The Deeds of David's Mighty Warriors
2 Samuel 23:8-39
2 S.23.8 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- אלה: DEM,pl,abs
- שמות: NOUN,m,pl,abs
- הגברים: NOUN,m,pl,def
- אשר: PRON,rel
- לדוד: PREP+NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- ישב: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- בשבת: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,abs
- תחכמני: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ראש: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- השלשי: ADJ,ord,m,sg,def
- הוא: PRON,3,m,sg
- עדינו: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- העצני: NOUN,m,sg,def
- על: PREP
- שמנה: NUM,card,f,pl,abs
- מאות: NOUN,f,pl,abs
- חלל: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- בפעם: PREP+NOUN,f,sg
- אחת: NUM,f,sg
Parallels
- 1 Chronicles 11:11 (verbal): Near‑verbatim parallel: identifies Jashobeam (son of Hachmoni) as chief of the three and credits him with slaying 800 men at once — the same claim found in 2 Samuel 23:8.
- 1 Chronicles 11:10-47 (structural): The full list of David’s mighty men in Chronicles corresponds to 2 Samuel 23:8–39, reproducing the roster and many individual exploits (structural parallel of the same unit).
- 2 Samuel 23:9-12 (thematic): Immediate continuation in Samuel recounting comparable feats by other mighty men (Eleazar, Shammah), keeping the theme of singular martial prowess among David’s warriors.
- 1 Chronicles 12:1-22 (thematic): Catalogue of warriors who joined David (at Ziklag and Hebron) emphasizing the numbers, valor, and elite character of his followers — thematically parallel to the depiction of the mighty men.
- 1 Samuel 22:1-2 (thematic): Early account of men rallying to David (those in distress, debt, discontent), providing background for the origins of his band of fighters and thematically connected to the formation of his mighty men.
Alternative generated candidates
- These are the names of the mighty men who belonged to David. Jashobeam the Hachmonite was chief of the three; he wielded his spear against eight hundred, whom he killed at one time.
- These are the names of the mighty men who belonged to David: Josheb‑basshebeth the Tachmonite was chief of the three; he thrust his spear against eight hundred men at one time.
2 S.23.9 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ואחריו: CONJ+PREP,3,m,sg
- אלעזר: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- בן: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- דדו: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- בן: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- אחחי: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- בשלשה: PREP+NUM,card,sg
- הגברים: NOUN,m,pl,def
- עם: PREP
- דוד: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- בחרפם: PREP+NOUN,m,pl,poss3,m,pl
- בפלשתים: PREP+NOUN,m,pl,def
- נאספו: VERB,niphal,perf,3,pl
- שם: ADV
- למלחמה: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,abs
- ויעלו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- איש: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ישראל: NOUN,m,sg,abs
Parallels
- 1 Chronicles 11:12 (verbal): Direct parallel account: lists Eleazar son of Dodo (the Ahohite) among David’s three mighty men and recounts the same encounter with the Philistines.
- 2 Samuel 23:10 (verbal): Immediate continuation of the same episode in Samuel: describes Eleazar’s feat—striking the Philistines until his hand was weary and the LORD’s deliverance that day.
- 1 Chronicles 11:13-14 (thematic): Story of Shammah son of Agee: another account of a single warrior standing his ground when Israel fled, echoing the theme of individual valor among David’s mighty men.
- 2 Samuel 23:8 (structural): Permits structural comparison within the same list of David’s mighty men (the introduction to the trio), situating Eleazar in the broader roster and narrative context.
Alternative generated candidates
- Next to him was Eleazar son of Dodo son of Ahohi—one of the three—when they defied the Philistines who were gathered there for battle; and the men of Israel had retreated.
- Next to him was Eleazar son of Dodo the Ahohite—one of the three mighty men—when they taunted the Philistines who were gathered there for battle; the men of Israel had been gathered there.
2 S.23.10 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- הוא: PRON,3,m,sg
- קם: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- ויך: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- בפלשתים: PREP+NOUN,m,pl,abs
- עד: PREP
- כי: CONJ
- יגעה: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- ידו: NOUN,m,sg,abs+PRON,3,m,sg
- ותדבק: VERB,qal,impf,3,f,sg
- ידו: NOUN,m,sg,abs+PRON,3,m,sg
- אל: NEG
- החרב: NOUN,f,sg,def
- ויעש: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- תשועה: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- גדולה: ADJ,f,sg,abs
- ביום: PREP
- ההוא: DEM,ms,sg
- והעם: CONJ+NOUN,m,pl,def
- ישבו: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,pl
- אחריו: PREP,3,m,sg
- אך: PART
- לפשט: PREP+VERB,qal,inf
Parallels
- 1 Chronicles 11:12 (structural): Direct parallel/duplicate account in Chronicles of the same exploit (hand cleaving to the sword; great deliverance given that day).
- 1 Samuel 17:48-51 (thematic): David’s close-quarters victory over the Philistine and the LORD’s decisive help echo the theme of divine deliverance in hand-to-hand combat with the Philistines.
- Judges 3:21-22 (verbal): Image of a weapon becoming fixed in a body (the sword’s handle sinking in Eglon) parallels the striking motif of a hand stuck to a sword—shared motif of violent contact and its physical aftermath.
- Psalm 18:34-39 (thematic): Psalms celebrating Yahweh’s empowerment in battle and granting victory resonate with the statement that the LORD effected a great salvation on that day.
Alternative generated candidates
- He rose and struck the Philistines until his hand was weary, and his hand clung to the sword; and the LORD wrought a great victory that day. The people returned after him only to strip the slain.
- He rose and struck the Philistines until his hand was weary, and his hand clung to the sword; and the LORD brought about a great victory that day. The men returned after him only to strip the slain.
