1 Chronicles 14:11

1 Chronicles 14:11 Meaning and Explanation

So they came up to Baalperazim; and David smote them there. Then David said, God hath broken in upon mine enemies by mine hand like the breaking forth of waters: therefore they called the name of that place Baalperazim.

King James Version (KJV)

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David defeats the Philistines at the place he names Baal-perazim, declaring that God burst through his enemies like a flood.

What Does 1 Chronicles 14:11 Mean?

Acting on God's word, David attacks and wins. He marks the victory with a vivid image: God has 'broken in' upon the enemy like a sudden flood bursting its banks. The place is named Baal-perazim, meaning 'master of breakings-through,' to memorialize what God accomplished there.

Note carefully where David places the credit: 'God hath broken in upon mine enemies.' The victory was won 'by mine hand,' yet David names God as the true conqueror. He sees himself as the instrument and God as the power. This humble joining of human effort and divine action is the secret of David's greatness, and it points to the Lord who still breaks through every barrier for His people.

1 Chronicles 14:11 in the Original Language

perez (פֶּרֶץ), 'breaking forth' -- a bursting through or breach, like water suddenly overflowing a dam.

Frequently Asked Questions About 1 Chronicles 14:11

What does 1 Chronicles 14:11 mean?

David defeats the Philistines at the place he names Baal-perazim, declaring that God burst through his enemies like a flood.

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