1 Chronicles 11:42
New International Version
Adina son of Shiza the Reubenite, who was chief of the Reubenites, and the thirty with him,

New Living Translation
Adina son of Shiza, the Reubenite leader who had thirty men with him;

English Standard Version
Adina the son of Shiza the Reubenite, a leader of the Reubenites, and thirty with him,

Berean Standard Bible
Adina son of Shiza the Reubenite, chief of the Reubenites, and the thirty with him,

King James Bible
Adina the son of Shiza the Reubenite, a captain of the Reubenites, and thirty with him,

New King James Version
Adina the son of Shiza the Reubenite (a chief of the Reubenites) and thirty with him,

New American Standard Bible
Adina the son of Shiza the Reubenite, a chief of the Reubenites, and thirty with him,

NASB 1995
Adina the son of Shiza the Reubenite, a chief of the Reubenites, and thirty with him,

NASB 1977
Adina the son of Shiza the Reubenite, a chief of the Reubenites, and thirty with him,

Legacy Standard Bible
Adina the son of Shiza the Reubenite, a chief of the Reubenites, and thirty with him,

Amplified Bible
Adina the son of Shiza the Reubenite, a chief of the Reubenites, and thirty [heroes] with him,

Christian Standard Bible
Adina son of Shiza the Reubenite, chief of the Reubenites, and thirty with him,

Holman Christian Standard Bible
Adina son of Shiza the Reubenite, chief of the Reubenites, and 30 with him,

American Standard Version
Adina the son of Shiza the Reubenite, a chief of the Reubenites, and thirty with him,

English Revised Version
Adina the son of Shiza the Reubenite, a chief of the Reubenites, and thirty with him;

GOD'S WORD® Translation
Adina (son of Shiza) from the tribe of Reuben (who was leader of the tribe of Reuben and had his own group of thirty soldiers),

International Standard Version
Shiza the Reubenite's son Adina, a leader of the descendants of Reuben, along with thirty others with him,

NET Bible
Adina son of Shiza the Reubenite, leader of the Reubenites and the thirty warriors with him,

New Heart English Bible
Adina the son of Shiza the Reubenite, a chief of the Reubenites, and thirty with him,

Webster's Bible Translation
Adina the son of Shiza the Reubenite, a captain of the Reubenites, and thirty with him,
Majority Text Translations
Majority Standard Bible
Adina son of Shiza the Reubenite, chief of the Reubenites, and the thirty with him,

World English Bible
Adina the son of Shiza the Reubenite (a chief of the Reubenites), and thirty with him,
Literal Translations
Literal Standard Version
Adina son of Shiza the Reubenite, head of the Reubenites, and thirty by him,

Young's Literal Translation
Adina son of Shiza the Reubenite, head of the Reubenites, and by him thirty,

Smith's Literal Translation
Adina son of Shiza the Reubenite, head to the Reubenites, and with him thirty,
Catholic Translations
Douay-Rheims Bible
Adina the son of Siza a Rubenite the prince of the Rubenites, and thirty with him:

Catholic Public Domain Version
Adina, the son of Shiza, a Reubenite, the leader of the Reubenites, and thirty who were with him;

New American Bible
and, in addition to the Thirty, Adina, son of Shiza, the Reubenite, chief of the tribe of Reuben;

New Revised Standard Version
Adina son of Shiza the Reubenite, a leader of the Reubenites, and thirty with him,
Translations from Aramaic
Lamsa Bible
Adina the son of Shara the Reubenite, of the house of Reubenites, and he was a captain over thirty men,

Peshitta Holy Bible Translated
Edinu, son of Shara, from the tribe of the house of Rubil, he is Chief of the tribe of the house of Rubil, and he was authorized over thirty men.
OT Translations
JPS Tanakh 1917
Adina the son of Shiza the Reubenite, a chief of the Reubenites, and thirty with him;

Brenton Septuagint Translation
Adina son of Saeza, a chief of Ruben, and thirty with him,

Additional Translations ...
Audio Bible



Context
David's Mighty Men
41Uriah the Hittite, Zabad son of Ahlai, 42Adina son of Shiza the Reubenite, chief of the Reubenites, and the thirty with him, 43Hanan son of Maacah, Joshaphat the Mithnite,…

Cross References
2 Samuel 23:24-39
Now these were members of the Thirty: Asahel the brother of Joab, Elhanan son of Dodo of Bethlehem, / Shammah the Harodite, Elika the Harodite, / Helez the Paltite, Ira son of Ikkesh the Tekoite, ...

