2 Chronicles 11:10

KJV

And Zorah, and Aijalon, and Hebron, which [are] in Judah and in Benjamin fenced cities.

KJV (with Strong's)

And Zorah {H6881}, and Aijalon {H357}, and Hebron {H2275}, which are in Judah {H3063} and in Benjamin {H1144} fenced {H4694} cities {H5892}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Tzor'ah, Ayalon and Hevron; these are fortified cities in Y'hudah and Binyamin.

Berean Standard Bible

Zorah, Aijalon, and Hebron, the fortified cities in Judah and Benjamin.

American Standard Version

and Zorah, and Aijalon, and Hebron, which are in Judah and in Benjamin, fortified cities.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Second Chronicles 11:10 details King Rehoboam's strategic fortification of Zorah, Aijalon, and Hebron, three key cities located within the territories of Judah and Benjamin. These cities were designated as "fenced cities," indicating they were heavily fortified strongholds designed to protect the newly diminished southern kingdom after the division of Israel. This verse highlights Rehoboam's pragmatic efforts to secure his realm against potential threats, underscoring the importance of defense and stability in a turbulent geopolitical landscape.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within a broader account of King Rehoboam's reign following the catastrophic division of the united monarchy (2 Chronicles 10-12). Having lost the ten northern tribes to Jeroboam, Rehoboam was left with only Judah and Benjamin. The chronicler details Rehoboam's initial foolishness that led to the split, but then pivots to his subsequent, more prudent actions. Specifically, 2 Chronicles 11:5-12 describes Rehoboam's extensive building program, where he fortified fifteen strategically vital cities across his remaining kingdom. Verse 10 lists three of these crucial strongholds, emphasizing the defensive posture Rehoboam adopted to safeguard his people and territory from external aggression, particularly from the newly formed northern kingdom of Israel.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The division of Israel into two kingdoms (Israel in the north, Judah in the south) created a new, volatile geopolitical reality. Rehoboam, though initially arrogant and unwise in his dealings with the people, recognized the immediate need for military preparedness. The "fenced cities" were not merely walled towns but comprehensive defensive installations, often including citadels, watchtowers, and reinforced gates, designed to withstand siege warfare common in the ancient Near East. Zorah, Aijalon, and Hebron were chosen for their strategic locations: Zorah controlled access to the Shephelah (foothills) and routes to the Philistine plain; Aijalon commanded a vital pass through the Aijalon Valley, a key route from the coastal plain to the central highlands; and Hebron, a historically significant city in the Judean hills, was a major administrative and defensive hub in the south. These fortifications were essential for controlling trade routes, protecting agricultural lands, and providing refuge for the populace.
* **Key Themes:** The fortification efforts described in 2 Chronicles 11:10 contribute to several overarching themes in the book of Chronicles. Firstly, **Strategic Defense** is paramount, illustrating a king's responsibility to protect his people, even after his own misjudgments led to a weakened state. Rehoboam's actions, though born of necessity after the kingdom's division (see [1 Kings 12:19](/1_kings/12-19 "1 Kings 12:19 - The Kingdom Divides")), demonstrate a pragmatic approach to leadership. Secondly, the theme of **Divine Sovereignty and Human Agency** is subtly present; while Rehoboam acts, the Chronicler consistently reminds readers that God is ultimately in control of Israel's destiny, even allowing the division as a judgment (see [2 Chronicles 10:15](/2_chronicles/10-15 "2 Chronicles 10:15 - The Lord's Doing")). Finally, the emphasis on **Security and Stability** for the remnant of Judah and Benjamin underscores the Chronicler's concern for the continuity of the Davidic line and the preservation of the true worship of Yahweh in Jerusalem.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Fenced cities (Hebrew, _'arey mivtzar'_):** This phrase, `עָרֵי מִבְצָר` (`'arey mivtzar'`), literally translates to "cities of fortress" or "fortified cities." The term `מִבְצָר` (_mivtzar_) denotes a stronghold, a fortified place, or a defense. It implies more than just a simple wall; it suggests a comprehensive defensive system, including strong walls, towers, gates, and possibly a citadel, designed to resist attack and provide security. This term highlights the significant investment and strategic importance placed on these locations by Rehoboam.
* **Judah and Benjamin (Hebrew, _Yehudah u-Binyamin'_):** These are the two tribes that remained loyal to the Davidic dynasty after the northern tribes seceded. The mention of these tribes explicitly defines the geographical and political boundaries of Rehoboam's diminished kingdom. It underscores the new reality of a divided monarchy and emphasizes that these fortifications were specifically for the security of the southern kingdom, which retained Jerusalem and the Temple.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And Zorah, and Aijalon, and Hebron":** This clause lists three specific cities, each chosen for its critical geographical and strategic importance. Zorah, located in the Shephelah, controlled access to the Judean hills from the Philistine plain. Aijalon, situated in the Aijalon Valley, was a crucial pass connecting the coastal plain to the central highlands. Hebron, a historically significant city and former capital, was a major stronghold in the southern Judean hills. The enumeration of these cities emphasizes the deliberate and systematic nature of Rehoboam's defensive strategy.
* **"which [are] in Judah and in Benjamin fenced cities":** This concluding phrase clarifies the tribal territories these cities belonged to and, crucially, defines their function. They were not merely settlements but "fenced cities"—fortified strongholds. This designation highlights their military purpose as defensive outposts and centers of resistance, integral to the security infrastructure of the southern kingdom. The phrase confirms that Rehoboam's efforts were focused on securing the remaining portions of the kingdom under his rule.

