What is the meaning of 2 Samuel 23:13?

At harvest time

• Scripture pinpoints the season, not merely as a date stamp but to show God’s faithfulness in agricultural cycles (Genesis 8:22).

• Harvest drew Philistine raiders who sought Israel’s grain (Judges 6:3; 1 Samuel 13:17–18). The phrase therefore hints at danger and urgency, setting the stage for courageous faith.

• It also reminds us that even in seasons of blessing, opposition can rise; yet “The LORD of Hosts is with us” (Psalm 46:7).

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three of the thirty chief men went down

• These are part of David’s elite warriors—men proven in loyalty and valor (2 Samuel 23:8–17; 1 Chronicles 11:15).

• Their initiative “went down” shows voluntary, sacrificial service, foreshadowing Christ-like leadership (Mark 10:45).

• God often works through a faithful few (Judges 7:7); quantity is never the measure of victory, commitment is.

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to David at the cave of Adullam

• The cave was David’s refuge during exile from Saul (1 Samuel 22:1–2). By returning here, the text recalls God’s earlier deliverances, underscoring His unchanging faithfulness (Psalm 57 title).

• Adullam became a training ground where distressed men were forged into mighty warriors—proof that God redeems hardship (Romans 8:28).

• David’s presence there signals humble dependence; the king anointed by God still hides in caves, awaiting the Lord’s timing (1 Samuel 24:1–4).

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while a company of Philistines was encamped in the Valley of Rephaim

• The valley south-west of Jerusalem was a frequent battlefield (2 Samuel 5:18; 1 Chronicles 14:9). The enemy’s camp speaks of entrenched opposition.

• Israel’s foes seemed to dominate the landscape, yet God had already promised victory over such giants (Deuteronomy 20:1; 2 Samuel 5:20).

• Facing a fortified enemy, David’s men chose fellowship with their leader over fear—illustrating Hebrews 10:25: gathering even when danger looms.

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summary

2 Samuel 23:13 captures a moment when seasoned warriors sought David during harvest, traveled to a familiar cave, and stood firm though Philistines occupied strategic ground. Each phrase highlights God’s providence, the power of loyal courage, and the certainty that divine promises outlast any enemy encampment.