What was a Baharumite?
The term Baharumite refers to a person from Baharum, a little-known location in ancient Israel mentioned briefly in the genealogical and heroic records of King David’s mighty men. In 1 Chronicles 11:33, one of David’s warriors is identified as Azmaveth the Baharumite. This designation links the man to his place of origin, Baharum (or Bahurim), providing a geographical identity that adds context to his background and role within David’s kingdom.
The Hebrew term behind “Baharumite” is בַּחֻרִי (Bachuri) or בַּחֻרִי (Bahurim), believed to derive from a root related to “youth” or “choice one” (בָּחוּר bachur, meaning “young man” or “chosen”). The suffix “-ite” denotes belonging, so a Baharumite was a man from Bahurim.
Baharum/Bahurim itself was a Benjamite village located east of Jerusalem along the route to the Jordan Valley, likely in proximity to the Mount of Olives (2 Samuel 3:16; 2 Samuel 16:5).
Biblical Reference
- 1 Chronicles 11:33 – “Azmaveth the Baharumite” is listed among David’s mighty warriors.
- 2 Samuel 16:5 – Bahurim is mentioned as the place where Shimei cursed David.
- 2 Samuel 3:16 – Bahurim is where Michal, Saul’s daughter, was weeping as she was taken from her second husband, Paltiel.
- 2 Samuel 17:18 – Bahurim is also a hiding place for Jonathan and Ahimaaz during Absalom’s rebellion.
The Baharumite in the Bible
Azmaveth the Baharumite: A Mighty Man of David
In 1 Chronicles 11:10-47, the Chronicler recounts the names of David’s “mighty warriors” (Hebrew: gibborim), elite soldiers renowned for their valor, loyalty, and military skill. Among this esteemed list is Azmaveth the Baharumite (verse 33). Although the Bible offers no extensive biography of Azmaveth, his inclusion signifies that he was a man of courage and dedication who stood with David through adversity and conquest.
Being from Bahurim, Azmaveth likely belonged to the tribe of Benjamin, the same tribe as King Saul. His allegiance to David, from the tribe of Judah, underscores the political and spiritual significance of David’s ability to unite tribes and form a cohesive kingdom under God’s chosen king.
Meaning for Today’s Christians
The brief reference to the Baharumite reminds readers that faithfulness and significance in God’s kingdom are not measured by prominence in the spotlight, but by steadfast loyalty and courageous service. Azmaveth‘s name in the record of David’s warriors stands as a testament to those who, though lesser-known, played a vital role in God’s purposes.
Today’s believers are encouraged by such names: God sees and honors those who serve Him faithfully, even in obscurity. The Baharumite represents those whose names may not be on billboards or pulpits but are written in the Lamb’s Book of Life because of their unwavering commitment to the true King, Jesus Christ.
Connection to Jesus and the Gospel
King David, surrounded by his mighty men, is a foreshadowing of Jesus Christ, the greater King who gathers and equips a people for Himself. Like David’s warriors, Jesus’ disciples come from various backgrounds and tribes but are united in loyalty to their King.
The Baharumite, Azmaveth, points forward to the spiritual soldier in the kingdom of Christ. Every believer, regardless of status, origin, or notoriety, is part of the army of Christ, called to spiritual warfare (Ephesians 6:10-18), loyalty to the King (2 Timothy 2:3-4), and a share in His eternal reign (Revelation 19:14).
Broader Biblical Themes
1. God Uses the Unknown for His Glory
Azmaveth’s appearance in Scripture teaches that God often works through the seemingly insignificant. Many mighty warriors in David’s list are not elaborated upon, yet their faithfulness is forever recorded in Scripture.
2. Loyalty to God’s Anointed
The Baharumite’s allegiance to David, God’s anointed, reflects a broader biblical principle of recognizing and supporting God‘s chosen leadership—ultimately fulfilled in Christ, the Anointed One.
3. Unity Among the Tribes
A man from a Benjamite town serving the Judean king shows how God brings unity among His people through shared devotion to His purposes, overcoming tribal, political, or cultural divisions.
4. The Kingdom of God Is Built by Many Hands
While David is the central figure, the strength of his kingdom lay in those who stood with him. The Church likewise is built on Christ the cornerstone, but it is formed and strengthened by the many who labor in faith (1 Corinthians 3:9).
Reflection Questions
- Are you willing to be faithful in service even if your name is not widely known?
- How does the example of the Baharumite encourage you in your personal walk with Christ?
- In what ways can you support the work of God’s kingdom in your local church or community?
- How do you respond to God‘s anointed leadership in your life?
- What might it look like for you to be a “mighty warrior” in God’s spiritual army today?
The Baharumite stands as a reminder that no role in God’s kingdom is too small to matter. With Christ as our King, even the least known among us can become a mighty one in His service.