1 Chronicles 12:1-2
Now these were the men who came to David at Ziklag, while he was still banished from the presence of Saul son of Kish (they were among the mighty men who helped him in battle; / they were archers using both the right and left hands to sling stones and shoot arrows; and they were Saul’s kinsmen from Benjamin):

1 Chronicles 27:1-15
This is the list of the Israelites—the heads of families, the commanders of thousands and of hundreds, and their officers who served the king in every matter concerning the divisions on rotating military duty each month throughout the year. There were 24,000 men in each division: / Jashobeam son of Zabdiel was in charge of the first division, which was assigned the first month. There were 24,000 men in his division. / He was a descendant of Perez and chief of all the army commanders for the first month. ...

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,

1 Chronicles 2:16
Their sisters were Zeruiah and Abigail. And the three sons of Zeruiah were Abishai, Joab, and Asahel.

1 Chronicles 27:18
over Judah was Elihu, one of David’s brothers; over Issachar was Omri son of Michael;

1 Samuel 16:10-13
Thus Jesse made seven of his sons pass before Samuel, but Samuel told him, “The LORD has not chosen any of these.” / And Samuel asked him, “Are these all the sons you have?” “There is still the youngest,” Jesse replied, “but he is tending the sheep.” “Send for him,” Samuel replied. “For we will not sit down to eat until he arrives.” / So Jesse sent for his youngest son and brought him in. He was ruddy, with beautiful eyes and a handsome appearance. And the LORD said, “Rise and anoint him, for he is the one.” ...

1 Samuel 17:13-14
The three older sons of Jesse had followed Saul into battle: The firstborn was Eliab, the second was Abinadab, and the third was Shammah. / And David was the youngest. The three oldest had followed Saul,

1 Samuel 26:6
And David asked Ahimelech the Hittite and Abishai son of Zeruiah, Joab’s brother, “Who will go down with me to Saul in the camp?” “I will go with you,” answered Abishai.

2 Samuel 21:17
But Abishai son of Zeruiah came to his aid, struck the Philistine, and killed him. Then David’s men swore to him, “You must never again go out with us to battle, so that the lamp of Israel may not be extinguished.”

2 Samuel 2:22-23
Once again, Abner warned Asahel, “Stop chasing me. Why should I strike you to the ground? How could I show my face to your brother Joab?” / But Asahel refused to turn away. So Abner thrust the butt of his spear into his stomach, and it came out his back, and he fell dead on the spot. And every man paused when he came to the place where Asahel had fallen and died.

1 Chronicles 20:4-8
Some time later, war broke out with the Philistines at Gezer. At that time Sibbecai the Hushathite killed Sippai, a descendant of the Rephaim, and the Philistines were subdued. / Once again there was a battle with the Philistines, and Elhanan son of Jair killed Lahmi the brother of Goliath the Gittite, the shaft of whose spear was like a weaver’s beam. / And there was also a battle at Gath, where there was a man of great stature with six fingers on each hand and six toes on each foot—twenty-four in all. He too was descended from Rapha, ...

1 Chronicles 19:10-11
When Joab saw the battle lines before him and behind him, he selected some of the best men of Israel and arrayed them against the Arameans. / And he placed the rest of the troops under the command of his brother Abishai, who arrayed them against the Ammonites.

1 Chronicles 18:12-13
Moreover, Abishai son of Zeruiah struck down eighteen thousand Edomites in the Valley of Salt. / He placed garrisons in Edom, and all the Edomites were subject to David. So the LORD made David victorious wherever he went.

1 Chronicles 19:8-9
On hearing this, David sent Joab and the entire army of mighty men. / The Ammonites marched out and arrayed themselves for battle at the entrance to the city, while the kings who had come stayed by themselves in the open country.


Treasury of Scripture

Adina the son of Shiza the Reubenite, a captain of the Reubenites, and thirty with him,

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1 Chronicles 11
1. David Becomes King over All Israel
4. Jerusalem
10. David's Mighty Men














Adina son of Shiza the Reubenite
Adina is mentioned as a warrior of notable rank, indicating his importance among David's mighty men. The name Adina means "delicate" or "slender," which contrasts with his role as a warrior. Shiza, his father, is not mentioned elsewhere in the Bible, suggesting that Adina's prominence is due to his own achievements. The Reubenites were descendants of Reuben, Jacob's firstborn, who lost his birthright due to his transgression (Genesis 49:3-4). This background highlights the redemption and valor found in Adina's leadership, despite the tribe's earlier failings.

