2 Samuel 23:20

2 Samuel 23:20 in Multiple Translations

Berean Standard Bible BSB

And Benaiah son of Jehoiada was a man of valor from Kabzeel, a man of many exploits. He struck down two champions of Moab, and on a snowy day he went down into a pit and killed a lion.

King James Version KJV

And Benaiah the son of Jehoiada, the son of a valiant man, of Kabzeel, who had done many acts, he slew two lionlike men of Moab: he went down also and slew a lion in the midst of a pit in time of snow:

American Standard Version ASV

And Benaiah the son of Jehoiada, the son of a valiant man of Kabzeel, who had done mighty deeds, he slew the two sons of Ariel of Moab: he went down also and slew a lion in the midst of a pit in time of snow.

Bible in Basic English BBE

And Benaiah the son of Jehoiada, a fighting man of Kabzeel, had done great acts; he put to death the two sons of Ariel of Moab: he went down into a hole and put a lion to death in time of snow:

Free Bible Version FBV

Benaiah, son of Jehoiada, a strong warrior from Kabzeel, did many amazing things. He killed two sons of Ariel of Moab. He also went after a lion into a pit in the snow and killed it.

Geneva Bible 1599 GNV

And Benaiah the sonne of Iehoiada the sonne of a valiant man, which had done many actes, and was of Kabzeel, slewe two strong men of Moab: he went downe also, and slewe a lyon in the middes of a pit in the time of snowe.

Young's Literal Translation YLT

And Benaiah son of Jehoiada (son of a man of valour, great in deeds from Kabzeel), he hath smitten two lion-like men of Moab, and he hath gone down and smitten the lion in the midst of the pit in a day of snow.

World English Bible WEB

Benaiah the son of Jehoiada, the son of a valiant man of Kabzeel, who had done mighty deeds, killed the two sons of Ariel of Moab. He also went down and killed a lion in the middle of a pit in a time of snow.

Noah Webster Bible WBS

And Benaiah the son of Jehoiada, the son of a valiant man, of Kabzeel, who had done many acts, he slew two lion-like men of Moab: he went down also and slew a lion in the midst of a pit in time of snow:

Douay-Rheims 1899 DRV

And Banaias the son of Joiada a most valiant man, of great deeds, of Cabseel: he slew the two lions of Moab, and he went down, and slew a lion in the midst of a pit, in the time of snow.

Translation for Translators T4T

Jehoiada’s son Benaiah, from Kabzeel town, also did great deeds. He killed two of the best warriors from the Moab people-group. Also, he went down into a pit on a day when snow was falling, and killed a lion there.

Study Highlights

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Berean Amplified Bible — 2 Samuel 23:20

BAB

Word Study

Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.

Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.

2 Samuel 23:20 Interlinear (Deep Study)

BIB

HEB וּ/בְנָיָ֨הוּ בֶן יְהוֹיָדָ֧ע בֶּן אִֽישׁ חי חַ֛יִל רַב פְּעָלִ֖ים מִֽ/קַּבְצְאֵ֑ל ה֣וּא הִכָּ֗ה אֵ֣ת שְׁנֵ֤י אֲרִאֵל֙ מוֹאָ֔ב וְ֠/הוּא יָרַ֞ד וְ/הִכָּ֧ה אֶֽת ה/אריה הָ/אֲרִ֛י בְּ/ת֥וֹךְ הַ/בֹּ֖אר בְּ/י֥וֹם הַ/שָּֽׁלֶג

