Verse (Click for Chapter) New International Version Abishai the brother of Joab was chief of the Three. He raised his spear against three hundred men, whom he killed, and so he became as famous as the Three. New Living Translation Abishai, the brother of Joab, was the leader of the Thirty. He once used his spear to kill 300 enemy warriors in a single battle. It was by such feats that he became as famous as the Three. English Standard Version Now Abishai, the brother of Joab, was chief of the thirty. And he wielded his spear against 300 men and killed them and won a name beside the three. Berean Standard Bible Now Abishai, the brother of Joab, was chief of the Three, and he wielded his spear against three hundred men, killed them, and won a name along with the Three. Berean Literal Bible And Abishai the brother of Joab, he was chief of the Three, and He wielded his spear against three hundred, killed them, and won a name among the three. King James Bible And Abishai the brother of Joab, he was chief of the three: for lifting up his spear against three hundred, he slew them, and had a name among the three. New King James Version Abishai the brother of Joab was chief of another three. He had lifted up his spear against three hundred men, killed them, and won a name among these three. New American Standard Bible As for Abshai the brother of Joab, he was chief of the thirty, and he wielded his spear against three hundred and killed them; and he had a name as well as the thirty. NASB 1995 As for Abshai the brother of Joab, he was chief of the thirty, and he swung his spear against three hundred and killed them; and he had a name as well as the thirty. NASB 1977 As for Abshai the brother of Joab, he was chief of the thirty, and he swung his spear against three hundred and killed them; and he had a name as well as the thirty. Legacy Standard Bible Now Abshai, the brother of Joab, was chief of the thirty. And he swung his spear against three hundred who were slain by him; and he had a name as well as the thirty. Amplified Bible Abishai the brother of Joab was chief of the [other] three, and he lifted up his spear against three hundred and killed them, and he had a name as well as the three. Berean Annotated Bible Now Abishai (my father is a gift), the brother of Joab (YHWH is father), was chief of the Three [the Thirty], and he wielded his spear against three hundred men, killed them, and won a name along with the Three. Christian Standard Bible Abishai, Joab’s brother, was the leader of the Three. He raised his spear against three hundred men and killed them, gaining a reputation among the Three. Holman Christian Standard Bible Abishai, Joab’s brother, was the leader of the Three. He raised his spear against 300 men and killed them, gaining a reputation among the Three. American Standard Version And Abishai, the brother of Joab, he was chief of the three; for he lifted up his spear against three hundred and slew them, and had a name among the three. Contemporary English Version Joab's brother Abishai was the leader of the Thirty Warriors, and in one battle he killed 300 men with his spear. He was just as famous as the Three Warriors English Revised Version And Abishai, the brother of Joab, he was chief of the three: for he lifted up his spear against three hundred and slew them, and had a name among the three. GOD'S WORD® Translation Joab's brother Abishai was the leader of the thirty. He used his spear to kill 300 men, but he was not one of the three, Good News Translation Joab's brother Abishai was the leader of "The Famous Thirty." He fought with his spear against three hundred men and killed them, and became famous among "The Thirty." International Standard Version Joab's brother Abishai was the lieutenant in charge of the platoons. He used his spear to fight and kill 300 men, gaining a reputation distinct from the Three. NET Bible Abishai the brother of Joab was head of the three elite warriors. He killed three hundred men with his spear and gained fame along with the three elite warriors. New Heart English Bible And Abishai, the brother of Joab, was leader of the