1 Chronicles 11:20 Now Abishai, the brother of Joab, was chief of the Three, and he lifted his spear against three hundred men, killed them, and won a name along with the Three.

Bible > 1 Chronicles > Chapter 11 > Verse 20

◄ 1 Chronicles 11:20 ►

New International Version
Abishai the brother of Joab was chief of the Three. He raised his spear against three hundred men, whom he killed, and so he became as famous as the Three.

New Living Translation
Abishai, the brother of Joab, was the leader of the Thirty. He once used his spear to kill 300 enemy warriors in a single battle. It was by such feats that he became as famous as the Three.

English Standard Version
Now Abishai, the brother of Joab, was chief of the thirty. And he wielded his spear against 300 men and killed them and won a name beside the three.

Berean Standard Bible
Now Abishai, the brother of Joab, was chief of the Three, and he wielded his spear against three hundred men, killed them, and won a name along with the Three.

King James Bible
And Abishai the brother of Joab, he was chief of the three: for lifting up his spear against three hundred, he slew them, and had a name among the three.

New King James Version
Abishai the brother of Joab was chief of another three. He had lifted up his spear against three hundred men, killed them, and won a name among these three.

New American Standard Bible
As for Abshai the brother of Joab, he was chief of the thirty, and he wielded his spear against three hundred and killed them; and he had a name as well as the thirty.

NASB 1995
As for Abshai the brother of Joab, he was chief of the thirty, and he swung his spear against three hundred and killed them; and he had a name as well as the thirty.

NASB 1977
As for Abshai the brother of Joab, he was chief of the thirty, and he swung his spear against three hundred and killed them; and he had a name as well as the thirty.

Legacy Standard Bible
Now Abshai, the brother of Joab, was chief of the thirty. And he swung his spear against three hundred who were slain by him; and he had a name as well as the thirty.

Amplified Bible
Abishai the brother of Joab was chief of the [other] three, and he lifted up his spear against three hundred and killed them, and he had a name as well as the three.

Christian Standard Bible
Abishai, Joab’s brother, was the leader of the Three. He raised his spear against three hundred men and killed them, gaining a reputation among the Three.

Holman Christian Standard Bible
Abishai, Joab’s brother, was the leader of the Three. He raised his spear against 300 men and killed them, gaining a reputation among the Three.

American Standard Version
And Abishai, the brother of Joab, he was chief of the three; for he lifted up his spear against three hundred and slew them, and had a name among the three.

Contemporary English Version
Joab's brother Abishai was the leader of the Thirty Warriors, and in one battle he killed 300 men with his spear. He was just as famous as the Three Warriors

English Revised Version
And Abishai, the brother of Joab, he was chief of the three: for he lifted up his spear against three hundred and slew them, and had a name among the three.

GOD'S WORD® Translation
Joab's brother Abishai was the leader of the thirty. He used his spear to kill 300 men, but he was not one of the three,

Good News Translation
Joab's brother Abishai was the leader of "The Famous Thirty." He fought with his spear against three hundred men and killed them, and became famous among "The Thirty."

International Standard Version
Joab's brother Abishai was the lieutenant in charge of the platoons. He used his spear to fight and kill 300 men, gaining a reputation distinct from the Three.

Majority Standard Bible
Now Abishai, the brother of Joab, was chief of the Three, and he wielded his spear against three hundred men, killed them, and won a name along with the Three.

NET Bible
Abishai the brother of Joab was head of the three elite warriors. He killed three hundred men with his spear and gained fame along with the three elite warriors.

New Heart English Bible
And Abishai, the brother of Joab, was leader of the Thirty. And he wielded his spear against three hundred and killed them, and had a name beside the Three.

Webster's Bible Translation
And Abishai the brother of Joab, he was chief of the three: for lifting his spear against three hundred, he slew them, and had a name among the three.

World English Bible
Abishai, the brother of Joab, was chief of the three; for he lifted up his spear against three hundred and killed them, and had a name among the three.

Literal Translations

Literal Standard Version
And Abishai brother of Joab, he has been head of the three: and he is lifting up his spear against three hundred—wounded, and has a name among three.