וּ/בְנָיָ֨הוּ Bᵉnâyâh H1141 Benaiah Conj | N-proper

בֶן bên H1121 son N-ms

יְהוֹיָדָ֧ע Yᵉhôwyâdâʻ H3077 Jehoiada N-proper

בֶּן bên H1121 son N-ms

אִֽישׁ ʼîysh H376 man N-ms

חי chay H2416 alive Adj

חַ֛יִל chayil H2428 Helech N-ms

רַב rab H7227 many Adj

פְּעָלִ֖ים pôʻal H6467 work N-mp

מִֽ/קַּבְצְאֵ֑ל Qabtsᵉʼêl H6909 Kabzeel Prep | N-proper

ה֣וּא hûwʼ H1931 he/she/it Pron

הִכָּ֗ה nâkâh H5221 to smite V-Hiphil-Perf-3ms

אֵ֣ת ʼêth H853 Obj. DirObjM

שְׁנֵ֤י shᵉnayim H8147 two Adj

אֲרִאֵל֙ ʼărîyʼêl H739 Ariel N-proper

מוֹאָ֔ב Môwʼâb H4124 Moab N-proper

וְ֠/הוּא hûwʼ H1931 he/she/it Conj | Pron

יָרַ֞ד yârad H3381 to go down V-Qal-Perf-3ms

וְ/הִכָּ֧ה nâkâh H5221 to smite Conj | V-Hiphil-Perf-3ms

אֶֽת ʼêth H853 Obj. DirObjM

ה/אריה ʼărîy H738 lion Art | N-ms

הָ/אֲרִ֛י ʼărîy H738 lion Art | N-ms

בְּ/ת֥וֹךְ tâvek H8432 midst Prep | N-ms

הַ/בֹּ֖אר bôwr H953 pit Art | N-ms

בְּ/י֥וֹם yôwm H3117 day Prep | N-ms

הַ/שָּֽׁלֶג sheleg H7950 snow Art | N-ms

Hebrew Word Study

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Hebrew Word Reference — 2 Samuel 23:20

וּ/בְנָיָ֨הוּ Bᵉnâyâh H1141 "Benaiah" Conj | N-proper

Benaiah was a strong warrior and leader in the Bible, serving under King David and Solomon. His name means Jehovah has built, indicating God's strength.

Definition: A man living at the time of Exile and Return, first mentioned at Ezk.11.1; father of: Pelatiah (H6410J) § Benaiah = "Jehovah has built" or "Yahweh has built up" 1) one of David's mighty warriors, son of Jehoiada the chief priest, a Levite, set by David over his bodyguard, later having remained faithful to Solomon during Adonijah's attempt on the crown, was raised into the place of Joab as commander-in-chief of the army 2) the Pirathonite, an Ephraimite, one of David's thirty mighty warriors, and the captain of the eleventh monthly course 3) a Simeonite, a prince of the families of Simeon 4) a Levite in the time of David who played with a psaltery on Alamoth 5) a priest in the time of David, appointed to blow the trumpet before the ark 6) a Levite of the sons of Asaph 7) a Levite in the time of Hezekiah 8) Four Israelites in the time of Ezra who had taken strange wives 9) the father of Pelatiah

Usage: Occurs in 41 OT verses. KJV: Benaiah. See also: 2 Samuel 8:18; 1 Chronicles 11:22; Ezekiel 11:13.

בֶן bên H1121 "son" N-ms

In the Bible, this word means a son or descendant, and can also refer to a grandson, nation, or quality. It appears in 1 Chronicles 24, describing a Levite named Beno. The word is used to show family relationships and inheritance.

Definition: : child/son

Usage: Occurs in 3653 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] afflicted, age, (Ahoh-) (Ammon-) (Hachmon-) (Lev-) ite, (anoint-) ed one, appointed to, ([phrase]) arrow, (Assyr-) (Babylon-) (Egypt-) (Grec-) ian, one born, bough, branch, breed, [phrase] (young) bullock, [phrase] (young) calf, [idiom] came up in, child, colt, [idiom] common, [idiom] corn, daughter, [idiom] of first, [phrase] firstborn, foal, [phrase] very fruitful, [phrase] postage, [idiom] in, [phrase] kid, [phrase] lamb, ([phrase]) man, meet, [phrase] mighty, [phrase] nephew, old, ([phrase]) people, [phrase] rebel, [phrase] robber, [idiom] servant born, [idiom] soldier, son, [phrase] spark, [phrase] steward, [phrase] stranger, [idiom] surely, them of, [phrase] tumultuous one, [phrase] valiant(-est), whelp, worthy, young (one), youth. See also: Genesis 3:16; Genesis 23:3; Genesis 34:18.

יְהוֹיָדָ֧ע Yᵉhôwyâdâʻ H3077 "Jehoiada" N-proper

Jehoiada means Jehovah knows, and was the name of three Israelites, including a high priest who helped King David and hid Joash from Athaliah. He is mentioned in Jeremiah 29:26.

Definition: A man living at the time of Divided Monarchy, only mentioned at Jer.29.26 § Jehoiada = "Jehovah knows" 1) father of Benaiah, David's mighty warrior 2) leader of the priests who joined David at Hebron 3) high priest at the time of Athaliah's usurpation of the throne of Judah; hid Joash, the king's son, for six years and eventually replaced him on the throne of Judah 4) second priest, or sagan, to Seraiah the high priest

Usage: Occurs in 48 OT verses. KJV: Jehoiada. Compare H3111 (יוֹיָדָע). See also: 2 Samuel 8:18; 1 Chronicles 11:24; Jeremiah 29:26.