2 S.23.11 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ואחריו: PREP+PRON,3,m,sg
- שמא: PART
- בן: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- אגא: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- הררי: NOUN,m,pl,cons
- ויאספו: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,pl
- פלשתים: NOUN,m,pl,cstr
- לחיה: PREP+NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- ותהי: VERB,qal,perf,3,f,sg
- שם: ADV
- חלקת: NOUN,f,sg,cons
- השדה: NOUN,m,sg,def
- מלאה: ADV
- עדשים: NOUN,f,pl,abs
- והעם: CONJ+NOUN,m,pl,def
- נס: VERB,niphal,perf,3,m,sg
- מפני: PREP
- פלשתים: NOUN,m,pl,cstr
Parallels
- 1 Chronicles 11:12-13 (quotation): Direct parallel retelling of Shammah son of Agee defending a field of lentils against the Philistines; the Chronicler adds that the LORD gave a great victory.
- 2 Samuel 23:8-12 (structural): The verse is part of this larger unit listing David’s mighty men and their single‑combat exploits; vv.8–12 group similar episodes of individual stands against the Philistines.
- 2 Samuel 23:9 (verbal): Nearby episode about Eleazar son of Dodo, who likewise stood his ground and struck down Philistines in a field/plot—shares the motif and language of a lone warrior holding a field.
- 1 Chronicles 11:11 (thematic): Account of Eleazar’s lone stand in a plot of ground against the Philistines; thematically parallels Shammah’s defense of the lentil field as an act of heroic fidelity.
Alternative generated candidates
- After him was Shammah son of Agee the Hararite. The Philistines were gathered into a troop, and there was a plot of lentils full of standing grain; and the people fled from the Philistines.
- After him was Shammah son of Agee the Hararite. The Philistines had mustered at a plot of ground where there was a field of lentils, and the people fled before the Philistines.
2 S.23.12 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ויתיצב: VERB,hitpael,impf,3,m,sg
- בתוך: PREP
- החלקה: NOUN,f,sg,def
- ויצילה: VERB,hiphil,impf,3,m,sg
- ויך: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- את: PRT,acc
- פלשתים: NOUN,m,pl,cstr
- ויעש: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- תשועה: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- גדולה: ADJ,f,sg,abs
Parallels
- 1 Chronicles 11:22-23 (verbal): Chronicler's parallel account of Benaiah's exploits: he goes down into a pit and strikes a lion (and related feats), closely matching the wording and sequence of 2 Sam 23:11–12.
- 2 Samuel 23:20-23 (structural): Nearby verses in the same chapter recount Benaiah's other famous deeds and repeat the theme that the LORD accomplished a great deliverance for Israel, paralleling v.12's claim that the LORD wrought a great victory.
- 1 Samuel 17:50-51 (thematic): David's defeat of Goliath and the routing of the Philistines: like v.12 this describes personal combat against Philistines leading to a decisive victory attributed to God's help.
- 1 Samuel 7:10 (thematic): The LORD's direct intervention against the Philistines (thundering and giving Israel victory) — parallels the motif in v.12 that the LORD enacted a great deliverance in battle.
Alternative generated candidates
- But he stood in the midst of the plot, defended it, and struck the Philistines; and the LORD wrought a great victory.
- But he stood in the midst of the plot, defended it, and struck down the Philistines; and the LORD wrought a great victory.
2 S.23.13 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- וירדו: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,pl
- שלשה: NUM,m
- מהשלשים: PREP+NOUN,m,pl,def
- ראש: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ויבאו: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,pl
- אל: NEG
- קציר: NOUN,m,sg,construct
- אל: NEG
- דוד: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- אל: NEG
- מערת: NOUN,f,sg,cs
- עדלם: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- וחית: CONJ
- פלשתים: NOUN,m,pl,cstr
- חנה: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- בעמק: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- רפאים: NOUN,m,pl,abs
Parallels
- 1 Chronicles 11:15 (verbal): Parallel account of the same episode in the Chronicler's list of David's mighty men: 'three of the thirty' who came to David at the cave of Adullam while the Philistines were encamped in the valley of Rephaim.
- 1 Samuel 22:1-2 (thematic): Identifies the cave of Adullam as David's refuge where men distressed and in debt gathered around him, providing background to David's presence at the cave.
- 2 Samuel 5:17-25 (thematic): Describes the Philistine threat and David's military action when the Philistines were encamped in the valley of Rephaim, supplying the martial context for 23:13.
- 1 Chronicles 14:9 (thematic): Chronicles recounts the Philistines' deployment in the valley of Rephaim (and David's subsequent victories), echoing the same geographical/military situation mentioned in 2 Sam 23:13.
Alternative generated candidates
- Three of the thirty chief went down and came to David at the rock in the cave of Adullam; the Philistines had pitched a camp in the valley of Rephaim.
- Three of the thirty chiefs went down and came to David at the cave of Adullam, while the Philistine camp was at Bethlehem in the valley of Rephaim.
2 S.23.14 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ודוד: CONJ+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- אז: ADV
- במצודה: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,abs
- ומצב: CONJ+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- פלשתים: NOUN,m,pl,cstr
- אז: ADV
- בית: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- לחם: NOUN,m,sg,abs
Parallels
- 2 Sam.23.13 (structural): Immediate context of the same episode (the three mighty men bringing water); sets up verse 14's scene.
- 2 Sam.23.15 (verbal): Continues the account (the well at Bethlehem and David's longing for the water) and directly follows the scene described in v.14.
- 1 Chron.11.15 (verbal): Parallel retelling in Chronicles with nearly identical wording: David in the stronghold while the Philistines were at Bethlehem.
- 1 Chron.11.16-19 (verbal): Chronicles' expanded version of the same episode (the three mighty men, the well at Bethlehem, and David's reaction), corresponding to 2 Sam 23:13–17.
Alternative generated candidates
- Now David was then in the stronghold, and the garrison of the Philistines was then at Bethlehem.
- At that time David was in the stronghold, while the Philistine garrison was then at Bethlehem.
2 S.23.15 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ויתאוה: VERB,hitpael,perf,3,m,sg
- דוד: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ויאמר: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- מי: PRON,interr,sg
- ישקני: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg,suff:1,sg
- מים: NOUN,m,pl,abs
- מבאר: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,abs
- בית: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- לחם: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- אשר: PRON,rel
- בשער: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
Parallels
- 1 Chronicles 11:17-18 (quotation): Parallel account of the same episode: David's longing for water from the well of Bethlehem and the three mighty men who fetch it (essentially the same wording and narrative).
