Menu

1 Chronicles 12:31

1 Chronicles 12:31 in Multiple Translations

From the half-tribe of Manasseh: 18,000 designated by name to come and make David king.

And of the half tribe of Manasseh eighteen thousand, which were expressed by name, to come and make David king.

And of the half-tribe of Manasseh eighteen thousand, who were mentioned by name, to come and make David king.

And from the half-tribe of Manasseh, eighteen thousand, listed by name, came to make David king.

From the half-tribe of Manasseh, 18,000 men were designated by name to come and make David king.

And of the halfe tribe of Manasseh eighteene thousand, which were appointed by name to come and make Dauid King.

And of the half of the tribe of Manasseh [are] eighteen thousand, who have been defined by name, to come in to cause David to reign.

Of the half-tribe of Manasseh: eighteen thousand, who were mentioned by name, to come and make David king.

And of the half tribe of Manasseh eighteen thousand, who were expressed by name, to come and make David king.

And of the half tribe of Manasses, eighteen thousand, every one by their names, came to make David king.

There were 18,000 men from the half of the tribe of Manasseh that lived west of the Jordan River. They were all chosen to go and help David become the king.

Study Highlights

Key words in the translations above are automatically highlighted. Names of God and Jesus are marked in purple, the Holy Spirit in orange, divine action verbs are underlined, and repeated key words are highlighted in yellow.

Enable Study Highlights
God & Jesus
Holy Spirit
Divine Actions
Repeated Words

Berean Amplified Bible — 1 Chronicles 12:31

BAB
Word Study

Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.

Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.

1 Chronicles 12:31 Interlinear (Deep Study)

BIB
HEB וּ/מִן בְּנֵ֣י אֶפְרַ֔יִם עֶשְׂרִ֥ים אֶ֖לֶף וּ/שְׁמוֹנֶ֣ה מֵא֑וֹת גִּבּ֣וֹרֵי חַ֔יִל אַנְשֵׁ֥י שֵׁמ֖וֹת לְ/בֵ֥ית אֲבוֹתָֽ/ם
וּ/מִן min H4480 from Conj | Prep
בְּנֵ֣י bên H1121 son N-mp
אֶפְרַ֔יִם ʼEphrayim H669 Ephraim N-proper
עֶשְׂרִ֥ים ʻesrîym H6242 twenty Adj
אֶ֖לֶף ʼeleph H505 thousand Adj
וּ/שְׁמוֹנֶ֣ה shᵉmôneh H8083 eight Conj | Adj
מֵא֑וֹת mêʼâh H3967 hundred Adj
גִּבּ֣וֹרֵי gibbôwr H1368 mighty man Adj
חַ֔יִל chayil H2428 Helech N-ms
אַנְשֵׁ֥י ʼîysh H376 man N-mp
שֵׁמ֖וֹת shêm H8034 name N-mp
לְ/בֵ֥ית bayith H1004 place Prep | N-ms
אֲבוֹתָֽ/ם ʼâb H1 father N-mp | Suff
Hebrew Word Study

Select any word above to explore its original meaning, root, and usage across Scripture.

Use arrow keys to navigate between words.

