King James Version

What Does 1 Chronicles 11:10 Mean?

“These also are the chief of the mighty men whom David had, who strengthened themselves with him in his kingdom, and with all Israel, to make him king, according to the word of the LORD concerning Israel. strengthened: or, held strongly with him”

Context

And he built the city round about, even from Millo round about: and Joab repaired the rest of the city. repaired: Heb. revived

So David waxed greater and greater: for the LORD of hosts was with him. waxed: Heb. went in going and increasing

These also are the chief of the mighty men whom David had, who strengthened themselves with him in his kingdom, and with all Israel, to make him king, according to the word of the LORD concerning Israel. strengthened: or, held strongly with him

And this is the number of the mighty men whom David had; Jashobeam, an Hachmonite, the chief of the captains : he lifted up his spear against three hundred slain by him at one time. an Hachmonite: or, son of Hachmoni

And after him was Eleazar the son of Dodo, the Ahohite, who was one of the three mighties.

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(10-44) *X* list of the warriors who helped David to win and maintain his kingdom. This catalogue answers to that of 2Samuel 23:8-39, which, however, breaks off with Uriah the Hittite; whereas our text communicates sixteen additional names. This fact proves that the chronicler had either a fuller source, or a different recension of Samuel. The numerous variant spellings are in general mistakes of transcription. (10) **These also are the chief of the mighty men.**—Rather, *And these were the heads of the warriors* (*i.e.,* the chief warriors, other warriors of lower rank being enumerated in 1 Chronicles 12) *who showed themselves strong in his support* (with him, Daniel 10:21; Psalm 12:4), *in the matter of his kingdom, in common with all Israel, in order to make him king* (and maintain him as such: comp. their exploits, noticed below). This description of the heroes is not given in Samuel, the connection there being different. **According to the word of the Lord concerning Israel.**—Comp. Note on 1Chronicles 11:3. David was made king (1) for his own sake. It was work for which he was best fitted, and a reward of his faithfulness. (2) For Israel’s sake: “So he led them with a faithful and true heart” (Psalm 78:70-72).

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of 1 Chronicles. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

1 Chronicles 11:10 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.