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1 Chronicles 12:8

1 Chronicles 12:8 in Multiple Translations

Some Gadites defected to David at his stronghold in the desert. They were mighty men of valor, trained for battle, experts with the shield and spear, whose faces were like the faces of lions and who were as swift as gazelles on the mountains:

And of the Gadites there separated themselves unto David into the hold to the wilderness men of might, and men of war fit for the battle, that could handle shield and buckler, whose faces were like the faces of lions, and were as swift as the roes upon the mountains;

And of the Gadites there separated themselves unto David to the stronghold in the wilderness, mighty men of valor, men trained for war, that could handle shield and spear; whose faces were like the faces of lions, and they were as swift as the roes upon the mountains:

And some of the Gadites, siding with David, went to his strong place in the waste land, great and strong men, trained for war, expert in the use of arms, whose faces were like the faces of lions, and they were quick-footed like roes on the mountains;

Some warriors from the tribe of Gad went over to David's side when he was at the stronghold in the desert. They were strong and experienced warriors, battle-hardened, experts in the use of shields and spears. Their faces looked as fierce as lions, and they ran as fast as gazelles in the mountains.

And of the Gadites there separated them selues some vnto Dauid into the holde of the wildernesse, valiant men of warre, and men of armes, and apt for battel, which coulde handle speare and shielde, and their faces were like the faces of lyons, and were like the roes in the mountaines in swiftnesse,

And of the Gadite there have been separated unto David, to the fortress, to the wilderness, mighty of valour, men of the host for battle, setting in array target and buckler, and their faces the face of the lion, and as roes on the mountains for speed:

Some Gadites joined David in the stronghold in the wilderness, mighty men of valor, men trained for war, who could handle shield and spear; whose faces were like the faces of lions, and they were as swift as the gazelles on the mountains:

And of the Gadites there separated themselves to David in the hold in the wilderness men of might, and men of war fit for the battle, that could handle shield and buckler, whose faces were like the faces of lions, and were as swift as the roes upon the mountains;

From Gaddi also there went over to David, when he lay hid in the wilderness most valiant men, and excellent warriors, holding shield and spear: whose faces were like the faces of a lion, and they were swift like the roebucks on the mountains.

Some men from the tribe of Gad east of the Jordan River joined David when he was at his fortress in the caves in the desert. They were brave warriors who were trained for fighting battles and able to use shields and spears well. They [SYN] were as fierce as [SIM, MTY] lions, and they could run as fast as [HYP, SIM] deer/gazelles on the hills/mountains.

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Berean Amplified Bible — 1 Chronicles 12:8

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 12:8 Interlinear (Deep Study)

BIB
HEB וְ/יוֹעֵאלָ֧ה וּ/זְבַדְיָ֛ה בְּנֵ֥י יְרֹחָ֖ם מִן הַ/גְּדֽוֹר
וְ/יוֹעֵאלָ֧ה Yôwʻêʼlâh H3132 Joelah Conj | N-proper
וּ/זְבַדְיָ֛ה Zᵉbadyâh H2069 Zebadiah Conj | N-proper
בְּנֵ֥י bên H1121 son N-mp
יְרֹחָ֖ם Yᵉrôchâm H3395 Jeroham N-proper
מִן min H4480 from Prep
הַ/גְּדֽוֹר Gᵉdôr H1446 Gedor Art | N-proper
Hebrew Word Study

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Hebrew Word Reference — 1 Chronicles 12:8