- 2 Samuel 23:16-17 (structural): Immediate narrative continuation: the three men draw the water, bring it to David, and David refuses to drink it, pouring it out as an offering to the LORD—completes the theological point of 23:15.
- Psalm 63:1 (thematic): Uses thirst imagery to express deep longing for God ('my soul thirsts for you'), thematically echoing David's physical longing for water as a metaphor for spiritual desire.
- Psalm 42:1 (thematic): Another vivid Old Testament image of longing—'As the deer pants for streams of water'—parallel in its use of thirst to portray intense spiritual yearning, resonant with 2 Sam 23:15.
- John 4:7-15 (thematic): Jesus' encounter at a well and the contrast between ordinary water and 'living water' resonates thematically with Old Testament well imagery and the deeper significance of seeking water in a sacred or salvific sense.
Alternative generated candidates
- And David longed and said, “Oh that someone would give me a drink of the water from the well of Bethlehem that is by the gate!”
- David longed and said, "Oh that someone would give me water to drink from the well at the gate of Bethlehem!"
2 S.23.16 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ויבקעו: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,pl
- שלשת: NUM,m,pl,abs
- הגברים: NOUN,m,pl,def
- במחנה: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- פלשתים: NOUN,m,pl,cstr
- וישאבו: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,pl
- מים: NOUN,m,pl,abs
- מבאר: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,abs
- בית: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- לחם: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- אשר: PRON,rel
- בשער: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- וישאו: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,pl
- ויבאו: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,pl
- אל: NEG
- דוד: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ולא: CONJ
- אבה: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- לשתותם: INF,qal,inf,3,m,pl
- ויסך: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- אתם: PRON,2,m,pl
- ליהוה: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,def
Parallels
- 1 Chronicles 11:17-19 (verbal): Near-verbatim parallel account of the same episode — three of David’s mighty men draw water from the well of Bethlehem, bring it to David, and he pours it out as an offering to Yahweh.
- 2 Samuel 23:13-17 (structural): Immediate literary context (the three mighty men episode). Verses 13–17 form the narrative unit that includes verse 16 and give names and fuller detail of the exploit and David’s refusal to drink the water.
- 2 Samuel 23:8-12 (thematic): Other vignettes in the same ‘mighty men’ list recounting extraordinary exploits and loyalty to David; thematically linked by courage, devotion, and the elite band willing to risk their lives for their lord.
- 1 Chronicles 12:1-7 (thematic): Listing of men who joined David at Hebron emphasizes the theme of warriors’ loyalty and valor that underlies the story of the three who risked themselves to obtain water for David.
Alternative generated candidates
- So the three broke through the camp of the Philistines, drew water from the well of Bethlehem that was by the gate, and brought it to David; yet he would not drink it, but poured it out to the LORD.
- So the three mighty men broke through the Philistine camp, drew water from the well at the gate of Bethlehem, and brought it to David; yet he would not drink it, but poured it out to the LORD.
2 S.23.17 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ויאמר: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- חלילה: INTJ
- לי: PREP+PRON,1,sg
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- מעשתי: NOUN,m,sg,abs+1cs
- זאת: DEM,f,sg
- הדם: NOUN,m,sg,abs,def
- האנשים: NOUN,m,pl,def
- ההלכים: NOUN,m,pl,def
- בנפשותם: PREP+NOUN,f,pl,abs+3mp
- ולא: CONJ
- אבה: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- לשתותם: PREP+VERB,qal,inf+3mp
- אלה: DEM,pl,abs
- עשו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- שלשת: NUM,m,pl,abs
- הגברים: NOUN,m,pl,def
Parallels
- 1 Chronicles 11:17 (verbal): Near-identical retelling of the episode: the three mighty men fetch water from Bethlehem and David refuses to drink it because it would be like drinking the blood of the men who risked their lives.
- 2 Samuel 23:16 (structural): Immediate context (the preceding verse) describing the three warriors’ action; 23:17 completes and explains David’s refusal to drink the water they brought.
- Leviticus 17:10-14 (thematic): Legal prohibition against consuming blood (life is in the blood), providing the cultic/moral background for David’s aversion to ‘drinking blood.’
- Genesis 9:4 (thematic): Earlier covenantal prohibition not to eat flesh with its lifeblood, echoing the principle that blood is sacred and not to be consumed.
- Acts 15:20 (allusion): Early Christian ruling to abstain from blood reflects the continuing ethical-religious concern about consuming blood, a later echo of the Old Testament prohibition relevant to David’s stance.
Alternative generated candidates
- And he said, “Far be it from me, O LORD, that I should do this—shall I drink the blood of these men who went at the risk of their lives?” Therefore he would not drink it. These things the three mighty men had done.
- He said, "Far be it from me, O LORD, that I should do this—shall I drink the blood of the men who went at the risk of their lives?" So he would not drink it. Such things did these three mighty men.
2 S.23.18 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ואבישי: CONJ+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- אחי: NOUN,m,pl,suff
- יואב: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- בן: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- צרויה: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- הוא: PRON,3,m,sg
- ראש: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- השלשה: NUM,card,def
- והוא: CONJ+PRON,3,m,sg
- עורר: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- את: PRT,acc
- חניתו: NOUN,f,sg,abs+PRON,3,m,sg
- על: PREP
- שלש: NUM,card,f,sg
- מאות: NOUN,f,pl,abs
- חלל: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ולו: CONJ+PREP+PRON,3,m,sg
- שם: ADV
- בשלשה: PREP+NUM,card,def
Parallels
- 1 Chron. 11:20 (verbal): Direct parallel/duplicate account of Abishai raising his spear against three hundred and gaining renown among 'the three'.
- 2 Sam. 23:8 (structural): Contextual parallel within the same passage listing David’s 'three' (chief warriors), linking Abishai’s title and status to that group.
