Benaiah

Benaiah’s story is told in 2 Samuel 8:18, 20:23; 23:20-23; 1 Kings 1-2; 1 Chronicles 11:22-25; 27:5-6

  • Who is Benaiah?
    • Son of Jehoiada, a priest from Kabzeel (2 Samuel 23:20).
    • A chief among the Mighty Men who served under King David.
    • Commander of David’s personal bodyguard, the Cherethites and Pelethites.
  • Strengths and Accomplishments
    • He struck down two of Moab’s best warriors (2 Samuel 23:20).
    • He killed a lion in a pit on a snowy day (2 Samuel 23:20).
    • Slew an impressive Egyptian warrior with the warrior’s own spear (2 Samuel 23:21).
    • Promoted to command David’s bodyguard due to his loyalty and bravery (2 Samuel 23:23).
    • Supported Solomon during the time of transition after David’s death, ensuring a peaceful transition of power (1 Kings 1:8, 10, 32-40).
    • Tasked with executing Joab, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to the new king, Solomon (1 Kings 2:25-34).
  • Weaknesses and Mistakes
    • Scripture does not record significant personal faults or mistakes regarding Benaiah.
  • Lessons from His Life
    • Loyalty to Leadership – Benaiah’s unwavering commitment to both David and Solomon teaches the importance of dedication and loyalty.
    • Courage in the Face of Danger – Facing lions and formidable warriors, Benaiah’s bravery offers lessons on confronting challenges fearlessly.
    • God’s Elevation in Due Time – Benaiah’s promotions highlight that God recognizes faithfulness and elevates in His perfect timing.
  • Key Verses
    • “Benaiah son of Jehoiada, a valiant fighter from Kabzeel, performed great exploits. He struck down two of Moab’s best men. He also went down into a pit on a snowy day and killed a lion.” – 2 Samuel 23:20 (NIV)
    • “He struck down an Egyptian who was five cubits tall. Although the Egyptian had a spear like a weaver’s rod in his hand, Benaiah went against him with a club. He snatched the spear from the Egyptian’s hand and killed him with his own spear.” – 2 Samuel 23:21 (NIV)
    • “Benaiah son of Jehoiada was over the Cherethites and Pelethites; and David’s sons were priests.” – 2 Samuel 8:18 (NIV)