than the thirty, but he attained not to the first three. And David set him over his guard.
²⁴ Asahel the brother of Joab was one of the thirty; Elhanan the son of Dodo of Bethlehem,
²⁵ Shammah the Harodite, Elika the Harodite,
²⁶ Helez the Paltite, Ira the son of Ikkesh the Tekoite,
²⁷ Abiezer the Anethothite, Mebunnai the Hushathite,
²⁸ Zalmon the Ahohite, Maharai the Netophathite,
²⁹ Heleb the son of Baanah, a Netophathite, Ittai the son of Ribai out of Gibeah of the children of Benjamin,
³⁰ Benaiah the Pirathonite, Hiddai of the brooks of Gaash,
³¹ Abialbon the Arbathite, Azmaveth the Barhumite,
³² Eliahba the Shaalbonite, of the sons of Jashen, Jonathan,
³³ Shammah the Hararite, Ahiam the son of Sharar the Hararite,
³⁴ Eliphelet the son of Ahasbai, the son of the Maachathite, Eliam the son of Ahithophel the Gilonite,
³⁵ Hezrai the Carmelite, Paarai the Arbite,
³⁶ Igal the son of Nathan of Zobah, Bani the Gadite,
³⁷ Zelek the Ammonite, Nahari the Beerothite, armourbearer to Joab the son of Zeruiah,
³⁸ Ira an Ithrite, Gareb an Ithrite,
³⁹ Uriah the Hittite: thirty and seven in all.

2 Samuel chapter 23 nkjv

¹ Now these are the last words of David. Thus says David the son of Jesse; Thus says the man raised up on high, The anointed of the God of Jacob, And the sweet psalmist of Israel:
² "The Spirit of the LORD spoke by me, And His word was on my tongue.
³ The God of Israel said, The Rock of Israel spoke to me: 'He who rules over men must be just, Ruling in the fear of God.
⁴ And he shall be like the light of the morning when the sun rises, A morning without clouds, Like the tender grass springing out of the earth, By clear shining after rain.'
⁵ "Although my house is not so with God, Yet He has made with me an everlasting covenant, Ordered in all things and secure. For this is all my salvation and all my desire; Will He not make it increase?
⁶ But the sons of rebellion shall all be as thorns thrust away, Because they cannot be taken with hands.
⁷ But the man who touches them Must be armed with iron and the shaft of a spear, And they shall be utterly burned with fire in their place."
⁸ These are the names of the mighty men whom David had: Josheb-Basshebeth the Tachmonite, chief among the captains. He was called Adino the Eznite, because he had killed eight hundred men at one time.
⁹ And after him was Eleazar the son of Dodo, the Ahohite, one of the three mighty men with David when they defied the Philistines who were gathered there for battle, and the men of Israel had retreated.
¹⁰ He arose and attacked the Philistines until his hand was weary, and his hand stuck to the sword. The LORD brought about a great victory that day; and the people returned after him only to plunder.
¹¹ And after him was Shammah the son of Agee the Hararite. The Philistines had gathered together into a troop where there was a piece of ground full of lentils. So the people fled from the Philistines.
¹² But he stationed himself in the middle of the field, defended it, and killed the Philistines. So the LORD brought about a great victory.
¹³ Then three of the thirty chief men went down at harvest time and came to David at the cave of Adullam. And the troop of Philistines encamped in the Valley of Rephaim.
¹⁴ David was then in the stronghold, and the garrison of the Philistines was then in Bethlehem.
¹⁵ And David said with longing, "Oh, that someone would give me a drink of the water from the well of Bethlehem, which is by the gate!"
¹⁶ So the three mighty men broke through the camp of the Philistines, drew water from the well of Bethlehem that was by the gate, and took it and brought it to David. Nevertheless he would not drink it, but poured it out to the LORD.
¹⁷ And he said, "Far be it from me, O LORD, that I should do this! Is this not the blood of the men who went in jeopardy of their lives?" Therefore he would not drink it. These things were done by the three mighty men.
¹⁸ Now Abishai the brother of Joab, the son of Zeruiah, was chief of another three. He lifted his spear against three hundred men, killed them, and won a name among these three.