Thirty. And he wielded his spear against three hundred and killed them, and had a name beside the Three. Webster's Bible Translation And Abishai the brother of Joab, he was chief of the three: for lifting his spear against three hundred, he slew them, and had a name among the three. Majority Text Translations Majority Standard BibleNow Abishai, the brother of Joab, was chief of the Three, and he wielded his spear against three hundred men, killed them, and won a name along with the Three. World English Bible Abishai, the brother of Joab, was chief of the three; for he lifted up his spear against three hundred and killed them, and had a name among the three. Literal Translations Literal Standard VersionAnd Abishai brother of Joab, he has been head of the three: and he is lifting up his spear against three hundred—wounded, and has a name among three. Berean Literal Bible And Abishai the brother of Joab, he was chief of the Three, and He wielded his spear against three hundred, killed them, and won a name among the three. Young's Literal Translation And Abishai brother of Joab, he hath been head of the three: and he is lifting up his spear against three hundred -- wounded, and hath a name among three. Smith's Literal Translation And Abishai, brother of Joab, he was head of the three: and he lifted up his spear against three hundred; he wounded, and to a name among the three. Catholic Translations Douay-Rheims BibleAnd Abisai the brother of Joab, he was chief of three, and he lifted up his spear against three hundred whom he slew, and he was renowned among the three, Catholic Public Domain Version Also, Abishai, the brother of Joab, was the leader of the three, and he lifted up his spear against three hundred, who were wounded. And he was most renown among the three, New American Bible Abishai, the brother of Joab, was the chief of the Thirty; he brandished his spear over three hundred, whom he had slain. He made a name beside the Three, New Revised Standard Version Now Abishai, the brother of Joab, was chief of the Thirty. With his spear he fought against three hundred and killed them, and won a name beside the Three. Translations from Aramaic Lamsa BibleAnd Abishai the brother of Joab was chief of thirty; for he lifted up his spear against three hundred and slew them, and he was highly honored, promoted to be over thirty men. Peshitta Holy Bible Translated And Abishi the brother of Yoab was Chief of thirty, and he drew a lance against three hundred killed, and he had honor over the thirty. OT Translations JPS Tanakh 1917And Abishai, the brother of Joab, he was chief of the three; for he lifted up his spear against three hundred and slew them, and had a name among the three. Brenton Septuagint Translation And Abisa the brother of Joab, he was chief of three: he drew his sword against three hundred slain at one time, and he had a name among the second three. Additional Translations ... Audio Bible Context David's Mighty Men…19saying, “Far be it from me, my God, to do this! How can I drink the blood of these men who risked their lives?” Because they had brought it at the risk of their lives, David refused to drink it. Such were the exploits of the three mighty men. 20Now Abishai, the brother of Joab, was chief of the Three, and he lifted his spear against three hundred men, killed them, and won a name along with the Three. 21He was doubly honored above the Three, and he became their commander, even though he was not included among the Three.… Cross References Now Abishai, the brother of Joab, 1 Samuel 26:6 And David asked Ahimelech the Hittite and Abishai son of Zeruiah, Joab’s brother, “Who will go down with me to Saul in the camp?” “I will go with you,” answered Abishai. 2 Samuel 2:18 The three sons of Zeruiah were there: Joab, Abishai, and Asahel. Now Asahel was fleet of foot like a wild gazelle, 2 Samuel 3:30 (Joab and his brother Abishai murdered Abner because he had killed their brother Asahel in the battle at Gibeon.) was chief of the Three, 2 Samuel 23:18 Now Abishai, the brother of Joab and son of Zeruiah, was chief of the Three, and he wielded his spear against three hundred men, killed them, and won a name along with the Three. 