- 2 Sam. 23:13-17 (structural): Nearby episodes in the list of David’s mighty men that display the same motif of individual feats of valor and risky exploits for David.
- Judg. 7:7-22 (thematic): Thematic parallel: a small elite band (Gideon’s 300) achieves decisive military success, echoing the motif of a few warriors overcoming many.
Alternative generated candidates
- Abishai, the brother of Joab, son of Zeruiah, was chief of the three. He lifted his spear against three hundred men and struck them down; and he had a name among the three.
- Abishai, the brother of Joab son of Zeruiah, was chief of the thirty; he lifted up his spear against three hundred and killed them, and he had a name among the three.
2 S.23.19 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- מן: PREP
- השלשה: NOUN,m,pl,def
- הכי: ADV
- נכבד: ADJ,m,sg,abs
- ויהי: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,sg
- להם: PREP+PRON,3,m,pl
- לשר: PREP+NOUN,m,sg
- ועד: CONJ+PREP
- השלשה: NOUN,m,pl,def
- לא: PART_NEG
- בא: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
Parallels
- 1 Chron.11:22-24 (verbal): Parallel (near-duplicate) account of David’s mighty men—identifies the same leaders (Abishai/Benaiah) and repeats the language about being chief of the three/the thirty.
- 2 Sam.23:8 (structural): Heading for the unit that lists David’s ‘mighty men’ (the three and the thirty); provides the structural context for v.19’s reference to ‘the three.’
- 2 Sam.23:20 (verbal): Immediate literary parallel/continuation describing the same warrior (Benaiah) and his deeds; repeats the contrast ‘chief of the thirty’ but ‘not of the three.’
- 1 Chron.12:1-40 (thematic): Broader parallel list of David’s warriors: another chronicler’s compilation of the same tradition about elite fighters and their tribal affiliations, echoing the themes of honor and rank found in 2 Sam 23:19.
Alternative generated candidates
- He was more honored than the thirty, yet he was not counted among the three. And David set him over his bodyguard.
- He was the most honored of the thirty; he became their commander, though he did not come into the three.
2 S.23.20 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ובניהו: CONJ+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- בן: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- יהוידע: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- בן: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- איש: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- חיל: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- רב: ADJ,m,sg
- פעלים: NOUN,m,pl,abs
- מקבצאל: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- הוא: PRON,3,m,sg
- הכה: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- את: PRT,acc
- שני: NUM,m,pl,construct
- אראל: NOUN,m,pl,abs
- מואב: NOUN,m,sg,prop
- והוא: CONJ+PRON,3,m,sg
- ירד: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- והכה: VERB,qal,imperfect,3,m,sg
- את: PRT,acc
- הארי: NOUN,m,sg,def
- בתוך: PREP
- הבאר: NOUN,f,sg,def
- ביום: PREP
- השלג: NOUN,m,sg,def
Parallels
- 1 Chronicles 11:22-23 (verbal): Nearly identical account of Benaiah son of Jehoiada: killing two Moabite heroes and striking down a lion in a pit on a snowy day — a direct parallel/retelling of the same deed.
- 1 Samuel 17:34-37 (thematic): David’s account of killing a lion (and a bear) while shepherding reflects the motif of heroic single combat with wild beasts, thematically similar to Benaiah’s lion-in-the-pit exploit.
- 2 Samuel 23:11-12 (structural): Nearby verses in the same ‘mighty men’ list recount other individual feats (e.g., Shammah defending a field), showing the structural pattern of naming extraordinary warrior exploits alongside Benaiah’s deed.
- 1 Kings 2:29-34 (allusion): Later narrative showing Benaiah acting as Solomon’s trusted warrior/executor (carrying out lethal royal commands), which alludes to and confirms his standing as a formidable and reliable fighter introduced in 2 Sam 23:20.
Alternative generated candidates
- Benaiah the son of Jehoiada, a valiant man from Kabzeel, who did many exploits, struck down two Moabite warriors.
- Benaiah son of Jehoiada, a valiant man from Kabzeel—he did many deeds. He struck down two worthies of Moab; he also went down and killed a lion in a pit on a snowy day.
2 S.23.21 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- והוא: CONJ+PRON,3,m,sg
- הכה: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- את: PRT,acc
- איש: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- מצרי: ADJ,m,sg,abs
- איש: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- מראה: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- וביד: CONJ+PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- המצרי: ADJ,m,sg,def
- חנית: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- וירד: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,sg
- אליו: PREP+PRON,3,m,sg
- בשבט: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ויגזל: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,sg
- את: PRT,acc
- החנית: NOUN,f,sg,def
- מיד: PREP
- המצרי: ADJ,m,sg,def
- ויהרגהו: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,sg+PRON,3,m,sg
- בחניתו: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,abs+PRON,3,m,sg
Parallels
- 1 Chronicles 11:23 (verbal): Direct parallel account of Benaiah's exploit in the parallel list of David’s mighty men; wording and action are essentially the same.
- 1 Samuel 17:50-51 (thematic): David fells the giant Goliath and then uses Goliath’s own sword to finish him—similar motif of a single warrior overpowering a formidable foe and employing the enemy’s weapon.
- Exodus 2:11-12 (thematic): Moses kills an Egyptian in a solitary encounter; parallels the motif of an Israelite striking down an Egyptian in a one-on-one, decisive act.
- Judges 3:21-22 (thematic): Ehud’s lone assassination of Eglon by close stabbing—another example of a single Israelite killing an enemy leader through bold, stealthy close combat.
Alternative generated candidates
- He also went down and struck a lion in the midst of a pit on a snowy day.
- He killed an Egyptian, a man of great stature; the Egyptian had a spear in his hand, but Benaiah went down to him with a club, seized the spear from the Egyptian's hand, and killed him with his own spear.
2 S.23.22 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- אלה: DEM,pl,abs
- עשה: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- בניהו: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- בן: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- יהוידע: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ולו: CONJ+PREP+PRON,3,m,sg
- שם: ADV
- בשלשה: PREP+NUM,card,m,pl
- הגברים: NOUN,m,pl,def
Parallels
- 2 Samuel 23:20-23 (structural): Immediate context in the same poem of David's mighty men; these verses enumerate Benaiah's exploits and state he was celebrated 'among the three' and in the thirty.