בֶּן bên H1121 "son" N-ms

Definition: : child/son

אִֽישׁ ʼîysh H376 "man" N-ms

The Hebrew word for man, referring to a male person or individual, is used in the Bible to describe humans in contrast to God or animals, as seen in Genesis and Psalms. It can also mean husband or servant. In the KJV, it is translated as man or male.

Definition: : man 1) man 1a) man, male (in contrast to woman, female) 1b) husband 1c) human being, person (in contrast to God) 1d) servant 1e) mankind 1f) champion 1g) great man 2) whosoever 3) each (adjective)

Usage: Occurs in 1851 OT verses. KJV: also, another, any (man), a certain, [phrase] champion, consent, each, every (one), fellow, (foot-, husband-) man, (good-, great, mighty) man, he, high (degree), him (that is), husband, man(-kind), [phrase] none, one, people, person, [phrase] steward, what (man) soever, whoso(-ever), worthy. Compare H802 (אִשָּׁה). See also: Genesis 2:23; Genesis 42:25; Exodus 32:23.

חי chay H2416 "alive" Adj

In the Bible, this word means life or being alive. It can refer to physical life, like in Genesis 1:20, or spiritual life, like in Psalm 30:5.

Definition: adj 1) living, alive 1a) green (of vegetation) 1b) flowing, fresh (of water) 1c) lively, active (of man) 1d) reviving (of the springtime) Aramaic equivalent: chay (חַי "living" H2417)

Usage: Occurs in 450 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] age, alive, appetite, (wild) beast, company, congregation, life(-time), live(-ly), living (creature, thing), maintenance, [phrase] merry, multitude, [phrase] (be) old, quick, raw, running, springing, troop. See also: Genesis 1:20; Deuteronomy 4:9; 2 Kings 5:16.

חַ֛יִל chayil H2428 "Helech" N-ms

This word represents strength, might, or power, whether physical, financial, or military. In the Bible, it's used to describe the strength of God or the wealth of a nation, as seen in Deuteronomy 8:17-18.

Definition: § Helech = "your army" a place near Arvad and Gammad

Usage: Occurs in 221 OT verses. KJV: able, activity, ([phrase]) army, band of men (soldiers), company, (great) forces, goods, host, might, power, riches, strength, strong, substance, train, ([phrase]) valiant(-ly), valour, virtuous(-ly), war, worthy(-ily). See also: Genesis 34:29; 2 Chronicles 13:3; Psalms 18:33.

רַב rab H7227 "many" Adj

This Hebrew word means a chief or captain, someone in charge. It is used in 2 Samuel 23:19 to describe a great and powerful man. The idea is one of leadership and authority.

Definition: adj 1) much, many, great 1a) much 1b) many 1c) abounding in 1d) more numerous than 1e) abundant, enough 1f) great 1g) strong 1h) greater than adv 1i) much, exceedingly

Usage: Occurs in 443 OT verses. KJV: (in) abound(-undance, -ant, -antly), captain, elder, enough, exceedingly, full, great(-ly, man, one), increase, long (enough, (time)), (do, have) many(-ifold, things, a time), (ship-)master, mighty, more, (too, very) much, multiply(-tude), officer, often(-times), plenteous, populous, prince, process (of time), suffice(-lent). See also: Genesis 6:5; 1 Kings 11:1; Psalms 3:2.

פְּעָלִ֖ים pôʻal H6467 "work" N-mp

A work or deed is what this word refers to, describing something that has been done or made. It can also mean wages or the result of an action.

Definition: 1) work, deed, doing 1a) deed, thing done 1b) work, thing made 1c) wages of work 1d) acquisition (of treasure)

Usage: Occurs in 38 OT verses. KJV: act, deed, do, getting, maker, work. See also: Deuteronomy 32:4; Psalms 104:23; Psalms 9:17.

מִֽ/קַּבְצְאֵ֑ל Qabtsᵉʼêl H6909 "Kabzeel" Prep | N-proper

Kabzeel was a city in southern Judah, on the border of Edom, and its name means God gathers, as seen in Joshua 15:21. It represents a place where people came together under God's guidance.

Definition: § Kabzeel = "God gathers" the most remote city of Judah; located in southern Judah on the border of Edom

Usage: Occurs in 3 OT verses. KJV: Kabzeel. Compare H3343 (יְקַבְצְאֵל). See also: Joshua 15:21; 2 Samuel 23:20; 1 Chronicles 11:22.

ה֣וּא hûwʼ H1931 "he/she/it" Pron

This word is a pronoun meaning 'he', 'she', or 'it', used to refer to a person or thing. It is used in the Bible to emphasize a subject or make it clear who is being talked about.