chief of the Reubenites
Adina's position as chief signifies his leadership and authority within the tribe of Reuben. This role would have required significant military and administrative skills, as well as the respect of his peers. The Reubenites, settled east of the Jordan River, were often involved in conflicts due to their geographical location. Adina's leadership would have been crucial in maintaining the tribe's security and influence. His role as chief also reflects the tribal structure of ancient Israel, where each tribe had its own leaders and warriors.

and the thirty with him
The "thirty" refers to a group of elite warriors who served King David. This group, sometimes called "David's Mighty Men," was renowned for their bravery and skill in battle. The number thirty is symbolic, representing a complete and formidable unit, though the actual number may have varied. These warriors were crucial in establishing and defending David's kingdom, and their loyalty and prowess were legendary. The mention of "the thirty" alongside Adina underscores his inclusion in this distinguished group, highlighting his valor and the trust placed in him by David. This connection to David's mighty men also foreshadows the unity and strength found in the body of Christ, where each member plays a vital role in the spiritual battles faced by the church.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Adina
A leader among the Reubenites, noted for his bravery and leadership. His name means "delicate" or "slender" in Hebrew, which contrasts with his role as a warrior.

2. Shiza
The father of Adina, mentioned here to establish lineage and tribal affiliation.

3. The Reubenites
One of the tribes of Israel, descended from Reuben, the firstborn son of Jacob. They settled on the east side of the Jordan River.

4. David's Mighty Warriors
This passage is part of a larger section listing the mighty men who supported King David. These warriors were known for their valor and loyalty.

5. Thirty with him
Refers to the group of warriors led by Adina, highlighting his leadership and the strength of his contingent.
Teaching Points
Leadership and Legacy
Adina's mention as a chief among the Reubenites highlights the importance of leadership within a community. His legacy is tied to his ability to lead and inspire others.

Strength in Unity
The phrase "thirty with him" underscores the power of unity and teamwork. In the body of Christ, working together enhances our effectiveness in fulfilling God's purposes.

Heritage and Identity
Understanding one's heritage, as seen in the mention of Shiza and the Reubenites, can provide a sense of identity and purpose. Christians are encouraged to find their identity in Christ and their spiritual heritage.

Courage and Commitment
Adina's role as a warrior reflects the courage and commitment required to stand firm in faith. Believers are called to be spiritually vigilant and courageous in their walk with God.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1. What is the meaning of 1 Chronicles 11:42?

2. How does 1 Chronicles 11:42 highlight the importance of loyalty in leadership?

3. What can we learn from Adina's role as a leader among the Reubenites?

4. How does Adina's bravery connect with other biblical examples of courage?

5. How can we apply Adina's example of leadership in our daily lives?

6. What qualities in 1 Chronicles 11:42 should we seek in our spiritual leaders?

7. Who was Adina, and why is he significant in 1 Chronicles 11:42?

8. What role did the Reubenites play in the context of 1 Chronicles 11:42?

9. How does 1 Chronicles 11:42 reflect the importance of military leadership in ancient Israel?

10. What are the top 10 Lessons from 1 Chronicles 11?

11. Why does the list of David's mighty men in 1 Chronicles 11 differ from similar lists in other biblical passages like 2 Samuel 23, and can both be historically accurate?

12. Does the claim in 1 Chronicles 11:11 that Jashobeam killed 300 men with one spear suggest exaggerated or legendary storytelling rather than a literal event?

13. Who was the father of Jechoniah? Josiah (Matthew 1:11) Jeholakim (I Chronicles 3:16)

14. How do we reconcile the role of Joab in 1 Chronicles 11:6 with other biblical narratives that present different leadership structures and timelines?
What Does 1 Chronicles 11:42 Mean
Adina

“Adina son of Shiza the Reubenite, a chief of the Reubenites, and thirty with him.” (1 Chronicles 11:42)

• Adina appears in the catalogue of David’s mighty men (1 Chronicles 11:10–47; 2 Samuel 23:8–39), a roster highlighting warriors who stood out for loyalty and courage.

• Though little else is recorded about him, inclusion here places him among those whom the Lord used to secure David’s kingdom, just as He promised in 2 Samuel 7:8–11.

• His presence reminds us that God notices every servant who stands faithfully in their generation (Hebrews 6:10).


son of Shiza

• Scripture often notes parentage to root people in real history (Luke 3:23–38). By stating Adina’s father, the text underlines that faithfulness arises within families God sovereignly ordains (Deuteronomy 6:4–7).

