1 Chronicles 11 24

1 Chronicles 11:24 kjv

These things did Benaiah the son of Jehoiada, and had the name among the three mighties.

1 Chronicles 11:24 nkjv

These things Benaiah the son of Jehoiada did, and won a name among three mighty men.

1 Chronicles 11:24 niv

Such were the exploits of Benaiah son of Jehoiada; he too was as famous as the three mighty warriors.

1 Chronicles 11:24 esv

These things did Benaiah the son of Jehoiada and won a name beside the three mighty men.

1 Chronicles 11:24 nlt

Deeds like these made Benaiah as famous as the three mightiest warriors.

1 Chronicles 11 verses

1 Chronicles 11 24 Meaning

1 Chronicles 11:24 records the distinguished military and leadership achievements of Benaiah, the son of Jehoiada, emphasizing that his valorous "exploits" established a prominent and lasting "name" for him among a specific elite group known as "the three mighty warriors." It highlights his reputation and the recognition he received due to his exceptional strength, courage, and service.

1 Chronicles 11 24 Context

1 Chronicles 11 is a pivotal chapter, initiating the list of David's mighty men, establishing the foundation for his kingdom, and underscoring the divine enabling that surrounded David's reign. The chapter opens with David being made king over all Israel in Hebron, emphasizing the unified support from the tribes, recognizing that it was God's will. It then details the capture of Jerusalem, which became the city of David, symbolizing the secure center of the new kingdom. Immediately following, the chapter shifts to enumerating David's most exceptional warriors, starting with "the three" and then the "the three mighty warriors" (of whom Benaiah is highlighted). These men were crucial instruments in establishing and maintaining David's rule, showcasing the blend of divine election and human courage and loyalty that characterized David's kingdom. This particular verse, 1 Chronicles 11:24, falls within this extended roster, focusing on Benaiah's extraordinary capabilities and recognition within this elite force. Historically, Chronicles, written post-exile, emphasized these detailed genealogies and lists of faithful men to remind the returning exiles of their heritage, God's faithfulness to His covenant with David, and the importance of zealous, loyal service in building God's kingdom and maintaining righteousness. It aimed to provide models of godly leadership and effective service.

1 Chronicles 11 24 Word analysis

• These were the exploits (אֵ֫לֶּה גְּבֻרֹת / ʾēlleh gᵉḇurōth):
  • exploits / גְּבֻרֹת (gᵉḇurōth): Derived from the root gavar (גבר), meaning "to be strong, mighty." This noun signifies mighty deeds, acts of strength, valor, or heroism. It describes achievements that demonstrate exceptional power or courage. In the biblical context, gevurah can refer to God's strength (e.g., Ps 150:2) or the mighty acts of men. Here, it underscores the extraordinary nature of Benaiah's actions, distinguishing them beyond common military duties.
• of Benaiah (בְּנָיָהוּ / Benaiah):
  • Meaning "Yah (God) has built" or "Yah has established." His name reflects the theological understanding that God was instrumental in his very being and success. This name also implicitly ties his future achievements to divine Providence, echoing the Chronicler's theme of God's hand in Israel's history.
• son of Jehoiada (בֶּן יְהוֹיָדָע / ben Yᵉhôyādāʿ):
  • Jehoiada (יְהוֹיָדָע): Meaning "Yahweh knows." Jehoiada was a prominent figure, often associated with the priesthood. The text in 2 Samuel 8:18 identifies Benaiah's father, Jehoiada, as "chief of the Cherethites and Pelethites," implying he came from a respected, possibly priestly or influential, background that would align with his later role as a commander. This lineage gives him a standing beyond that of a mere soldier.
• he had a name (וְלוֹ שֵׁם / wᵉlō šēm):
  • name / שֵׁם (šēm): This goes beyond a mere label. In ancient Near Eastern thought, one's "name" represented their reputation, character, essence, and legacy. To "have a name" means to be renowned, famous, and to possess a distinguished reputation earned through significant deeds. It signifies public acknowledgment and respect, often indicating a lasting legacy. It suggests that Benaiah's valor was widely recognized and remembered.
• among the three mighty warriors (בִּשְׁלֹשָׁה הַגִּבֹּרִים / bišlōšāh hag·gi·bbôrîm):
  • three mighty warriors: This refers to a distinct, highly esteemed group within David's army, differentiated from "the Three" (usually Jashobeam, Eleazar, and Shammah, mentioned earlier in the chapter as the absolute elite). Benaiah, while not one of the top "Three," led his own contingent (often identified as "the thirty" or the elite "Cherethites and Pelethites") and was exceptionally regarded as one of this secondary but still highly elite "three." His achievements were considered on par with the very best. This classification highlights his superlative standing among the many valiant men serving David.

Words-group Analysis:

• "These were the exploits of Benaiah son of Jehoiada": This phrase introduces the specific focus on Benaiah, clearly stating that what follows are not just general deeds but specific acts of great power and valor, attributed directly to him and rooted in his identity and lineage. It sets him apart as an individual of significant military accomplishment.
• "he had a name among the three mighty warriors": This crucial phrase signifies his standing and recognition. It emphasizes that Benaiah's reputation was so exceptional that he was ranked among the select few, placing him within the upper echelon of David's formidable fighting force. His deeds were not just impressive but noteworthy enough to secure him a lasting, distinguished place among heroes. This is not simply a biographical detail, but a testament to a character marked by courageous and effective service.

1 Chronicles 11 24 Bonus section

The Chronicles account often selects and shapes its material to present ideal figures and to teach moral and spiritual lessons. Benaiah is consistently portrayed in both Samuel-Kings and Chronicles as a paragon of loyalty, obedience, and formidable strength. Unlike some other mighty men who might only be listed by name, Benaiah receives significant narrative attention in both Samuel and Kings (especially in 1 Kings 1-2 where he acts decisively on David and Solomon's behalf). This highlights that he was not merely a strong warrior but a trusted commander who would enforce royal decrees without hesitation, even in sensitive situations (like the executions of Adonijah, Joab, and Shimei for Solomon). His career trajectory from being described as "having a name among the three mighty warriors" to becoming the commander of the entire army under Solomon demonstrates that faithful and valiant service in smaller, even perilous, tasks can lead to greater responsibility and recognition in God's kingdom. His name "God has built" perfectly foreshadows his role in building up the kingdom through his service and leadership.

1 Chronicles 11 24 Commentary

1 Chronicles 11:24 encapsulates the exemplary character and unparalleled prowess of Benaiah, son of Jehoiada, as a warrior for David. The verse is intentionally concise, yet packed with meaning, emphasizing his "exploits" or acts of strength and valor. These were not minor deeds but significant displays of courage and might that garnered him immense respect. His specific enumeration within this elite context, though sometimes differentiated from "the Three" proper, underscores that his achievements were on a similar level of exceptionalism, placing him in the highest tier of David's loyal and skilled fighters. His "name" becoming prominent signifies that his reputation was earned through actions, symbolizing not just personal glory but the visible manifestation of dedicated service to God's anointed king. For the Chronicler's audience, Benaiah served as a model of courageous and loyal service to God and His kingdom, demonstrating how individual faithfulness and strength contributed to the strength and success of the Davidic dynasty and, by extension, God's plan for His people. He was not only powerful but also trustworthy and ultimately placed in command of the entire army by Solomon (1 Kings 4:4), indicating the long-term recognition of his character and ability. His story illustrates that a good name, earned through valiant deeds and faithful service, is a lasting legacy honored by God and man.