Bible Strands
2 Samuel 23:37
Zelek the Ammonite, Naharai the Beerothite, the armor-bearer of Joab son of Zeruiah,
Berean Standard Bible
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Study note
Setting — This verse functions as a line in a historical roster of David’s military commanders, recorded by the biblical author alongside adjacent entries in 2 Samuel 23:36 and 23:38. It names two specific fighters without narrative commentary.
The words — The text identifies Naharai as the nośē’ kelē (bearer of armor) for Joab, son of Zeruiah. It also labels Zelek as an ʿammônî (Ammonite), marking his ethnic origin.
The thread — The identical names and titles reappear in the parallel military register of 1 Chronicles 11:39. The surrounding verses (2 Samuel 23:36; 23:38) continue the same list format with other named warriors.
Why it lands — The passage operates as a documentary record that preserves the names and roles of David’s military personnel. It requires the reader to accept the historical specificity of the Davidic court without extracting theological application.
Drafted by a language model from the text, its original words and its cross-references, then checked against them. It can still be wrong: open the verse in the app to report it.
The Hebrew words
King James Version
Zelek the Ammonite, Naharai the Beerothite, armourbearer to Joab the son of Zeruiah,
Cross-references
- 2 Samuel 4:2 Saul’s son had two men who were leaders of raiding parties. One was named Baanah and the other Rechab; they were sons of Rimmon the Beerothite of the tribe of Benjamin—Beeroth is considered part of Benjamin,
- 1 Chronicles 11:37 Hezro the Carmelite, Naarai son of Ezbai,
- 1 Chronicles 11:39 Zelek the Ammonite, Naharai the Beerothite, the armor-bearer of Joab son of Zeruiah,