Young's Literal Translation
And Abishai brother of Joab, he hath been head of the three: and he is lifting up his spear against three hundred -- wounded, and hath a name among three.

Smith's Literal Translation
And Abishai, brother of Joab, he was head of the three: and he lifted up his spear against three hundred; he wounded, and to a name among the three.

Catholic Translations

Douay-Rheims Bible
And Abisai the brother of Joab, he was chief of three, and he lifted up his spear against three hundred whom he slew, and he was renowned among the three,

Catholic Public Domain Version
Also, Abishai, the brother of Joab, was the leader of the three, and he lifted up his spear against three hundred, who were wounded. And he was most renown among the three,

New American Bible
Abishai, the brother of Joab, was the chief of the Thirty; he brandished his spear over three hundred, whom he had slain. He made a name beside the Three,

New Revised Standard Version
Now Abishai, the brother of Joab, was chief of the Thirty. With his spear he fought against three hundred and killed them, and won a name beside the Three.

Translations from Aramaic

Lamsa Bible
And Abishai the brother of Joab was chief of thirty; for he lifted up his spear against three hundred and slew them, and he was highly honored, promoted to be over thirty men.

Peshitta Holy Bible Translated
And Abishi the brother of Yoab was Chief of thirty, and he drew a lance against three hundred killed, and he had honor over the thirty.

OT Translations

JPS Tanakh 1917
And Abishai, the brother of Joab, he was chief of the three; for he lifted up his spear against three hundred and slew them, and had a name among the three.

Brenton Septuagint Translation
And Abisa the brother of Joab, he was chief of three: he drew his sword against three hundred slain at one time, and he had a name among the second three.

Additional Translations ...

Audio Bible

Context

David's Mighty Men
…19saying, “Far be it from me, my God, to do this! How can I drink the blood of these men who risked their lives?” Because they had brought it at the risk of their lives, David refused to drink it. Such were the exploits of the three mighty men. 20Now Abishai, the brother of Joab, was chief of the Three, and he lifted his spear against three hundred men, killed them, and won a name along with the Three. 21He was doubly honored above the Three, and he became their commander, even though he was not included among the Three.…

Berean Standard Bible · Download

Cross References

2 Samuel 23:18-19
Now Abishai, the brother of Joab and son of Zeruiah, was chief of the Three, and he wielded his spear against three hundred men, killed them, and won a name along with the Three. / Was he not more honored than the Three? And he became their commander, even though he was not included among the Three.

1 Chronicles 27:6
This Benaiah was mighty among the Thirty and was over the Thirty, and his son Ammizabad was in charge of his division.

1 Chronicles 11:10
Now these were the chiefs of David’s mighty men, who, together with all Israel, bolstered and strengthened his kingdom, according to the word of the LORD concerning Israel.

1 Chronicles 12:18
Then the Spirit came upon Amasai, the chief of the Thirty, and he said: “We are yours, O David! We are with you, O son of Jesse! Peace, peace to you, and peace to your helpers, for your God helps you.” So David received them and made them leaders of his troops.

1 Chronicles 19:13
Be strong and let us fight bravely for our people and for the cities of our God. May the LORD do what is good in His sight.”

1 Chronicles 20:4
Some time later, war broke out with the Philistines at Gezer. At that time Sibbecai the Hushathite killed Sippai, a descendant of the Rephaim, and the Philistines were subdued.

1 Chronicles 21:5
And Joab reported to David the total number of the troops. In all Israel there were 1,100,000 men who drew the sword, including 470,000 in Judah.

1 Chronicles 22:13
Then you will succeed, if you carefully follow the statutes and ordinances that the LORD commanded Moses for Israel. Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or discouraged.

1 Chronicles 26:31
As for the Hebronites, Jerijah was the chief of the Hebronites, according to the genealogies of his ancestors. In the fortieth year of David’s reign the records were searched, and strong, capable men were found among the Hebronites at Jazer in Gilead.

1 Chronicles 28:1
Now David summoned all the leaders of Israel to Jerusalem: the leaders of the tribes, the leaders of the divisions in the king’s service, the commanders of thousands and of hundreds, and the officials in charge of all the property and cattle of the king and his sons, along with the court officials and mighty men—every mighty man of valor.

