What is the meaning of 1 Chronicles 11:33? Azmaveth the Baharumite “Azmaveth the Baharumite” (1 Chronicles 11:33) appears in the roster of David’s mighty men. The Spirit-inspired catalog reminds us that God sees and records every act of loyalty to His anointed king. • The setting: 1 Chronicles 11:10–47 lists warriors who “strengthened themselves with him in his kingdom” (v. 10). Their courage undergirded God’s promise to establish David, foreshadowing Christ’s eternal throne (2 Samuel 7:12–16). • Azmaveth’s hometown—Bahurim (cf. 2 Samuel 3:16; 16:5)—lay near Jerusalem. His proximity positioned him to stand with David when Saul’s dynasty resisted the new king. • The simple mention of his name preaches big truths: – God honors the unknown who stand firm (1 Corinthians 1:27–29). – Faithfulness in conflict is never lost on heaven (Hebrews 6:10). • In the parallel list (2 Samuel 23:31) his name is repeated, underscoring the literal historicity: two separate writers confirm the same warrior. The meaning: 1 Chronicles 11:33 signals that no servant of God is overlooked. If Azmaveth’s spear thrusts and shield work mattered, so do our unseen acts of obedience today (Colossians 3:23–24). Eliahba the Shaalbonite The verse continues, “Eliahba the Shaalbonite.” Another name, another testimony. • Shaalbon was a town allotted to Dan but settled by Ephraim (Joshua 19:42; Judges 1:34–35). Eliahba’s inclusion shows that God welds differing tribes into one mission—mirroring the church’s unity in Christ (Ephesians 2:14–16). • Parallel confirmation: 2 Samuel 23:32 also lists Eliahba, validating the chronicler’s accuracy. • Lessons from his placement among the thirty: – Stand your ground even when culture drifts (Daniel 11:32b). – Courage is learned in local skirmishes before it is proven on national stages (1 Samuel 17:34–37). • The very sound of his name (“God the Father has hidden”) hints at a life mostly hidden from human applause yet fully known to the Lord (Matthew 6:4). 1 Chronicles 11:33 therefore affirms that God remembers those who defend His kingdom purposes, whether they wield swords in ancient fields or serve quietly in modern neighborhoods (Romans 12:1). summary 1 Chronicles 11:33 names two of David’s mighty men. Their brief mention certifies that Scripture records literal people who played tangible roles in advancing God’s plan. Azmaveth and Eliahba show that: • God values individual loyalty; • every tribe and background can unite under His chosen King; • no faithful deed goes unnoticed. The verse invites us to step into the same storyline—standing firm for the greater Son of David, confident that our names and labors are written in God’s unerring record. |