וְ/יוֹעֵאלָ֧ה Yôwʻêʼlâh H3132 "Joelah" Conj | N-proper
Joelah means may he avail, a son of Jeroham and one of David's mighty warriors. Joelah is listed in 1 Chronicles 12:7 as a brave fighter from Gedor who joined David's army.
Definition: A man living at the time of Divided Monarchy, only mentioned at 1Ch.12.7; son of: Jeroham (H3395K); brother of: Zebadiah (H2069I) § Joelah = "may he avail" son of Jeroham of Gedor and one of David's mighty warriors
Usage: Occurs in 1 OT verses. KJV: Joelah. See also: 1 Chronicles 12:8.
וּ/זְבַדְיָ֛ה Zᵉbadyâh H2069 "Zebadiah" Conj | N-proper
Zebadiah means endowment of Jehovah, the name of nine Israelites, including a Benjamite and a priest. He is mentioned in Ezra 10:20. Zebadiah lived during the time of Exile and Return.
Definition: A man living at the time of Exile and Return, only mentioned at Ezr.10.20 § Zebadiah = "endowment of Jehovah" 1) a Benjamite of the sons of Beriah 2) a Benjamite of the sons of Elpaal 3) one of the sons of Jeroham of Gedor and one of David's men 4) son of Asahel, brother of Joab, and one of David's men 5) son of Michael, of the sons of Shephatiah 6) a priest of the sons of Immer, who had a foreign wife in the time of Ezra 7) a Levite, 3rd son of Meshelemiah the Korhite 8) a Levite in the reign of Jehoshaphat 9) son of Ishmael and prince of the house of Judah in the reign of Jehoshaphat
Usage: Occurs in 9 OT verses. KJV: Zebadiah. See also: 1 Chronicles 8:15; 1 Chronicles 27:7; Ezra 10:20.
בְּנֵ֥י 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.
יְרֹחָ֖ם Yᵉrôchâm H3395 "Jeroham" N-proper
Jeroham means showing pity, and was the name of several Israelites, including the father of Azariah and grandfather of Samuel. He lived during the Divided Monarchy. Jeroham is mentioned in 2 Chronicles 23:1.
Definition: A man living at the time of Divided Monarchy, only mentioned at 2Ch.23.1; father of: Azariah (H5838S) § Jeroham = "showing pity" 1) father of Elkanah and grandfather of Samuel of the house of Kohath 2) a Benjamite and the founder of a family of Benjamites 3) father or progenitor of Ibneiah and a Benjamite; maybe same as 2 4) a descendant of Aaron and a priest of the family of Immer; son of Pashur and father of Adaiah 5) another priest; maybe same as 4 6) a resident of Gedor and father of one of David's mighty warriors 7) a Danite whose son or descendant Azareel was head of the tribe in the time of David 8) father of Azariah one of the captains with Jehoiada in the time of Athaliah
Usage: Occurs in 10 OT verses. KJV: Jeroham. See also: 1 Samuel 1:1; 1 Chronicles 9:12; Nehemiah 11:12.
מִן min H4480 "from" 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.
הַ/גְּדֽוֹר Gᵉdôr H1446 "Gedor" Art | N-proper
Gedor refers to a place in Palestine and three Israelites, including a Benjamite living during the United Monarchy, as mentioned in 1 Chronicles 8:31.
Definition: A man of the tribe of Benjamin living at the time of United Monarchy, first mentioned at 1Ch.8.31; son of: Abiel (H0022) and Maacah (H4601N); brother of: Kish (H7027), Ner (H5369), Abdon (H5658J), Zur (H6698I), Baal (H1168B), Nadab (H5070J), Ahio (H0283I), Zecher (H2144) and Mikloth (H4732) § Gedor = "wall" 1) a son of Penuel 2) a son of Jered 3) a Benjamite of Gibeon 4) a town in the mountainous part of Judah a few miles north of Hebron
Usage: Occurs in 7 OT verses. KJV: Gedor. See also: Joshua 15:58; 1 Chronicles 4:39; 1 Chronicles 12:8.

Study Notes — 1 Chronicles 12:8

Show Verse Quote Highlights

Context — The Mighty Men Join David at Ziklag

6Elkanah, Isshiah, Azarel, Joezer, and Jashobeam, who were Korahites; 7and Joelah and Zebadiah, the sons of Jeroham from Gedor.