Hebrew Word Reference — 1 Chronicles 12:31

וּ/מִן min H4480 "from" Conj | Prep
This Hebrew word means a portion or part of something, and is often used to show the relationship between things, like from or out of something.
Definition: prep 1) from, out of, on account of, off, on the side of, since, above, than, so that not, more than 1a) from (expressing separation), off, on the side of 1b) out of 1b1) (with verbs of proceeding, removing, expelling) 1b2) (of material from which something is made) 1b3) (of source or origin) 1c) out of, some of, from (partitively) 1d) from, since, after (of time) 1e) than, more than (in comparison) 1f) from...even to, both...and, either...or 1g) than, more than, too much for (in comparisons) 1h) from, on account of, through, because (with infinitive) conj 2) that Aramaic equivalent: min (מִן־ "from" H4481)
Usage: Occurs in 1094 OT verses. KJV: above, after, among, at, because of, by (reason of), from (among), in, [idiom] neither, [idiom] nor, (out) of, over, since, [idiom] then, through, [idiom] whether, with. See also: Genesis 2:6; Exodus 16:32; Leviticus 14:26.
בְּנֵ֣י bên H1121 "son" N-mp
In the Bible, this word means a son or descendant, and can also refer to a grandson, nation, or quality. It appears in 1 Chronicles 24, describing a Levite named Beno. The word is used to show family relationships and inheritance.
Definition: : child/son
Usage: Occurs in 3653 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] afflicted, age, (Ahoh-) (Ammon-) (Hachmon-) (Lev-) ite, (anoint-) ed one, appointed to, ([phrase]) arrow, (Assyr-) (Babylon-) (Egypt-) (Grec-) ian, one born, bough, branch, breed, [phrase] (young) bullock, [phrase] (young) calf, [idiom] came up in, child, colt, [idiom] common, [idiom] corn, daughter, [idiom] of first, [phrase] firstborn, foal, [phrase] very fruitful, [phrase] postage, [idiom] in, [phrase] kid, [phrase] lamb, ([phrase]) man, meet, [phrase] mighty, [phrase] nephew, old, ([phrase]) people, [phrase] rebel, [phrase] robber, [idiom] servant born, [idiom] soldier, son, [phrase] spark, [phrase] steward, [phrase] stranger, [idiom] surely, them of, [phrase] tumultuous one, [phrase] valiant(-est), whelp, worthy, young (one), youth. See also: Genesis 3:16; Genesis 23:3; Genesis 34:18.
אֶפְרַ֔יִם ʼEphrayim H669 "Ephraim" N-proper
Ephraim means doubly fruitful, referring to Joseph's son and the tribe that descended from him. The tribe of Ephraim was a significant part of Israel's history. Ephraim is also the name of a region in the Bible.
Definition: Ephraim = "double ash-heap: I shall be doubly fruitful" the country of the tribe of Ephraim Also named: Ephraim (Ἐφραίμ "Ephraim" G2187)
Usage: Occurs in 164 OT verses. KJV: Ephraim, Ephraimites. See also: Genesis 41:52; 1 Chronicles 27:20; Psalms 60:9.
עֶשְׂרִ֥ים ʻesrîym H6242 "twenty" Adj
This word means twenty, and is also used as an ordinal number, like twentieth, as seen in Genesis 31:38. It can refer to a specific age or quantity.
Definition: twenty, twentieth Aramaic equivalent: es.rin (עֶשְׂרִין "twenty" H6243)
Usage: Occurs in 281 OT verses. KJV: (six-) score, twenty(-ieth). See also: Genesis 6:3; 1 Kings 9:14; Ezra 2:19.
אֶ֖לֶף ʼeleph H505 "thousand" Adj
A thousand, as in Exodus 20:6 where God shows love to thousands of people. It represents a large number or a company of people under one leader, like an army or a group of soldiers.
Definition: : thousand 1) a thousand 1a) as numeral 2) a thousand, company 2a) as a company of men under one leader, troops
Usage: Occurs in 390 OT verses. KJV: thousand. See also: Genesis 20:16; Joshua 3:4; 2 Kings 18:23.
וּ/שְׁמוֹנֶ֣ה shᵉmôneh H8083 "eight" Conj | Adj
The Hebrew word for the number eight, which was considered a special number in biblical times. It is used to describe quantities, such as eight days or eight years, and also appears in ordinal forms, like eighth or eighth day.
Definition: 1) eight, eighth 1a) eight (as cardinal number) 1b) eighth (as ordinal number) 1c) in combination with other numbers
Usage: Occurs in 105 OT verses. KJV: eight(-een, -eenth), eighth. See also: Genesis 5:4; 1 Chronicles 16:38; Jeremiah 32:1.
מֵא֑וֹת mêʼâh H3967 "hundred" Adj
Means a hundred, used as a simple number or part of a larger number in the Bible. It appears in various forms, including fractions like one one-hundredth. Found in books like Genesis and Psalms.
