2 Samuel 23:39

and Uriah the Hittite. There were thirty-seven in all.

Study Bible

and Uriah the Hittite.
Uriah the Hittite is one of the most notable figures among David's mighty men, known as the "Thirty." His inclusion highlights the diverse composition of David's warriors, as Uriah was a Hittite, indicating he was not an Israelite by birth. The Hittites were an ancient people who lived in the region of Anatolia, and their presence in Israel during this period suggests a degree of integration and acceptance of foreigners within Israelite society. Uriah's story is most famously connected to the narrative of David and Bathsheba, where he is portrayed as a loyal and honorable soldier. His loyalty to David and adherence to military duty, even when summoned from the battlefield, contrasts sharply with David's actions, providing a moral and ethical backdrop to the events that unfold in 2 Samuel 11. Uriah's death, orchestrated by David, serves as a pivotal moment in the biblical narrative, leading to significant consequences for David's reign and personal life. This account also foreshadows themes of betrayal and sacrifice, which are later seen in the New Testament with the betrayal of Jesus Christ.

There were thirty-seven in all.
The mention of "thirty-seven in all" refers to the total number of David's mighty men listed in this passage. These warriors were renowned for their bravery, skill, and loyalty, forming an elite group that played a crucial role in establishing and securing David's kingdom. The number thirty-seven includes the original "Thirty" and additional notable figures, such as Joab, Abishai, and Benaiah, who held leadership positions. This enumeration underscores the importance of community and collective strength in achieving God's purposes, as seen throughout the biblical narrative. The mighty men are celebrated for their individual feats and contributions, yet they are also remembered as part of a larger group, reflecting the biblical theme of unity and cooperation among God's people. This concept is echoed in the New Testament, where the early church is described as a body with many members, each contributing to the whole (1 Corinthians 12:12-27). The legacy of David's mighty men serves as an enduring testament to the power of faith, courage, and loyalty in the service of God's anointed king.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Uriah the Hittite
Uriah was one of King David's mighty warriors, known for his loyalty and bravery. He was a Hittite by descent, which indicates he was not originally an Israelite but had integrated into Israelite society. His account is most notably connected to the events surrounding David's sin with Bathsheba, Uriah's wife.

2. David's Mighty Warriors
This group, also known as "David's Mighty Men," consisted of elite soldiers who performed extraordinary feats of bravery and were instrumental in David's military successes. The list in 2 Samuel 23 highlights their valor and loyalty to David.

3. The Thirty-Seven
This refers to the total number of David's elite warriors mentioned in the passage. The list includes both the "Three" and the "Thirty," with Uriah being the last mentioned, bringing the total to thirty-seven.

Teaching Points

Loyalty and Integrity
Uriah's life exemplifies loyalty and integrity, even in the face of personal loss and betrayal. Christians are called to uphold these virtues in their own lives, remaining faithful to God and others.

The Consequences of Sin
David's actions towards Uriah remind us of the far-reaching consequences of sin. Believers are encouraged to seek repentance and restoration when they fall short.

God's Sovereignty and Redemption
Despite human failures, God's sovereign plan prevails. Uriah's account, though tragic, is woven into the lineage of Christ, demonstrating God's ability to redeem and use all circumstances for His purposes.

The Importance of Community
The list of mighty warriors underscores the importance of community and teamwork in achieving God's purposes. Christians are encouraged to support and uplift one another in their spiritual journeys.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Uriah's inclusion in the list of David's mighty warriors challenge our understanding of loyalty and integrity in difficult circumstances?

2. In what ways does the account of Uriah and David illustrate the consequences of sin, and how can we apply this understanding to our own lives?

3. How does the inclusion of Uriah in the genealogy of Jesus (Matthew 1) demonstrate God's redemptive power, and what does this mean for us today?

4. What can we learn from the community of David's mighty warriors about the importance of fellowship and support in our Christian walk?

5. Reflecting on Uriah's account, how can we ensure that our actions align with our faith, even when faced with personal challenges or betrayals?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Samuel 11
This chapter details the events of David's adultery with Bathsheba and the subsequent murder of Uriah. It provides context for understanding the significance of Uriah's inclusion in the list of mighty warriors.

1 Chronicles 11
This passage parallels the account of David's mighty men, providing additional details and affirming the importance of these warriors in David's reign.

Matthew 1
Uriah's account indirectly connects to the genealogy of Jesus, as Bathsheba, referred to as "the wife of Uriah," is listed in the lineage of Christ, highlighting God's redemptive work through flawed human history.