2 Samuel 10:12
Be strong and let us fight bravely for our people and for the cities of our God. May the LORD do what is good in His sight.”

2 Samuel 21:17
But Abishai son of Zeruiah came to his aid, struck the Philistine, and killed him. Then David’s men swore to him, “You must never again go out with us to battle, so that the lamp of Israel may not be extinguished.”

2 Samuel 23:8
These are the names of David’s mighty men: Josheb-basshebeth the Tahchemonite was chief of the Three. He wielded his spear against eight hundred men, whom he killed at one time.

2 Samuel 23:39
and Uriah the Hittite. There were thirty-seven in all.

2 Kings 2:12
As Elisha watched, he cried out, “My father, my father, the chariots and horsemen of Israel!” And he saw Elijah no more. So taking hold of his own clothes, he tore them in two.

Treasury of Scripture

And Abishai the brother of Joab, he was chief of the three: for lifting up his spear against three hundred, he slew them, and had a name among the three.

Abishai

1 Chronicles 2:16
Whose sisters were Zeruiah, and Abigail. And the sons of Zeruiah; Abishai, and Joab, and Asahel, three.

1 Samuel 26:6
Then answered David and said to Ahimelech the Hittite, and to Abishai the son of Zeruiah, brother to Joab, saying, Who will go down with me to Saul to the camp? And Abishai said, I will go down with thee.

2 Samuel 2:18
And there were three sons of Zeruiah there, Joab, and Abishai, and Asahel: and Asahel was as light of foot as a wild roe.

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Abishai Abi'shai Abshai Brandished Chief Death Head Hundred Joab Jo'ab Killed Lifted Raised Slew Spear Swung Thirty Three Wielded Won Wounded

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Abishai Abi'shai Abshai Brandished Chief Death Head Hundred Joab Jo'ab Killed Lifted Raised Slew Spear Swung Thirty Three Wielded Won Wounded

1 Chronicles 11

1. David Becomes King over All Israel
4. Jerusalem
10. David's Mighty Men

Berean Study Bible

Now Abishai
Abishai, whose name means "my father is Jesse" in Hebrew, is a prominent figure in the narratives of David's reign. As the brother of Joab, he is part of a family deeply involved in David's military exploits. Abishai's loyalty and bravery are well-documented, and his actions often reflect the fierce dedication to David's kingship. His role in the biblical narrative underscores the importance of familial ties and loyalty in the ancient Near Eastern context.

the brother of Joab
Joab, a central military leader under King David, is known for his strategic acumen and sometimes ruthless methods. Being identified as Joab's brother situates Abishai within a powerful and influential family. This familial connection highlights the dynastic and tribal affiliations that were crucial in the socio-political landscape of ancient Israel. The mention of Joab also serves to remind readers of the complex interplay of loyalty, power, and ambition within David's court.

was chief of the Three
The "Three" refers to a group of elite warriors in David's army, known for their extraordinary feats of valor. Being the chief of this group indicates Abishai's exceptional skills and leadership qualities. This title not only signifies military prowess but also suggests a level of honor and respect accorded to him by his peers and by David. The concept of a select group of warriors is consistent with other ancient cultures, where elite units were often formed to undertake the most challenging missions.

And he wielded his spear
The spear is a symbol of martial strength and skill. In the ancient world, a warrior's ability to effectively use such a weapon was a testament to his training and courage. The act of wielding a spear against overwhelming odds speaks to Abishai's bravery and tactical expertise. This imagery evokes the broader biblical theme of God empowering His chosen leaders to achieve victory against formidable enemies.

against three hundred men
This phrase emphasizes the magnitude of Abishai's achievement. Facing three hundred men in battle is a daunting task, underscoring his valor and combat skills. Such feats are reminiscent of other biblical accounts where God's chosen individuals overcome overwhelming odds, reinforcing the theme of divine support and intervention in the lives of His people.