¹⁹ Was he not the most honored of three? Therefore he became their captain. However, he did not attain to the first three.
²⁰ Benaiah was the son of Jehoiada, the son of a valiant man from Kabzeel, who had done many deeds. He had killed two lion-like heroes of Moab. He also had gone down and killed a lion in the midst of a pit on a snowy day.
²¹ And he killed an Egyptian, a spectacular man. The Egyptian had a spear in his hand; so he went down to him with a staff, wrested the spear out of the Egyptian's hand, and killed him with his own spear.
²² These things Benaiah the son of Jehoiada did, and won a name among three mighty men.
²³ He was more honored than the thirty, but he did not attain to the first three. And David appointed him over his guard.
²⁴ Asahel the brother of Joab was one of the thirty; Elhanan the son of Dodo of Bethlehem,
²⁵ Shammah the Harodite, Elika the Harodite,
²⁶ Helez the Paltite, Ira the son of Ikkesh the Tekoite,
²⁷ Abiezer the Anathothite, Mebunnai the Hushathite,
²⁸ Zalmon the Ahohite, Maharai the Netophathite,
²⁹ Heleb the son of Baanah (the Netophathite), Ittai the son of Ribai from Gibeah of the children of Benjamin,
³⁰ Benaiah a Pirathonite, Hiddai from the brooks of Gaash,
³¹ Abi-Albon the Arbathite, Azmaveth the Barhumite,
³² Eliahba the Shaalbonite (of the sons of Jashen), Jonathan,
³³ Shammah the Hararite, Ahiam the son of Sharar the Hararite,
³⁴ Eliphelet the son of Ahasbai, the son of the Maachathite, Eliam the son of Ahithophel the Gilonite,
³⁵ Hezrai the Carmelite, Paarai the Arbite,
³⁶ Igal the son of Nathan of Zobah, Bani the Gadite,
³⁷ Zelek the Ammonite, Naharai the Beerothite (armorbearer of Joab the son of Zeruiah),
³⁸ Ira the Ithrite, Gareb the Ithrite,
³⁹ and Uriah the Hittite: thirty-seven in all.

2 Samuel chapter 23 niv

¹ These are the last words of David: "The inspired utterance of David son of Jesse, the utterance of the man exalted by the Most High, the man anointed by the God of Jacob, the hero of Israel's songs:
² "The Spirit of the LORD spoke through me; his word was on my tongue.
³ The God of Israel spoke, the Rock of Israel said to me: 'When one rules over people in righteousness, when he rules in the fear of God,
⁴ he is like the light of morning at sunrise on a cloudless morning, like the brightness after rain that brings grass from the earth.'
⁵ "If my house were not right with God, surely he would not have made with me an everlasting covenant, arranged and secured in every part; surely he would not bring to fruition my salvation and grant me my every desire.
⁶ But evil men are all to be cast aside like thorns, which are not gathered with the hand.
⁷ Whoever touches thorns uses a tool of iron or the shaft of a spear; they are burned up where they lie."
⁸ These are the names of David's mighty warriors: Josheb-Basshebeth, a Tahkemonite, was chief of the Three; he raised his spear against eight hundred men, whom he killed in one encounter.
⁹ Next to him was Eleazar son of Dodai the Ahohite. As one of the three mighty warriors, he was with David when they taunted the Philistines gathered at Pas Dammim for battle. Then the Israelites retreated,
¹⁰ but Eleazar stood his ground and struck down the Philistines till his hand grew tired and froze to the sword. The LORD brought about a great victory that day. The troops returned to Eleazar, but only to strip the dead.
¹¹ Next to him was Shammah son of Agee the Hararite. When the Philistines banded together at a place where there was a field full of lentils, Israel's troops fled from them.
¹² But Shammah took his stand in the middle of the field. He defended it and struck the Philistines down, and the LORD brought about a great victory.
¹³ During harvest time, three of the thirty chief warriors came down to David at the cave of Adullam, while a band of Philistines was encamped in the Valley of Rephaim.
