Elkanah, Isshiah, Azarel, Joezer, and Jashobeam, who were Korahites; ElkanahElkanah is a name that appears multiple times in the Old Testament, most notably as the father of the prophet Samuel ( 1 Samuel 1:1). The name means "God has possessed" or "God has created." In this context, Elkanah is listed among the mighty men who joined David at Ziklag, indicating his role as a warrior and supporter of David's kingship. Isshiah
Isshiah, also spelled Jesiah in some translations, means "Jehovah will lend" or "Jehovah exists." This name is less common, but its inclusion here highlights the diversity and reach of David's supporters. Isshiah's presence among the Korahites suggests a strong family lineage dedicated to service and worship, as the Korahites were known for their roles in temple service. Azarel
Azarel means "God has helped." This name is indicative of the divine assistance and favor that David's men believed they had. Azarel's inclusion in this list underscores the belief that God was actively involved in the establishment of David's rule, providing him with capable and divinely supported warriors. Joezer
Joezer, meaning "Jehovah is help," further emphasizes the theme of divine assistance. The repetition of names with similar meanings in this passage may suggest a cultural emphasis on God's providence and support during times of conflict and transition, such as David's rise to power. Jashobeam
Jashobeam is noted elsewhere in the Bible as one of David's chief warriors (1 Chronicles 11:11). His name means "the people will return" or "the people will be restored," which could symbolize the restoration of Israel under David's leadership. Jashobeam's reputation as a mighty warrior is consistent with the martial context of this passage. who were Korahites;
The Korahites were a Levitical family descended from Korah, a figure known for his rebellion against Moses (Numbers 16). Despite this infamous ancestry, the Korahites were later known for their roles in temple service, particularly in music and gatekeeping (1 Chronicles 9:19). This transformation from rebellion to service is a powerful narrative of redemption and grace, reflecting the broader biblical theme of God using flawed individuals for His purposes. The Korahites' support of David signifies a shift towards unity and divine order in Israel. Persons / Places / Events 1. ElkanahA member of the tribe of Levi, specifically from the family of Korah. Elkanah is noted for his role as a warrior in support of King David. 2. IsshiahAnother warrior from the Korahite family, aligned with David during his time of need. 3. AzarelA Korahite who joined David's forces, demonstrating loyalty and courage. 4. JoezerPart of the Korahite group, Joezer is recognized for his commitment to David's cause. 5. JashobeamA notable warrior among the Korahites, Jashobeam is mentioned for his valor and dedication to David. 6. The KorahitesA Levitical family descended from Korah, known for their musical and warrior roles in Israel's history. Teaching Points Loyalty to God's AnointedThe Korahites' support of David illustrates the importance of aligning with God's chosen leaders. In our lives, this can translate to supporting godly leadership in our churches and communities. Redemption and LegacyDespite their ancestor Korah's rebellion, the Korahites became known for their faithfulness. This teaches us that our past does not define our future; we can choose a path of righteousness and leave a godly legacy. Unity in DiversityThe diverse backgrounds of David's followers, including the Korahites, highlight the beauty of unity in God's kingdom. We are called to embrace diversity within the body of Christ, working together for His purposes. Courage in AdversityThe Korahites' willingness to join David during his time of need exemplifies courage and faith. We are encouraged to stand firm in our faith, even when circumstances are challenging. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the transformation of the Korahite lineage from rebellion to loyalty inspire you in your personal walk with God? 2. In what ways can you support and encourage the leaders God has placed in your life, similar to how the Korahites supported David? 3. Reflect on a time when you had to show courage in adversity. How can the example of the Korahites motivate you to remain steadfast in future challenges? 4. Considering the unity among David's followers, how can you contribute to fostering unity within your church or community? 5. How does the account of the Korahites challenge you to think about the legacy you are leaving for future generations? Connections to Other Scriptures 1 Samuel 22:2This passage describes how David gathered a group of men who were in distress, debt, or discontented, forming a loyal band of followers. This context helps us understand the type of men who joined David, including the Korahites. Psalm 42Attributed to the sons of Korah, this psalm reflects the deep spiritual heritage and devotion of the Korahites, connecting their warrior spirit with their worshipful heart. Numbers 16The rebellion of Korah provides background on the Korahite lineage, showing a transformation from rebellion to loyalty in later generations. People Aaron, Aaronites, Adnah, Ahiezer, Amasai, Asher, Attai, Azareel, Azmaveth, Bealiah, Benjamin, Benjaminites, Berachah, Danites, David, Eliab, Eliel, Elihu, Elkanah, Eluzai, Elzabad, Ezer, Gad, Gadites, Gedor, Gibeon, Ishmaiah, Ismaiah, Israelites, Issachar, Isshiah, Jahaziel, Jashobeam, Jediael, Jehoiada, Jehu, Jeremiah, Jerimoth, Jeroham, Jesiah, Jesse, Jeziel, Joash, Joelah, Joezer, Johanan, Josabad, Jozabad, Kish, Korahites, Korhites, Levi, Levites, Machbanai, Manasseh, Michael, Mishmannah, Naphtali, Obadiah, Pelet, Reuben, Reubenites, Saul, Shemaah, Shemariah, Shephatiah, Simeon, Simeonites, Zadok, Zebadiah, Zebulun, ZilthaiPlaces Anathoth, Gederah, Gedor, Gibeah, Gibeon, Hebron, Jordan River, ZiklagTopics Azareel, Azarel, Az'arel, Elkanah, Elka'nah, Isshiah, Isshi'ah, Jashobeam, Jasho'be-am, Jesiah, Jishijah, Joezer, Jo-e'zer, Korahites, Ko'rahites, KorhitesDictionary of Bible Themes 1 Chronicles 12:4 1654 numbers, 11-99
5087 David, reign of Library Drill and Enthusiasm
'[Men that] could keep rank, they were not of double heart.'--1 CHRON. xii. 33. These words come from the muster-roll of the hastily raised army that brought David up to Hebron and made him King. The catalogue abounds in brief characterisations of the qualities of each tribe's contingent. For example, Issachar had 'understanding of the times.' Our text is spoken of the warriors of Zebulon, who had left their hills and their flocks in the far north, and poured down from their seats by the blue waters …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy ScriptureThe Channel of Power.
