1 Chronicles 11 32

1 Chronicles 11:32 kjv

Hurai of the brooks of Gaash, Abiel the Arbathite,

1 Chronicles 11:32 nkjv

Hurai of the brooks of Gaash, Abiel the Arbathite,

1 Chronicles 11:32 niv

Hurai from the ravines of Gaash, Abiel the Arbathite,

1 Chronicles 11:32 esv

Hurai of the brooks of Gaash, Abiel the Arbathite,

1 Chronicles 11:32 nlt

Hurai from near Nahale-gaash ;
Abi-albon from Arabah;

1 Chronicles 11 verses

1 Chronicles 11 32 Meaning

This verse continues the catalog of David's valiant warriors, identifying Ithai, the son of Ribai, from Gibeah of the tribe of Benjamin, and Benaiah, a Pirathonite. These individuals are part of the elite company who helped establish and maintain David's kingdom, signifying their crucial roles through their strength and unwavering loyalty.

1 Chronicles 11 32 Context

This verse is found within 1 Chronicles chapter 11, which serves as a pivotal chapter marking the formal beginning of David's kingship and the establishment of his capital in Jerusalem. Following David's anointing as king by all Israel (1 Chr 11:1-3) and his strategic capture of Jerusalem from the Jebusites (1 Chr 11:4-9), the narrative shifts to highlight the foundational pillars of his earthly reign: his mighty warriors. Verses 11:10-47 present a comprehensive, though not exhaustive, list of these loyal and exceptionally brave men, often categorized into groups of "the Three," "the Thirty," and other significant figures.

The inclusion of this lengthy roster underscores the divine favor upon David, manifested not only in his anointing but also in the loyalty and valor of the men God gathered around him. Their might was crucial in subduing enemies and securing the borders of the kingdom. This section, particularly for the Chronicler's original audience (likely post-exilic Judah), emphasized the legitimacy and strength of the Davidic line, reminding them of the foundation of power and stability through the dedicated service of these individuals. It serves to highlight the cohesive military force that David led, comprised of men from various tribes who transcended their individual tribal identities to unite under God's chosen king.

1 Chronicles 11 32 Word analysis

• Ithai (אִיתַי - 'iythay): This name means "with me." Ithai, the son of Ribai, is a less prominent figure in biblical accounts compared to Ittai the Gittite, with whom he should not be confused. His inclusion here highlights that David's roster of mighty men included various levels of distinction, some with more detailed exploits, others simply noted for their loyal presence.
• the son of Ribai (בֶּן־רִיבַי - ben-ribay): Ribai (ribay) means "my advocate" or "my dispute." The patronymic (father's name) clearly identifies Ithai and distinguishes him from other individuals with similar names. Lineage was crucial in ancient Israel for identity and record-keeping.
• of the children of Gibeah (מִבְּנֵי גִבְעַת - mibeney gib'ath): Gibeah (gib'ath) was a prominent city in the territory of Benjamin. It held significance as the hometown of King Saul (1 Sam 10:26) and was infamous for the tragic events of Judges 19-21, which nearly annihilated the tribe of Benjamin. For a man from Gibeah to serve David signifies a reconciliation and integration within the Israelite unity under David's leadership, moving beyond past tribal divisions and historical animosities with Saul's house.
• of the children of Benjamin (מִבְּנֵי בִּנְיָמִין - mibeney binyamiyn): Benjamin (binyamiyn) was one of the twelve tribes of Israel, particularly known for its fierce warriors and for being the tribe from which Saul, Israel's first king, originated. The presence of Benjaminite warriors in David's inner circle speaks to David's success in unifying all tribes under his reign, even those who might have harbored lingering loyalty to Saul's dynasty.
• Benaiah (בְּנָיָהוּ - benayahu): This name means "Yahweh has built." This is undoubtedly Benaiah son of Jehoiada, one of David's most celebrated and capable mighty men. He is distinct for his impressive military feats (e.g., slaying two "lion-like men of Moab," a lion in a pit, and an Egyptian giant - 1 Chr 11:22-23; 2 Sam 23:20-21). Benaiah's name is closely associated with David's reign, as he was commander of the Cherethites and Pelethites (David's elite bodyguard, 2 Sam 8:18; 1 Chr 18:17), and later became the commander of Solomon's army, executing figures like Adonijah, Joab, and Shimei (1 Ki 2). His mention signifies true power and unwavering loyalty to the legitimate king.
• the Pirathonite (הַפִּרְעָתֹנִי - happer'atoni): This designation identifies Benaiah's place of origin, Pirathon (pir'athon), which was located in the hill country of Ephraim (Judg 12:15). This further underscores the diverse geographical and tribal representation within David's army, demonstrating a broad base of support and skilled personnel drawn from across Israel.

1 Chronicles 11 32 Bonus section

• The Chronicler's Purpose: The Chronicler's emphasis on detailed lists like this serves to legitimize David's kingdom and the temple lineage for his post-exilic audience. It shows God's blessing on David through the quality and loyalty of his men, reinforcing the divine plan for Israel centered on David and the coming Messiah.
• Distinction between Ithai and Ittai: It's important to distinguish Ithai son of Ribai from Ittai the Gittite (2 Sam 15:18ff), who was a Philistine who demonstrated remarkable loyalty to David during Absalom's rebellion. The spelling is slightly different in Hebrew, and their family/geographical origins are distinct. The Ithai in this verse is an Israelite from Benjamin.
• Strategic Importance of David's Men: These lists were not just honor rolls but detailed military rosters. They highlight David's sophisticated military organization and the breadth of talent he attracted and harnessed for kingdom building.
• Archetype of Service: The mighty men collectively serve as an archetype for faithful service and loyalty. Their willingness to face danger, demonstrate prowess, and submit to leadership can be seen as an Old Testament foreshadowing of the characteristics required of spiritual warriors in service of God's kingdom today.

1 Chronicles 11 32 Commentary

This brief verse, while seemingly just a list entry, is rich with underlying meaning within the Chronicler's narrative. It showcases two more members of David's illustrious cohort of mighty men: Ithai from Gibeah of Benjamin and the highly significant Benaiah, the Pirathonite.

The mention of Ithai from Gibeah in Benjamin is notable because Benjamin was the tribe of David's predecessor, Saul, and Gibeah was Saul's hometown, carrying associations of the former, failed kingdom and a historically tragic past (Judges 19-21). For a man from this region to be loyal to David underscores David's unifying influence across tribal lines and his success in solidifying the allegiance of all Israel. It portrays a unified kingdom, moving beyond old animosities, demonstrating that David's divine appointment superseded tribal loyalties.

Benaiah, son of Jehoiada, is a powerhouse figure. Unlike many in the list who appear only once, Benaiah is well-documented in the Davidic and Solomonic narratives (2 Samuel, 1 Kings, 1 Chronicles). He was known for incredible personal feats of valor and commanded David's personal guard, the Cherethites and Pelethites. His loyalty was so profound that he remained steadfast through Absalom's rebellion and, crucially, played a vital role in securing Solomon's succession by executing Solomon's rivals. His presence among David's initial mighty men signifies not just raw strength, but also unwavering, decisive, and highly effective loyalty essential for the establishment and stability of God's chosen dynasty.

Together, these names illustrate the mosaic of David's army – individuals of varied tribal origins, backgrounds, and levels of renown – all united by their commitment to David, the divinely appointed king. This diversity, held together by strong leadership and a common purpose, represents a microcosm of the united Israel that the Chronicler sought to present to a fragmented post-exilic community. Their inclusion emphasizes that the success of the kingdom was built on the dedicated and brave service of such individuals, reflecting divine providence through human commitment.