What qualities made Eleazar a "mighty man" according to 1 Chronicles 11:12? Setting the Scene 1 Chronicles 11:12 introduces Eleazar: “Next to him was Eleazar son of Dodo the Ahohite, one of the Three mighty men.” Verses 13–14 expand the snapshot: despite Israel’s retreat, Eleazar “took his stand in the middle of the field and defended it. He struck down the Philistines, and the LORD brought about a great victory.” This concise narrative opens a window on the qualities that marked him out as a “mighty man.” Qualities That Made Eleazar Mighty • Courage that refuses to retreat — While “the men of Israel retreated,” Eleazar remained (v. 13). — Proverbs 28:1: “The righteous are as bold as a lion.” His bravery flowed from righteousness, not bravado. • Loyalty to God’s chosen king — “He was with David at Pas-dammim” (v. 13). In dangerous moments he stayed beside David, illustrating steadfast allegiance (cf. 1 Samuel 24:6). • Persevering endurance — 2 Samuel 23:9–10 describes the same battle: Eleazar fought “until his hand grew weary and stuck to the sword.” Physical exhaustion did not dictate spiritual obedience. • Faith-filled dependence on the LORD — “The LORD brought about a great victory” (1 Chron 11:14). Eleazar’s strength served as a vessel for divine power, echoing Zechariah 4:6: “Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit.” • Willingness to stand alone — Majority opinion pointed to retreat; Eleazar chose resistance. Philippians 1:28 calls believers to be “in no way frightened by those who oppose you.” • Skill honed for battle — He “struck down the Philistines” (v. 14). God-given skill, disciplined and deployed, becomes a platform for victory (Psalm 144:1). Putting It All Together Eleazar’s might was not simply physical. It was a blend of courageous faith, covenant loyalty, endurance, and Spirit-empowered skill—all anchored in trust that “the battle belongs to the LORD” (1 Samuel 17:47). |
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