Definition: 1) hundred 1a) as simple number 1b) as part of larger number 1c) as a fraction-one one-hundredth (1/100) Aramaic equivalent: me.ah (מְאָה "hundred" H3969)
Usage: Occurs in 511 OT verses. KJV: hundred((-fold), -th), [phrase] sixscore. See also: Genesis 5:3; Numbers 2:6; Judges 18:17.
גִּבּ֣וֹרֵי gibbôwr H1368 "mighty man" Adj
This word describes a strong or mighty man, like a warrior or champion, as seen in 1 Samuel 17:51 where David defeats Goliath. It can also imply a brave or valiant person.
Definition: adj 1) strong, mighty n m 2) strong man, brave man, mighty man
Usage: Occurs in 152 OT verses. KJV: champion, chief, [idiom] excel, giant, man, mighty (man, one), strong (man), valiant man. See also: Genesis 6:4; 2 Chronicles 17:16; Psalms 19:6.
חַ֔יִל chayil H2428 "Helech" N-ms
This word represents strength, might, or power, whether physical, financial, or military. In the Bible, it's used to describe the strength of God or the wealth of a nation, as seen in Deuteronomy 8:17-18.
Definition: § Helech = "your army" a place near Arvad and Gammad
Usage: Occurs in 221 OT verses. KJV: able, activity, ([phrase]) army, band of men (soldiers), company, (great) forces, goods, host, might, power, riches, strength, strong, substance, train, ([phrase]) valiant(-ly), valour, virtuous(-ly), war, worthy(-ily). See also: Genesis 34:29; 2 Chronicles 13:3; Psalms 18:33.
אַנְשֵׁ֥י ʼîysh H376 "man" N-mp
The Hebrew word for man, referring to a male person or individual, is used in the Bible to describe humans in contrast to God or animals, as seen in Genesis and Psalms. It can also mean husband or servant. In the KJV, it is translated as man or male.
Definition: : man 1) man 1a) man, male (in contrast to woman, female) 1b) husband 1c) human being, person (in contrast to God) 1d) servant 1e) mankind 1f) champion 1g) great man 2) whosoever 3) each (adjective)
Usage: Occurs in 1851 OT verses. KJV: also, another, any (man), a certain, [phrase] champion, consent, each, every (one), fellow, (foot-, husband-) man, (good-, great, mighty) man, he, high (degree), him (that is), husband, man(-kind), [phrase] none, one, people, person, [phrase] steward, what (man) soever, whoso(-ever), worthy. Compare H802 (אִשָּׁה). See also: Genesis 2:23; Genesis 42:25; Exodus 32:23.
שֵׁמ֖וֹת shêm H8034 "name" N-mp
In the Bible, a name represents a person's identity, honor, and character, like God's name symbolizing His power and authority. It appears in Genesis and other books, often referring to God's name or a person's reputation. This concept is central to understanding biblical identity.
Definition: 1) name 1a) name 1b) reputation, fame, glory 1c) the Name (as designation of God) 1d) memorial, monument Aramaic equivalent: shum (שֻׁם "name" H8036)
Usage: Occurs in 771 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] base, (in-) fame(-ous), named(-d), renown, report. See also: Genesis 2:11; Exodus 3:15; Deuteronomy 16:6.
לְ/בֵ֥ית bayith H1004 "place" Prep | N-ms
The Hebrew word for house refers to a dwelling place, including a family home, temple, or even the human body. It appears in various contexts, such as the temple in Jerusalem or the household of a family. In the Bible, it is often used to describe a place of worship or a family's living space.
Definition: nm place, origin, between
Usage: Occurs in 1712 OT verses. KJV: court, daughter, door, [phrase] dungeon, family, [phrase] forth of, [idiom] great as would contain, hangings, home(born), (winter) house(-hold), inside(-ward), palace, place, [phrase] prison, [phrase] steward, [phrase] tablet, temple, web, [phrase] within(-out). See also: Genesis 6:14; Exodus 8:5; Numbers 1:45.
אֲבוֹתָֽ/ם ʼâb H1 "father" N-mp | Suff
In Hebrew, this word means father, whether literal or figurative. It is used to describe God as the father of his people, as well as human fathers like Abraham. The word is about a paternal relationship or authority.
Definition: 1) father of an individual 2) of God as father of his people 3) head or founder of a household, group, family, or clan 4) ancestor 4a) grandfather, forefathers - of person 4b) of people 5) originator or patron of a class, profession, or art 6) of producer, generator (fig.) 7) of benevolence and protection (fig.) 8) term of respect and honour 9) ruler or chief (spec.) Also means: av (אַב "father" H0002)
Usage: Occurs in 1060 OT verses. KJV: chief, (fore-) father(-less), [idiom] patrimony, principal. Compare names in 'Abi-'. See also: Genesis 2:24; Genesis 42:37; Leviticus 19:3.

