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

1 CHRONICLES 18:6KJV
Know the Bible

1 Chronicles 18:6 (KJV)

What does 1 Chronicles 18:6 mean?

1 Chronicles 18:6 describes how King David established military control over Syriadamascus by placing garrisons there, leading the Syrians to become his subjects and bring him tribute. The verse emphasizes that the LORD protected and gave success to David wherever he went.

This verse is part of a historical account where David is expanding his kingdom and securing Israel’s borders. The writer is describing David’s actions as king, specifically his victories over neighboring peoples. The mention of the LORD preserving David highlights that David’s success is not just due to his own strength, but is seen as guided and protected by God.

The Hebrew behind 1 Chronicles 18:6

  • LORD (יְהוָה, YHWH): This is the personal name for God in the Hebrew Bible, used here to stress that David’s victories are attributed to God’s intervention and favor.
  • Preserved (יָשַׁע, yasha): This word means to save, deliver, or give victory. The verse uses it to show that David’s safety and success in battle are understood as acts of divine rescue or support.
  • Servants (עֶבֶד, eved): This term means servants or subjects. Here, it indicates that the Syrians became politically subordinate to David, not just paying tribute but also acknowledging his authority.

Why 1 Chronicles 18:6 matters

  • The verse clarifies that David’s military achievements are not just political or personal, but are presented as part of God’s plan and protection.
  • It connects to the larger theme in Chronicles of David’s reign being marked by God’s guidance, setting a model for kingship in Israel.
  • The detail about garrisons and tribute shows the practical ways ancient kings maintained control over conquered territories, giving insight into the historical context.

Where else these words appear

“Syriadamascus” Hebrew H1834 · used in 40 verses

  • Genesis 14:15 And he divided himself against them, he and his servants, by night, and smote them, and pursued them unto Hobah, which is on the left hand of Damascus.
  • 2 Kings 16:10 And king Ahaz went to Damascus to meet Tiglathpileser king of Assyria, and saw an altar that was at Damascus: and king Ahaz sent to Urijah the priest the fashion of the altar, and the pattern of it, according to all the workmanship thereof.
  • Isaiah 17:3 The fortress also shall cease from Ephraim, and the kingdom from Damascus, and the remnant of Syria: they shall be as the glory of the children of Israel, saith the LORD of hosts.

“Syriadamascus” Hebrew H758 · used in 117 verses

  • Genesis 10:22 The children of Shem; Elam, and Asshur, and Arphaxad, and Lud, and Aram.
  • 1 Kings 22:35 And the battle increased that day: and the king was stayed up in his chariot against the Syrians, and died at even: and the blood ran out of the wound into the midst of the chariot.
  • 1 Chronicles 1:17 The sons of Shem; Elam, and Asshur, and Arphaxad, and Lud, and Aram, and Uz, and Hul, and Gether, and Meshech.