Definition: pron 3p s 1) he, she, it 1a) himself (with emphasis) 1b) resuming subj with emphasis 1c) (with minimum emphasis following predicate) 1d) (anticipating subj) 1e) (emphasising predicate) 1f) that, it (neuter) demons pron 2) that (with article)

Usage: Occurs in 1693 OT verses. KJV: he, as for her, him(-self), it, the same, she (herself), such, that (...it), these, they, this, those, which (is), who. See also: Genesis 2:11; Genesis 32:19; Exodus 21:3.

הִכָּ֗ה nâkâh H5221 "to smite" V-Hiphil-Perf-3ms

In the Bible, this Hebrew word means to strike or hit something, and it's used in many different ways, like in Exodus when God strikes down the Egyptians. It can also mean to punish or destroy, as seen in Isaiah. The word is used to describe God's judgment.

Definition: 1) to strike, smite, hit, beat, slay, kill 1a)(Niphal) to be stricken or smitten 1b) (Pual) to be stricken or smitten 1c) (Hiphil) 1c1) to smite, strike, beat, scourge, clap, applaud, give a thrust 1c2) to smite, kill, slay (man or beast) 1c3) to smite, attack, attack and destroy, conquer, subjugate, ravage 1c4) to smite, chastise, send judgment upon, punish, destroy 1d) (Hophal) to be smitten 1d1) to receive a blow 1d2) to be wounded 1d3) to be beaten 1d4) to be (fatally) smitten, be killed, be slain 1d5) to be attacked and captured 1d6) to be smitten (with disease) 1d7) to be blighted (of plants)

Usage: Occurs in 461 OT verses. KJV: beat, cast forth, clap, give (wounds), [idiom] go forward, [idiom] indeed, kill, make (slaughter), murderer, punish, slaughter, slay(-er, -ing), smite(-r, -ing), strike, be stricken, (give) stripes, [idiom] surely, wound. See also: Genesis 4:15; Joshua 10:20; 1 Samuel 29:5.

אֵ֣ת ʼêth H853 "Obj." DirObjM

In the original Hebrew, this word points out the object of a verb or preposition, like 'namely' or 'even'. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus. It's not directly translated in English, but helps clarify the meaning of sentences.

Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)

Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.

שְׁנֵ֤י shᵉnayim H8147 "two" Adj

The Hebrew word for the number two appears in Genesis and Exodus, describing pairs and dualities. It can also mean double or twice. In the Bible, it is often used to describe things that come in twos, like two witnesses or two tablets.

Definition: 1) two 1a) two (the cardinal number) 1a1) two, both, double, twice 1b) second (the ordinal number) 1c) in combination with other numbers 1d) both (a dual number)

Usage: Occurs in 646 OT verses. KJV: both, couple, double, second, twain, [phrase] twelfth, [phrase] twelve, [phrase] twenty (sixscore) thousand, twice, two. See also: Genesis 1:16; Exodus 30:4; Numbers 13:23.

אֲרִאֵל֙ ʼărîyʼêl H739 "Ariel" N-proper

Ariel is a name that means 'lion of God' and is used to describe someone or something that is strong and heroic. It is first mentioned in 2 Samuel 23:20.

Definition: A group living at the time of United Monarchy, first mentioned at 2Sa.23.20 meaning uncertain 1a) (CLBL) possibly lion-like 1b) (BDB) possibly two sons of Ariel of Moab

Usage: Occurs in 2 OT verses. KJV: lionlike men. See also: 2 Samuel 23:20; 1 Chronicles 11:22.

מוֹאָ֔ב Môwʼâb H4124 "Moab" N-proper

Moab refers to the land and descendants of the son of Lot, who was born out of an incestuous relationship. The land of Moab is mentioned in the book of Numbers and the book of Ruth.

Definition: Combined with a.ra.vah (עֲרָבָה " Plains" H6160I) § Moab = "of his father" the land inhabited by the descendants of the son of Lot

Usage: Occurs in 158 OT verses. KJV: Moab. See also: Genesis 19:37; 2 Kings 3:21; Psalms 60:10.

וְ֠/הוּא hûwʼ H1931 "he/she/it" Conj | Pron

This word is a pronoun meaning 'he', 'she', or 'it', used to refer to a person or thing. It is used in the Bible to emphasize a subject or make it clear who is being talked about.

יָרַ֞ד yârad H3381 "to go down" V-Qal-Perf-3ms

To go down or descend, like going to a lower place or falling. It appears in Genesis and Exodus, describing people and things moving downwards.

