(21) And they helped David against the band of the rovers.--So the Vulg. and Syr. The Heb. text has been called "brief and unintelligible," and its explanation has been sought in 1Samuel 30:8; 1Samuel 30:15, where "the band" (hagged-d, as here) of Amalek, which had captured and burnt Ziklag in David's absence, is spoken of. But why may we not render, "And these helped David over the band," i.e., in the joint command of his forces. (Comp. 1Chronicles 12:18, "made them captains of the band.") It is pretty clear that the names enumerated (1Chronicles 12:1-20) are those of captains and chiefs, not of ordinary warriors. (Comp, 1Chronicles 12:14; 1Chronicles 12:18.) Consequently 1Chronicles 12:21-22 form a subscription or concluding remark to the entire list.

Verse 21. - The band. The band referred to is evidently that of Amalek in 1 Samuel 30:8, 9. Were captains; better, became captains.

12:1-22 Here is an account of those who appeared and acted as David's friends, while he was persecuted. No difficulties or dangers should keep the sinner from coming to the Savior, nor drive the believer from the path of duty. Those who break through, and overcome in these attempts, will find abundant recompence. From the words of Amasai we may learn how to testify our affection and allegiance to the Lord Jesus; his we must be throughly; on his side we must be forward to appear and act. If we are under the influence of the Spirit, we shall desire to have our lot among them, and to declare ourselves on their side; if in faith and love we embrace the cause of Christ, he will receive, employ, and advance us.And they helped David against the band of the rovers,.... The Amalekites, who, while he was gone with the Philistines, had seized on Ziklag, and burnt it, and carried the women captive, with what spoil they could make; these coming to David thus opportunely, assisted him in his pursuit and defeat of them:

for they were all mighty men of valour, and were captains in the host; or army of David.