Study Notes — 1 Chronicles 12:31

Show Verse Quote Highlights

Cross References

ReferenceText (BSB)
1 Joshua 17:1–18 Now this was the allotment for the tribe of Manasseh as Joseph’s firstborn son, namely for Machir the firstborn of Manasseh and father of the Gileadites, who had received Gilead and Bashan because Machir was a man of war. So this allotment was for the rest of the descendants of Manasseh—the clans of Abiezer, Helek, Asriel, Shechem, Hepher, and Shemida. These are the other male descendants of the clans of Manasseh son of Joseph. But Zelophehad son of Hepher (the son of Gilead, the son of Machir, the son of Manasseh) had no sons but only daughters. These are the names of his daughters: Mahlah, Noah, Hoglah, Milcah, and Tirzah. They approached Eleazar the priest, Joshua son of Nun, and the leaders, and said, “The LORD commanded Moses to give us an inheritance among our brothers.” So Joshua gave them an inheritance among their father’s brothers, in keeping with the command of the LORD. Thus ten shares fell to Manasseh, in addition to the land of Gilead and Bashan beyond the Jordan, because the daughters of Manasseh received an inheritance among his sons. And the land of Gilead belonged to the rest of the sons of Manasseh. Now the border of Manasseh went from Asher to Michmethath near Shechem, then southward to include the inhabitants of En-tappuah. The region of Tappuah belonged to Manasseh, but Tappuah itself, on the border of Manasseh, belonged to Ephraim. From there the border continued southward to the Brook of Kanah. There were cities belonging to Ephraim among the cities of Manasseh, but the border of Manasseh was on the north side of the brook and ended at the Sea. Ephraim’s territory was to the south, and Manasseh’s was to the north, having the Sea as its border and adjoining Asher on the north and Issachar on the east. Within Issachar and Asher, Manasseh was assigned Beth-shean, Ibleam, Dor (that is, Naphath), Endor, Taanach, and Megiddo, each with their surrounding settlements. But the descendants of Manasseh were unable to occupy these cities, because the Canaanites were determined to stay in this land. However, when the Israelites grew stronger, they put the Canaanites to forced labor; but they failed to drive them out completely. Then the sons of Joseph said to Joshua, “Why have you given us only one portion as an inheritance? We have many people, because the LORD has blessed us abundantly.” Joshua answered them, “If you have so many people that the hill country of Ephraim is too small for you, go to the forest and clear for yourself an area in the land of the Perizzites and the Rephaim.” “The hill country is not enough for us,” they replied, “and all the Canaanites who live in the valley have iron chariots, both in Beth-shean with its towns and in the Valley of Jezreel.” So Joshua said to the house of Joseph—to Ephraim and Manasseh—“You have many people and great strength. You shall not have just one allotment, because the hill country will be yours as well. It is a forest; clear it, and its farthest limits will be yours. Although the Canaanites have iron chariots and although they are strong, you can drive them out.”

