1 Chronicles 12:29

And of the children of Beniamin the kinred of Saul three thousand: for hitherto the greatest part of them had kept the ward of the house of Saul. 1 Chronicles 12:29 (KJV)

First Chronicles is a book in the Old Testament that traces the genealogies of the Israelites and provides historical accounts of their kings and leaders. Chapter 12 describes the gathering of warriors from various tribes of Israel to support David as king.

The verse specifically mentions the children of Benjamin, the tribe to which Saul, the first king of Israel, belonged. At this point in the narrative, Saul had died, and David had been anointed as the future king. The verse notes that three thousand warriors from Benjamin joined David’s cause.

The passage highlights the loyalty of the children of Benjamin. Despite Saul’s death, a significant number of them had been keeping watch over Saul’s house until this point, demonstrating their commitment to the previous king and their faithfulness to his family. The verse records that the greatest part of them had kept the ward of the house of Saul up to that time. After recognizing God’s anointing on David, they decide to join forces with him.

The gathering of warriors from various tribes, including Benjamin, illustrates the unity of the Israelite people under David’s leadership. It signifies the willingness of the tribes to set aside any previous allegiances and come together for a common purpose. This unity was crucial for establishing David’s kingdom and fulfilling God’s plans for Israel.

Overall, 1 Chronicles 12:29 serves as a reminder of the loyalty, unity, and faithfulness displayed by the children of Benjamin as they transitioned from Saul’s reign to David’s kingship.