1 Chronicles 12 31

1 Chronicles 12:31 kjv

And of the half tribe of Manasseh eighteen thousand, which were expressed by name, to come and make David king.

1 Chronicles 12:31 nkjv

of the half-tribe of Manasseh eighteen thousand, who were designated by name to come and make David king;

1 Chronicles 12:31 niv

from half the tribe of Manasseh, designated by name to come and make David king?18,000;

1 Chronicles 12:31 esv

Of the half-tribe of Manasseh 18,000, who were expressly named to come and make David king.

1 Chronicles 12:31 nlt

From the half-tribe of Manasseh west of the Jordan, 18,000 men were designated by name to help David become king.

1 Chronicles 12 verses

1 Chronicles 12 31 Meaning

First Chronicles chapter 12 verse 31 details the specific military contribution from the tribe of Naphtali to King David's forces. It states that from Naphtali came a thousand captains, or leaders, and accompanying them were thirty-seven thousand warriors. These warriors are further described as being "equipped with shield and spear," emphasizing their readiness, training, and complete preparation for battle. The verse highlights the substantial military strength and organized structure of the tribal contingents rallying to David's side during the critical time of establishing his kingdom.

1 Chronicles 12 31 Context

First Chronicles 12 focuses on the warriors from various tribes of Israel who joined David at Ziklag while he was still fleeing from Saul, and then at Hebron after Saul's death to crown David king over all Israel. This chapter details the diverse backgrounds, unique skills, and considerable numbers of men who rallied behind David, signifying the widespread support he enjoyed. The Chronicler, writing much later, emphasizes the unity of Israel and God's providence in establishing David's kingdom, showcasing a truly national and Spirit-empowered endeavor. Verse 31 specifically highlights Naphtali's substantial and well-equipped contingent, reflecting the overall readiness and organizational capacity of the men committing themselves to David's reign. This demonstrates a united military front essential for solidifying David's rule and expanding Israel's territory.

1 Chronicles 12 31 Word analysis

• Of Naphtali: The verse explicitly identifies the tribal origin of these warriors. Naphtali was one of the twelve tribes of Israel, descended from Naphtali, Jacob's sixth son. This tribe occupied a fertile region in the northern part of Israel, bordered by the Sea of Galilee, a strategic area often prone to conflict, which likely contributed to their martial prowess.
• a thousand captains: The Hebrew term for "captains" is negidim (נְגִידִים), meaning "leaders," "princes," or "officials." This is not just a military rank but denotes men of high standing and authority, suggesting an organized structure and experienced leadership within the Naphtali contingent. The number "a thousand" (eleph) implies a significant leadership cadre capable of managing large units of men.
• and with them: This phrase clearly indicates that the subsequent number refers to the main body of soldiers who were under the command and accompanied the thousand captains, highlighting their subservience and participation in an organized military unit.
• thirty-seven thousand: A precise and very large number, sheloshim v'shiv'ah eleph (שְׁלשִׁים וְשִׁבְעָה אֶלֶף). This magnitude emphasizes the immense military support David garnered from Naphtali, indicative of strong tribal loyalty and the national scale of David's coronation. The Chronicler frequently details large numbers to illustrate God's blessing and the fulfillment of His promises to Abraham.
• equipped with shield and spear: The Hebrew phrase is chamushê māgēn wāroakh (חֲמוּשֵׁי מָגֵן וָרֹמַח). "Equipped" (chamush) means "armed" or "ready for battle." The "shield" (magen) was a primary defensive weapon, offering protection. The "spear" (romach) was a crucial offensive weapon for thrusting or throwing in ancient warfare. This detail highlights that these were not just random civilians, but trained and properly armed soldiers, demonstrating their professional preparedness for military engagement and their active role as combatants.

1 Chronicles 12 31 Bonus section

The tribal contributions in 1 Chronicles 12 are not just historical data; they embody key aspects of covenant faithfulness and divine establishment. The unity and sheer numbers, as exemplified by Naphtali, illustrate the Spirit-enabled process of Israel becoming one under David, echoing God's promise to make Abraham's descendants "a great nation." Furthermore, the details of weaponry and leadership hint at a deeper spiritual principle: effectiveness in God's service, whether in literal battle or spiritual warfare, often requires both structure (leadership) and preparedness (being equipped), guided by the Holy Spirit.

1 Chronicles 12 31 Commentary

First Chronicles 12:31 succinctly captures Naphtali's substantial and professional contribution to David's rising kingdom. The emphasis on "captains" underscores a robust military leadership structure, essential for commanding the large number of "thirty-seven thousand" armed men. The mention of "shield and spear" specifies their complete battle readiness, indicating that these were disciplined warriors, not merely a vast, disorganized crowd. This verse, within the larger narrative of 1 Chronicles 12, serves to highlight the nationwide support David received, demonstrating God's hand in uniting Israel under His chosen king. It speaks to both the scale and the quality of David's early forces, forming the bedrock of a kingdom established by divine providence and human valor.