- 1 Chronicles 11:22-25 (quotation): Parallel retelling of Benaiah's deeds and his standing among David's elite warriors (the three), largely repeating the Samuel account.
- 2 Samuel 8:18 (thematic): Identifies Benaiah son of Jehoiada as a principal officer (over the Cherethites and Pelethites), underscoring his high military/royal role related to the honor noted in 23:22.
- 1 Kings 1:38-40 (thematic): Shows Benaiah acting as David's trusted warrior in the succession crisis (supporting Solomon), reflecting the prominence attributed to him in 2 Sam 23:22.
- 1 Kings 2:25 (thematic): Records Benaiah's execution of Joab and later actions under Solomon, demonstrating the ongoing authoritative role that follows from his status as one of David's foremost warriors.
Alternative generated candidates
- He struck down an Egyptian, a man of great stature, and the Egyptian had a spear in his hand; but Benaiah went against him with a club, wrested the spear from the Egyptian’s hand, and killed him with his own spear.
- These things did Benaiah son of Jehoiada, and he had a name among the three mighty men.
2 S.23.23 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- מן: PREP
- השלשים: NOUN,m,pl,def
- נכבד: ADJ,m,sg,abs
- ואל: CONJ+PREP
- השלשה: NOUN,m,sg,def
- לא: PART_NEG
- בא: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- וישמהו: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- דוד: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- אל: NEG
- משמעתו: NOUN,f,sg,abs,poss:3,m,sg
Parallels
- 1 Chronicles 11:26 (verbal): Direct parallel in the Chronicler's list of David's mighty men—repeats the same wording about the relation of the thirty to the three and David's appointment over their service.
- 2 Samuel 23:8 (structural): Introduces the catalogue of 'David's mighty men' and specifically names the 'three,' providing the immediate literary context for v.23's contrast between the three and the thirty.
- 2 Samuel 23:39 (thematic): Summarizes the group by stating that the thirty were each valiant men, echoing the contrast and hierarchy between the thirty and the select 'three' found in v.23.
- 1 Chronicles 12:1 (thematic): Describes other bands of 'mighty men' who joined David, reflecting the ongoing theme of distinguished warrior groups and David's organization of military followers.
- 1 Samuel 22:2 (thematic): Reports how men in distress joined David and he became their captain—parallels the pattern of David gathering and appointing men to service and leadership, as reflected in v.23.
Alternative generated candidates
- This is the deed of Benaiah son of Jehoiada; he had a name among the three. He was more honored than the thirty, yet he was not included among the three. And David placed him over his guard.
- He was more honored than the thirty, yet he did not attain to the three; and David put him in command of his bodyguard.
2 S.23.24 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- עשה: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- אל: NEG
- אחי: NOUN,m,pl,suff
- יואב: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- בשלשים: NOUN,m,pl,abs
- אלחנן: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- בן: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- דדו: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- בית: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- לחם: NOUN,m,sg,abs
Parallels
- 1 Chronicles 11:26 (verbal): Parallel roster entry in Chronicles that repeats the same names — 'Asahel the brother of Joab' and 'Elhanan son of Dodo of Bethlehem.'
- 2 Samuel 23:8–39 (structural): This verse is part of the larger list of David’s 'mighty men' (the thirty); the surrounding passage provides the full roster context for the names here.
- 2 Samuel 2:18–23 (thematic): Narrative account of Asahel (brother of Joab) pursuing Abner and being killed — provides biographical background for Asahel mentioned in the list.
- 2 Samuel 21:19 (verbal): Mentions an Elhanan in a combat tradition (here linked to the slaying of Goliath in the Masoretic text variant), connecting to the Elhanan named in 2 Sam 23:24.
- 1 Chronicles 20:5 (allusion): Chronicles clarifies the tradition by naming Elhanan as slayer of 'Lahmi, brother of Goliath,' which relates to the Elhanan of Bethlehem listed in 2 Samuel 23:24 and to textual variants about Elhanan’s exploits.
Alternative generated candidates
- Asahel the brother of Joab, Elhanan son of Dodo of Bethlehem,
- Asahel, the brother of Joab. Among the thirty: Elhanan son of Dodo of Bethlehem.
2 S.23.25 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- שמה: ADV
- החרדי: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- אליקא: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- החרדי: NOUN,m,sg,abs
Parallels
- 1 Chronicles 11:26-27 (verbal): Direct parallel in Chronicles’ roster of David’s mighty men; the same names (Shammah and Elika) are listed as Hararites/Harodites, matching Samuel’s account.
- 2 Samuel 23:24-39 (structural): The verse is part of this larger catalogue — the concluding list of David’s mighty men in 2 Samuel; consult the whole section for the full roster and context.
- 1 Chronicles 11:10-47 (structural): The expanded Chronicles version of the same passage preserves the roster of David’s warriors (the Thirty and others), providing a close narrative parallel to Samuel’s list.
- 1 Chronicles 12:1-22 (thematic): Another Chronicler’s passage listing warriors who joined David (at Hebron and elsewhere); thematically parallels the tradition of naming David’s famed fighters and emphasizing their allegiance.
Alternative generated candidates
- Shamoth the Harodite, Elika the Harodite,
- Shammah the Harodite; Elika the Harodite.
2 S.23.26 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- חלץ: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- הפלטי: NOUN,m,sg,def
- עירא: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- בן: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- עקש: ADJ,m,sg,abs
- התקועי: NOUN,m,sg,def
Parallels
- 1 Chronicles 11:29 (verbal): Direct parallel in the Chronicler's list—records 'Ira son of Ikkesh the Tekoite' (Halaç/Halitz) among David's mighty men.
- 1 Chronicles 11:26-47 (structural): The Chronicler's expanded recension of the same pericope listing David's valiant men; this passage corresponds to the wider catalogue containing v. 23:26.
