King James Version

What Does 2 Samuel 23:29 Mean?

2 Samuel 23:29 in the King James Version says “Heleb the son of Baanah, a Netophathite, Ittai the son of Ribai out of Gibeah of the children of Benjamin, — study this verse from 2 Samuel chapter 23 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

Heleb the son of Baanah, a Netophathite, Ittai the son of Ribai out of Gibeah of the children of Benjamin,

2 Samuel 23:29 · KJV


Context

27

Abiezer the Anethothite, Mebunnai the Hushathite,

28

Zalmon the Ahohite, Maharai the Netophathite,

29

Heleb the son of Baanah, a Netophathite, Ittai the son of Ribai out of Gibeah of the children of Benjamin,

30

Benaiah the Pirathonite, Hiddai of the brooks of Gaash, brooks: or, valleys

31

Abialbon the Arbathite, Azmaveth the Barhumite,


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Heleb the son of Baanah, a Netophathite, Ittai the son of Ribai out of Gibeah of the children of Benjamin,

This verse contributes to the narrative of Last Words and Mighty Men, emphasizing legacy, faithful servants. David's last words emphasize the eternal covenant God established (v. 5) and declare principles of righteous rule. The accounts of David's mighty men demonstrate extraordinary courage and devotion. The water-drawing incident reveals David's unwillingness to value his comfort above his soldiers' lives. Theological themes include the importance of final testimonies, the eternal nature of God's covenant, the value of faithful servants, and the necessity of sacrificial leadership.

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Historical & Cultural Context

The historical setting of 2 Samuel 23 occurs during David's reign (circa 1010-970 BCE) over Israel's united monarchy. Archaeological discoveries, including the Tel Dan inscription mentioning the 'House of David,' corroborate biblical historicity. Ancient Near Eastern customs regarding legacy, faithful servants provide crucial background. The geopolitical situation involved regional powers—Philistines, Ammonites, Arameans, Moabites, Edomites—as David consolidated and expanded Israel's territory. Cultural practices concerning kingship, warfare, covenant relationships, family dynamics, and religious observance differed significantly from modern Western contexts, requiring careful attention to avoid anachronistic interpretation while extracting timeless theological principles applicable across cultures and eras.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does this passage deepen your understanding of legacy, faithful servants?
  2. What does this verse reveal about God's character, and how should that shape your worship and obedience?
  3. In what specific ways can you apply this truth to your current circumstances and relationships this week?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 10 words
חֵ֥לֶב1 of 10

Heleb

H2460

cheleb, an israelite

בְּנֵ֥י2 of 10

of the children

H1121

a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or

בַּעֲנָ֖ה3 of 10

of Baanah

H1196

baanah, the name of four israelites

הַנְּטֹֽפָתִ֑י4 of 10

a Netophathite

H5200

a netophathite, or inhabitant of netophah

אִתַּי֙5 of 10

Ittai

H863

ittai or ithai, the name of a gittite and of an israelite

בְּנֵ֥י6 of 10

of the children

H1121

a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or

רִיבַ֔י7 of 10

of Ribai

H7380

ribai, an israelite

מִגִּבְעַ֖ת8 of 10

out of Gibeah

H1390

gibah; the name of three places in palestine

בְּנֵ֥י9 of 10

of the children

H1121

a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or

בִנְיָמִֽן׃10 of 10

of Benjamin

H1144

binjamin, youngest son of jacob; also the tribe descended from him, and its territory


Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of 2 Samuel. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

2 Samuel 23:29 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 2 Samuel 23:29 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Places in This Verse

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