He was with David at Pas-dammim when the Philistines gathered there for battle. At the place with a field full of barley, the troops fled from the Philistines. He was with David at Pas-dammimEleazar, one of David’s chief mighty men, stood beside the future king at Pas-dammim in the Valley of Elah. The place was also called Ephes-dammim and lay near the site where David had faced Goliath (1 Samuel 17:1–2). David’s earlier victory there had shown that Israel’s deliverance came from the Lord, not from military strength. Eleazar’s loyalty to David reflects the devotion required of those who serve God’s anointed king. 2Sa 23:9 Next in command was Eleazar son of Dodo the Ahohite.… when the Philistines gathered there for battle. The Philistines repeatedly sought to dominate Israel during the early monarchy, occupying strategic ground and pressuring Israel’s towns and harvests. Their presence at Pas-dammim renewed the conflict in the very region where God had previously humbled their champion. Israel’s enemies could return, but the Lord’s power had not diminished. Believers likewise face continuing spiritual conflict and must stand in God’s strength rather than yield to fear (Ephesians 6:10–12). 2Sa 23:10 Eleazar stood his ground and struck the Philistines… At a place with a field full of barley, The battle threatened a field that represented the ordinary provision of life. Barley was a staple crop, especially important to poorer households, and its loss would have deepened Israel’s hardship. God’s concern for this field shows that His deliverance reaches into the practical needs of His people. The barley loaves later used in the feeding of the five thousand also display the Lord’s power to turn humble provision into abundant blessing (John 6:9–13). 2Sa 23:11 And after him was Shammah son of Agee the Hararite.… the troops fled from the Philistines. Israel’s retreat exposed the fear that often overtook the nation when confronted by superior force. Yet David’s mighty men did not measure the battle by the enemy’s numbers. They remained at their post, and the Lord gave a great victory (1 Chronicles 11:14). Courage rooted in faith does not deny danger; it relies upon God’s presence and power when others withdraw. 2Sa 23:12 But Shammah took his stand in the field, defended it… Persons / Places / Events 1. DavidThe anointed king of Israel, known for his leadership, military prowess, and heart for God. At this time, he is consolidating his kingdom and establishing his rule. 2. Pas-dammim A location in ancient Israel where a significant battle took place between the Israelites and the Philistines. It is a place of conflict and victory for David and his men. 3. Philistines A recurring enemy of Israel, known for their military strength and opposition to the Israelites. They often engaged in battles with Israel during the time of David. 4. Barley Field The specific location of the battle, symbolizing both the provision of God and the everyday life of the Israelites, which was often disrupted by war. 5. Troops Refers to the Israelite soldiers who initially fled from the Philistines, highlighting a moment of fear and retreat before the eventual victory. Teaching Points Courage in the Face of AdversityJust as David and his men faced the Philistines, believers are called to stand firm in their faith despite challenges and opposition. God's Provision in Battle The barley field represents God's provision. In spiritual battles, God provides the resources and strength needed for victory. Leadership and Influence David's presence at Pas-dammim demonstrates the importance of godly leadership. Leaders should inspire courage and faith in those they lead. Faith Over Fear The initial retreat of the troops contrasts with the eventual victory, teaching that faith can overcome fear and lead to triumph. Community and Support The account highlights the importance of standing together in faith. Believers should support one another in spiritual battles. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the presence of David at Pas-dammim inspire you to face your own battles with courage and faith?2. In what ways can the barley field be seen as a symbol of God's provision in your life today? 3. How can the account of David and the Philistines at Pas-dammim encourage you to stand firm in your spiritual battles, as described in Ephesians 6:10-18? 4. What qualities of leadership can you learn from David's example in this passage, and how can you apply them in your own life? 5. Reflect on a time when you felt like retreating in fear. How can this passage encourage you to rely on faith and community support in similar situations? Connections to Other Scriptures 1 Samuel 17The account of David and Goliath, another battle with the Philistines, showcasing David's faith and God's deliverance. 2 Samuel 23:11-12 A parallel account of the same event, emphasizing the bravery of David's mighty men and God's intervention. Ephesians 6:10-18 The armor of God passage, which encourages believers to stand firm in spiritual battles, much like David and his men stood firm against the Philistines.
People Abiel, Abiezer, Abishai, Adina, Ahiam, Ahijah, Ahlai, Anathoth, Ariel, Asahel, Azmaveth, Baanah, Benaiah, Benjamin, Benjaminites, David, Dodai, Dodo, Eleazar, Elhanan, Eliahba, Eliel, Eliphal, Elnaam, Ezbai, Gareb, Hachmoni, Haggeri, Hanan, Hashem, Heled, Helez, Hepher, Hezro, Hotham, Hothan, Hurai, Ikkesh, Ilai, Ira, Israelites, Ithai, Ithmah, Ittai, Jaasiel, Jashobeam, Jasiel, Jebusites, Jediael, Jehiel, Jehoiada, Jeiel, Jeribai, Joab, Joel, Joha, Jonathan, Joshaphat, Joshaviah, Maacah, Maachah, Maharai, Mibhar, Moabites, Naarai, Naharai, Nathan, Obed, Reubenites, Ribai, Sacar, Samuel, Saul, Shage, Shama, Shammoth, Shimri, Shiza, Sibbecai, Sibbechai, Uriah, Uzzia, Zabad, Zelek, ZeruiahPlaces Adullam, Anathoth, Baharum, Beeroth, Bethlehem, Carmel, Gaash, Gibeah, Harod, Hebron, Jebus, Jerusalem, Kabzeel, Millo, Moab, Netophah, Pas-dammim, Pirathon, Tekoa, Valley of Rephaim, ZionTopics Barley, Battle, Bit, Dammim, David, Face, Field, Fight, Fled, Flight, Full, Gathered, Ground, Parcel, Pas, Pasdammim, Pas-dammim, Pas-dam'mim, Philistines, Plot, Portion, TroopsDictionary of Bible Themes 1 Chronicles 11:13Library The Story of a Cup of WaterBY THEODORE T. MUNGER [From "Lamps and Paths," by courtesy of Houghton, Mifflin & Co.] Be noble! and the nobleness that lies In other men, sleeping, but never dead, Will rise in majesty to meet thine own. --James Russell Lowell: Sonnet IV Restore to God his due in tithe and time: A tithe purloined cankers the whole estate. Sundays observe: think, when the bells do chime, 'Tis angels' music; therefore come not late. God there deals blessings. If a king did so, Who would not haste, nay give, to see … Philip P. Wells—Bible Stories and Religious Classics Some Buildings in Acra. Bezeiha. Millo. Epistle cxxii. To Rechared, King of the visigoths . Epistle Xlv. To Theoctista, Patrician . Chronicles Links 1 Chronicles 11:13 NIV1 Chronicles 11:13 NLT 1 Chronicles 11:13 ESV 1 Chronicles 11:13 NASB 1 Chronicles 11:13 KJV 1 Chronicles 11:13 Commentaries Bible Hub |
    |