1 Chronicles 14:11
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
1 Chronicles 14:11
11 So they came up to Baal-perazim; and David smote them there. Then David said, God hath broken in upon mine enemies by mine hand like the breaking forth of waters: therefore they called the name of that place Baal-perazim.
Chapter Context
1 Chronicles 14 is a historical and genealogical chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of fellowship, prayer, love. Written during the post-exilic reflection on David's reign (c. 430-400 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Written after exile to reestablish national identity through connection to David's lineage.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-17: Central message and teachings
This chapter is significant because it provides guidance for worship and spiritual devotion. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within 1 Chronicles and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
1 Chronicles 14:11
11 So they came up to Baal-perazim; and David smote them there. Then David said, God hath broken in upon mine enemies by mine hand like the breaking forth of waters: therefore they called the name of that place Baal-perazim.
Analysis
David's naming the place 'Baal-perazim' (Lord of breakthroughs) memorializes God's intervention using water-breakthrough imagery. The statement 'God hath broken in upon mine enemies by mine hand like the breaking forth of waters' attributes victory to God while acknowledging human instrumentality. This theological balance - divine sovereignty and human agency - characterizes Reformed thought. David doesn't say 'I broke through' but recognizes himself as God's instrument. The water metaphor suggests overwhelming, irresistible force, echoing prophetic promises about God's Spirit being poured out. This points to Christ's decisive victory over Satan, sin, and death.
Historical Context
Ancient warriors often memorialized battle sites with names reflecting theological interpretation (cf. Ebenezer, 'stone of help' in 1 Samuel 7:12). These place names served as permanent testimony to God's faithfulness, teaching subsequent generations about divine intervention in Israel's history.
Reflection
- How can you better memorialize and testify to God's 'breakthroughs' in your spiritual battles?
- Where do you need God to 'break forth like waters' against enemies (spiritual, not physical) in your life?
Word Studies
- God: אֱלֹהִים (Elohim) H430 - God (plural of majesty)
Cross-References
- Kingdom: Job 30:14, Psalms 144:10
- References David: 2 Samuel 5:20
- Parallel theme: Exodus 14:28, Psalms 144:1, Isaiah 28:21, Matthew 7:27