2 Samuel 23:28 kjv
Zalmon the Ahohite, Maharai the Netophathite,
2 Samuel 23:28 nkjv
Zalmon the Ahohite, Maharai the Netophathite,
2 Samuel 23:28 niv
Zalmon the Ahohite, Maharai the Netophathite,
2 Samuel 23:28 esv
Zalmon the Ahohite, Maharai of Netophah,
2 Samuel 23:28 nlt
Zalmon from Ahoah;
Maharai from Netophah;
2 Samuel 23 28 Cross References
| Verse | Text | Reference |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Chron 11:29 | Ilai the Ahohite;… | Direct parallel to 2 Sam 23:28. |
| 2 Sam 23:8 | These are the names of David’s mighty men… | Introduces the full list of mighty men. |
| 1 Chron 11:10 | Now these are the chiefs of the mighty men whom David had… | Introduces parallel list in Chronicles. |
| 1 Sam 22:1-2 | David departed… and everyone who was in distress, in debt, or discontented gathered to him, and he became captain over them. | Formation of David's initial loyal followers. |
| 1 Sam 17:34-37 | Your servant has struck down both lion and bear… | David's own early display of divine strength. |
| Ps 18:32-34 | It is God who arms me with strength and makes my way perfect. | God empowering warriors for battle. |
| Judg 6:12 | And the angel of the LORD appeared to him and said to him, “The LORD is with you, O mighty man of valor.” | God calling ordinary individuals "mighty." |
| 2 Sam 23:16 | So the three mighty men broke through the Philistine camp… | Illustrates acts of extraordinary valor by the mighty men. |
| Neh 13:13 | And I appointed as treasurers over the storehouses Shelemiah the priest… and Hanan the son of Zaccur… for they were considered reliable. | Reliability and trustworthiness of servants. |
| Prov 27:18 | Whoever tends a fig tree will eat its fruit, and he who guards his master will be honored. | Rewarding faithful service to a leader. |
| Rom 12:4-5 | For as in one body we have many members, and the members do not all have the same function… | Diverse roles within a united body of service. |
| 1 Cor 12:20-22 | As it is, there are many parts, yet one body… | Valuing every part, even lesser-known ones, in a collective effort. |
| Eph 6:10 | Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might. | Spiritual strength in the Lord, paralleling physical valor. |
| Heb 11:32-34 | ...who through faith conquered kingdoms, enforced justice, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions, quenched the power of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, were made strong out of weakness, became mighty in war, put foreign armies to flight. | General example of God-empowered mighty acts. |
| Rev 3:5 | The one who conquers will be clothed thus in white garments, and I will never blot his name out of the book of life. | Importance of names being recorded for honor. |
| Ps 87:6 | The LORD records as he registers the peoples, “This one was born there.” | Divine recording of individuals' lives/places. |
| Matt 10:2-4 | The names of the twelve apostles are these: first, Simon… | Christ listing and honoring His chosen followers. |
| Luke 6:13-16 | And when day came, he called his disciples and chose from them twelve, whom he named apostles: | Christ selecting and naming His close disciples. |
| John 15:13 | Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends. | Implicit self-sacrifice of valiant warriors. |
| Phil 4:3 | Yes, I ask you also, true companion, help these women, who have labored side by side with me in the gospel together with Clement and the rest of my fellow workers, whose names are in the book of life. | Mentioning collaborators whose names are noted. |
| 2 Tim 2:2 | What you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men, who will be able to teach others also. | The enduring legacy of faithful individuals. |
| Col 3:23-24 | Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men… | Serving a master (David/Christ) wholeheartedly. |
2 Samuel 23 verses
2 Samuel 23 28 Meaning
2 Samuel 23:28 identifies Ilai the Ahohite as one of the elite warriors within David's esteemed group known as the "mighty men." This verse is part of a list honoring specific individuals who demonstrated exceptional loyalty, valor, and strength in serving King David, playing a crucial role in the establishment and defense of his kingdom. It highlights the recognition given to even less prominent figures within this revered group.
2 Samuel 23 28 Context
2 Samuel chapter 23 begins with David's "last words," a poetic reflection on his reign and God's covenant with him (verses 1-7). Following this spiritual and personal testament, the chapter immediately transitions to a detailed list of his "mighty men" (verses 8-39). This arrangement is significant: David's success and the stability of his kingdom were not solely due to his own prowess but were profoundly supported by the loyalty, bravery, and divine enablement of these select warriors. This list serves as a historical record, an honor roll, and a testament to the collective strength and faithfulness that underpinned David's reign. Verse 28 specifically identifies one such warrior, Ilai, showcasing that even those whose individual feats are not extensively detailed elsewhere are still recognized as vital members of this elite corps. Historically, these men represented the finest in military prowess and commitment during a period of consolidation for the Israelite monarchy.
