1 Chronicles 11:12-14
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It's easy to skim past this, but the text highlights Eleazar not just as one of the mighty men, but specifically next to David. This points to a profound loyalty and closeness, suggesting his strength wasn't just physical but relational, standing shoulder-to-shoulder with his leader in the thick of it. This emphasizes that true impact often comes from being present and dependable right beside those in charge.
And next to him among the three mighty men was Eleazar the son of Dodo, the Ahohite. He was with David at Pas-dammim when the Philistines were gathered there for battle. There was a plot of ground full of barley, and the men fled from the Philistines. But he took his stand in the midst of the plot and defended it and killed the Philistines. And the LORD saved them by a great victory.
English Standard Version (ESV)
This passage is part of a longer account detailing David's rise to power and his gathering of his most elite warriors, the mighty men. Immediately before this, the narrative describes a daring raid where David risked his life to bring water from Bethlehem back to his men, showing his selfless leadership. Following this, the text lists more of David's heroes, emphasizing their courage and significant accomplishments in battle, solidifying the loyalty and strength of his forces.
We often hear about David's 'mighty men,' but who were they, and how did this list start? This verse gives us a clue.
The Bible highlights three specific warriors who stood out in David's early days:
The Top Tier
These three are presented as the absolute cream of the crop, serving directly alongside David. While the list of 'mighty men' expands later to include many others (thirty-seven are named in chapter 11!), these first three represent a special, elite group. They weren't just strong; they were demonstrably faithful and effective in critical moments, earning them a unique place of honor.
Eleazar's name is mentioned, but his specific deeds aren't detailed here. So, what makes him significant?
This verse introduces Eleazar, son of Dodo, as part of the highest echelon of David's warriors. Though the text here doesn't recount his personal exploits, his inclusion signifies his crucial role and loyalty.
The Importance of His Position
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Understand the original words
teshu'ah · Hebrew Noun
Refers to the act of securing safety, deliverance, or rescue. Biblically, it emphasizes that salvation from enemies, danger, or sin ultimately comes from God’s intervention, regardless of human effort.
YHWH · Hebrew Proper Noun
The covenant name of the God of Israel. It represents His self-existence, faithfulness to His covenant promises, and His active role in the history and salvation of His people.
Pelishti · Hebrew Proper Noun
An ancient, nomadic people group who were frequent adversaries of Israel. In the Bible, they represent the constant spiritual and physical opposition that the people of God faced in the Promised Land.
This verse highlights the elite warriors who fought alongside David during the crucial early years of his reign as he established Jerusalem as his capital. Their valor was essential for consolidating power and securing the nation.
c. 1050 BC
Saul Anointed King
Samuel anoints Saul as the first king of Israel, uniting the tribes under a single monarchy.
c. 1010 BC
David Becomes King of Judah
Following Saul's death, David is anointed king over the tribe of Judah in Hebron.
c. 1006 BC
David Becomes King of All Israel
After ruling Judah for seven years, David unites all the tribes and becomes king over all Israel.
c. 1006 BC— this verse
David Captures Jerusalem
David conquers the Jebusite stronghold of Jerusalem and establishes it as his capital city, known as the City of David.
c. 1006 BC
The Ark of the Covenant Brought to Jerusalem
David attempts to bring the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem, a significant religious and political act for the new capital.
c. 1005 BC
Philistine Wars
David fights several decisive battles against the Philistines, solidifying Israel's borders and securing his reign.
This passage in Samuel describes the same event but focuses more on Eleazar's valiant stand against the Philistines, highlighting his individual faithfulness even when others fled.
1 Samuel 17:50This highlights David's reliance on the Lord, a theme echoed in the mighty men's courage, showing that true strength and victory come from God, not just human might.
Joshua 1:9This verse powerfully echoes the theme of courage and strength found in the mighty men, reminding us that God is with those who are brave and faithful.
Philippians 4:13Paul's declaration that he can do all things through Christ who strengthens him offers a New Testament parallel to the source of strength and bravery demonstrated by Eleazar and the other mighty men.
It's easy to skim past this, but the text highlights Eleazar not just as one of the mighty men, but specifically next to David. This points to a profound loyalty and closeness, suggesting his strength wasn't just physical but relational, standing shoulder-to-shoulder with his leader in the thick of it. This emphasizes that true impact often comes from being present and dependable right beside those in charge.
This passage is part of a longer account detailing David's rise to power and his gathering of his most elite warriors, the mighty men. Immediately before this, the narrative describes a daring raid where David risked his life to bring water from Bethlehem back to his men, showing his selfless leadership. Following this, the text lists more of David's heroes, emphasizing their courage and significant accomplishments in battle, solidifying the loyalty and strength of his forces.
This passage is part of a longer account detailing David's rise to power and his gathering of his most elite warriors, the mighty men. Immediately before this, the narrative describes a daring raid where David risked his life to bring water from Bethlehem back to his men, showing his selfless leadership. Following this, the text lists more of David's heroes, emphasizing their courage and significant accomplishments in battle, solidifying the loyalty and strength of his forces.
"And next to him among the three mighty men was Eleazar the son of Dodo, the Ahohite. He was with David at Pas-dammim when the Philistines were gathered there for battle. There was a plot of ground full of barley, and the men fled from the…" — It's easy to skim past this, but the text highlights Eleazar not just as one of the mighty men, but specifically next to David. This points to a profound loyalty and closeness, suggesting his str…
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Last reviewed October 2026