8Some Gadites defected to David at his stronghold in the wilderness. They were mighty men of valor, trained for battle, experts with the shield and spear, whose faces were like the faces of lions and who were as swift as gazelles on the mountains:

9Ezer the chief, Obadiah the second in command, Eliab the third, 10Mishmannah the fourth, Jeremiah the fifth,

Cross References

ReferenceText (BSB)
1 2 Samuel 2:18 The three sons of Zeruiah were there: Joab, Abishai, and Asahel. Now Asahel was fleet of foot like a wild gazelle,
2 2 Samuel 17:10 Then even the most valiant soldier with the heart of a lion will melt with fear, because all Israel knows that your father is a mighty man who has valiant men with him.
3 2 Samuel 23:20 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.
4 Proverbs 28:1 The wicked flee when no one pursues, but the righteous are as bold as a lion.
5 1 Samuel 24:22 So David gave his oath to Saul. Then Saul returned home, but David and his men went up to the stronghold.
6 Song of Solomon 8:14 Come away, my beloved, and be like a gazelle or a young stag on the mountains of spices.
7 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.
8 1 Chronicles 11:16 At that time David was in the stronghold, and the garrison of the Philistines was at Bethlehem.
9 2 Samuel 1:23 Saul and Jonathan, beloved and delightful in life, were not divided in death. They were swifter than eagles, they were stronger than lions.
10 1 Samuel 23:29 And David went up from there and lived in the strongholds of En-gedi.

1 Chronicles 12:8 Summary

This verse describes a group of brave and skilled warriors from the tribe of Gad who joined David in the desert. They were known for their courage, like lions, and their speed, like gazelles. This shows that David was a leader who inspired loyalty and trust in others, and that God was with him, just as He was with him when he was anointed king in 1 Samuel 16:13. Just like the Gadites, we can trust in God's sovereignty and provision, even in uncertain times, and strive to be brave and loyal in our own lives, just as it is encouraged in Joshua 1:9.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does it mean that the faces of the Gadites were like the faces of lions?

This phrase is a figurative expression indicating their fierce courage and bravery, much like the description of the lion in Proverbs 30:30, which highlights the lion's boldness and fearlessness.

Why were the Gadites described as being as swift as gazelles on the mountains?

This description emphasizes their agility and quickness, allowing them to move rapidly and easily, much like the gazelle in Deuteronomy 12:22, which is known for its speed and nimbleness.

What is the significance of the Gadites defecting to David in the desert?

The Gadites' decision to join David in the desert signifies their loyalty and trust in him as their leader, much like the loyalty of the men who joined David in 1 Samuel 22:2, who also chose to follow him despite the challenges and uncertainties they faced.

How does this verse relate to the broader context of David's life and reign?

This verse highlights David's growing influence and support among the tribes of Israel, as seen in 1 Chronicles 12:1-7, which lists the various men who joined him, demonstrating his leadership abilities and the trust that others had in him, much like the trust that God had in him, as stated in 1 Samuel 16:13.

Reflection Questions

  1. What are some ways that I can demonstrate courage and bravery in my own life, like the Gadites did when they defected to David?
  2. How can I cultivate a sense of loyalty and trust in my relationships with others, just as the Gadites did with David?
  3. What are some challenges or uncertainties that I am facing, and how can I trust in God's sovereignty and provision, just as David did in the desert?
  4. In what ways can I be like the gazelles on the mountains, swift and agile in my response to God's leading and guidance in my life?

Gill's Exposition on 1 Chronicles 12:8

And of the Gadites there separated themselves unto David, into the hold to the wilderness,.... Men of the tribe of Gad, who lived on the other side Jordan; these separated themselves from the rest of

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 1 Chronicles 12:8

And of the Gadites there separated themselves unto David into the hold to the wilderness men of might, and men of war fit for the battle, that could handle shield and buckler, whose faces were like

Matthew Poole's Commentary on 1 Chronicles 12:8

Separated themselves from Saul, to whom they had hitherto adhered; and from their brethren of their own tribe, who yet maintained Saul’ s cause; and from their families, and the places where they lived, from whom they went to David. Into the hold to the wilderness, or, into the hold of the wilderness, i.e. either to the cave of Adullam or Engedi; or rather to Ziklag, as appears from , which was in the wilderness of Judah, which is here called the hold, or the fortress, which name is also given to the city of David, , the Hebrew word being the same both here and there. Whose faces were like the faces of lions; who were full of courage, and by the majesty and fierceness of their countenances terrified their adversaries. As swift as the roes upon the mountains: as their very looks daunted their enemies, and put them to flight, so they could easily pursue and overtake and destroy them in their flight.