2 Samuel 23:13-17 At harvest time, three of the thirty chief men went down to David at the cave of Adullam, while a company of Philistines was encamped in the Valley of Rephaim. / At that time David was in the stronghold, and the garrison of the Philistines was at Bethlehem. / David longed for water and said, “Oh, that someone would get me a drink of water from the well near the gate of Bethlehem!” … 2 Samuel 23:23 He was most honored among the Thirty, but he did not become one of the Three. And David appointed him over his guard. and he wielded his spear against three hundred men, 2 Samuel 23:8 These are the names of David’s mighty men: Josheb-basshebeth the Tahchemonite was chief of the Three. He wielded his spear against eight hundred men, whom he killed at one time. Judges 15:15 He found the fresh jawbone of a donkey, reached out his hand and took it, and struck down a thousand men. Judges 3:31 After Ehud came Shamgar son of Anath. And he too saved Israel, striking down six hundred Philistines with an oxgoad. killed them, 1 Samuel 18:27 David and his men went out and killed two hundred Philistines. He brought their foreskins and presented them as payment in full to become the king’s son-in-law. Then Saul gave his daughter Michal to David in marriage. 2 Samuel 23:10 but Eleazar stood his ground and struck the Philistines until his hand grew weary and stuck to his sword. The LORD brought about a great victory that day. Then the troops returned to him, but only to plunder the dead. 1 Samuel 17:50-51 Thus David prevailed over the Philistine with a sling and a stone; without a sword in his hand he struck down the Philistine and killed him. / David ran and stood over him. He grabbed the Philistine’s sword and pulled it from its sheath and killed him, and he cut off his head with the sword. When the Philistines saw that their hero was dead, they turned and ran. and won a name along with the Three. 2 Samuel 8:13 And David made a name for himself when he returned from striking down eighteen thousand Edomites in the Valley of Salt. 2 Samuel 7:9 I have been with you wherever you have gone, and I have cut off all your enemies from before you. Now I will make for you a name like that of the greatest in the land. Genesis 6:4 The Nephilim were on the earth in those days—and afterward as well—when the sons of God had relations with the daughters of men. And they bore them children who became the mighty men of old, men of renown. 1 Chronicles 27:6 This Benaiah was mighty among the Thirty and was over the Thirty, and his son Ammizabad was in charge of his division. Treasury of Scripture And Abishai the brother of Joab, he was chief of the three: for lifting up his spear against three hundred, he slew them, and had a name among the three. Abishai 1 Chronicles 2:16 Whose sisters were Zeruiah, and Abigail. And the sons of Zeruiah; Abishai, and Joab, and Asahel, three. 1 Samuel 26:6 Then answered David and said to Ahimelech the Hittite, and to Abishai the son of Zeruiah, brother to Joab, saying, Who will go down with me to Saul to the camp? And Abishai said, I will go down with thee. 2 Samuel 2:18 And there were three sons of Zeruiah there, Joab, and Abishai, and Asahel: and Asahel was as light of foot as a wild roe. Jump to Previous Abishai Abi'shai Abshai Brandished Chief Death Head Hundred Joab Jo'ab Killed Lifted Raised Slew Spear Swung Thirty Three Wielded Won WoundedJump to Next Abishai Abi'shai Abshai Brandished Chief Death Head Hundred Joab Jo'ab Killed Lifted Raised Slew Spear Swung Thirty Three Wielded Won Wounded1 Chronicles 11 1. David Becomes King over All Israel4. Jerusalem 10. David's Mighty Men Now Abishai, the brother of Joab Abishai was the son of Zeruiah, David's sister, making him David's nephew. His brother Joab was the commander of David's army. This familial connection highlights the importance of family loyalty and the role of kinship in David's reign. Abishai's relationship with Joab also suggests a shared military prowess and leadership within the family. was chief of the Three and he wielded his spear against three hundred men killed them and won a name along with the Three Persons / Places / Events 1. AbishaiThe brother of Joab, a prominent warrior in King David's army. Known for his bravery and leadership, he was chief of the Three, a group of elite warriors. 