- 2 Samuel 23:24-39 (structural): Immediate literary context in Samuel—the larger catalogue of David's mighty men of which v. 23:26 is a part.
- 1 Chronicles 12:1-40 (thematic): A related collection of warriors who joined David at various times—parallel theme of assembled fighters and loyal supporters of David.
Alternative generated candidates
- Helez the Paltite, Ira son of Ikkesh the Tekoite,
- Helez the Paltite; Ira son of Ikkesh the Tekoite.
2 S.23.27 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- אביעזר: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- הענתתי: NOUN,m,sg,def
- מבני: PREP+NOUN,m,pl,cs
- החשתי: NOUN,m,sg,def
Parallels
- 1 Chronicles 11:10-47 (structural): Parallel roster of David’s mighty men; the list in 1 Chronicles corresponds to 2 Samuel 23:24–39 and preserves the same names (including Abiezer/Anathothite).
- Judges 6:11 (verbal): Mentions 'Gideon the Abiezrite' (ben-Aviezer/Abiezrite) — a verbal/name connection to Abiezer, showing the use of the clan-name Abiezer in Israelite tradition.
- Jeremiah 1:1 (thematic): Identifies Jeremiah as 'of Anathoth' (Anathothite); connects the geographic designation 'Anathothite' used of Abiezer in 2 Sam 23:27 to other biblical figures from Anathoth.
- Joshua 21:18 (thematic): Lists Anathoth as a Levitical town in Benjamin’s territory; provides background for the ethnic/geographic label 'Anathothite' applied to Abiezer.
Alternative generated candidates
- Abiezer of Anathoth, Mebunnai the Hushathite,
- Abiezer the Anathothite; Mebunnai the Hushathite.
2 S.23.28 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- צלמון: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- האחחי: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- מהרי: VERB,hiphil,impv,2,f,sg
- הנטפתי: ADJ,m,sg,abs
Parallels
- 1 Chronicles 11:29 (quotation): Direct parallel in the Chronicles list of David’s mighty men — the names Zalmon the Ahohite and Maharai the Netophathite appear here as in 2 Samuel 23:28.
- 2 Samuel 23:8 (structural): Introduces the catalogue of David’s mighty men; 23:28 is an entry within this larger roster and gains context from the opening summary.
- 2 Samuel 23:24-39 (structural): The extended list of David’s warriors that includes 23:28; comparing the whole passage shows the sequence and grouping of the individual names.
- 1 Chronicles 12:1-22 (thematic): A related passage listing warriors who joined David from the tribes — parallels the theme of elite fighters and their tribal/local origins (e.g., Netophathites) found in 2 Samuel 23.
Alternative generated candidates
- Zalmon the Ahohite, Maharai the Netophathite,
- Zalmon the Ahohite; Maharai the Netophathite.
2 S.23.29 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- חלב: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- בן: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- בענה: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- הנטפתי: NOUN,m,sg,det
- אתי: PRON,1,sg
- בן: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ריבי: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- מגבעת: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,abs
- בני: NOUN,m,pl,construct
- בנימן: NOUN,m,sg,proper
Parallels
- 1 Chron.11:31 (quotation): Direct parallel — the Chronicler repeats the roster of David’s mighty men, including Heleb (Heled) son of Baanah the Netophathite and Ittai (Ithai) son of Ribai from Gibeah of Benjamin.
- 1 Chron.11:34 (verbal): Verbal parallel/variant — another verse in the Chronicles list that corresponds to the same names here, showing minor spelling and ordering differences in the catalogue of David’s warriors.
- 2 Sam.23:28 (structural): Structural parallel — the immediately preceding verse in the same Davidic ‘last words’/mighty-men catalogue; provides context for v.29 as part of the wider list of David’s elite fighters.
Alternative generated candidates
- Heleb son of Baanah the Netophathite, Ittai son of Ribai of Gibeah of the sons of Benjamin,
- Heleb son of Baanah the Netophathite; Ithai son of Ribai of Gibeah of the sons of Benjamin.
2 S.23.30 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- בניהו: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- פרעתני: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- הדי: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- מנחלי: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- געש: NOUN,m,sg,abs,proper
Parallels
- 2 Samuel 23:20-23 (structural): Immediate parallel within the same chapter that records Benaiah’s exploits (striking down two Moabites, killing a lion in a pit on a snowy day, and slaying an Egyptian), giving fuller context to the identification of Benaiah the Pirathonite.
- 1 Chronicles 11:22-23 (quotation): A near-verbatim retelling of Benaiah’s deeds in the parallel list of David’s mighty men in Chronicles (mentions the two Moabites, the lion in the pit, and the Egyptian).
- 1 Samuel 17:34-36 (thematic): David’s account of killing a lion (and a bear) while shepherding; shares the motif of an Israelite hero overcoming a lion, thematically linking Benaiah’s feat to the tradition of heroic animal combat.
- Judges 14:5-6 (thematic): Samson’s tearing of a lion; another instance of a heroic figure defeating a lion, illustrating a wider heroic/lion-slaying motif in Israelite literature.
Alternative generated candidates
- Benaiah of Pirathon, Hiddai of the valleys of Gaash,
- Benaiah the Pirathonite; Hiddai of the valleys of Gesh.
2 S.23.31 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- אבי: NOUN,m,sg,cons
- עלבון: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- הערבתי: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- עזמות: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- הברחמי: NOUN,m,sg,abs
Parallels
- 1 Chr 11:33 (verbal): Direct parallel list in Chronicles; the same personal names (Abi‑albon/אבי־עלבון and Azmaveth/עזמות) appear as part of David’s mighty men.
- 2 Sam 23:24-39 (structural): This verse is one entry in the larger roster of David’s warriors in 2 Samuel 23; the surrounding verses form the same catalogue of mighty men.
- 2 Sam 23:1-7 (thematic): The closing section of 2 Samuel (David’s ‘last words’ and summary) provides the context for the list of warriors to which this verse belongs.
- 1 Chr 12:1-22 (thematic): Chronicles’ account of warriors from the tribes who joined David (at Hebron) corresponds thematically to the assembled fighters and elite troops reflected in the lists of David’s men.
