1 Chronicles 11 47

1 Chronicles 11:47 kjv

Eliel, and Obed, and Jasiel the Mesobaite.

1 Chronicles 11:47 nkjv

Eliel, Obed, and Jaasiel the Mezobaite.

1 Chronicles 11:47 niv

Eliel, Obed and Jaasiel the Mezobaite.

1 Chronicles 11:47 esv

Eliel, and Obed, and Jaasiel the Mezobaite.

1 Chronicles 11:47 nlt

Eliel and Obed;
Jaasiel from Zobah.

1 Chronicles 11 verses

1 Chronicles 11 47 Meaning

This verse continues the extensive roster of King David's valiant warriors, listing three additional individuals: Eliel, Obed, and Jaasiel the Mezobaite. These names, positioned at the very end of a lengthy compilation of David's mighty men, highlight the broad spectrum of loyal individuals who contributed to the establishment and strength of David's kingdom. While their specific deeds are not detailed here, their inclusion underscores their significance to the Chronicler as integral, though perhaps lesser-known, supporters of God's chosen king.

1 Chronicles 11 47 Context

1 Chronicles 11 details David's anointing as king over all Israel, his capture of Jerusalem, and, most prominently, the lengthy enumeration of his mighty warriors. These "mighty men" were the elite core of David's army, representing the diverse tribes of Israel who rallied behind God's chosen leader. Verses 10 through 47 painstakingly list these individuals, often including their father's name or place of origin, establishing their identity and tribal connection. The Chronicler's intense focus on these lists serves a crucial purpose for the post-exilic audience, validating their lineage, land claims, and the historical continuity of "all Israel" under a legitimate Davidic king. It also reinforces the idea that the establishment of the kingdom involved not just David's anointing but also the faithful participation of countless individuals. Verse 47, placed at the end of this grand list, completes the Chronicler's emphasis on the full scope of loyalty and service David commanded.

1 Chronicles 11 47 Word analysis

• Eliel (אֱלִיאֵל - 'Elî'el): A Hebrew name meaning "God is my God" or "God of God." This name frequently appears in the Old Testament, denoting a strong spiritual conviction or a person dedicated to God. Its inclusion here subtly emphasizes that David's loyal followers were often people rooted in faith.

• and Obed (וְעוֹבֵד - wᵊ‘ōḇēḏ): "And Obed." The Hebrew name 'Obēd means "servant" or "worshipper." This meaning aligns perfectly with the role of David's mighty men – faithful servants devoted to their king and, by extension, to God's purpose through David. This name reflects a character trait beneficial to the Lord's work.

• and Jaasiel (וְיַעֲשִׂיאֵל - wᵊya‘asiy’êl): "And Jaasiel." This Hebrew name means "God acts" or "God makes/creates." This implies a recognition of God's hand in his life or perhaps in his military prowess. It underscores a belief in divine enablement for accomplishments.

• the Mezobaite (הַמְּצוֹבָיָּה - hammᵊtsōwḇāyāh): This is a gentilic term, indicating that Jaasiel hailed from a place called "Mezobah." The exact location of Mezobah is obscure and not precisely identified in current biblical geography. Its mention signifies the diverse geographical origins of David's loyal supporters, gathered from various parts of Israel or closely related regions, forming a united force. It speaks to the national scope of David's kingship and the broad loyalty he commanded.

• Words-group analysis:

  • "Eliel, and Obed, and Jaasiel": The listing of these three names together, often grouped in threes throughout Chronicles' lists, points to a cohesive unit or perhaps a subgroup of warriors. The repetition of "and" links them equally, emphasizing their collective contribution despite their individual identities. This grouping structure is common in ancient records and enhances memorization and hierarchical understanding.
  • "the Mezobaite": This geographical designation, following Jaasiel, provides a distinct identifier for this specific warrior, differentiating him and anchoring him to a place. Such designations are critical in ancient genealogies and military rosters for identifying origin, tribal affiliation, and demonstrating the wide reach of a king's influence and support base. It humanizes the lists by adding detail beyond just the names.

1 Chronicles 11 47 Bonus section

• The Chronicler's Purpose: The Chronicler's decision to include such extensive lists, especially compared to the more succinct account in 2 Samuel, emphasizes a comprehensive, inclusive view of "all Israel" supporting God's anointed. This detailed record highlights the importance of every individual's contribution to God's work.
• Beyond Heroism: While many of David's mighty men are known for legendary feats, the inclusion of names without attached exploits implies that loyalty, presence, and simple service were as valued as heroic acts. This offers a model for every believer's contribution to God's kingdom.
• Obscurity vs. Importance: The anonymity of Mezobah for Jaasiel reinforces the idea that divine service is often carried out by those from humble or unknown origins. It challenges the modern tendency to prioritize only widely recognized figures, affirming the significance of "unsung heroes."
• Divine Sovereignty and Human Agency: The sheer volume of names underscores God's sovereignty in raising up leaders (David) and simultaneously orchestrating human agency (the mighty men) to bring about His will.

1 Chronicles 11 47 Commentary

1 Chronicles 11:47, seemingly a mere concluding fragment of a long list, carries profound theological and historical weight within the Chronicler's narrative. It represents the last recorded individuals among David's famed mighty men, completing a catalog that extends far beyond the prominent "Three" and "Thirty." These individuals, like Eliel, Obed, and Jaasiel, though less celebrated by name in the biblical narrative, were foundational to David's kingdom. Their names, potentially bearing meanings like "God is my God" or "Servant," reflect underlying spiritual and dedicated qualities fitting for those who served God's chosen king. The specific geographic identifier "the Mezobaite" further underscores the breadth of loyalty David commanded, drawing warriors from various regions to serve the divinely ordained monarchy. For the original post-exilic audience, these exhaustive lists were more than historical record; they were a blueprint for community and identity, affirming their tribal roots and demonstrating how God works through countless individuals, great and small, to accomplish His divine purposes. It served as an encouragement that every contribution, however obscure, matters in God's grand design.