¹⁴ At that time David was in the stronghold, and the Philistine garrison was at Bethlehem.
¹⁵ David longed for water and said, "Oh, that someone would get me a drink of water from the well near the gate of Bethlehem!"
¹⁶ So the three mighty warriors broke through the Philistine lines, drew water from the well near the gate of Bethlehem and carried it back to David. But he refused to drink it; instead, he poured it out before the LORD.
¹⁷ "Far be it from me, LORD, to do this!" he said. "Is it not the blood of men who went at the risk of their lives?" And David would not drink it. Such were the exploits of the three mighty warriors.
¹⁸ Abishai the brother of Joab son of Zeruiah was chief of the Three. He raised his spear against three hundred men, whom he killed, and so he became as famous as the Three.
¹⁹ Was he not held in greater honor than the Three? He became their commander, even though he was not included among them.
²⁰ Benaiah son of Jehoiada, a valiant fighter from Kabzeel, performed great exploits. He struck down Moab's two mightiest warriors. He also went down into a pit on a snowy day and killed a lion.
²¹ And he struck down a huge Egyptian. Although the Egyptian had a spear in his hand, Benaiah went against him with a club. He snatched the spear from the Egyptian's hand and killed him with his own spear.
²² Such were the exploits of Benaiah son of Jehoiada; he too was as famous as the three mighty warriors.
²³ He was held in greater honor than any of the Thirty, but he was not included among the Three. And David put him in charge of his bodyguard.
²⁴ Among the Thirty were: Asahel the brother of Joab, Elhanan son of Dodo from Bethlehem,
²⁵ Shammah the Harodite, Elika the Harodite,
²⁶ Helez the Paltite, Ira son of Ikkesh from Tekoa,
²⁷ Abiezer from Anathoth, Sibbekai the Hushathite,
²⁸ Zalmon the Ahohite, Maharai the Netophathite,
²⁹ Heled son of Baanah the Netophathite, Ithai son of Ribai from Gibeah in Benjamin,
³⁰ Benaiah the Pirathonite, Hiddai from the ravines of Gaash,
³¹ Abi-Albon the Arbathite, Azmaveth the Barhumite,
³² Eliahba the Shaalbonite, the sons of Jashen, Jonathan
³³ son of Shammah the Hararite, Ahiam son of Sharar the Hararite,
³⁴ Eliphelet son of Ahasbai the Maakathite, Eliam son of Ahithophel the Gilonite,
³⁵ Hezro the Carmelite, Paarai the Arbite,
³⁶ Igal son of Nathan from Zobah, the son of Hagri,
³⁷ Zelek the Ammonite, Naharai the Beerothite, the armor-bearer of Joab son of Zeruiah,
³⁸ Ira the Ithrite, Gareb the Ithrite
³⁹ and Uriah the Hittite. There were thirty-seven in all.

2 Samuel chapter 23 esv

¹ Now these are the last words of David: The oracle of David, the son of Jesse, the oracle of the man who was raised on high, the anointed of the God of Jacob, the sweet psalmist of Israel:
² "The Spirit of the LORD speaks by me; his word is on my tongue.
³ The God of Israel has spoken; the Rock of Israel has said to me: When one rules justly over men, ruling in the fear of God,
⁴ he dawns on them like the morning light, like the sun shining forth on a cloudless morning, like rain that makes grass to sprout from the earth.
⁵ "For does not my house stand so with God? For he has made with me an everlasting covenant, ordered in all things and secure. For will he not cause to prosper all my help and my desire?
⁶ But worthless men are all like thorns that are thrown away, for they cannot be taken with the hand;
⁷ but the man who touches them arms himself with iron and the shaft of a spear, and they are utterly consumed with fire."
⁸ These are the names of the mighty men whom David had: Josheb-basshebeth a Tahchemonite; he was chief of the three. He wielded his spear against eight hundred whom he killed at one time.
⁹ And next to him among the three mighty men was Eleazar the son of Dodo, son of Ahohi. He was with David when they defied the Philistines who were gathered there for battle, and the men of Israel withdrew.
