King James Version

What Does 1 Chronicles 18:5 Mean?

“And when the Syrians of Damascus came to help Hadarezer king of Zobah, David slew of the Syrians two and twenty thousand men. Damascus: Heb. Darmesek”

Context

And David smote Hadarezer king of Zobah unto Hamath, as he went to stablish his dominion by the river Euphrates. Hadarezer: or, Hadadezer

And David took from him a thousand chariots, and seven thousand horsemen, and twenty thousand footmen : David also houghed all the chariot horses, but reserved of them an hundred chariots. seven: or, seven hundred

And when the Syrians of Damascus came to help Hadarezer king of Zobah, David slew of the Syrians two and twenty thousand men. Damascus: Heb. Darmesek

Then David put garrisons in Syriadamascus ; and the Syrians became David's servants, and brought gifts. Thus the LORD preserved David whithersoever he went.

And David took the shields of gold that were on the servants of Hadarezer, and brought them to Jerusalem.

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(5) **And** **when the Syrians of Damascus came.**—Literally, *And Aram of Damascus came.* The verb is masculine here, feminine in Samuel. (Comp. 1Chronicles 18:2.) **Damascus.**—Heb., *Darmèseq,* a late form, occurring again in 2Chronicles 28:5; 2Chronicles 28:23 (= ancient *Dammèseq*)*.* In Syriac the name is similar: *Darmĕsûq.* The Arabic is *Dimashqu,* the cuneiform *Dimashqa* or *Dimmasqa.* **David slew of the Syrians.**—Literally, *smote in Aram.* The preposition is partitive.

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 18:5 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.