1 Chronicles 11:22

And Benaiah son of Jehoiada was a man of valor from Kabzeel, a man of many exploits. He struck down two champions of Moab, and on a snowy day he went down into a pit and killed a lion.

Study Bible

And Benaiah son of Jehoiada
Benaiah is introduced as the son of Jehoiada, indicating his lineage and possibly his priestly background, as Jehoiada is a name associated with priestly families. Benaiah's father, Jehoiada, was a prominent figure, which may have influenced Benaiah's own rise to prominence. Benaiah later becomes a key military leader under King David and Solomon, highlighting his importance in Israel's history.

was a man of valor from Kabzeel
Kabzeel is a town in the southern part of Judah, near the border with Edom. Being from this region, Benaiah would have been familiar with the rugged terrain and the challenges of defending Israel's borders. His designation as a "man of valor" underscores his bravery and skill in battle, qualities highly esteemed in the biblical narrative.

a man of many exploits
This phrase emphasizes Benaiah's numerous achievements and acts of bravery. His exploits are not limited to a single event but are part of a broader pattern of heroism. This reputation would have made him a respected figure among David's mighty men, a group of elite warriors.

He struck down two champions of Moab
The Moabites were frequent adversaries of Israel, and defeating their champions would have been a significant military achievement. This act demonstrates Benaiah's prowess in combat and his role in securing Israel's safety from its enemies. The term "champions" suggests formidable opponents, highlighting the difficulty and importance of Benaiah's victory.

and on a snowy day he went down into a pit and killed a lion
This remarkable feat showcases Benaiah's courage and determination. Snowy conditions would have made the ground slippery and the environment challenging, yet Benaiah's willingness to confront a lion in such circumstances speaks to his fearlessness. Lions were symbols of strength and danger, and defeating one would have been seen as a testament to Benaiah's exceptional bravery and God's favor upon him. This act can also be seen as a type of Christ, who is described as the Lion of Judah, symbolizing victory over formidable foes.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Benaiah
A valiant warrior, son of Jehoiada, known for his bravery and significant exploits. He later became a chief officer in King David's army and was renowned for his loyalty and courage.

2. Jehoiada
The father of Benaiah, possibly a priest or a notable figure, indicating Benaiah's noble lineage.

3. Kabzeel
A town in the southern part of Judah, near the border with Edom, known as the hometown of Benaiah.

4. Moab
A neighboring nation often in conflict with Israel. Benaiah's defeat of two Moabite champions highlights his military prowess.

5. The Lion in the Pit
An event showcasing Benaiah's courage and skill, where he killed a lion in adverse conditions, symbolizing overcoming great challenges.

Teaching Points

Courage in Adversity
Benaiah's actions teach us the importance of facing challenges head-on, even in difficult circumstances, such as a snowy day in a pit. We are called to trust in God's strength to overcome our fears.

Faithfulness and Loyalty
Benaiah's loyalty to David and later to Solomon exemplifies the Christian call to be faithful to our commitments and leaders, reflecting our ultimate loyalty to God.

God's Empowerment
Benaiah's victories remind us that God empowers His people to accomplish great things, often beyond their natural abilities. We should seek God's strength in our endeavors.

Legacy of Righteousness
Benaiah's life encourages us to build a legacy of righteousness and valor, impacting future generations and serving as a model of godly character.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Benaiah's courage in facing the lion inspire you to confront your own fears or challenges?

2. In what ways can you demonstrate loyalty and faithfulness in your relationships and commitments, as Benaiah did with David and Solomon?

3. Reflect on a time when you felt empowered by God to accomplish something beyond your natural abilities. How did that experience strengthen your faith?

4. How can Benaiah's legacy of righteousness influence the way you live your life today?

5. Consider the symbolic meaning of the lion in the pit. What "lions" are you facing, and how can you rely on God's strength to overcome them?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Samuel 23:20-23
This passage parallels 1 Chronicles 11:22, providing additional context about Benaiah's exploits and his role in David's mighty men.

1 Kings 2:29-35
Benaiah's loyalty to Solomon and his role in executing justice, further establishing his character and importance in Israel's history.

Proverbs 28:1
The righteous are as bold as a lion, a verse that metaphorically connects to Benaiah's literal encounter with a lion, emphasizing courage rooted in righteousness.