A Word that Sticks and Stings. I suppose everyone here can think of three or four persons whom he loves or regards highly, who are not christians. Can you? Perhaps in your own home circle, or in the circle of your close friends. They may be nice people, cultured, lovable, delightful companions, fond of music and good books, and all that; but this is true of them, that they do not trust and confess Jesus as a personal Savior. Can you think of such persons in your own circle? I am going to wait a …
S.D. Gordon—Quiet Talks on Power God's Answers
GOD'S ANSWERS: A RECORD OF MISS ANNIE MACPHERSON'S WORK AT THE HOME OF INDUSTRY, SPITALFIELDS, LONDON, AND IN CANADA. CLARA M. S. LOWE "Peace, peace be unto thee, and peace be to thine helpers; for thy God helpeth thee." --1 CHRON. xii. 18. …
Clara M. S. Lowe—God's Answers Beneath his Banner
"Thine are we, David, and on thy side, thou son of Jesse."--1 Chron. xii. 18. Mechthild of Hellfde, 1277. tr., Emma Frances Bevan, 1899 'Twixt God and thee but love shall be; 'Twixt earth and thee distrust and fear, 'Twixt sin and thee shall be hate and war; And hope shall be 'twixt Heaven and thee Till night is o'er. …
Frances Bevan—Hymns of Ter Steegen and Others (Second Series) Epistle xxxix. To Anastasius, Bishop .
To Anastasius, Bishop [1602] . Gregory to Anastasius, Bishop of Antioch. Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace to men of good will (Luke ii. 14), because that great river which once had left the rocks of Antioch dry has returned at length to its proper channel, and waters the subject valleys that are near, so as also to bring forth fruit, some thirty-fold, some sixty-fold, and some an hundred-fold. For now there is no doubt that many flowers of souls are growing up in its valleys, and that …
Saint Gregory the Great—the Epistles of Saint Gregory the Great The King.
We have now to turn and see the sudden change of fortune which lifted the exile to a throne. The heavy cloud which had brooded so long over the doomed king broke in lightning crash on the disastrous field of Gilboa. Where is there a sadder and more solemn story of the fate of a soul which makes shipwreck "of faith and of a good conscience," than that awful page which tells how, godless, wretched, mad with despair and measureless pride, he flung himself on his bloody sword, and died a suicide's death, …
Alexander Maclaren—The Life of David Watching the Horizon
"Thy Kingdom Come." "Thou art coming! We are waiting With a hope that cannot fail; Asking not the day or hour, Resting on Thy word of power, Anchored safe within the veil. Time appointed may be long, But the vision must be sure: Certainty shall make us strong, Joyful patience must endure. "O the joy to see Thee reigning, Thee, my own beloved Lord! Every tongue Thy name confessing, Worship, honour, glory, blessing, Brought to Thee with glad accord! Thee, my Master and my Friend, Vindicated and enthroned! …
by S. D. Gordon—Quiet Talks on the Crowned Christ of Revelation 'The Waters Saw Thee; they were Afraid'
'And Joshua said unto the people, Sanctify yourselves: for tomorrow the Lord will do wonders among you. 6. And Joshua spake unto the priests, saying, Take up the ark of the covenant, and pass over before the people. And they took up the ark of the covenant, and went before the people. 7. And the Lord said unto Joshua, This day will I begin to magnify thee in the sight of all Israel, that they may know that, as I was with Moses, so I will be with thee. 8 And thou shalt command the priests that bear …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture The Section Chap. I. -iii.
The question which here above all engages our attention, and requires to be answered, is this: Whether that which is reported in these chapters did, or did not, actually and outwardly take place. The history of the inquiries connected with this question is found most fully in Marckius's "Diatribe de uxore fornicationum," Leyden, 1696, reprinted in the Commentary on the Minor Prophets by the same author. The various views may be divided into three classes. 1. It is maintained by very many interpreters, …
Ernst Wilhelm Hengstenberg—Christology of the Old Testament Chronicles
The comparative indifference with which Chronicles is regarded in modern times by all but professional scholars seems to have been shared by the ancient Jewish church. Though written by the same hand as wrote Ezra-Nehemiah, and forming, together with these books, a continuous history of Judah, it is placed after them in the Hebrew Bible, of which it forms the concluding book; and this no doubt points to the fact that it attained canonical distinction later than they. Nor is this unnatural. The book …
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament Links 1 Chronicles 12:6 NIV1 Chronicles 12:6 NLT1 Chronicles 12:6 ESV1 Chronicles 12:6 NASB1 Chronicles 12:6 KJV
1 Chronicles 12:6 Commentaries
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