whom he killed
The act of killing in battle, while stark, reflects the harsh realities of ancient warfare. Abishai's success in this endeavor is indicative of his role as a protector and defender of Israel. In the biblical narrative, such victories are often seen as divinely sanctioned, serving the greater purpose of establishing and securing the nation of Israel under God's covenant.

gaining a name
To "gain a name" in the biblical context is to achieve lasting honor and recognition. This phrase suggests that Abishai's deeds were not only significant in the immediate context but also contributed to his enduring legacy. In the ancient world, a name carried with it the weight of reputation and influence, often passed down through generations.

along with the Three
This final phrase ties Abishai's achievements to the broader narrative of David's mighty men. It places him within the esteemed company of other legendary warriors, highlighting the collective strength and unity of David's forces. The mention of "the Three" serves as a reminder of the communal aspect of these exploits, where individual heroism contributes to the greater good of the community and the fulfillment of God's promises to Israel.

Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers

(20-25) Feats of Abishai and Benaiah. (Comp. 2Samuel 23:18-23, of which the present passage is little more than a duplicate.)

(20) Abishai the brother of Joab.--Heb., Abshai, but in Samuel, Abishai. (Comp. Abram and Abiram.) Samuel adds "son of Zeruiah" after Joab. (Comp. 1Chronicles 2:16 and 1Chronicles 18:12; 1Chronicles 19:11 ff. for other deeds of Abishai.)

He was chief of the three.--Apparently the second triad, one of whose famous exploits has just been related (1Chronicles 11:15-19). The Hebrew text of Samuel seems to read "knights," but some MSS., the Hebrew margin, and all the versions, agree with Chronicles. . . .

Pulpit Commentary

Verse 20. - Abishai... was chief of the three. It is remarkable that again the name of one of the three is wanting, even if we take Benaiah of ver. 22 for the second.

Parallel Commentaries ...

Hebrew

Now Abishai,
וְאַבְשַׁ֣י (wə·’aḇ·šay)
Conjunctive waw | Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 52: Abishai -- 'my father is Jesse', an Israelite name

the brother
אֲחִֽי־ (’ă·ḥî-)
Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 251: A brother, )

of Joab,
יוֹאָ֗ב (yō·w·’āḇ)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 3097: Joab -- 'the LORD is father', three Israelites

was
הָיָה֙ (hā·yāh)
Verb - Qal - Perfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 1961: To fall out, come to pass, become, be

chief
רֹ֣אשׁ (rōš)
Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 7218: The head

of the Three,
הַשְּׁלוֹשָׁ֔ה (haš·šə·lō·wō·šāh)
Article | Number - masculine singular
Strong's 7969: Three, third, thrice

and he
ה֤וּא (hū)
Pronoun - third person masculine singular
Strong's 1931: He, self, the same, this, that, as, are

lifted
עוֹרֵ֣ר (‘ō·w·rêr)
Verb - Piel - Perfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 5782: To rouse oneself, awake

his spear
חֲנִית֔וֹ (ḥă·nî·ṯōw)
Noun - feminine singular construct | third person masculine singular
Strong's 2595: A lance

against
עַל־ (‘al-)
Preposition
Strong's 5921: Above, over, upon, against

three
שְׁלֹ֥שׁ (šə·lōš)
Number - feminine singular construct
Strong's 7969: Three, third, thrice

hundred [men],
מֵא֖וֹת (mê·’ō·wṯ)
Number - feminine plural
Strong's 3967: A hundred

killed [them],
חָלָ֑ל (ḥā·lāl)
Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 2490: To bore, to wound, to dissolve, to profane, to break, to begin, to play

and won
וְלוֹ־ (wə·lōw-)
Conjunctive waw | Preposition | third person masculine singular
Strong's 3808: Not, no

a name
שֵׁ֖ם (šêm)
Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 8034: A name

along with [the] Three.
בַּשְּׁלוֹשָֽׁה׃ (baš·šə·lō·wō·šāh)
Preposition-b, Article | Number - masculine singular
Strong's 7969: Three, third, thrice

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OT History: 1 Chronicles 11:20 Abishai the brother of Joab he was (1 Chron. 1Ch iCh i Ch 1 chr 1chr)