1 Chronicles 18:4

David captured from him a thousand chariots, seven thousand charioteers, and twenty thousand foot soldiers, and he hamstrung all the horses except a hundred he kept for the chariots.

Study Bible

David captured
The phrase "David captured" signifies a moment of triumph and divine favor. In Hebrew, the root word for "captured" is "לָכַד" (lakad), which means to seize or take. This action reflects God's promise to David of victory over his enemies, as seen throughout the Davidic narrative. It underscores the fulfillment of God's covenant with David, where he is established as a powerful king, blessed with military success.

a thousand chariots
Chariots were a significant military asset in ancient warfare, symbolizing strength and technological advancement. The Hebrew word for "chariot" is "רֶכֶב" (rekeb). The capture of a thousand chariots indicates a substantial victory over the enemy, showcasing David's strategic prowess and God's provision. This victory not only demonstrates David's military might but also the weakening of his adversaries, as chariots were crucial for battle dominance.

seven thousand charioteers
The mention of "seven thousand charioteers" highlights the scale of the victory. The number seven often symbolizes completeness or perfection in the Bible, suggesting a total and decisive victory. The Hebrew term for "charioteers" is "פָּרָשִׁים" (parashim), which can also mean horsemen. This detail emphasizes the thoroughness of David's triumph, as he not only captured the chariots but also neutralized those who operated them.

twenty thousand foot soldiers
The capture of "twenty thousand foot soldiers" further illustrates the magnitude of David's victory. The Hebrew word for "foot soldiers" is "רַגְלִי" (ragli), indicating infantrymen. This overwhelming number signifies the complete subjugation of the enemy forces, reinforcing the idea that David's success was divinely ordained and that God was with him in battle, granting him favor and protection.

And David hamstrung all the horses
The act of hamstringing the horses, described by the Hebrew word "עָקַר" (akar), meaning to disable, reflects a strategic decision to prevent future military threats. By doing so, David ensured that the enemy could not quickly regroup and retaliate. This action also demonstrates David's reliance on God rather than military might, as he chose not to amass a large cavalry, which was contrary to the practices of surrounding nations.

except a hundred he kept for the chariots
The decision to keep "a hundred" horses for chariots indicates a measured approach to military resources. The number one hundred, while small compared to the total captured, suggests prudence and restraint. It reflects David's understanding of the need for some military capability while ultimately trusting in God's provision and guidance. This balance between practical military needs and faith in divine support is a recurring theme in David's reign.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
The King of Israel, known for his military prowess and his heart for God. In this passage, he is leading Israel to victory over their enemies.

2. Hadadezer
The king of Zobah, an Aramean kingdom. He is the adversary defeated by David in this account.

3. Zobah
A region in Aram (modern-day Syria), which was a significant power during David's reign. The defeat of Zobah was crucial for Israel's security and expansion.

4. Chariots and Horses
Symbols of military strength in ancient times. David's decision to hamstring the horses reflects a strategic move to weaken the enemy's future military capabilities.

5. Foot Soldiers
Represent the manpower and military force of Hadadezer, which David successfully subdued.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God's Commands
David's actions reflect adherence to God's instructions regarding military practices. We are reminded to prioritize God's commands over worldly strategies.

Trust in God's Provision
By not relying on captured horses and chariots, David demonstrates trust in God's provision and protection. We should place our trust in God rather than in material or worldly resources.

Strategic Wisdom
David's decision to hamstring the horses shows strategic wisdom in ensuring long-term security. We are encouraged to seek God's wisdom in making decisions that affect our future.

Victory through God's Strength
David's victories are attributed to God's strength and favor. We should acknowledge God's role in our successes and give Him the glory.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does David's obedience to God's command regarding horses reflect his faith and trust in God?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of trusting in God over worldly resources in our daily lives?

3. How does the account of David's victory over Hadadezer encourage us to seek God's wisdom in our strategic decisions?

4. What can we learn from David's example about giving God the glory for our successes?

5. How does the parallel account in 2 Samuel 8:4 enhance our understanding of this event in 1 Chronicles 18:4?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 17:16
This verse warns Israelite kings against acquiring many horses, which connects to David's decision to hamstring the horses, showing obedience to God's commands.

Psalm 20:7
This verse emphasizes trust in the Lord over military might, reflecting David's reliance on God rather than on chariots and horses.

2 Samuel 8:4
A parallel account of the same event, providing additional context and details about David's military campaigns.