1 Chronicles 11:13-14
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This verse highlights how even in moments of potential heroism for Eleazar, his focus shifts to the practical survival of his fellow soldiers. The "plot of ground full of barley" isn't just scenery; it represents a potential resource that, in the face of enemy advance, becomes a liability, forcing a retreat rather than a fight over the crop. It's a subtle reminder that courage isn't always about standing your ground, but sometimes about wise action in difficult circumstances.
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 recounts an incredible act of bravery by Eleazar, one of David's mighty warriors. He stood his ground against the Philistines at Pas-dammim when everyone else fled, fighting so fiercely that he saved the field of barley, and by extension, the people. This brave stand is presented as a prime example of the valor that distinguished David's fighting force.
Have you ever been in a situation where everyone else was panicking, and you felt the pull to join them? This verse shows us a moment where fear gripped ordinary soldiers.
The scene at Pas-dammim is one of sheer terror. The Philistines were gathered for battle, a sure sign of impending violence. What's striking is the immediate, instinctive reaction of the Israelite soldiers: 'the men fled from the Philistines.' It wasn't a tactical retreat; it was a panicked rout. This highlights how easily fear can paralyze even those who are part of a larger army. In these moments, personal courage isn't about never feeling fear, but about what you do when you feel it – especially when everyone around you is succumbing to it.
While the rest of the men fled, someone extraordinary stood with David. This sets the stage for understanding true valor.
This passage is the prelude to an incredible act of bravery by one of David's mighty men, Eleazar. While the rank and file scattered, Eleazar stood his ground. He saw a field of barley, a symbol of provision and potential harvest, under threat. Instead of fleeing, he 'stood his ground and struck down the Philistines, till his hand was weary and stuck to his sword. The Lord gave him a great victory that day.' (1 Chronicles 11:14 ESV). This contrast is vital: the army fled, but David's chosen warrior did not. It shows that amidst widespread fear, there can be individuals who, empowered by faith, choose a different path.
Understand the original words
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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 passage highlights individual courage amidst national crisis. The Philistine threat was a constant pressure, shaping the early years of David's reign and creating the backdrop for the legendary exploits of his mighty warriors like Eleazar.
c. 1010 BC
David Anointed King
After years as a fugitive, David is finally anointed king over all Israel, uniting the tribes. This marks the beginning of his reign and the consolidation of his power.
c. 1010 BC
Jerusalem Becomes Capital
David captures the Jebusite stronghold of Jerusalem and makes it his capital. This strategic move unifies the north and south and establishes a central place for worship and governance.
c. 1005 BC
Philistine Wars Escalate
Following David's rise to power, the Philistines launch several major military campaigns against him, seeking to regain control over the region. These conflicts are pivotal in establishing Israel's dominance.
c. 1005 BC— this verse
Battle at Pas-dammim
The Philistines gather at Pas-dammim for a decisive battle against David's forces. This is the specific conflict where Eleazar's bravery, as described in the text, takes place.
c. 1005 BC
David's Mighty Men Emerge
During these intense wars against the Philistines, David's elite warriors, including Eleazar, perform extraordinary feats. Their loyalty and courage are crucial to Israel's survival and victory.
This passage tells the same story but focuses on Shammah, one of David's mighty men, standing his ground against the Philistines while others fled.
1 Samuel 17:52This passage describes a similar moment where the Israelites fled from the Philistines, highlighting the courage of David who stood against Goliath.
Judges 7:3-7This story of Gideon shows God deliberately reducing his army so that victory would be clearly His, mirroring how even a small act of bravery can be significant when God is involved.
Joshua 1:9This verse commands Joshua to be strong and courageous, a theme echoed in the bravery displayed by David's men in the face of overwhelming odds.
This verse highlights how even in moments of potential heroism for Eleazar, his focus shifts to the practical survival of his fellow soldiers. The "plot of ground full of barley" isn't just scenery; it represents a potential resource that, in the face of enemy advance, becomes a liability, forcing a retreat rather than a fight over the crop. It's a subtle reminder that courage isn't always about standing your ground, but sometimes about wise action in difficult circumstances.
This passage recounts an incredible act of bravery by Eleazar, one of David's mighty warriors. He stood his ground against the Philistines at Pas-dammim when everyone else fled, fighting so fiercely that he saved the field of barley, and by extension, the people. This brave stand is presented as a prime example of the valor that distinguished David's fighting force.
This passage recounts an incredible act of bravery by Eleazar, one of David's mighty warriors. He stood his ground against the Philistines at Pas-dammim when everyone else fled, fighting so fiercely that he saved the field of barley, and by extension, the people. This brave stand is presented as a prime example of the valor that distinguished David's fighting force.
"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 kille…" — This verse highlights how even in moments of potential heroism for Eleazar, his focus shifts to the practical survival of his fellow soldiers. The "plot of ground full of barley" isn't just scenery;…
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Last reviewed October 2026
