Eleazar, son of Dodo the Ahohite, is prominently featured in the biblical narrative as one of King David's mighty warriors. His exploits are recorded in the books of 2 Samuel and 1 Chronicles, where he is celebrated for his extraordinary bravery and dedication to the Lord and to David, the anointed king of Israel.

Eleazar's Stand Against the Philistines

One of the most notable accounts of Eleazar's valor is found in 2 Samuel 23:9-10 and 1 Chronicles 11:12-14. In these passages, Eleazar is listed as one of the "Three Mighty Men" who stood by David during a critical battle against the Philistines. The Berean Standard Bible recounts:

"Next to him was Eleazar son of Dodo the Ahohite. As one of the three mighty men, he was with David when they taunted the Philistines who were gathered at Pas-dammim for battle. Then the men of Israel retreated, but he stood his ground and struck down the Philistines until his hand grew weary and stuck to the sword. The LORD brought about a great victory that day, and the troops returned to Eleazar, but only to plunder the dead." (2 Samuel 23:9-10)

This passage highlights Eleazar's unwavering courage and his reliance on divine strength. Despite the retreat of the Israelite forces, Eleazar remained steadfast, demonstrating his commitment to the cause and his trust in the Lord's deliverance. His hand clinging to the sword symbolizes his relentless determination and the supernatural empowerment he received to achieve victory.

The Battle at Pas-dammim

The location of this battle, Pas-dammim, is significant as it was a site of frequent conflict between the Israelites and the Philistines. The Philistines, a perennial enemy of Israel, often sought to assert their dominance over the region. Eleazar's stand at Pas-dammim is a testament to the ongoing struggle for the Promised Land and the faithfulness of God's chosen leaders in defending it.

Legacy and Significance

Eleazar's exploits are not merely tales of physical prowess but are emblematic of the spiritual warfare faced by the people of God. His actions serve as an inspiration for believers to stand firm in the face of overwhelming odds, trusting in the Lord's power to bring about victory. Eleazar's account is a reminder of the importance of faith, courage, and loyalty in the service of God's kingdom.

In the broader narrative of Scripture, Eleazar's deeds contribute to the establishment of David's reign and the fulfillment of God's promises to Israel. His bravery and dedication are celebrated as part of the legacy of David's mighty men, who played a crucial role in securing the nation and advancing God's purposes through the leadership of David.