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Wood of Ephraim: a Bloody End to a Coup
Absalom’s attempt to steal the throne from his father King David would end in a bloodbath. The battle raged in a place called the Wood of Ephraim also known as the Forest of…
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Absalom: Expert Politician, Failed Warrior
Absalom, King David’s son who staged a coup against him, was a deeply disturbed and complicated character. While his grievances against his father were legitimate, his almost pathological response to his father’s injustice…
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Asahel: David’s Fastest Warrior
Asahel in the Bible is better known for his swiftness on foot. However, there is more to this young military hero. He was considered an elite warrior and a leader of men. His…
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Abishai in the Bible: Fearless Warrior
Abishai, the little-known warrior who saved David’s life, was an instrumental commander in David’s military. He is not as well known as his notorious brother, Joab, but he was just as capable and…
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The Organization of David’s Military
Three main branches made up King David’s military, the Army, the Militia, and the Royal Guard. The Thirty (David’s Mighty Men) was a smaller, but unique group within this military structure comprised of…
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David’s Royal Guard: The Cherethites and Pelethites
Cherethites and Pelethites made up King David’s royal guard and they had one very gruesome job, they were the nation’s chief executioners. These were not Israeli men, but mercenaries instrumental in helping David…
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Benaiah, Commander of David’s Guard
You have heard of “David and Goliath” and “Daniel in the Lion’s Den,” but have you heard of “Benaiah and the Egyptian” or “Benaiah and the Ariels of Moab”? If you have not,…
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The Sling Weapon in Ancient Warfare
The most famous slinger in ancient history was King David, but few truly appreciate David’s prowess in the art of sling throwing. Traditional storytelling relegates the David and Goliath sling to a child’s…
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King David: The Rise of the Warrior King
King David is the second most mentioned individual in the Bible; Jesus is the first. Much of the text dedicated to David details his military exploits. He was not only a king but…
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Who Were David’s Mighty Men (The Thirty)?
David was a great conqueror, but he was not a one-man show. There are several large sections of text in the Bible that name key military figures in David’s army. These men helped…