Topical Encyclopedia
In the context of ancient Israel, an armourbearer was a significant military role, often serving as a personal assistant to a warrior or leader, responsible for carrying and maintaining the weapons and armor of their superior. This position required loyalty, bravery, and a close working relationship with the one they served. The role of an armourbearer is mentioned several times in the Old Testament, providing insight into the military practices and hierarchical structures of ancient Israel.
Biblical References:1.
Jonathan and His Armourbearer: One of the most notable accounts of an armourbearer is found in the account of Jonathan, the son of King Saul. In
1 Samuel 14, Jonathan and his armourbearer undertake a daring attack against a Philistine outpost. The armourbearer plays a crucial role in this venture, demonstrating his loyalty and courage. Jonathan says to his armourbearer, "Come, let us cross over to the outpost of these uncircumcised men. Perhaps the LORD will work on our behalf, for nothing can hinder the LORD from saving, whether by many or by few" (
1 Samuel 14:6). The armourbearer responds with unwavering support, "Do all that is in your heart. Go ahead! I am with you heart and soul" (
1 Samuel 14:7). This passage highlights the trust and unity between Jonathan and his armourbearer, as well as the latter's readiness to follow his leader into battle.
2.
Saul and His Armourbearer: Another significant mention of an armourbearer is in the account of King Saul's death. In
1 Samuel 31, during the battle against the Philistines on Mount Gilboa, Saul is critically wounded. Fearing capture, Saul requests his armourbearer to kill him to avoid abuse by the enemy. However, the armourbearer is too afraid to comply, leading Saul to take his own life. "When his armourbearer saw that Saul was dead, he too fell on his sword and died with him" (
1 Samuel 31:5). This tragic event underscores the deep bond and shared fate between a leader and his armourbearer.
3.
Abimelech and His Armourbearer: In
Judges 9, the account of Abimelech, a son of Gideon, also involves an armourbearer. After being mortally wounded by a millstone dropped by a woman from a tower, Abimelech commands his young armourbearer to kill him to avoid the disgrace of being slain by a woman. "So the young man thrust him through, and he died" (
Judges 9:54). This incident illustrates the armourbearer's role in fulfilling the final wishes of their master, even in dire circumstances.
Role and Responsibilities:The armourbearer was more than just a carrier of weapons; he was a trusted companion in battle, often sharing in the dangers and responsibilities of warfare. The position required not only physical strength to carry heavy equipment but also mental fortitude and loyalty. The armourbearer needed to be ready to act swiftly in battle, protect their leader, and sometimes make life-and-death decisions.
Symbolism and Lessons:The role of the armourbearer can be seen as a symbol of faithful service and support. In a broader spiritual context, it reflects the virtues of loyalty, courage, and readiness to serve others, qualities that are esteemed in Christian teachings. The relationship between a leader and an armourbearer also serves as a model for mentorship and discipleship within the Christian community, emphasizing the importance of trust and mutual support in fulfilling God's purposes.
Easton's Bible Dictionary
An officer selected by kings and generals because of his bravery, not only to bear their armour, but also to stand by them in the time of danger. They were the adjutants of our modern armies (
Judges 9:54;
1 Samuel 14:7;
16:21;
31:6).
Library
The End of Self-Will
... 3. And the battle went sore against Saul, and the archers hit him; and he was sore
wounded of the archers.4. Then said Saul unto hisarmourbearer, Draw thy...
The Shameful Sufferer
... Then he called hastily unto the young man hisarmourbearer, and said unto him, Draw
thy sword and slay me, that men say not of me, A woman slew him....
The Crowning of Abimelech
... Then he called hastily unto the young man hisarmourbearer, and said unto him, Draw
thy sword, and kill me, that men say not of me, A woman slew him....
Thesaurus
Armourbearer (14 Occurrences)... They were the adjutants of our modern armies (Judges 9:54; 1 Samuel 14:7; 16:21;
31:6). Multi-Version Concordance
Armourbearer (14 Occurrences).
...Therewith (53 Occurrences)
... 1 Samuel 31:4 Then said Saul unto hisarmourbearer, Draw thy sword, and thrust me
through therewith; lest these uncircumcised come and thrust me through, and...
Slew (206 Occurrences)
... Judges 9:54 Then he called hastily unto the young man hisarmourbearer, and said
unto him, Draw thy sword, and slay me, that men say not of me, A women slew him...
Armour-bearer (14 Occurrences)
Armour-bearer.Armourbearer, Armour-bearer. Armoury . Easton's Bible Dictionary...
Armourbearer, Armour-bearer. Armoury . Reference Bible.
Armour (32 Occurrences)
Nahari (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Nahari (1 Occurrence). 2 Samuel 23:37 Zelek the Ammonite,
Nahari the Beerothite,armourbearer to Joab the son of Zeruiah, (KJV)....
Thebez (3 Occurrences)
... brake," etc. Hisarmourbearer thereupon "thrust him through, and he died" (Judges
9:50-55). Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. THEBEZ. the...
Sore (156 Occurrences)
... 1 Samuel 31:4 Then said Saul unto hisarmourbearer, Draw thy sword, and thrust me
through therewith; lest these uncircumcised come and thrust me through, and...
Plow (11 Occurrences)
... 1 Samuel 14:14 And that first slaughter, which Jonathan and hisarmourbearer made,
was about twenty men, within as it were an half acre of land, which a yoke...
Yoke (79 Occurrences)
... 1 Samuel 14:14 And that first slaughter, which Jonathan and hisarmourbearer made,
was about twenty men, within as it were an half acre of land, which a yoke...
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