¹⁰ He rose and struck down the Philistines until his hand was weary, and his hand clung to the sword. And the LORD brought about a great victory that day, and the men returned after him only to strip the slain.
¹¹ And next to him was Shammah, the son of Agee the Hararite. The Philistines gathered together at Lehi, where there was a plot of ground full of lentils, and the men fled from the Philistines.
¹² But he took his stand in the midst of the plot and defended it and struck down the Philistines, and the LORD worked a great victory.
¹³ And three of the thirty chief men went down and came about harvest time to David at the cave of Adullam, when a band of Philistines was encamped in the Valley of Rephaim.
¹⁴ David was then in the stronghold, and the garrison of the Philistines was then at Bethlehem.
¹⁵ And David said longingly, "Oh, that someone would give me water to drink from the well of Bethlehem that is by the gate!"
¹⁶ Then the three mighty men broke through the camp of the Philistines and drew water out of the well of Bethlehem that was by the gate and carried and brought it to David. But he would not drink of it. He poured it out to the LORD
¹⁷ and said, "Far be it from me, O LORD, that I should do this. Shall I drink the blood of the men who went at the risk of their lives?" Therefore he would not drink it. These things the three mighty men did.
¹⁸ Now Abishai, the brother of Joab, the son of Zeruiah, was chief of the thirty. And he wielded his spear against three hundred men and killed them and won a name beside the three.
¹⁹ He was the most renowned of the thirty and became their commander, but he did not attain to the three.
²⁰ And Benaiah the son of Jehoiada was a valiant man of Kabzeel, a doer of great deeds. He struck down two ariels of Moab. He also went down and struck down a lion in a pit on a day when snow had fallen.
²¹ And he struck down an Egyptian, a handsome man. The Egyptian had a spear in his hand, but Benaiah went down to him with a staff and snatched the spear out of the Egyptian's hand and killed him with his own spear.
²² These things did Benaiah the son of Jehoiada, and won a name beside the three mighty men.
²³ He was renowned among the thirty, but he did not attain to the three. And David set him over his bodyguard.
²⁴ Asahel the brother of Joab was one of the thirty; Elhanan the son of Dodo of Bethlehem,
²⁵ Shammah of Harod, Elika of Harod,
²⁶ Helez the Paltite, Ira the son of Ikkesh of Tekoa,
²⁷ Abiezer of Anathoth, Mebunnai the Hushathite,
²⁸ Zalmon the Ahohite, Maharai of Netophah,
²⁹ Heleb the son of Baanah of Netophah, Ittai the son of Ribai of Gibeah of the people of Benjamin,
³⁰ Benaiah of Pirathon, Hiddai of the brooks of Gaash,
³¹ Abi-albon the Arbathite, Azmaveth of Bahurim,
³² Eliahba the Shaalbonite, the sons of Jashen, Jonathan,
³³ Shammah the Hararite, Ahiam the son of Sharar the Hararite,
³⁴ Eliphelet the son of Ahasbai of Maacah, Eliam the son of Ahithophel the Gilonite,
³⁵ Hezro of Carmel, Paarai the Arbite,
³⁶ Igal the son of Nathan of Zobah, Bani the Gadite,
³⁷ Zelek the Ammonite, Naharai of Beeroth, the armor-bearer of Joab the son of Zeruiah,
³⁸ Ira the Ithrite, Gareb the Ithrite,
³⁹ Uriah the Hittite: thirty-seven in all.

2 Samuel chapter 23 nlt

¹ These are the last words of David: "David, the son of Jesse, speaks ?
David, the man who was raised up so high,
David, the man anointed by the God of Jacob,
David, the sweet psalmist of Israel.
² "The Spirit of the LORD speaks through me;
his words are upon my tongue.
³ The God of Israel spoke.
The Rock of Israel said to me:
'The one who rules righteously,
who rules in the fear of God,
⁴ is like the light of morning at sunrise,
like a morning without clouds,
like the gleaming of the sun
on new grass after rain.'
⁵ "Is it not my family God has chosen?
Yes, he has made an everlasting covenant with me.
His agreement is arranged and guaranteed in every detail.
