King James Version
What Does 1 Chronicles 11:16 Mean?
“And David was then in the hold, and the Philistines' garrison was then at Bethlehem.”
Context
14
And they set themselves in the midst of that parcel, and delivered it, and slew the Philistines; and the LORD saved them by a great deliverance. set: or, stood deliverance: or, salvation
15
Now three of the thirty captains went down to the rock to David, into the cave of Adullam; and the host of the Philistines encamped in the valley of Rephaim. three: or, three captains over the thirty
16
And David was then in the hold, and the Philistines' garrison was then at Bethlehem.
17
And David longed, and said, Oh that one would give me drink of the water of the well of Bethlehem, that is at the gate!
18
And the three brake through the host of the Philistines, and drew water out of the well of Bethlehem, that was by the gate, and took it, and brought it to David: but David would not drink of it, but poured it out to the LORD,
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(16) **The hold.**—The stronghold or rock-fortress of Adullam (2Samuel 5:17; 2Samuel 23:14).
**The Philistines’ garrison.**—An outpost; for their army was camping near Jerusalem.
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 11:16 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to 1 Chronicles 11:16
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge