דברי הימים א, פרק י״ט, פסוק ט״ז

Anticipating retaliation after their recent defeat, the Arameans realize that David will inevitably hold them accountable for assisting his enemies. To prevent this, they launch a preemptive military campaign aimed at striking or deterring the Israelites. To bolster their forces, they summon reinforcements from another, potentially larger Aramean kingdom located east of the Euphrates River. This territory also appears to be under the dominion of King Hadadezer [ביאור שטיינזלץ].

Leading this massive Aramean army is a commander known both as Shophach and Shobach. While some suggest that the general simply used two different names [רלב״ג], other traditions view these titles as reflections of his unique physical traits and character. One name highlights his imposing physical presence, describing a man who stood exceptionally tall and upright, towering over others like a dovecote.

The other name carries darker implications, pointing to his ruthless nature as a cruel warrior who spilled blood as effortlessly as pouring water [רש״י, מנחת שי]. Furthermore, his terrifying appearance was said to strike such intense fear that anyone who encountered him would melt away in panic, as if spilled from a jug. Ultimately, this title also serves as a dark foreshadowing of his final defeat, hinting that his own blood would eventually be spilled upon the earth [מנחת שי].