2 Samuel 23:22

These things did Benaiah the son of Jehoiada, and had the name among three mighty men.

2 Samuel 23:22 (KJV)

Context

This verse concludes the account of Benaiah the son of Jehoiada, one of David’s most valiant warriors. The preceding lines record his notable deeds: he slew two lion-like men of Moab, went down and killed a lion in a pit on a snowy day, and overcame an Egyptian, a goodly man, by snatching the spear from his hand and slaying him with it. The following verse adds that Benaiah was more honourable than the thirty but did not attain to the first three, and that David set him over his guard.

Meaning

The phrase “had the name among three mighty men” indicates that Benaiah was esteemed and recognized for his valor, earning a reputation as illustrious as the three most renowned warriors in David’s army. The verse preserves his name, lineage, and group identity within the record of David’s mighty men. It should be read for the precise people and connections it actually names; the text does not supply motives or character judgments beyond those details.

Biblical connections

This account is also recorded in 1 Chronicles 11:24, which provides a parallel record of Benaiah’s deeds and his reputation among the mighty men. Such records establish continuity across generations and locate individuals within Israel’s history. Their brevity does not make them dispensable: their value lies in the accuracy of the relationships, names, and numbers preserved.

Application

A faithful response is careful attention. Readers should receive the record as written, avoid inventing details beyond it, and allow the surrounding account to explain each person’s place. Benaiah’s example also encourages courage and loyalty to God and His anointed king, David, in whatever sphere of service God appoints.

Reflection

Read in this setting, 2 Samuel 23:22 speaks through its own wording and context. Its claims and application begin with the KJV text above.