What does 2 Samuel 23:28 mean?
What is the meaning of 2 Samuel 23:28?

Zalmon the Ahohite

“Zalmon the Ahohite” appears in the roster of David’s valiant warriors in 2 Samuel 23:28.

• His clan: “Ahohite” links Zalmon to the family line that produced another famed fighter, Eleazar son of Dodo (2 Samuel 23:9). The repetition of that family name highlights how God raised up a whole household distinguished for courage and loyalty.

• Parallel record: 1 Chronicles 11:29 lists him as “Ilai the Ahohite,” a simple variation showing the same man honored in both historical accounts.

• Why he matters: By recording Zalmon’s name, Scripture teaches that God notices individual faithfulness. Though little else is said, he stood shoulder-to-shoulder with David—reminding us that steady, unnamed obedience matters as much as headline-grabbing exploits (cf. Matthew 25:21).

• Encouragement for us: Like Zalmon, we may serve in obscurity, yet the Lord memorializes every act of steadfast devotion (Hebrews 6:10).


Maharai the Netophathite

“Maharai the Netophathite” follows in 2 Samuel 23:28.

• Hometown: “Netophathite” points to Netophah, a village near Bethlehem (Nehemiah 7:26), David’s own birthplace. His roots help explain his early allegiance to the shepherd-king.

• Additional service: 1 Chronicles 27:13 names Maharai as commander of the tenth monthly division of the army. He served faithfully both in war and in the routine cycles of national defense.

• Shared valor: 1 Chronicles 11:30 reaffirms him among the mighty men, pairing him with Heled, another Netophathite. The repetition underlines how the Lord can raise multiple servants from one small community (cf. Micah 5:2).

• Takeaway: Maharai illustrates long-term, disciplined commitment—whether in frontline battles or month-by-month responsibilities (Colossians 3:23-24).


summary

2 Samuel 23:28 simply lists two names, yet that brevity speaks volumes. Zalmon and Maharai show that God honors every believer who stands faithfully with His anointed king. One came from a battle-tested clan, the other from David’s own region; both earned permanent mention in Scripture. Their inclusion urges us to embrace whatever assignments God gives, confident that He records and rewards steadfast loyalty, whether our deeds are widely known or quietly heroic.

What archaeological evidence supports the existence of the figures mentioned in 2 Samuel 23:27?
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