1 Chronicles 12:31 Summary

This verse tells us that 18,000 people from the half-tribe of Manasseh were chosen to help make David the king of Israel. This shows that many people were coming together to support David and recognize him as their leader, just like God had planned (1 Samuel 16:13). It's a reminder that God often works through many people to accomplish His goals, and we can be a part of His plan when we obey and follow Him (Romans 13:1-2). By supporting David, the half-tribe of Manasseh was also showing their trust in God's promise to establish a king over Israel.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does it mean that 18,000 from the half-tribe of Manasseh were 'designated by name' to make David king?

This phrase suggests that these individuals were specifically chosen or appointed for this task, much like the Israelites were chosen by God in Exodus 19:5-6 to be a holy nation, and it highlights their unique role in supporting David's kingship.

Why is it significant that the half-tribe of Manasseh supported David?

The support of the half-tribe of Manasseh, along with other tribes like Ephraim and Zebulun, demonstrates the growing recognition of David as the rightful king of Israel, as prophesied in 1 Samuel 16:13.

How does this verse relate to the overall narrative of 1 Chronicles?

This verse is part of a larger list of tribes and individuals who rallied to support David, showcasing the breadth of his support and the fulfillment of God's promise to establish him as king over Israel, as seen in 1 Chronicles 11:1-3.

What can we learn from the example of the half-tribe of Manasseh in this verse?

The half-tribe of Manasseh's willingness to support David and recognize his kingship can teach us about the importance of loyalty, obedience, and recognizing God's sovereign plan, as seen in Romans 13:1-2.

Reflection Questions

  1. What does it mean to be 'designated by name' for a particular task or purpose, and how can I apply this concept to my own life?
  2. How can I, like the half-tribe of Manasseh, demonstrate my support for God's appointed leaders and plans?
  3. What role do I play in God's larger narrative, and how can I be faithful in fulfilling my responsibilities?
  4. In what ways can I show loyalty and devotion to God, just as the half-tribe of Manasseh showed loyalty to David?

Gill's Exposition on 1 Chronicles 12:31

[See comments on 1 Chronicles 12:23].

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 1 Chronicles 12:31

And of the children of Ephraim twenty thousand and eight hundred, mighty men of valour, famous throughout the house of their fathers. No JFB commentary on these verses.

Matthew Poole's Commentary on 1 Chronicles 12:31

Of the half tribe of Manasseh, which was within Jordan; for of the other half beyond Jordan he speaks . Which were expressed by name; which were not ashamed nor afraid publicly to own David, first by putting their names to some paper presented to them for that purpose, and then by marching to him to Hebron.

Trapp's Commentary on 1 Chronicles 12:31

1 Chronicles 12:31 And of the half tribe of Manasseh eighteen thousand, which were expressed by name, to come and make David king.Ver. 31. Which were expressed by name.] Heb., Pierced or bored through; haply in tables laid over with wax, which was the Roman way of writing their last wills.

Ellicott's Commentary on 1 Chronicles 12:31

(31) Which were expressed by name.—See the same phrase, 1 Chronicles 16:41; Numbers 1:17. Literally it is pricked down, or entered in a list, by names. The men had been levied by the tribal chiefs, and enrolled in lists for this particular service.

Cambridge Bible on 1 Chronicles 12:31

31. which were expressed by name] The document followed by the Chronicler probably contained not the names of the 18,000 individuals, but the names of the heads of the families to which they belonged.

Whedon's Commentary on 1 Chronicles 12:31

31. Expressed by name — These representatives of Manasseh were duly elected and designated by name to go and make David king.

Everything we make is available for free because of a generous community of supporters.

Donate