Alternative generated candidates
- Abi‑albon the Arbathite, Azmaveth the Barhumite,
- Abialbon the Arbite; Azmaveth the Barhumite.
2 S.23.32 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- אליחבא: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- השעלבני: NOUN,m,sg,def
- בני: NOUN,m,pl,construct
- ישן: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- יהונתן: NOUN,m,sg,abs
Parallels
- 1Chron.11.33 (verbal): Direct repetition of the same names (Eliahba the Shaalbonite; Jonathan son of Shagee) in the parallel list of David’s mighty men.
- 1Chron.11.32-34 (structural): The surrounding verses in Chronicles correspond to this portion of Samuel’s roster, showing the same cluster of warriors with minor variant readings.
- 2Sam.23.31-34 (structural): Immediate context in Samuel: the contiguous verses form the same catalogue of David’s elite fighters, illustrating the internal sequence and grouping.
- 2Sam.23.8-39 (structural): The broader Samuel passage containing the full list of David’s mighty men; verse 23:32 is one entry within this larger unit that defines David’s warrior cadre.
- 1Chron.11.10-47 (thematic): Chronicles’ extended roster of David’s warriors parallels Samuel’s list thematically and textually, preserving the tradition of David’s elite followers though with editorial adjustments.
Alternative generated candidates
- Eliam son of Ahithophel the Gilonite,
- Elihaba the Shaalbite; Jonathan the son of Shage the Hararite.
2 S.23.33 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- שמה: ADV
- ההררי: NOUN,m,sg,def
- אחיאם: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- בן: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- שרר: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- האררי: NOUN,m,sg,def
Parallels
- 1 Chron.11.36 (verbal): Direct parallel in the Chronicles list of David’s mighty men; the same name (Shammah/Shama the Hararite or a closely related reading) appears in the corresponding list.
- 2 Sam.23.32 (structural): Nearby verse in the same chapter; part of the contiguous roster of David’s mighty men and shows immediate literary context.
- 2 Sam.23.39 (structural): The concluding summary of the roster of mighty men in 2 Samuel, which thematically and structurally frames the individual names including this one.
- 1 Chron.12.1 (thematic): A related passage listing warriors who joined David at Hebron/Ziklag; thematically connected as a parallel tradition about David’s military supporters and their composition.
Alternative generated candidates
- Hezro the Carmelite, Paarai the Arbite,
- Ahiam son of Sharar the Hararite; Eliphelet son of Ahasbai the Maacathite.
2 S.23.34 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- אליפלט: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- בן: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- אחסבי: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- בן: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- המעכתי: NOUN,m,sg,def
- אליעם: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- בן: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- אחיתפל: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- הגלני: NOUN,m,sg,abs
Parallels
- 1 Chronicles 11:36 (quotation): Parallel list of David’s mighty men; repeats the names Eliphelet son of Ahasbai and Eliam son of Ahithophel.
- 2 Samuel 11:3 (verbal): Identifies Eliam son of Ahithophel as the father of Bathsheba, linking the same Eliam named in 2 Sam 23:34.
- 2 Samuel 15:12 (verbal): Records Ahithophel’s defection to Absalom’s conspiracy—background for ‘Ahithophel the Gilonite’ mentioned here.
- 2 Samuel 17:23 (thematic): Relates Ahithophel’s despair and suicide after his counsel is not followed, providing further biographical detail about the father of Eliam.
Alternative generated candidates
- Igal son of Nathan of Zobah, Bani the Gadite of Ramoth,
- Eliam son of Ahithophel the Gilonite.
2 S.23.35 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- חצרי: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- הכרמלי: ADJ,m,sg,def
- פערי: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- הארבי: NOUN,m,sg,def
Parallels
- 2 Sam.23:34-39 (structural): Immediate context: this verse is part of the closing catalogue of David's mighty men — the surrounding verses list the other warriors and their origins/deeds.
- 1 Chron.11:10-47 (verbal): Parallel recension in Chronicles: the same roll of David's 'mighty men' is repeated here, including the regional epithets (e.g., 'the Carmelite,' 'the Arbite') corresponding to 2 Sam 23:35.
- 1 Chron.12:1-40 (thematic): Related lists of warriors who joined David at Hebron/Ziklag; overlaps in names and function with 2 Sam 23's catalogue, showing variant traditions about David's supporters.
Alternative generated candidates
- Zelek the Ammonite, Naharai the Beerothite—armor‑bearer for Joab son of Zeruiah—
- Hezro the Carmelite; Paarai the Arbite.
2 S.23.36 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- יגאל: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- בן: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- נתן: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- מצבה: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- בני: NOUN,m,pl,construct
- הגדי: NOUN,m,sg,def
Parallels
- 1Chron.11.38 (quotation): Direct parallel in the Chronicler's list of David's mighty men—repeats the name and tribal designation (Igal son of Nathan, a Gadite) with minimal variation.
- 1Chron.12.8 (thematic): Part of the larger tradition of Gadite warriors who joined David; Chronicles 12:8 lists men of Gad coming to David, providing expanded background for Gadite figures in David's war-band.
- 2Sam.23.35 (structural): Immediate contextual parallel within the same catalog of David's mighty men—adjacent entries that show the verse is one item in a roster of warriors.
- 2Sam.23.39 (structural): Continues the same list of David's valiant men; pairs with 23:36 to show grouping and composition of the elite warriors tradition in Samuel.
Alternative generated candidates
- Ira the Ithrite, Gareb the Ithrite,
- Igal son of Nathan of Zobah; Bani the Gadite.
2 S.23.37 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- צלק: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- העמני: NOUN,m,sg,def
- נחרי: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- הבארתי: NOUN,m,sg,def
- נשא: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- כלי: NOUN,m,pl,const
- יואב: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- בן: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- צריה: NOUN,f,sg,abs
Parallels
- 1 Chronicles 11:39 (verbal): Parallel listing in Chronicles of the same roster of David’s mighty men; the individual is likewise described in relation to Joab (armor‑bearer).
