2 Samuel 23 27

2 Samuel 23:27 kjv

Abiezer the Anethothite, Mebunnai the Hushathite,

2 Samuel 23:27 nkjv

Abiezer the Anathothite, Mebunnai the Hushathite,

2 Samuel 23:27 niv

Abiezer from Anathoth, Sibbekai the Hushathite,

2 Samuel 23:27 esv

Abiezer of Anathoth, Mebunnai the Hushathite,

2 Samuel 23:27 nlt

Abiezer from Anathoth;
Sibbecai from Hushah;

2 Samuel 23 verses

2 Samuel 23 27 Meaning

This verse continues the enumeration of David's elite warriors, known as the mighty men or the Gibborim. It specifically names two more individuals, Abiel from Arbah and Azmaveth from Barhum, thereby acknowledging their specific contribution and origin among David's loyal military leaders.

2 Samuel 23 27 Context

This verse is part of the extensive list of David's mighty men, recorded in 2 Samuel 23:8-39. This list immediately follows "the last words of David" (2 Sam 23:1-7), presenting a testament to the loyal and skilled warriors who formed the backbone of David's kingdom. The section can be divided into three parts: the "Three" (verses 8-17), the "Thirty" (verses 18-38), and Joab's inclusion (verse 37, 39). Verses 24-39 specifically enumerate "the thirty," though the total number eventually exceeds thirty. The list is not merely a record but highlights the divine support for David through these brave individuals who helped establish and secure his reign, showing the breadth of loyal support from across the tribes and regions of Israel.

2 Samuel 23 27 Word analysis

• Abiel (אֲבִיאֵל – Aviel): The name means "My Father is God" or "God is my Father." In the parallel passage in 1 Chronicles 11:32, he is referred to as "Abi-Albon." This variation suggests either an alternative name, a scribal difference, or that "Albon" could be an epithet or family name. Regardless, it signifies an individual known for his strong, paternal relationship with God.
• the Arbathite (הָעַרְבָתִי – Ha'Arbati): This appellation identifies Abiel as coming from "Arbah." This likely refers to Beth-Arabah, a town located in the wilderness of Judah, close to the border of Benjamin (Josh 15:61). It emphasizes his geographical origin, suggesting his regional contribution to David's military.
• Azmaveth (עַזְמָוֶת – Azmaveth): The name means "strength of death" or "strong as death," implying formidable power or endurance. This Azmaveth is likely one of the numerous individuals by that name in biblical texts. He also appears in the parallel account of David's mighty men (1 Chr 11:33). Another Azmaveth is listed as one of David's Benjaminite archers/slingers (1 Chr 12:3), possibly indicating a famous family line of warriors.
• the Barhumite (הַבַּרְחֻמִי – Ha'Barcheumi): This indicates Azmaveth's origin from "Barhum." The parallel in 1 Chronicles 11:33 uses "the Baharumite" (הַבַּחֲרוּמִי – Ha'Bachrumei), strongly suggesting the town of Bahurim. Bahurim was a Benjaminite village, east of Jerusalem, notable in the narrative for its connection to Shimei and the rebellion of Absalom (2 Sam 3:16; 16:5).
• "Abiel the Arbathite, Azmaveth the Barhumite": This grouping of names and their geographic identifiers emphasizes the diverse regional representation among David's most trusted and skilled warriors. Such lists were common in ancient Near Eastern royal annals, serving to legitimate a ruler's power by demonstrating the loyal and widespread support he commanded. Each name, even seemingly minor, represents an individual commitment to the king and, implicitly, to the God who established the king.

2 Samuel 23 27 Bonus section

The variation between the name "Abiel" (2 Sam) and "Abi-Albon" (1 Chr) is a common feature in biblical parallel accounts, reflecting either variant traditions, alternative names for the same person, or possibly scribal differences. Similarly, "Barhumite" and "Baharumite" point to the same location, Bahurim. These discrepancies, rather than undermining the text, attest to the different textual traditions or preferred spellings across ancient Israelite communities. The primary purpose of such detailed lists was not just for historical record, but to emphasize the legitimacy of David's reign, the broad base of support he enjoyed, and the providential hand of God in providing such capable men to protect and advance His purposes through His chosen king. The act of listing their names served as a recognition and honor for their valiant service.

2 Samuel 23 27 Commentary

2 Samuel 23:27, in its brevity, holds profound significance. It is not just a historical roster but a testimony to the loyalty and dedication that underpinned David's kingdom. Abiel and Azmaveth, like many others in this list, may not have detailed biographies, but their very inclusion signifies their distinct importance. They represent the countless unsung heroes in any God-ordained endeavor. These men dedicated their lives and strength to serve God's anointed king, understanding that their valor contributed to a larger divine purpose. This list reminds us that even individuals whose actions seem minor or whose names are only briefly mentioned are seen and valued in God's sovereign plan.