1 Chronicles 12:1-40

David's Supporters. An enumeration of those who rallied round David during his outlaw life in Ziklag (cf. 1 Samuel 27:5 f.), and a list of those who were instrumental in setting him upon the throne.

1 Chronicles 12:2. they were of Saul's brethren of Benjamin: cf. 1 Chronicles 12:16 ff., 1 Chronicles 12:29; it is difficult to believe that Saul was deserted by his own kinsfolk (see 2 Samuel 2:25; 2 Samuel 2:31) in any great numbers. Benjaminites occupied positions of importance in post-exilic times (see Nehemiah 11:7), which probably has something to do with the Chronicler's assertions.

1 Chronicles 12:15. in the first month. : i.e. Nisan (= April (approximately).

1 Chronicles 12:18. the spirit came upon: lit. clothed (Judges 6:34 *). Thine are we. thy God helpeth thee: a poetical fragment, probably old, even though it does not occur in 2 S.

1 Chronicles 12:23 ff. Cf. 1 Chronicles 11:1.

1 Chronicles 12:29. of the children of Benjamin. the greatest part of them: but see 2 Samuel 2:9 f.