This is that Benaiah, who was mighty among the thirty, and above the thirty: and in his course was Ammizabad his son.

1 CHRONICLES 27:6KJV
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1 Chronicles 27:6 (KJV)

What does 1 Chronicles 27:6 mean?

1 Chronicles 27:6 highlights Benaiah as an especially distinguished warrior among King David’s elite group known as "the thirty," stating that he stood out even above them. The verse also notes that Benaiah’s son, Ammizabad, served as a leader in his own division of the army.

This verse is part of a list detailing the leaders of Israel’s military divisions during David’s reign. The writer is recording the organization of the army, emphasizing Benaiah’s exceptional status among the top fighters and noting the family connection with his son’s leadership role. The verse shows both the honor given to Benaiah and the continuation of his legacy through Ammizabad.

The Hebrew behind 1 Chronicles 27:6

  • בְּנָיָה (Benaiah, transliteration: Benaiah): This is the personal name of the warrior being honored, meaning "Yahweh has built." His mention here underlines his reputation and importance in David’s forces.
  • גִּבּוֹר (gibbôr, transliteration: mighty): This word is often used for a strong or valiant warrior. Calling Benaiah "mighty" places him among the most respected fighters.
  • הַשְּׁלֹשִׁים (hash-sheloshim, transliteration: the thirty): This refers to the elite group of thirty warriors in David’s army. The repetition ("among the thirty, and above the thirty") stresses that Benaiah was not just a member but stood out even among this select group.
  • מַחְלָקָה (machlākāh, transliteration: course): This word means a division or unit, referring to the military group under Benaiah’s command, in which his son Ammizabad also served as a leader.

Why 1 Chronicles 27:6 matters

  • The verse clarifies that Benaiah was not just a member of David’s elite warriors but was recognized as superior even within that distinguished group.
  • It shows the importance of family legacy in Israel’s military leadership, with Benaiah’s son Ammizabad also holding a significant position.
  • This detail connects to the broader context of 1 Chronicles 27, which lists the organization and structure of David’s army, highlighting the care taken in leadership and succession.