- 2 Samuel 23:8-39 (structural): The verse is part of this larger unit — the concluding catalogue of David’s 'mighty men' (the context that groups these names and roles).
- 1 Chronicles 12:1-22 (thematic): Another collection of warriors who rallied to David; thematically parallels the characterization and military roles (including personal attendants/armor‑bearers) of David’s elite fighters.
- 1 Samuel 14:7 (thematic): An earlier example of the military role 'armor‑bearer' in Israel (Jonathan and his armor‑bearer) — parallels the duties and close attendant relationship implied by ‘carrier of Joab’s armor.’
Alternative generated candidates
- Uriah the Hittite—thirty‑seven in all.
- Zelek the Ammonite of Naharaim; Naharai the Beerothite—Joab's armor‑bearer.
2 S.23.38 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- עירא: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- היתרי: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- גרב: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- היתרי: NOUN,m,sg,abs
Parallels
- 1Chron.11.41 (verbal): The same individual appears in the parallel Chronicler’s roster of David’s mighty men — the name and designation correspond to 2 Samuel’s listing.
- 1Chron.11.10-47 (quotation): The Chronicler reproduces the entire catalogue of David’s mighty men found in 2 Samuel 23; 2 Samuel 23:38 corresponds to a verse within this broader parallel passage.
- 2Sam.23.8 (structural): This verse introduces the list of David’s mighty men of which 23:38 is a part, providing the immediate literary context for the name.
- 2Sam.23.39 (thematic): Neighboring verse in the same catalog of warriors; together these verses form the concluding portion of David’s list and show the grouping and sequencing of names (and reflect minor textual/nominal variations across manuscripts).
Alternative generated candidates
- Ira the Ithrite; Gareb the Ithrite.
2 S.23.39 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- אוריה: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- החתי: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- כל: DET
- שלשים: NUM,m,pl,abs
- ושבעה: NUM,m,pl,abs
Parallels
- 1 Chronicles 11:43 (verbal): Parallel roster in Chronicles repeats 'Uriah the Hittite' and the same tally (thirty-seven) as the closing item in David's list of warriors.
- 2 Samuel 23:8 (structural): Opening verse of the same unit that frames the list of David's mighty men to which 23:39 belongs; provides the literary context for the roster.
- 2 Samuel 11:3 (allusion): Identifies Uriah the Hittite as the husband of Bathsheba, connecting the name in the roster to the narrative episode involving David and Bathsheba.
- 2 Samuel 11:25 (thematic): Reports the death of Uriah in battle as arranged by David; provides narrative background and tragic context for the same individual's later appearance in the list of warriors.
Alternative generated candidates
- Uriah the Hittite; all these were thirty and seven.
These are the names of the mighty men who belonged to David. Jashobeam the Hachmonite was chief of the three; he was commander of the thirty—he raised his spear against eight hundred whom he struck down at one time.
After him was Eleazar son of Dodo the Ahohite, one of the three. He was with David at Pas Dammim when the Philistines were gathered there for battle; the men of Israel had drawn back.
He rose and struck the Philistines until his hand grew weary; his hand clung to the sword. The LORD brought about a great victory that day; the people returned with him only to strip the slain.
After him was Shammah son of Agee the Hararite. The Philistines were gathered at Lehi, and there was a plot of lentils full of people; the men fled before the Philistines. But he stood in the midst of the plot and defended it and struck down the Philistines; and the LORD brought about a great victory.
Three of the thirty chief warriors came down and went to David at the cave of Adullam, while the garrison of the Philistines was encamped in the Valley of Rephaim.
At that time David was in the stronghold, and the Philistine garrison was then at Bethlehem.
David longed and said, “Oh that someone would give me a drink of water from the well at Bethlehem, at the gate!” So the three broke through the Philistine camp, drew water from the well of Bethlehem at the gate, and carried it to David. But he would not drink it; he poured it out to the LORD.
He said, “Far be it from me, O LORD, that I should do this—would I drink the blood of these men who went at the risk of their lives?” And he would not drink it. These things the three mighty men had done.
Abishai, the brother of Joab, son of Zeruiah, was chief of the three; he lifted up his spear against three hundred and killed them, and had a name among the three.
He was the most distinguished of the thirty, but he did not attain to the first three; and David set him over his guard.
Benaiah son of Jehoiada, a valiant man of Kabzeel, did many exploits. He struck down two lion-like men of Moab; he also went down and struck a lion in a pit on a snowy day.
He struck down an Egyptian, a very great man; the Egyptian had a spear in his hand, but Benaiah went against him with a club, wrested the spear from the Egyptian's hand, and killed him with his own spear.
These things did Benaiah son of Jehoiada, and he had a name among the three mighty men.
He was more honored than the thirty, yet he did not reach the three; and David set him over his bodyguard.
Asahel, the brother of Joab, was among the thirty. Elhanan son of Dodo of Bethlehem.
Shammoth the Hararite; Elika the Hararite.
Hilah the Pelonite; Ira son of Ikkesh the Tekoite.
Abiezer the Anathothite, from the sons of Hushah.
Salmon the Ahohite, of the hill-country of the Netophathites.
Heleb son of Baanah the Netophathite; Ithai son of Ribai of Gibeah of the Benjaminites.
Benaiah the Pirathonite; Hiddai of the brooks of Gaash.
Abi‑albon the Arbite; Azmaveth the Barhumite.
Eliab the Shaalbonite; Jonathan.
Shammah the Hararite; Ahiam son of Sharar the Hararite.
Eliphelet son of Ahasbai the Maacathite; Eliam son of Ahithophel the Gilonite.
Hezrai the Carmelite; Paarai the Arbite.
Igal son of Nathan of Zobah, a Gadite.
Zalmon the Ahohite; Maharai the Netophathite; Heled son of Baanah the Netophathite.
Ittai son of Ribai of Gibeah of the Benjaminites; Benaiah the Pirathonite; Hiddai of the valleys of Gaash.
Uriah the Hittite—thirty-seven in all.