2. Joab Abishai's brother, a key military leader under King David, often mentioned in the context of David's military campaigns. 3. The Three A group of elite warriors in David's army, known for their extraordinary feats of bravery and skill in battle. 4. The Event Abishai's notable act of wielding his spear against three hundred men, which earned him a distinguished reputation among the Three. Teaching Points Courage and LeadershipAbishai's actions exemplify the courage and leadership expected of those in positions of influence. His willingness to face overwhelming odds is a testament to his faith and dedication. Reputation and Legacy Abishai's deeds earned him a lasting reputation. This highlights the importance of our actions and how they contribute to our legacy. Loyalty and Service Abishai's loyalty to David serves as a model for our own loyalty to God and His purposes. Our service should be marked by faithfulness and commitment. God's Empowerment The extraordinary feats of Abishai and the Three remind us that God empowers His people to accomplish great things for His glory. Bible Study Questions and Answers 1. What is the meaning of 1 Chronicles 11:20?2. How does 1 Chronicles 11:20 inspire us to pursue excellence in leadership? 3. What qualities made Abishai a respected leader according to 1 Chronicles 11:20? 4. How can we emulate Abishai's courage in our daily spiritual battles? 5. What other biblical figures demonstrated similar valor as Abishai in 1 Chronicles 11:20? 6. How does Abishai's example encourage us to support our leaders faithfully today? 7. What does 1 Chronicles 11:20 reveal about the role of leadership in biblical times? 8. How does Abishai's bravery in 1 Chronicles 11:20 inspire modern Christian leadership? 9. Why is Abishai's act of killing 300 men significant in 1 Chronicles 11:20? 10. What are the top 10 Lessons from 1 Chronicles 11? 11. In 1 Chronicles 11:15-19, is it plausible that three men could breach heavily guarded Philistine territory just to draw water for David? 12. How do we reconcile the role of Joab in 1 Chronicles 11:6 with other biblical narratives that present different leadership structures and timelines? 13. (2 Samuel 23:8 vs 1 Chronicles 11:11) Why do the records conflict on the number of enemies killed (eight hundred vs three hundred)? 14. What was King Abijah's mother's name: Michaiah (2 Chronicles 13:2) or Maachah (2 Chronicles 11:20), given Absalom's only daughter was Tamar (2 Samuel 14:27)? What Does 1 Chronicles 11:20 Mean Now Abishai“Now Abishai…” • Abishai steps onto the page as a real historical figure (2 Samuel 2:18). • His life highlights God’s use of willing servants, however imperfect, to advance Israel’s cause (cf. 2 Samuel 21:17). Takeaway: God records individual names because He values personal faithfulness. The brother of Joab “…the brother of Joab…” • Joab, David’s commander (2 Samuel 8:16), was fierce yet politically shrewd. • Abishai shared family zeal but often showed greater loyalty to David (1 Samuel 26:6–9). Takeaway: Family influence shapes us, yet each believer must choose faithfulness personally (Joshua 24:15). Was chief of the Three “…was chief of the Three…” • The “Three” were David’s elite warriors (2 Samuel 23:8–17). • Though not one of the original trio, Abishai led them, underscoring ordered leadership (1 Chronicles 27:6). Takeaway: God assigns ranks for shared mission; respect for divinely established authority brings unity (Romans 13:1). He wielded his spear against three hundred men “…and he wielded his spear against three hundred men…” • Singular courage displayed in open combat mirrors Jonathan’s faith in 1 Samuel 14:6–14. • Scripture presents this as historical fact, showing God can give one man victory over overwhelming odds (Leviticus 26:8). Takeaway: Trusting God empowers believers to face