Who was the Son of Jashen in the Bible?

The Son of Jashen was one of King David's elite warriors, known as the 'Thirty' mighty men. He is mentioned only by this title, as his personal name is not recorded in Scripture (2 Samuel 23:32).

Why is the Son of Jashen significant?

His significance lies in his inclusion in the honor roll of David's most valiant fighters, highlighting that God uses both named and unnamed individuals for His purposes. His mention underscores the collective bravery and loyalty of the men who helped establish David's kingdom.

What did the Son of Jashen do?

The Bible does not record specific deeds for him, but as one of the 'Thirty,' he was part of an elite military unit known for extraordinary courage and loyalty to David (2 Samuel 23:8-39). His inclusion indicates he performed acts of great valor.

son of Jashen

Old TestamentUnited MonarchyMaleSon

The son of Jashen, unnamed in the Bible, was one of David's mighty men.

son of Jashen

Biography

The son of Jashen is listed among David's elite fighting force known as "the Thirty" (or "the Mighty Men"), recorded in 2 Samuel 23:32 and the parallel account in 1 Chronicles 11:34. His father Jashen is mentioned only in connection with this son, and the text does not preserve the warrior's personal name, identifying him solely by his paternal lineage. These mighty men formed the backbone of David's military prowess, men who had distinguished themselves through extraordinary acts of valor during David's years of conflict, both as a fugitive and as king. Their deeds are commemorated as part of the broader celebration of David's reign. Though no individual exploit is attributed to this particular warrior, his inclusion in the honored roster reflects recognized military distinction.

Significance

The unnamed son of Jashen, as one of David's mighty men, participates in a tradition of loyal service that undergirds the Davidic kingdom and thus the unfolding of Israel's redemptive history. The collective witness of these warriors demonstrates that God's purposes are advanced not only through singular prophetic or kingly figures but through communities of faithful, courageous individuals committed to serving his anointed. The listing of the mighty men in Scripture preserves their honor for posterity, reflecting the biblical principle that acts of sacrificial service are not forgotten before God (Hebrews 6:10). Their loyalty to David foreshadows the devotion called for from those who serve the greater Son of David.

Verse Appearances (1)

2Sam

2Sam 23:32

References

Orr, J. (ed.) (1915) The International Standard Bible Encyclopedia. Chicago: Howard-Severance Company. [Public Domain]
Tyndale House, Cambridge (n.d.) Translators Individualised Proper Names with all References (TIPNR). STEPBible. Available at: https://www.stepbible.org. [CC BY 4.0]
Wikidata contributors (n.d.) Wikidata. Available at: https://www.wikidata.org. [CC0]
Church of England (1769) The Holy Bible, Authorized (King James) Version. [Public Domain]

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