Definition: 1) to go down, descend, decline, march down, sink down 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to go or come down 1a2) to sink 1a3) to be prostrated 1a4) to come down (of revelation) 1b) (Hiphil) 1b1) to bring down 1b2) to send down 1b3) to take down 1b4) to lay prostrate 1b5) to let down 1c) (Hophal) 1c1) to be brought down 1c2) to be taken down

Usage: Occurs in 345 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] abundantly, bring down, carry down, cast down, (cause to) come(-ing) down, fall (down), get down, go(-ing) down(-ward), hang down, [idiom] indeed, let down, light (down), put down (off), (cause to, let) run down, sink, subdue, take down. See also: Genesis 11:5; Judges 3:28; 2 Kings 1:15.

וְ/הִכָּ֧ה nâkâh H5221 "to smite" Conj | V-Hiphil-Perf-3ms

אֶֽת ʼêth H853 "Obj." DirObjM

Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)

Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.

ה/אריה ʼărîy H738 "lion" Art | N-ms

In biblical times, a lion was a symbol of strength and power, and is often mentioned in stories like Daniel in the lions' den. The word for lion appears in various forms, including pictures or images of lions, and is used in books like 1 Kings and 2 Kings.

Definition: 1) lion 1a) pictures or images of lions

Usage: Occurs in 71 OT verses. KJV: (young) lion, [phrase] pierce (from the margin). See also: Genesis 49:9; Proverbs 22:13; Psalms 7:3.

הָ/אֲרִ֛י ʼărîy H738 "lion" Art | N-ms

Definition: 1) lion 1a) pictures or images of lions

Usage: Occurs in 71 OT verses. KJV: (young) lion, [phrase] pierce (from the margin). See also: Genesis 49:9; Proverbs 22:13; Psalms 7:3.

בְּ/ת֥וֹךְ tâvek H8432 "midst" Prep | N-ms

This word refers to the middle or center of something, such as a group of people or a physical space. It can also mean among or between things, as seen in various Bible translations.

Definition: 1) midst, middle 1a) midst, middle 1b) into, through (after verbs of motion) 1c) among (of a number of persons) 1d) between (of things arranged by twos) 1e) from among (as to take or separate etc)

Usage: Occurs in 390 OT verses. KJV: among(-st), [idiom] between, half, [idiom] (there-, where-), in(-to), middle, mid(-night), midst (among), [idiom] out (of), [idiom] through, [idiom] with(-in). See also: Genesis 1:6; Numbers 35:5; 2 Chronicles 32:4.

הַ/בֹּ֖אר bôwr H953 "pit" Art | N-ms

This word refers to a cistern or pit, often used to hold water or as a prison. In the Bible, it is used to describe a place of confinement, like a dungeon or well. It is a physical hole in the ground.

Definition: pit, well, cistern, dungeon, pit of the grave

Usage: Occurs in 62 OT verses. KJV: cistern, dungeon, fountain, pit, well. See also: Genesis 37:20; Proverbs 5:15; Psalms 7:16.

בְּ/י֥וֹם yôwm H3117 "day" Prep | N-ms

The Hebrew word 'yom' refers to a day, which can be a literal 24-hour period or a figurative space of time. It is used in the Bible to describe a wide range of time periods, from a single day to a year or a lifetime. The word 'yom' is used in many different contexts throughout the Bible.

Definition: : day/when/time/period 1) day, time, year 1a) day (as opposed to night) 1b) day (24 hour period) 1b1) as defined by evening and morning in Genesis 1 1b2) as a division of time 1b2a) a working day, a day's journey 1c) days, lifetime (pl.) 1d) time, period (general) 1e) year 1f) temporal references 1f1) today 1f2) yesterday 1f3) tomorrow

Usage: Occurs in 1930 OT verses. KJV: age, [phrase] always, [phrase] chronicals, continually(-ance), daily, ((birth-), each, to) day, (now a, two) days (agone), [phrase] elder, [idiom] end, [phrase] evening, [phrase] (for) ever(-lasting, -more), [idiom] full, life, as (so) long as (... live), (even) now, [phrase] old, [phrase] outlived, [phrase] perpetually, presently, [phrase] remaineth, [idiom] required, season, [idiom] since, space, then, (process of) time, [phrase] as at other times, [phrase] in trouble, weather, (as) when, (a, the, within a) while (that), [idiom] whole ([phrase] age), (full) year(-ly), [phrase] younger. See also: Genesis 1:5; Genesis 33:13; Exodus 23:15.

הַ/שָּֽׁלֶג sheleg H7950 "snow" Art | N-ms

Sheleg means snow in Hebrew, likely due to its white color. It is also used in Aramaic as te.lag.

