1 Chronicles 11 41

1 Chronicles 11:41 kjv

Uriah the Hittite, Zabad the son of Ahlai,

1 Chronicles 11:41 nkjv

Uriah the Hittite, Zabad the son of Ahlai,

1 Chronicles 11:41 niv

Uriah the Hittite, Zabad son of Ahlai,

1 Chronicles 11:41 esv

Uriah the Hittite, Zabad the son of Ahlai,

1 Chronicles 11:41 nlt

Uriah the Hittite;
Zabad son of Ahlai;

1 Chronicles 11 verses

1 Chronicles 11 41 Meaning

This verse continues the catalog of King David's elite warriors, known as his "mighty men" or "valiant men." It specifically names Urijah the Hittite and Zabad the son of Ahlai, highlighting their inclusion in this esteemed list of faithful and powerful individuals who supported David's reign. The inclusion of Urijah is particularly poignant due to his widely known narrative within the Scriptures.

1 Chronicles 11 41 Context

First Chronicles chapter 11 narrates the key early events of David's kingship: his anointing by all Israel at Hebron, the conquest of Jerusalem from the Jebusites to make it his capital, and the beginning of the detailed listing of his "mighty men" and their heroic deeds. This catalog (verses 10-47) is not merely a record of names; it serves to glorify the strength and divine backing of David's reign. The inclusion of these loyal warriors underscores the foundation of David's kingdom and anticipates the stable reign and subsequent temple building under his lineage. Within this context, 1 Chronicles, in contrast to the Books of Samuel which often focus on political struggles, highlights the theological and spiritual aspects of Israel's history, emphasizing the importance of a divinely chosen king, a loyal people, and the centrality of Jerusalem and future temple worship. The chronicler carefully includes specific names to validate the early power and effectiveness of David's reign, pointing to God's favor and the loyalty He inspired.

1 Chronicles 11 41 Word analysis

• Urijah (אוּרִיָּה - ʾUriyyāh): The name means "Yahweh is my light" or "My light is Yah." This name carries a poignant irony given his tragic end orchestrated by David. His inclusion in this revered list is significant. It underlines his enduring status as a loyal and valiant warrior despite his untimely death. The chronicler emphasizes his martial prowess and membership in David's inner circle.
• the Hittite (הַחִתִּי - ha-Ḥittī): This indicates his ethnicity. Uriah was a non-Israelite, a Gentile, but fully integrated and loyal to David and Israel. His status as a "Hittite" among Israel's elite forces speaks to David's inclusive leadership and possibly to God's broader work. It also indirectly reminds the reader of David's grave sin (2 Sam 11) without explicitly recounting it. His inclusion is a testament to his exceptional character and loyalty, honored even by the Scripture that records the sin committed against him.
• Zabad (זָבָד - Zābāḏ): The name means "he has given" or "gift." Zabad is listed here as one of the "mighty men" of David. This specific Zabad is understood to be different from the Zabad (also son of Ahlai in 1 Chron 2:36-37) who was a descendant in a priestly line or from another notable Zabad mentioned in later reigns. Here, his presence confirms his direct participation and loyalty to King David's personal guard or elite fighting unit.
• the son of Ahlai (בֶן־אַחְלַי - ben-ʾAḥlay): "Ben" means "son of." Ahlai (ʾAḥlay) as a name can mean "would that" or "oh that," implying a hopeful wish from the parents. While sometimes appearing as a feminine name in other contexts (e.g., 1 Chron 2:31), here in 1 Chronicles 11:41, Ahlai clearly functions as the name of Zabad's father, as is typical in these genealogical and military listings of sons.

Words-group analysis

• Urijah the Hittite: This pairing is critically important. It presents Uriah, known for his extraordinary loyalty and integrity, whose tragic story is a severe stain on David's otherwise commendable reign. His placement here serves as a silent memorial to his valor and as an implicit commentary on the chronicler's full awareness of the larger narrative while choosing to honor Uriah's heroism. It signifies that faithfulness, even in the face of grave injustice, is eternally recorded by God.
• Zabad the son of Ahlai: This phrase designates Zabad's identity clearly, associating him with his paternal lineage. In the ancient world, and in biblical lists particularly, lineage defined identity and often status. Being recognized by one's father signified proper standing and heritage, affirming his legitimacy as a worthy member of David's mighty warriors.

1 Chronicles 11 41 Bonus section

The chronicler's account often minimizes David's failures, focusing on his successes and the establishment of the temple lineage. However, the explicit mention of "Uriah the Hittite" within the list of honored warriors provides a nuanced detail. It ensures that the integrity of Uriah is preserved and remembered alongside David's celebrated victories. This selective detail showcases that God's justice is keen; even as He works through imperfect individuals like David, the true character of others involved is not forgotten or dismissed. It speaks to God's meticulous recording of deeds and His honor for personal loyalty and righteousness, even for those not of the direct covenant line like Uriah. The very structure of the mighty men lists in Chronicles points to the idea that David's ultimate success was not solely due to his personal genius, but was fundamentally supported by loyal, diverse, and God-fearing individuals who committed themselves to his leadership and, by extension, to God's chosen king.

1 Chronicles 11 41 Commentary

1 Chronicles 11:41, though seemingly a mere name in a list, holds significant theological weight. The presence of Urijah the Hittite on David's roll of honor is profoundly powerful. It acts as a permanent record of his valor and steadfast loyalty, shining a light on his exceptional character despite David's treacherous actions against him. The chronicler's decision to include Uriah's name, knowing the narrative from Samuel, implies a purpose beyond simple listing. It serves to emphasize Uriah's integrity, implicitly highlighting a standard of righteous character. It reminds the reader that even when human leaders fail, God values the upright and faithful. The naming of Zabad, son of Ahlai, similarly points to the importance of each individual's contribution to David's powerful and divinely supported kingdom, reflecting the careful record God keeps of those who serve Him faithfully. The list collectively displays the formidable strength and loyal devotion that grounded David's monarchy, a kingdom established and upheld by God through the faithfulness of many individuals, both Israelites and non-Israelites like Uriah.