He will ensure my safety and success.
⁶ But the godless are like thorns to be thrown away,
for they tear the hand that touches them.
⁷ One must use iron tools to chop them down;
they will be totally consumed by fire."
⁸ These are the names of David's mightiest warriors. The first was Jashobeam the Hacmonite, who was leader of the Three ? the three mightiest warriors among David's men. He once used his spear to kill 800 enemy warriors in a single battle.
⁹ Next in rank among the Three was Eleazar son of Dodai, a descendant of Ahoah. Once Eleazar and David stood together against the Philistines when the entire Israelite army had fled.
¹⁰ He killed Philistines until his hand was too tired to lift his sword, and the LORD gave him a great victory that day. The rest of the army did not return until it was time to collect the plunder!
¹¹ Next in rank was Shammah son of Agee from Harar. One time the Philistines gathered at Lehi and attacked the Israelites in a field full of lentils. The Israelite army fled,
¹² but Shammah held his ground in the middle of the field and beat back the Philistines. So the LORD brought about a great victory.
¹³ Once during the harvest, when David was at the cave of Adullam, the Philistine army was camped in the valley of Rephaim. The Three (who were among the Thirty ? an elite group among David's fighting men) went down to meet him there.
¹⁴ David was staying in the stronghold at the time, and a Philistine detachment had occupied the town of Bethlehem.
¹⁵ David remarked longingly to his men, "Oh, how I would love some of that good water from the well by the gate in Bethlehem."
¹⁶ So the Three broke through the Philistine lines, drew some water from the well by the gate in Bethlehem, and brought it back to David. But he refused to drink it. Instead, he poured it out as an offering to the LORD.
¹⁷ "The LORD forbid that I should drink this!" he exclaimed. "This water is as precious as the blood of these men who risked their lives to bring it to me." So David did not drink it. These are examples of the exploits of the Three.
¹⁸ Abishai son of Zeruiah, the brother of Joab, was the leader of the Thirty. He once used his spear to kill 300 enemy warriors in a single battle. It was by such feats that he became as famous as the Three.
¹⁹ Abishai was the most famous of the Thirty and was their commander, though he was not one of the Three.
²⁰ There was also Benaiah son of Jehoiada, a valiant warrior from Kabzeel. He did many heroic deeds, which included killing two champions of Moab. Another time, on a snowy day, he chased a lion down into a pit and killed it.
²¹ Once, armed only with a club, he killed an imposing Egyptian warrior who was armed with a spear. Benaiah wrenched the spear from the Egyptian's hand and killed him with it.
²² Deeds like these made Benaiah as famous as the Three mightiest warriors.
²³ He was more honored than the other members of the Thirty, though he was not one of the Three. And David made him captain of his bodyguard.
²⁴ Other members of the Thirty included: Asahel, Joab's brother;
Elhanan son of Dodo from Bethlehem;
²⁵ Shammah from Harod;
Elika from Harod;
²⁶ Helez from Pelon ;
Ira son of Ikkesh from Tekoa;
²⁷ Abiezer from Anathoth;
Sibbecai from Hushah;
²⁸ Zalmon from Ahoah;
Maharai from Netophah;
²⁹ Heled son of Baanah from Netophah;
Ithai son of Ribai from Gibeah (in the land of Benjamin);
³⁰ Benaiah from Pirathon;
Hurai from Nahale-gaash ;
³¹ Abi-albon from Arabah;
Azmaveth from Bahurim;
³² Eliahba from Shaalbon;
the sons of Jashen;
Jonathan
³³ son of Shagee from Harar;
Ahiam son of Sharar from Harar;
³⁴ Eliphelet son of Ahasbai from Maacah;
Eliam son of Ahithophel from Giloh;
³⁵ Hezro from Carmel;
Paarai from Arba;
³⁶ Igal son of Nathan from Zobah;
Bani from Gad;
³⁷ Zelek from Ammon;
Naharai from Beeroth, the armor bearer of Joab son of Zeruiah;
³⁸ Ira from Jattir;
Gareb from Jattir;
³⁹ Uriah the Hittite.
There were thirty-seven in all.