Trapp's Commentary on 1 Chronicles 12:8

1 Chronicles 12:8 And of the Gadites there separated themselves unto David into the hold to the wilderness men of might, [and] men of war [fit] for the battle, that could handle shield and buckler, whose faces [were like] the faces of lions, and [were] as swift as the roes upon the mountains;Ver. 8. There separated themselves unto David,] sc., From Saul. So did the noble army of martyrs unto Christ from Antichrist, and are therefore worthily renowned and registered. Whose faces were like the faces of lions.] Undaunted, fierce, and terrible to their enemies. They durst look death itself in the face upon great adventures in the field.

Ellicott's Commentary on 1 Chronicles 12:8

(8-18) A. list of Gadites, and an account of a band of Judæans and Benjammites who joined David in the stronghold (1 Chronicles 11:14) towards the desert of Judah.

Adam Clarke's Commentary on 1 Chronicles 12:8

Verse 8. And were as swift as the roes] That swiftness was considered to be a grand accomplishment in a warrior, appears from all ancient writings which treat of military affairs.

Cambridge Bible on 1 Chronicles 12:8

8–15. Gadite Adherents of David 8. And of the Gadites] The Gadites had the name of marauders (Genesis 49:19), and David’s mode of life would attract them. Chronologically 1 Chronicles 12:8 should precede 1 Chronicles 12:1; David was first “in the hold” and afterwards in Ziklag. separated themselves] i.e. left their brethren E. of Jordan and came W. to join David. into the hold to the wilderness] R.V. to the hold in the wilderness. It is uncertain whether this hold be or be not the cave of Adullam. See 1 Chronicles 11:15-16, notes. men of might, and men of war fit for the battle] R.V. mighty men of valour, men trained for war. that could handle] Lit “ordering.” shield and buckler] R.V. shield and spear. A.V. follows a mistake of several early editions of the printed Heb. text. There is hardly any MS. authority for buckler. The reference is to the manner of fighting in David’s day. At the threat of an attack an army was drawn up in close array, shield touching shield and spears at the charge. Only in a high state of discipline could men quickly and effectively handle shield and spear thus (1 Samuel 17:2; 1 Samuel 17:8; 1 Samuel 17:21). See Smith, Bib. Dict., ed. 2, pp. 875, 6 for illustrations. and were as swift] R.V. and they were as swift. as the roes] In David’s lament (2 Samuel 1) Jonathan is compared to a lion (1 Chronicles 12:23) and to a gazelle (1 Chronicles 12:19 marg., the same Heb. word as for roe here).

Barnes' Notes on 1 Chronicles 12:8

Into the hold to the wilderness - Rather, “into the hold toward the wilderness.” Some understand by this Ziklag, some En-gedi 1 Samuel 24:1-2; but it seems most probable that here and in 1 Chronicles

Whedon's Commentary on 1 Chronicles 12:8

8. The Gadites… unto David into the hold to the wilderness — The “hold” here referred to is most probably the cave of Adullam; see on 1 Samuel 22:1-2.

Sermons on 1 Chronicles 12:8

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David Guzik (2 Samuel) More Anointing, More War by David Guzik In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the need for Christians to have a mature understanding of the spiritual battle they face. He uses the example of a young man in military tra
Leonard Ravenhill Worship - Then Prayer - Part 1 by Leonard Ravenhill In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of prophets as God's gift to humanity, especially in times of crisis. He highlights that the world is currently in a crisis a
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Carter Conlon Stop Running From Your Fears by Carter Conlon In this sermon, the speaker reflects on his own struggles with fully committing to God's calling. He recalls a moment when he was preaching about giving one's all for God's glory,
Neil Fraser John 3:16 by Neil Fraser In this sermon, the speaker discusses three key things that made a difference in the lives of certain individuals, particularly the apostle Paul. Firstly, Paul had grasped the purp
Erlo Stegen The Shield of Faith by Erlo Stegen The sermon transcript discusses the importance of having faith as a shield against the attacks of the evil one. It explains that Satan's tactics are like fiery arrows, and faith is

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