• Even if Shiza himself is otherwise unknown, the line matters; God records unnamed yet vital contributors throughout passages like Nehemiah 11:1–2.

• The detail connects Adina to a living heritage rather than a random hero, echoing how Timothy’s faith was traced through his mother and grandmother (2 Timothy 1:5).


the Reubenite

• Reuben was Jacob’s firstborn (Genesis 49:3–4), later settling east of the Jordan (Numbers 32:1–5,33). Although the tribe forfeited certain privileges, individuals like Adina still rose to honor the Lord.

• Earlier, some Reubenites hesitated in Deborah’s day (Judges 5:15–16), yet here a Reubenite leads in battle, showing redemption of tribal reputation.

1 Chronicles 5:1–10 recalls Reubenite warriors who “cried out to God in the battle, and He answered their prayers.” Adina stands in that courageous lineage.


chief of the Reubenites

• Leadership among his own tribe indicates both military competence and spiritual influence, paralleling commanders such as Amasai who inspired devotion to David (1 Chronicles 12:18).

• His authority contrasts with earlier Reubenite failings, illustrating how God can raise new leaders to surpass past weaknesses (Ezra 10:2).

• The title “chief” underscores accountability; greater visibility brings greater responsibility (James 3:1), a sobering truth for every believer entrusted with oversight (1 Peter 5:2–3).


and the thirty with him

• “The Thirty” refers to an elite corps within David’s forces (1 Chronicles 11:25; 2 Samuel 23:23). Adina not only belonged to this company but also commanded thirty from his tribe.

• Serving alongside others mirrors the New Testament picture of the body of Christ, where each member contributes to a unified mission (1 Corinthians 12:14–27).

• Their collective valor fulfills Deuteronomy 32:30’s principle that one loyal soldier can put a thousand to flight, but many together achieve exponentially more (Ecclesiastes 4:9–12).


summary

1 Chronicles 11:42 records Adina—rooted in a real family, a redeemed tribe, endowed with leadership, and surrounded by fellow warriors—as one of David’s mighty men. His brief mention testifies that God values faithful service, elevates leaders regardless of past tribal shortcomings, and weaves individual bravery into a larger story of covenant victory.

(42) A captain of the Reubenites (or, chief; Heb., head) and thirty with him (besides him).--Literally, upon him. So LXX. Syriac reads "and he was commanding thirty men," which gives the apparent meaning of the verse. If, as seems likely, the "thirty" were the officers of David's guard of six hundred warriors (1Samuel 23:13; 1Samuel 30:10; 2Samuel 15:18), called "the mighty men," or heroes (2Samuel 10:7; 2Samuel 20:7; 1Kings 1:8). each captain would lead about twenty men. Adina's corps is mentioned perhaps as being larger than usual. . . . Verse 42. - Thirty with him. The Hebrew preposition here translated "with" appears thus, זְעָלָיו, and will naturally translate "and in addition to him." As he was a captain, this addendum may probably refer to those over whom he was captain, and whom he brought in his train, and who were possibly themselves officers. As the writer of Chronicles indicates no difference, nor any sense of a change of persons enumerated, when he has reached (ver. 41) Uriah the Hittite, it would all the rather be consistent with his own superscription when (ver. 26) he proposes to set forth simply "the valiant men of the armies" without confining their number to the "thirty."

Parallel Commentaries ...


Hebrew
Adina
עֲדִינָ֨א (‘ă·ḏî·nā)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 5721: Adina -- a Reubenite

son
בֶן־ (ḇen-)
Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 1121: A son

of Shiza
שִׁיזָ֜א (šî·zā)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 7877: Shiza -- a Reubenite

the Reubenite,
הָרֽאוּבֵנִ֗י (hā·r·’ū·ḇê·nî)
Article | Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 7206: Reubenites -- a Reubenite

chief
רֹ֛אשׁ (rōš)
Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 7218: The head

of the Reubenites,
לָרֽאוּבֵנִ֖י (lā·r·’ū·ḇê·nî)
Preposition-l | Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 7206: Reubenites -- a Reubenite

and the thirty
שְׁלוֹשִֽׁים׃ (šə·lō·wō·šîm)
Number - common plural
Strong's 7970: Thirty, thirtieth

with him,
וְעָלָ֥יו (wə·‘ā·lāw)
Conjunctive waw | Preposition | third person masculine singular
Strong's 5921: Above, over, upon, against


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OT History: 1 Chronicles 11:42 Adina the son of Shiza the Reubenite (1 Chron. 1Ch iCh i Ch 1 chr 1chr)
1 Chronicles 11:41
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