Definition: snow Aramaic equivalent: te.lag (תְּלַג "snow" H8517)

Usage: Occurs in 20 OT verses. KJV: snow(-y). See also: Exodus 4:6; Psalms 51:9; Psalms 147:16.

Study Notes — 2 Samuel 23:20

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Context
Cross References
2 Samuel 23:20 Summary
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Reflection Questions
Gill's Exposition on 2 Samuel 23:20
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Matthew Poole's Commentary on 2 Samuel 23:20
Trapp's Commentary on 2 Samuel 23:20
Ellicott's Commentary on 2 Samuel 23:20
Adam Clarke's Commentary on 2 Samuel 23:20
Cambridge Bible on 2 Samuel 23:20
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Whedon's Commentary on 2 Samuel 23:20
Sermons on 2 Samuel 23:20

Context — David’s Mighty Men

18Now Abishai, the brother of Joab and son of Zeruiah, was chief of the Three, and he wielded his spear against three hundred men, killed them, and won a name along with the Three. 19Was he not more honored than the Three? And he became their commander, even though he was not included among the Three.

20And Benaiah son of Jehoiada was a man of valor from Kabzeel, a man of many exploits. He struck down two champions of Moab, and on a snowy day he went down into a pit and killed a lion.

21He also struck down an Egyptian, a huge man. Although the Egyptian had a spear in his hand, Benaiah went against him with a club, snatched the spear from his hand, and killed the Egyptian with his own spear. 22These were the exploits of Benaiah son of Jehoiada, who won a name along with the three mighty men.

Cross References

	Reference	Text (BSB)
1	2 Samuel 8:18	Benaiah son of Jehoiada was over the Cherethites and Pelethites; and David’s sons were priestly leaders.
2	Joshua 15:21	These were the southernmost cities of the tribe of Judah in the Negev toward the border of Edom: Kabzeel, Eder, Jagur,
3	2 Samuel 20:23	Now Joab was over the whole army of Israel; Benaiah son of Jehoiada was over the Cherethites and Pelethites;
4	1 Chronicles 11:22–24	And Benaiah son of Jehoiada was a man of valor from Kabzeel, a man of many exploits. He struck down two champions of Moab, and on a snowy day he went down into a pit and killed a lion. He also killed an Egyptian, a huge man five cubits tall. Although the Egyptian had a spear like a weaver’s beam in his hand, Benaiah went against him with a club, snatched the spear from his hand, and killed the Egyptian with his own spear. These were the exploits of Benaiah son of Jehoiada, who won a name alongside the three mighty men.
5	1 Samuel 17:34–37	David replied, “Your servant has been tending his father’s sheep, and whenever a lion or a bear came and carried off a lamb from the flock, I went after it, struck it down, and delivered the lamb from its mouth. If it reared up against me, I would grab it by its fur, strike it down, and kill it. Your servant has killed lions and bears; this uncircumcised Philistine will be like one of them, for he has defied the armies of the living God.” David added, “The LORD, who delivered me from the claws of the lion and the bear, will deliver me from the hand of this Philistine.” “Go,” said Saul, “and may the LORD be with you.”
6	Judges 14:5–6	Then Samson went down to Timnah with his father and mother and came to the vineyards of Timnah. Suddenly a young lion came roaring at him, and the Spirit of the LORD came powerfully upon him, and he tore the lion apart with his bare hands as one would tear a young goat. But he did not tell his father or mother what he had done.
7	Exodus 15:15	Then the chiefs of Edom will be dismayed; trembling will seize the leaders of Moab; those who dwell in Canaan will melt away,
8	1 Kings 2:46	Then the king commanded Benaiah son of Jehoiada, and he went out and struck Shimei down, and he died. Thus the kingdom was firmly established in the hand of Solomon.
9	1 Kings 2:29–35	It was reported to King Solomon: “Joab has fled to the tent of the LORD and is now beside the altar.” So Solomon sent Benaiah son of Jehoiada, saying, “Go, strike him down!” And Benaiah entered the tent of the LORD and said to Joab, “The king says, ‘Come out!’” But Joab replied, “No, I will die here.” So Benaiah relayed the message to the king, saying, “This is how Joab answered me.” And the king replied, “Do just as he says. Strike him down and bury him, and so remove from me and from the house of my father the innocent blood that Joab shed. The LORD will bring his bloodshed back upon his own head, for without the knowledge of my father David he struck down two men more righteous and better than he when he put to the sword Abner son of Ner, commander of Israel’s army, and Amasa son of Jether, commander of Judah’s army. Their blood will come back upon the heads of Joab and his descendants forever; but for David, his descendants, his house, and his throne, there shall be peace from the LORD forever.” So Benaiah son of Jehoiada went up, struck down Joab, and killed him. He was buried at his own home in the wilderness. And the king appointed Benaiah son of Jehoiada in Joab’s place over the army, and he appointed Zadok the priest in Abiathar’s place.
10	1 Kings 1:38	Then Zadok the priest, Nathan the prophet, and Benaiah son of Jehoiada, along with the Cherethites and Pelethites, went down and set Solomon on King David’s mule, and they escorted him to Gihon.

