2 Samuel 23 32

2 Samuel 23:32 kjv

Eliahba the Shaalbonite, of the sons of Jashen, Jonathan,

2 Samuel 23:32 nkjv

Eliahba the Shaalbonite (of the sons of Jashen), Jonathan,

2 Samuel 23:32 niv

Eliahba the Shaalbonite, the sons of Jashen, Jonathan

2 Samuel 23:32 esv

Eliahba the Shaalbonite, the sons of Jashen, Jonathan,

2 Samuel 23:32 nlt

Eliahba from Shaalbon;
the sons of Jashen;
Jonathan

2 Samuel 23 verses

2 Samuel 23 32 Meaning

2 Samuel 23:32 identifies Jonathan, the son of Shammah, who was from Harar, as one of David's thirty mighty men. This verse is an entry in a list honoring the king's most loyal and valorous warriors, signifying his distinguished role and contribution to David's kingdom.

2 Samuel 23 32 Context

This verse is found within 2 Samuel chapter 23, which primarily consists of two distinct sections. The initial part (vv. 1-7) presents David's "last words," a prophetic psalm reflecting on God's covenant and righteous rule. The latter, and longer, section (vv. 8-39) lists David's "mighty men" – his elite warriors who played crucial roles in his military successes and the establishment of his kingdom.

Specifically, verse 32 is part of the sub-list known as the "Thirty" (though the total number sometimes fluctuates slightly in biblical lists). These men were the core of David's military strength and a testament to the loyal following that enabled his reign. Their inclusion in this honor roll, alongside David's own reflection on his life, underscores the providential care through which God raised up and supported David by providing him with faithful and valiant individuals. The mention of each man, including their father and often their place of origin, highlights their specific identity and serves as a record of their contribution to God's chosen king and nation.

2 Samuel 23 32 Word analysis

• Jonathan (יְהוֹנָתָן - Yehonatan): "Yahweh has given." A common name in ancient Israel, meaning "God has given." It is crucial to distinguish this Jonathan from Saul's son Jonathan, who was a close friend of David but is not the same individual listed among the "Thirty." The name itself could implicitly point to a belief that the individual's existence or character was a gift from God.
• the son of (בֶּן - ben): A standard Hebrew term signifying paternal lineage. In ancient Israelite society, one's identity was strongly tied to one's father and family. This clarifies the specific Jonathan being referred to and helps differentiate him from others with the same popular name.
• Shammah (שַׁמָּה - Shammah): The name "Shammah" can mean "astonishment" or "desolation," but it is more likely related to the root "to hear" or "renown." This is distinct from Shammah the son of Agee, another mighty man (2 Sam 23:11), and Shammah, one of Jesse's sons. In this context, it simply identifies Jonathan's father.
• the Hararite (הַהֲרָרִי - Ha-Harari): "Of Harar," indicating a geographical or tribal origin. The exact location of Harar is debated among scholars, possibly referring to a hill country or mountainous region. This designation emphasizes his ancestral home. The fact that the 'Hararite' epithet is applied to several individuals in David's mighty men list (2 Sam 23:11, 33) suggests either a clan or a region particularly known for producing formidable warriors, who consistently pledged their allegiance to David.

Words-group analysis

• "Jonathan the son of Shammah": This phrase identifies a specific individual, clearly differentiating him from any other Jonathan. In a culture without widespread surnames, lineage was paramount for precise identification and establishing social standing.
• "the Hararite": This appellation adds crucial identifying information about Jonathan's origin, marking him as belonging to a particular region or family group known for providing capable individuals, thereby hinting at his background as a seasoned warrior. The recurring "Hararite" reference among other mighty men (e.g., Shammah the Hararite, Ahiam the Hararite) might suggest a regional concentration of loyal, skilled fighters who were part of David's early forces.

2 Samuel 23 32 Bonus section

The list of David's mighty men, including Jonathan the son of Shammah the Hararite, underscores the importance of a loyal and skilled inner circle for any leader, especially a king chosen by God. Their collective prowess and individual dedication were foundational to David's ability to consolidate power and establish the united monarchy, reflecting God's provision for His chosen one. The recurring geographic tag "Hararite" suggests a potentially influential warrior clan or region that consistently produced individuals of high military caliber who became critical assets to David. It emphasizes the diversity of background among those who served David loyally, uniting for a common purpose under God's chosen leader.

2 Samuel 23 32 Commentary

2 Samuel 23:32 is a succinct record of Jonathan, son of Shammah the Hararite, one of David's distinguished warriors. Though his specific deeds are not enumerated here, his mere inclusion in this revered list speaks volumes about his courage, loyalty, and instrumental role in supporting King David. These men were not merely soldiers; they were embodiments of unwavering commitment and skill, vital for the defense and expansion of God's chosen kingdom. Their names serve as a testament to the fact that God uses various individuals, whether famous for single heroic acts or consistent, steady service, to accomplish His purposes. They represent the faithful adherence required in building God's work, emphasizing that steadfastness in duty, however ordinary it may seem, holds profound value.