Question 1

What does 2 Samuel 23:10 mean?

Accepted Answer

2 Samuel 23:10 describes how one of David’s mighty warriors fought the Philistines so fiercely and for so long that his hand became tired and stuck to his sword, and the LORD brought about a great victory that day; afterward, the rest of the people only came to collect the spoils. This verse highlights the extraordinary endurance and courage of the warrior, as well as God’s role in the victory. The setting is a list of David’s mighty men, with this verse focusing on Eleazar, who stood his ground in battle when others retreated. The verse shows both human effort and divine intervention: Eleazar’s hand “clave unto the sword” (meaning it stuck or clung to it from exhaustion), and the LORD (Yahweh) is credited with the victory. The people returning “only to spoil” suggests they did not fight but benefited from Eleazar’s bravery.

Question 2

The Hebrew behind 2 Samuel 23:10

Accepted Answer

“clave” (דָּבַק, dāvaq): This word means to cling, stick, or hold fast. In this context, it paints a vivid picture of Eleazar’s hand so cramped or locked from fighting that he could not let go of his sword, emphasizing his total commitment and exhaustion. “wrought” (עָשָׂה, ʿasah): This verb means to do, make, or accomplish. Here, it underlines that the LORD was the one who actually accomplished the victory, not just the human effort. “victory” (תְּשׁוּעָה, teshūʿāh): This word means deliverance or salvation. It points to the outcome being more than just a military win—it was a rescue or deliverance brought about by God.

Question 3

Why 2 Samuel 23:10 matters

Accepted Answer

This verse clears up that the victory was not just due to human strength or skill; the text credits the LORD with accomplishing it, even though Eleazar’s effort was remarkable. The detail about Eleazar’s hand “claving” to the sword highlights the cost and intensity of his stand, showing the physical toll of courage and faithfulness. The verse fits into the wider passage by illustrating the character and deeds of David’s mighty men, showing the kind of loyalty and bravery that surrounded David’s reign.

2 Samuel 23:10 (KJV)