Topical Bible: Jeremiah: Two Gadites Who Joined David at Ziklag

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In the historical narrative of King David's rise to power, the account of the two Gadites named Jeremiah who joined him at Ziklag is a testament to the loyalty and valor of the men who supported David during his time of need. This episode is recorded in 1 Chronicles 12, which details the gathering of mighty warriors to David's side as he fled from King Saul.

Context and Background

Ziklag was a Philistine town given to David by Achish, the king of Gath, during the period when David was fleeing from Saul. It became a stronghold for David and his men, serving as a base of operations. During this time, many warriors from various tribes of Israel defected to David, recognizing his anointing and future as king of Israel.

The Gadites

The tribe of Gad was known for its fierce warriors, skilled in battle and loyal to their cause. The Gadites who joined David at Ziklag were described as "mighty men of valor, men trained for battle, who could handle shield and spear, whose faces were like the faces of lions, and who were as swift as gazelles on the mountains" (1 Chronicles 12:8). Among these warriors were two men named Jeremiah.

Jeremiah the Gadite

The first mention of Jeremiah in this context is found in 1 Chronicles 12:10, where he is listed among the leaders of the Gadites who joined David. The passage states: "Ezer the chief, Obadiah the second in command, Eliab the third, Mishmannah the fourth, Jeremiah the fifth" (1 Chronicles 12:9-10). This Jeremiah held a position of leadership, indicating his prominence and the respect he commanded among his peers.

The second Jeremiah is mentioned later in the same chapter: "Jeremiah the tenth, and Machbannai the eleventh" (1 Chronicles 12:13). Although less is known about this Jeremiah, his inclusion in the list of warriors underscores his importance and contribution to David's cause.

Significance

The presence of two men named Jeremiah among the Gadites who joined David highlights the widespread support David received from various tribes of Israel. Their willingness to leave their homes and align themselves with David during a tumultuous period speaks to their faith in God's plan and their recognition of David's divine anointing.

The Gadites, including the two Jeremiahs, played a crucial role in bolstering David's forces, providing him with the military strength and strategic advantage needed to eventually ascend to the throne of Israel. Their loyalty and bravery are emblematic of the qualities that David valued in his followers, and their account is a reminder of the unity and courage that characterized the early supporters of David's kingship.

Nave's Topical Index

1 Chronicles 12:10,13
Mishmannah the fourth, Jeremiah the fifth,
Nave's Topical Index

Library

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... Moab does not mention the Reubenites, and speaks of the Gadites only as ... Two things
belonging to their past history they still retained"a clear ... Jeremiah 47:4 ...
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