1 Chronicles 11:31 (KJV)

What does 1 Chronicles 11:31 mean?

1 Chronicles 11:31 lists two men, Ithai the son of Ribai from Gibeah of the tribe of Benjamin, and Benaiah the Pirathonite, as part of David’s mighty warriors. This verse is part of a longer record naming those who supported David as key leaders and fighters.

This verse appears in a section where the writer is recounting the names of David’s “mighty men,” a select group of warriors who played important roles in establishing David’s rule over Israel. The mention of their family origins and hometowns, like Gibeah and Pirathon, shows the diverse backgrounds of those who stood with David and highlights their significance in Israel’s history.

The Hebrew behind 1 Chronicles 11:31

• אִתַּי (Ithai): This is a personal name, often understood as “with me is the Lord” or “neighborly.” Naming him specifically highlights his individual importance among David’s warriors.
• בֶּן (ben): This means “son,” used here to show family lineage, which was important for identity and status in ancient Israel.
• רִבַּי (Ribai): The name of Ithai’s father, included to clarify his family background.
• גִּבְעָה (Gibeah): This is the hometown, meaning “hill,” and was a well-known city in Benjamin’s territory, connecting Ithai to a specific tribe and region.
• בְּנֵי (bene): This means “children” or “descendants,” used to indicate tribal affiliation, here referring to the tribe of Benjamin.
• בִּנְיָמִין (Binyamin): This is the name of the tribe, Benjamin, one of the twelve tribes of Israel, showing Ithai’s tribal identity.
• בְּנָיָה (Benaiah): Another personal name, meaning “Yahweh has built,” highlighting another key warrior.
• פִּרְעָתוֹנִי (Pirathonite): This term means someone from Pirathon, a town in Ephraim, showing Benaiah’s place of origin.

Why 1 Chronicles 11:31 matters

• This verse helps clarify that David’s supporters came from different tribes and towns, not just his own tribe of Judah, showing the broad support he received across Israel.
• By listing these names and places, the writer emphasizes the historical reality and personal stories behind David’s rise, grounding the narrative in real people and locations.
• The verse connects to the wider passage by showing the diversity and strength of David’s leadership team, which was essential for uniting the nation.