impossible battles. Killed them “…killed them…” • The text affirms literal victory, highlighting God’s deliverance through human instruments (Psalm 18:34–35). • Such acts protected Israel from enemies and preserved the covenant people (Deuteronomy 7:1–2). Takeaway: God still fights for His people, though under the new covenant our warfare is spiritual (Ephesians 6:12). Won a name along with the Three “…and won a name along with the Three.” • Reputation earned by faith-driven exploits endures (Proverbs 22:1). • Abishai’s honor did not eclipse David’s or the Lord’s glory; true fame comes from serving God’s purposes (1 Samuel 18:30). Takeaway: Lasting honor arises from wholehearted devotion to God, not self-promotion. summary Abishai’s brief cameo in 1 Chronicles 11:20 underlines God’s pattern: He notes individuals, uses families, establishes order, grants bold victories, and bestows enduring honor on those who trust Him. The verse calls believers to courageous, loyal service, confident that the Lord still empowers His people and remembers their faithfulness. (20-25) Feats of Abishai and Benaiah. (Comp. 2Samuel 23:18-23, of which the present passage is little more than a duplicate.)(20) Abishai the brother of Joab.--Heb., Abshai, but in Samuel, Abishai. (Comp. Abram and Abiram.) Samuel adds "son of Zeruiah" after Joab. (Comp. 1Chronicles 2:16 and 1Chronicles 18:12; 1Chronicles 19:11 ff. for other deeds of Abishai.) He was chief of the three.--Apparently the second triad, one of whose famous exploits has just been related (1Chronicles 11:15-19). The Hebrew text of Samuel seems to read "knights," but some MSS., the Hebrew margin, and all the versions, agree with Chronicles. . . . Verse 20. - Abishai... was chief of the three. It is remarkable that again the name of one of the three is wanting, even if we take Benaiah of ver. 22 for the second.Parallel Commentaries ... Hebrew Now Abishai,וְאַבְשַׁ֣י (wə·’aḇ·šay) Conjunctive waw | Noun - proper - masculine singular Strong's 52: Abishai -- 'my father is Jesse', an Israelite name the brother אֲחִֽי־ (’ă·ḥî-) Noun - masculine singular construct Strong's 251: A brother, ) of Joab, יוֹאָ֗ב (yō·w·’āḇ) Noun - proper - masculine singular Strong's 3097: Joab -- 'the LORD is father', three Israelites was הָיָה֙ (hā·yāh) Verb - Qal - Perfect - third person masculine singular Strong's 1961: To fall out, come to pass, become, be chief רֹ֣אשׁ (rōš) Noun - masculine singular construct Strong's 7218: The head of the Three, הַשְּׁלוֹשָׁ֔ה (haš·šə·lō·wō·šāh) Article | Number - masculine singular Strong's 7969: Three, third, thrice and he ה֤וּא (hū) Pronoun - third person masculine singular Strong's 1931: He, self, the same, this, that, as, are lifted עוֹרֵ֣ר (‘ō·w·rêr) Verb - Piel - Perfect - third person masculine singular Strong's 5782: To rouse oneself, awake his spear חֲנִית֔וֹ (ḥă·nî·ṯōw) Noun - feminine singular construct | third person masculine singular Strong's 2595: A lance against עַל־ (‘al-) Preposition Strong's 5921: Above, over, upon, against three שְׁלֹ֥שׁ (šə·lōš) Number - feminine singular construct Strong's 7969: Three, third, thrice hundred [men], מֵא֖וֹת (mê·’ō·wṯ) Number - feminine plural Strong's 3967: A hundred killed [them], חָלָ֑ל (ḥā·lāl) Noun - masculine singular Strong's 2490: To bore, to wound, to dissolve, to profane, to break, to begin, to play and won וְלוֹ־ (wə·lōw-) Conjunctive waw | Preposition | third person masculine singular Strong's 3808: Not, no a name שֵׁ֖ם (šêm) Noun - masculine singular Strong's 8034: A name along with [the] Three. בַּשְּׁלוֹשָֽׁה׃ (baš·šə·lō·wō·šāh) Preposition-b, Article | Number - masculine singular Strong's 7969: Three, third, thrice Links 1 Chronicles 11:20 NIV1 Chronicles 11:20 NLT 1 Chronicles 11:20 ESV 1 Chronicles 11:20 NASB 1 Chronicles 11:20 KJV 1 Chronicles 11:20 BibleApps.com 1 Chronicles 11:20 Biblia Paralela 1 Chronicles 11:20 Chinese Bible 1 Chronicles 11:20 French Bible 1 Chronicles 11:20 Catholic Bible OT History: 1 Chronicles 11:20 Abishai the brother of Joab he was (1 Chron. 1Ch iCh i Ch 1 chr 1chr) |
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