2 Samuel 23:20 Summary

This verse tells us about a brave man named Benaiah who did many amazing things, including killing a lion on a snowy day. He trusted God to give him the strength and courage he needed, and God helped him accomplish great things, just like in Psalm 28:7. We can learn from Benaiah's example to trust God and have faith in His power and presence in our own lives, no matter what challenges we face, and remember that God is our rock and salvation, as in Psalm 62:6.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does it mean to be a man of valor?

To be a man of valor, as described in 2 Samuel 23:20, means to be a person of great courage and strength, willing to take risks and face challenges head-on, like David in 1 Samuel 17:51.

Why is it significant that Benaiah killed a lion on a snowy day?

The fact that Benaiah killed a lion on a snowy day highlights his bravery and skill, as lions are fierce predators and snowy conditions would have made the task even more difficult, demonstrating faith and trust in God like in Psalm 23:4.

What can we learn from Benaiah's exploits about faith and trust in God?

Benaiah's exploits, as recorded in 2 Samuel 23:20-22, demonstrate his trust in God's power and provision, inspiring us to have faith in God's presence and help in our own lives, just as in Isaiah 41:10.

How does Benaiah's story relate to the broader biblical theme of courage and faith?

Benaiah's story is part of a larger narrative in the Bible that emphasizes the importance of courage and faith in the face of adversity, as seen in the lives of other heroes of faith, such as Daniel in Daniel 6:23 and David in 1 Samuel 17:45-47.

Reflection Questions

What are some ways I can demonstrate courage and faith in my own life, just like Benaiah?
How can I trust God to give me the strength and power I need to overcome challenges, like Benaiah did?
What are some 'lions' in my life that I need to trust God to help me overcome, and how can I apply the lessons from Benaiah's story to my own situation?
In what ways can I, like Benaiah, be a witness to God's power and faithfulness in my own life and to those around me?

Gill's Exposition on 2 Samuel 23:20

And Benaiah the son of Jehoiada, the son of a valiant man of Kabzeel,.... A city in the tribe of Judah, Joshua 15:21; the father of this man was a man of great vivacity, valour, and strength, so that it was like father like son.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 2 Samuel 23:20

And Benaiah the son of Jehoiada, the son of a valiant man, of Kabzeel, who had done many acts, he slew two lionlike men of Moab: he went down also and slew a lion in the midst of a pit in time of

Matthew Poole's Commentary on 2 Samuel 23:20

Of Kabzeel; a place in Judah, . Who had done many acts: this may belong either to Benaiah, or to his father, to note that Benaiah was a son becoming such a father. Two lionlike men, for courage and strength. Or, lions of God, i.e. great and strong lions. Or, two gigantic persons; and therefore both so called, as being either equal in might, or brethren by birth. In the midst of a pit; where he put himself under a necessity, either of killing, or being killed. In time of snow; when lions are most fierce, both from the sharpness of their appetite in cold seasons, and from want of provisions, cattle being then shut up, and fed at home.

Trapp's Commentary on 2 Samuel 23:20

2 Samuel 23:20 And Benaiah the son of Jehoiada, the son of a valiant man, of Kabzeel, who had done many acts, he slew two lionlike men of Moab: he went down also and slew a lion in the midst of a pit in time of snow:Ver. 20. The son of a valiant man.] Fortes creantur fortibus et bonis. He slew two lion-like men.] Heb., Two Ariels of Moab, perhaps they were brothers, but coeur-de-lions certainly, Or, He took two strong forts, called Ariel, both, - as Vatablus. And slew a lion.] Which feared the people with his roaring. This was not rashness or ostentation, but magnanimity. Horat. Valentissimos., Trem.

