King James Version
What Does 1 Chronicles 12:4 Mean?
“And Ismaiah the Gibeonite, a mighty man among the thirty, and over the thirty; and Jeremiah, and Jahaziel, and Johanan, and Josabad the Gederathite,”
1 Chronicles 12:4 · KJV
Context
2
They were armed with bows, and could use both the right hand and the left in hurling stones and shooting arrows out of a bow, even of Saul's brethren of Benjamin.
3
The chief was Ahiezer, then Joash, the sons of Shemaah the Gibeathite; and Jeziel, and Pelet, the sons of Azmaveth; and Berachah, and Jehu the Antothite, Shemaah: or, Hasmaah
4
And Ismaiah the Gibeonite, a mighty man among the thirty, and over the thirty; and Jeremiah, and Jahaziel, and Johanan, and Josabad the Gederathite,
5
Eluzai, and Jerimoth, and Bealiah, and Shemariah, and Shephatiah the Haruphite,
6
Elkanah, and Jesiah, and Azareel, and Joezer, and Jashobeam, the Korhites,
Commentary
KJV Study CommentaryIsmaiah the Gibeonite, a mighty man among the thirty, and over the thirty—A Gibeonite leading Israelite warriors is extraordinary. Gibeon had gained covenant status through deception (Josh 9), yet here a Gibeonite commands troops. The Hebrew construction emphasizes his dual role: baggibborim ('among the mighty') and al-hasheloshim ('over the thirty').
This warrior's presence illustrates how David's kingdom welcomed those God had incorporated into Israel, however irregular their entry. Joshua had condemned Gibeon to servitude (Josh 9:27), yet David's era saw Gibeonites rise to leadership. God's grace overrides human prejudice and past circumstances.
This warrior's presence illustrates how David's kingdom welcomed those God had incorporated into Israel, however irregular their entry. Joshua had condemned Gibeon to servitude (Josh 9:27), yet David's era saw Gibeonites rise to leadership. God's grace overrides human prejudice and past circumstances.
KJV Study — Public Domain
Historical & Cultural Context
Gibeonites served as temple servants (Josh 9:27), yet by David's time they were integrated enough for military leadership. This reflects the Chronicler's post-exilic message: God determines covenant membership, not ethnic purity alone. The returning remnant needed this inclusive vision.
Reflection Questions
- How does God's inclusion of unlikely candidates challenge our prejudices about who can serve?
- What 'irregular entries' into God's family deserve our recognition and encouragement?
Original Language Analysis
Hebrew · 11 wordsוְעַל5 of 11
H5921above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
Study Guide
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 12:4 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 12:4 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge