1 Chronicles 14:11 (KJV)

What does 1 Chronicles 14:11 mean?

1 Chronicles 14:11 describes how David defeated his enemies at a place called Baalperazim, and he credited God for breaking through his enemies like a flood of water. David named the place Baalperazim to mark this powerful victory and the way God helped him overcome his foes.

In this verse, David is the main speaker, reflecting after a successful battle against the Philistines. The setting is right after David has become king and is facing threats from neighboring enemies. The verse highlights David’s belief that God was directly involved in the victory, acting forcefully and suddenly, much like water breaking through a barrier.

The Hebrew behind 1 Chronicles 14:11

• בַּעַל־פְּרָצִים (Baalperazim): This name means "Lord of Breakthroughs" or "Owner of Breakings Through." David names the place this to remember how decisively God broke through his enemies.
• פָּרַץ (parats, from H6555): This verb means "to break through" or "burst out." David uses this word to describe how God’s action against his enemies was sudden and overwhelming, like water bursting through a dam.
• מַיִם (mayim): This word means "waters." The comparison to water breaking out shows how unstoppable and forceful God’s intervention was in the battle.

Why 1 Chronicles 14:11 matters

• The verse makes clear that David did not take credit for the victory but saw it as God working through him, which sets a tone of humility and dependence on God for leadership.
• The naming of Baalperazim becomes a lasting reminder of God’s power to break through obstacles, which would encourage others who heard the story.
• This verse connects to the larger theme in 1 Chronicles of God supporting David’s kingship and acting on behalf of Israel, showing that victories are not just military achievements but acts of divine intervention.