Ellicott's Commentary on 2 Samuel 23:20

(20) Benaiah.—He was the general of the third division of the army (1 Chronicles 27:5-6). This probably included the Cherethites and Pelethites, since he was also their commander (2 Samuel 8:18; 2 Samuel 20:23). In consequence of his faithfulness to Solomon in the rebellion of Adonijah, he was finally made commander-in-chief (1 Kings 1:8; 1 Kings 1:26; 1 Kings 1:32; 1 Kings 2:25; 1 Kings 2:29-35; 1 Kings 4:4). His father Jehoiada is called “a chief priest “in 1 Chronicles 27:5, and in 1 Chronicles 12:27 mention is made of a “Jehoiada the leader of the Aaronites,” who came to David at Hebron, and who may have been the same person. Kabzeel.—A town on the extreme south of Judah, on the border of Edom (Joshua 15:21). Lion-like men.—Literally, lion of God, an expression used among Arabs and Persians of great warriors. Slew a lion.—Comp. 1 Samuel 17:34-37. It is not said with what weapons he slew him, but the act was evidently a great feat of valour.

Adam Clarke's Commentary on 2 Samuel 23:20

Verse 20. Two lion-like men of Moab] Some think that two real lions are meant; some that they were two savage gigantic men; others, that two fortresses are meant. The words שני אראל מואב sheney ariel Moab may signify, as the Targum has rendered it, ית תרין רברבי מואב yath terein rabrebey Moab, "The two princes of Moab."

Cambridge Bible on 2 Samuel 23:20

20. Benaiah the son of Jehoiada] Commander of the body-guard (ch. 2 Samuel 8:18, 2 Samuel 20:23), and general of the third division of the army (1 Chronicles 27:5-6). He was an active supporter of Solomon against Adonijah, and was rewarded by being made commander-in-chief in place of Joab. See 1 Kings 1:8; 1 Kings 1:26; 1 Kings 1:32 ff., 1 Kings 2:25-35; 1 Kings 2:46; 1 Kings 4:4. His father Jehoiada was “the chief priest” (1 Chronicles 27:5), that is, probably, the high priest’s deputy, and leader of the “Aaronites,” i.e. priests, who joined David at Hebron (1 Chronicles 12:27). the son of a valiant man] Better, a valiant man.Kabzeel] A town in the extreme south of Judah towards the border of Edom (Joshua 15:21), reoccupied after the Captivity and called Jekabzeel. Its exact site is unknown. two lion-like men of Moab] Ariel, translated lion-like man, means lion of God, a title applied by the Arabs and Persians to celebrated warriors. The Sept. reads “the two sons of Ariel,” and it has been conjectured that Ariel was a title of the Moabite king; but 1 Chronicles 11:22 supports the reading of the Heb. text. The exploit may have been an incident in the Moabite war recorded in ch. 2 Samuel 8:2. a lion, &c.] The lion had probably been driven by the severity of the winter into the neighbourhood of some village, to the terror of the inhabitants.

Barnes' Notes on 2 Samuel 23:20

Benaiah the son of Jehoiada - He commanded the Cherethites and Pelethites all through David’s reign 2 Samuel 8:18; 2 Samuel 20:23, and took a prominent part in supporting Solomon against Adonijah

Whedon's Commentary on 2 Samuel 23:20

20. Kabzeel — In the south of Judah. Joshua 15:21. Who had done — The who refers to the valiant man of Kabzeel, Benaiah’s ancestor. The margin is more literal, great of acts.

Sermons on 2 Samuel 23:20

	Sermon	Description
	Just Before the Battle by Warren Wiersbe	In this sermon, the preacher discusses the story of Joshua and his encounter with the Lord Jesus Christ. Joshua made four important discoveries that night. Firstly, he realized tha
	(1 Samuel) How to Kill a Giant by David Guzik	In this sermon, the preacher uses the analogy of a boxing match to illustrate the story of David and Goliath. He emphasizes that Saul, like a boxer looking at the "tail of the tape
	(Guidelines) Obey the Bible by J. Vernon McGee	In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of obedience to God's commands and teachings. He highlights the significance of living a life that reflects the Gospel and pro
	The School of Faith by Carter Conlon	This sermon emphasizes the importance of standing firm in faith and obedience, even in seemingly small or unnoticed tasks, as these are the places where God builds and establishes
	Deferred Obedience 1 - Part 1 by Joshua Daniel	This sermon by Joshua Daniel focuses on the theme of deferred obedience, highlighting how individuals often do not start out with the intention to defy God but gradually drift away
	Delivering the Lamb From the Mouth of the Enemy by Carter Conlon	This sermon emphasizes the importance of winning secret battles in our personal lives to ultimately bring glory to God. Drawing from the story of David and Goliath, the speaker hig
	Five Stones - Part 1 by Bakht Singh	In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the story of David and Goliath from the Bible. He emphasizes that this story is not just a familiar tale, but a love story that is often tol