1 Chronicles 20:5 – “In another battle with the Philistines, Elhanan son of Jair killed Lahmi the brother of Goliath the Gittite, who had a spear with a shaft like a weaver’s rod.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
This verse recounts another battle between the Israelites and the Philistines, focusing on the warrior Elhanan, who kills Lahmi, the brother of Goliath. Goliath, famously defeated by David in 1 Samuel 17, was a giant warrior from the city of Gath. Lahmi, his brother, is described similarly as a formidable enemy, possessing a spear “with a shaft like a weaver’s rod,” which emphasizes his great strength and size.
This victory is significant, not just because of the defeat of another giant, but because it continues to show God’s hand in granting victory to Israel over their enemies. Elhanan’s triumph over Lahmi recalls David’s earlier victory over Goliath, reinforcing the ongoing protection and deliverance of Israel by God, even against seemingly unbeatable foes.
Historical Context
The Philistines were one of Israel’s most persistent enemies throughout much of the Old Testament. Goliath’s defeat at the hands of David was a pivotal moment in Israel’s history, symbolizing God’s power to deliver His people from their enemies. Lahmi, as Goliath’s brother, represents the continued threat of the Philistines, but also the continued victory of Israel through God’s intervention.
Elhanan’s victory over Lahmi took place in the broader context of Israel’s military campaigns during the reign of King David. These battles were not just about territorial control but also about ensuring the security and stability of Israel as a nation under God’s rule. The defeat of powerful enemies like the Philistines and their giant warriors showed that God was fulfilling His promises to give Israel peace and dominance over the surrounding nations.
Theological Implications
Theologically, this verse highlights God’s faithfulness in delivering His people from their enemies. Just as God gave David victory over Goliath, He gives Elhanan victory over Lahmi. This continuity of divine help underscores that God’s power is not limited to specific individuals (like David) but is available to all of His people who trust in Him. God’s faithfulness to His people extends across generations, and His deliverance is sure even when the challenges seem overwhelming.
This victory also reminds us of the theme of God’s sovereignty in battle. Throughout the Old Testament, we see that it is not Israel’s military strength or the size of their army that wins battles, but rather God’s intervention. The giants, representing powerful enemies, cannot stand against the God of Israel.
Literary Analysis
This verse draws a direct connection between the story of David and Goliath and the ongoing battles that Israel faces with the Philistines. The mention of Lahmi, the brother of Goliath, and the description of his spear as being like “a weaver’s rod” serve to remind the reader of Goliath’s defeat and the divine power that enabled it. The fact that another giant is defeated by a lesser-known warrior like Elhanan reinforces the idea that victory comes not from human strength, but from God’s provision.
The literary device of repetition—the defeat of giants by God’s chosen people—serves to build up the narrative of God’s ongoing protection and provision for Israel. The mention of the spear’s size highlights the improbability of the victory from a human perspective, making it clear that God is the one who grants success.
Biblical Cross-References
- 1 Samuel 17:45-50: This is the story of David’s victory over Goliath, which serves as a backdrop for Elhanan’s victory over Lahmi. Both stories show that God can defeat even the mightiest of enemies.
- 2 Samuel 21:19: This is a parallel account of the same event, where Elhanan kills the brother of Goliath. The repetition in both Chronicles and Samuel shows the importance of these victories in Israel’s history.
- Psalm 44:6-7: “I put no trust in my bow, my sword does not bring me victory; but you give us victory over our enemies.” This verse reflects the theme that it is God who delivers His people, not human strength or weapons.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For today’s Christian, this verse serves as a powerful reminder that no enemy is too great for God. The giants we face—whether they are personal struggles, spiritual battles, or overwhelming challenges—are not too big for God to handle. Just as God gave Elhanan victory over Lahmi, He promises to help His people overcome whatever they are facing.
It also reminds us that God uses ordinary people, like Elhanan, to accomplish great things. You don’t have to be a David to have a significant impact in God’s kingdom. When we trust in God and rely on His strength, He can use us to defeat the “giants” in our lives, just as He used Elhanan.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse showcases God’s love for His people in the form of protection and deliverance. God’s love isn’t just expressed in soft, comforting ways—it’s also shown in His defense of His people and His commitment to fight for them. By empowering Elhanan to defeat Lahmi, God was protecting Israel from a serious threat, and in doing so, He was expressing His love and care for His chosen nation.
God’s love is also patient and ongoing. He doesn’t just deliver His people once and then leave them to fend for themselves. Instead, we see throughout Israel’s history—and in this verse specifically—that God continues to fight for and protect His people.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Elhanan’s victory over Lahmi points to a greater victory that would come through Jesus Christ. Just as Elhanan defeated a powerful giant, Jesus defeated the ultimate “giant” of sin and death. On the cross, Jesus took on the powers of darkness and triumphed over them, giving His people victory (Colossians 2:15).
Additionally, just as Elhanan followed in David’s footsteps in defeating a giant, Christians today follow in the footsteps of Jesus by relying on His strength to overcome the battles they face. Jesus is the ultimate giant-slayer, and through Him, we are more than conquerors (Romans 8:37).
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- What “giants” are you facing in your life right now? How can you trust God to give you victory over them?
- How does Elhanan’s victory remind us of David’s earlier victory over Goliath? What does this teach us about God’s consistent faithfulness?
- How does this passage encourage you to see that God can use ordinary people, like Elhanan, to accomplish great things?
- In what ways does Elhanan’s battle with Lahmi point us to the ultimate victory that Jesus won over sin and death?
- How can we, like Elhanan, rely on God’s strength in the face of overwhelming challenges?