1 Chronicles 12:20

When David went to Ziklag, these men of Manasseh defected to him: Adnah, Jozabad, Jediael, Michael, Jozabad, Elihu, and Zillethai, chiefs of thousands in Manasseh.

Study Bible

When David went to Ziklag
Ziklag was a Philistine town given to David by Achish, king of Gath, during the time David was fleeing from King Saul. This period marks a significant phase in David's life, where he was a fugitive and yet anointed to be the future king of Israel. Ziklag became a base for David and his men, highlighting God's provision and protection even in exile. This location is significant as it represents a place of refuge and strategic planning for David's eventual rise to kingship.

these men of Manasseh defected to him
The defection of these men from the tribe of Manasseh to David signifies a shift in loyalty and recognition of David's divine anointing as king. Manasseh was one of the tribes of Israel, and their support was crucial for David's consolidation of power. This act of defection can be seen as a fulfillment of God's promise to David, as more Israelites began to recognize his rightful place as king. It also reflects the growing discontent with Saul's leadership and the divine favor resting on David.

Adnah, Jozabad, Jediael, Michael, Jozabad, Elihu, and Zillethai
These names represent the leaders from the tribe of Manasseh who joined David. Each name carries its own meaning and significance within the Hebrew context. For instance, "Adnah" means "pleasure" or "delight," and "Jozabad" means "Yahweh has bestowed." The repetition of the name Jozabad may indicate either two individuals with the same name or a textual emphasis on the importance of this figure. These men were not ordinary soldiers but leaders, indicating the level of commitment and influence they brought to David's cause.

chiefs of thousands in Manasseh
The title "chiefs of thousands" indicates that these men were military leaders with command over large groups of soldiers. This reflects the tribal military organization of ancient Israel, where leaders were responsible for thousands of men. Their allegiance to David would have significantly bolstered his military strength and morale. This phrase also underscores the strategic importance of gaining support from influential leaders within the tribes, as it would facilitate David's eventual unification of Israel under his rule.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
The anointed king of Israel, who at this time was not yet reigning over all of Israel. He was in Ziklag, a Philistine town, during his flight from King Saul.

2. Ziklag
A town given to David by Achish, the Philistine king of Gath, where David sought refuge from Saul.

3. Men of Manasseh
A group of warriors from the tribe of Manasseh who defected to David, showing their support and allegiance to him.

4. Adnah, Jozabad, Jediael, Michael, Jozabad, Elihu, and Zillethai
Commanders of thousands from the tribe of Manasseh who joined David, indicating their leadership and influence.

5. Defection
The act of leaving one's own group to join another, in this case, the men of Manasseh leaving Saul's side to support David.

Teaching Points

Loyalty and Courage
The men of Manasseh demonstrated loyalty and courage by defecting to David. In our lives, we are called to show loyalty to God's purposes, even when it requires courage and risk.

God's Sovereignty
The defection of these men to David is a testament to God's sovereign plan. God orchestrates events and aligns people to fulfill His purposes, reminding us to trust in His timing and plan.

Leadership and Influence
The commanders who joined David were leaders of thousands, showing the importance of using one's influence for righteous causes. We are encouraged to use our positions and influence to support God's work.

Unity in Diversity
The gathering of diverse tribes and people under David's leadership foreshadows the unity found in Christ. Believers from different backgrounds are called to unite in the mission of the Gospel.

Bible Study Questions

1. What can we learn from the loyalty of the men of Manasseh to David, and how can we apply this to our loyalty to Christ today?

2. How does the defection of these men illustrate God's sovereignty in bringing about His plans? Can you think of a time when you saw God's hand in aligning circumstances in your life?

3. In what ways can we use our leadership and influence to support God's purposes in our communities?

4. How does the unity of diverse tribes under David's leadership reflect the unity we are called to have in the body of Christ?

5. Reflect on a time when you had to make a courageous decision to align yourself with God's purposes. What was the outcome, and how did it strengthen your faith?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 27
Provides context for David's stay in Ziklag, explaining his relationship with the Philistines and his strategic position during his flight from Saul.

2 Samuel 2
Chronicles David's rise to power and eventual reign over Judah and later all of Israel, showing the fulfillment of the support he received from various tribes, including Manasseh.

Hebrews 11
Highlights the faith of those who followed God's chosen leaders, drawing a parallel to the faith and courage of the men of Manasseh who joined David.