Had understanding of the times ( 2 Chronicles 2:12 ; Esther 1:13 ; Job 24:1 ). Compare Tacitus, "gnarus temporum" ('Agricola,' §6). This verse does not tell the number of the "children," but only of the "heads" of Issachar . It is possible that the number has slipped out. The description of the characteristics of Issachar here seems an advance upon that of Genesis 49:14 , Genesis 49:15 . read more
Not of double heart . This phrase should be connected closely with the preceding clause, of which it is the termination, the sense being that they were the men to face battle with no doubtful heart. read more
Naphtali, Dan , and Asher all show to advantage, in number at all events. read more
The east of Jordan group muster a high number, and of well-equipped men. read more
The supplies for eating and drinking were no doubt found chiefly in kind. To sum the number of the men here described, we should require to allow for those of Issachar and of the Aaronites and Zadokites added to the Levites ( 1 Chronicles 12:26-28 ). That grand total will not amount to the six hundred thousand of Exodus 12:37 . read more
Moreover, they that were nigh them . The meaning is that not only the "brethren" of Judah and of the nearer neighbourhood of Hebron joined to entertain and to show hospitality to the immense throngs of visitors, but that others did so in ever-widening circles, even as far as the remoter Issachar, Zebulun, and Naphtali. For there was joy in Israel. The joy must have been largely enhanced by the national consciousness of divided rule coming to an end, and of the cloud and frown of the Divine... read more
This chapter is composed wholly of matter that is new to us, no corresponding accounts occurring in Samuel. It comprises four lists:(1) One of men, chiefly Benjamites, who joined David at Ziklag 1 Chronicles 12:1-7;(2) A second of Gadites who united themselves to him when he was in a stronghold near the desert 1 Chronicles 12:8-15;(3) A third of Manassites who came to him when he was dismissed by the Philistines upon suspicion 1 Chronicles 12:19-22; and(4) A fourth of the numbers from the... read more
The skill of the Benjamites as archers is noted in 1 Chronicles 8:40, and 2 Chronicles 14:8. Their proficiency in using the left hand appears in the narrative of Judges (Judges 3:15, and marginal reference) where their special excellency as slingers is also noticed.Even of Saul’s brethren - Compare 1 Chronicles 12:29. Even of Saul’s own tribe there were some who separated themselves from his cause, and threw in their lot with David. read more
Into the hold to the wilderness - Rather, “into the hold toward the wilderness.” Some understand by this Ziklag, some En-gedi 1 Samuel 24:1-2; but it seems most probable that here and in 1 Chronicles 12:16 the stronghold of Adullam is intended 1 Chronicles 11:15-16. read more
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The Pulpit Commentary - 1 Chronicles 12:31
West Manasseh is here treated of. read more