2 Samuel 23 28 Word analysis
Ilai (עִילַי, ‘Îlay): This is a personal name. While its exact meaning is uncertain, some suggest "my ascent" or related to "Most High." It is important to note the textual variation; many scholars believe this "Ilai" is the same person as "Zalmon" (צַלְמוֹן, Tsalmon) in the parallel list found in 1 Chronicles 11:29. This discrepancy in name lists is common in ancient manuscripts and reflects either a variant spelling, a different name for the same individual, or the possibility of two distinct but similarly identified men. Regardless, the intent is to identify a specific individual. The inclusion of his name validates his unique contribution.
the Ahohite (הָאֲחוֹחִי, ha’Ăḥôḥî): This is a patronymic or tribal designation, indicating his lineage or place of origin. It links him to Ahoah, a descendant of Benjamin (1 Chron 8:4). This detail helps to identify his tribal connection within Israel, showing the widespread nature of support for David across various tribes, even those historically in tension with Judah. His specific tribal background rooted him in a particular part of Israel, yet his loyalty was given to the unified kingdom under David.
one of (אֶחָד מִן־, ’eḥāḏ min-): This phrase explicitly states that Ilai was part of a larger, distinct group. It emphasizes his inclusion, acknowledging his membership among an exclusive and highly regarded company. He was not an isolated hero but part of a formidable unit, highlighting the collective strength and identity of "David's mighty men."
David’s (דָּוִיד, Dāwîḏ): Directly connects these warriors to King David. Their might was often exercised for him, under him, and in loyalty to him as God's anointed. This link establishes the authority and purpose for which their strength was utilized, serving the divinely established king.
mighty men (גִּבֹּרִים, Gibborim): The plural of
gibbor(גִּבֹּר). This Hebrew term translates as "mighty, strong, valiant, heroic." In the biblical context, especially for warriors,gibbordenotes exceptional bravery, skill in combat, and unwavering loyalty. These were not just physically strong men, but those who distinguished themselves through courageous acts and unwavering faithfulness. Their "might" was a blend of physical prowess and moral fortitude, often empowered by divine aid. They were the backbone of David's military success, executing key strategies and defending the kingdom."Ilai the Ahohite": This phrase precisely identifies the individual by his name and familial/tribal association. The meticulous record-keeping of such individuals speaks to the honor bestowed upon them and the historical reliability of the account. It highlights that individuals, even those whose stories are not fully detailed, contribute significantly to God’s plan through their faithful service.
"one of David’s mighty men": This grouping emphasizes the elite status and corporate identity. These were not merely soldiers but a select cadre of highly loyal and skilled warriors who shared a common dedication to David and his kingdom. Their collective power was essential for David's victories and the security of Israel. Their recognition as a group underscores the principle that collective action and shared commitment are vital for kingdom-building efforts.
2 Samuel 23 28 Bonus section
The consistent listing of David's mighty men, with some variations between 2 Samuel and 1 Chronicles, underscores the importance of communal memory and the valuing of faithful service. Even seemingly minor figures are recorded, suggesting that no devoted act within God's larger narrative is truly insignificant or forgotten. This biblical practice aligns with the concept that all names written in the "Book of Life" (Rev 3:5, 13:8) are of eternal consequence. These lists also demonstrate that a great leader's success is never singular but dependent on a dedicated network of loyal followers. The precise naming of individuals, including their lineage (like "Ahohite"), serves to anchor these figures in the historical reality of Israel, confirming their real existence and contribution.
2 Samuel 23 28 Commentary
2 Samuel 23:28 offers a glimpse into David's personal honor roll, affirming the importance of Ilai the Ahohite. More than just a name, Ilai represents the numerous faithful, courageous individuals whose steadfast service often undergirds major biblical narratives. These "mighty men" were the human instruments through whom God worked to establish and secure David's kingdom, a testament to God using human agency. The inclusion of Ilai, who does not feature prominently in other narratives, teaches that every participant's faithful contribution is seen and valued by God. Their strength was not merely physical, but a spiritual fortitude derived from loyalty to a divinely appointed leader, mirroring the commitment believers should show to God's greater kingdom work. The biblical recording of such names serves as an enduring reminder that every act of devoted service, big or small, known or unknown to the wider world, has lasting significance in God's eyes and contributes to His sovereign plan. Their legacy is one of valor, loyalty, and unwavering support, essential ingredients for any leader or community striving towards God-ordained purposes.