#### Literary Devices
The verse primarily employs **List** and **Emphasis**. The **List** of specific cities (Zorah, Aijalon, Hebron) serves to ground the narrative in concrete geographical and historical realities, making Rehoboam's actions tangible and verifiable. This listing also underscores the systematic and comprehensive nature of his fortification program, indicating a well-thought-out defensive strategy rather than isolated efforts. The **Emphasis** on "fenced cities" highlights the defensive purpose and the substantial nature of these constructions. It draws the reader's attention to the military preparedness and the strategic importance of these locations, conveying the sense of a kingdom under threat that is taking decisive action to secure its borders. The concise nature of the verse, following a longer list of fortified cities, acts as a summary, reinforcing the overall theme of defensive construction.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The fortification of cities by Rehoboam, as described in 2 Chronicles 11:10, speaks to the broader biblical theme of security, both humanly engineered and divinely provided. While human leaders are called to exercise wisdom and foresight in protecting their people, the ultimate security of God's people rests in His sovereign protection. The Chronicler, writing to a post-exilic audience, often highlights the consequences of obedience and disobedience, and even in this pragmatic act of defense, there's an implicit reminder that true strength comes from reliance on God, not merely on walls and armies. These fortified cities represent a necessary, yet ultimately insufficient, response to threats without divine favor. They serve as a tangible example of human effort, which, when aligned with God's will, can be blessed, but which cannot replace the divine stronghold.

* [Psalm 127:1](/psalms/127-1 "Psalm 127:1 - Unless the Lord Builds")
* [Proverbs 21:31](/proverbs/21-31 "Proverbs 21:31 - The Horse is Made Ready")
* [Nehemiah 2:17-18](/nehemiah/2-17-18 "Nehemiah 2:17-18 - Rebuilding Jerusalem's Walls")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Rehoboam's actions in fortifying these cities offer a powerful lesson in preparation, stewardship, and the practical aspects of leadership, even amidst challenging circumstances. Just as Rehoboam took concrete steps to secure his physical kingdom, believers are called to be wise stewards of the spiritual and practical aspects of their lives. This includes building strong foundations in our faith, fortifying our minds against destructive ideologies, and protecting our families and communities from spiritual and moral decay. It reminds us that while we trust in God's ultimate protection, we are also responsible for exercising prudence, foresight, and diligence in our daily lives. This might involve setting healthy boundaries, investing in spiritual disciplines, preparing for future challenges, or actively engaging in the defense of truth and righteousness in our spheres of influence. The principle is to be prepared and vigilant, recognizing that while God is our ultimate refuge, He often works through our responsible actions.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "fenced cities" or strong foundations are you actively building in your spiritual life, family, or community today?**
* **How does Rehoboam's strategic defense, despite his earlier failures, encourage you to take practical steps in areas where you might feel vulnerable?**
* **In what ways can we balance our human efforts at security and preparation with a complete trust in God's sovereign protection?**

### FAQ
**Why were Zorah, Aijalon, and Hebron specifically chosen for fortification by Rehoboam?**

Answer: These three cities were chosen due to their critical strategic locations within the territories of Judah and Benjamin. Zorah controlled key routes from the Philistine plain into the Judean foothills, acting as a gateway. Aijalon commanded a vital pass through the Aijalon Valley, a significant thoroughfare connecting the coastal plain to the central highlands, making it crucial for controlling movement. Hebron, a historically important city in the southern Judean hills, served as a major administrative and defensive hub, providing a strong base in the southern part of the kingdom. Fortifying these specific locations allowed Rehoboam to establish a robust defensive perimeter, protect trade routes, and secure access points into the heartland of his kingdom against potential threats from the northern kingdom or other adversaries.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While 2 Chronicles 11:10 describes the physical fortifications of an earthly king, it foreshadows the ultimate security and stronghold found in Christ. Rehoboam's "fenced cities" were temporal and ultimately vulnerable, but in Christ, believers find an eternal and unassailable refuge. He is the true "strong tower" to which the righteous run and are safe ([Proverbs 18:10](/proverbs/18-10 "Proverbs 18:10 - The Name of the Lord is a Strong Tower")). Just as these cities provided a physical defense for Judah, Jesus provides spiritual defense against sin, death, and the powers of darkness. He is the foundation upon which the church is built, a spiritual house that no adversary can overcome ([Matthew 16:18](/matthew/16-18 "Matthew 16:18 - The Gates of Hades Shall Not Prevail")). The ultimate "fenced city" is the New Jerusalem, a city with walls of salvation and gates of praise, where God Himself dwells with His people, ensuring perfect and everlasting security ([Revelation 21:10-27](/revelation/21-10-27 "Revelation 21:10-27 - The New Jerusalem")). Thus, Rehoboam's efforts, while earthly and limited, point to the divine and perfect security offered to all who find their refuge in Christ, the unshakeable cornerstone ([Ephesians 2:19-22](/ephesians/2-19-22 "Ephesians 2:19-22 - Built on Christ")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Genesis 23:2

And Sarah died in Kirjatharba; the same [is] Hebron in the land of Canaan: and Abraham came to mourn for Sarah, and to weep for her.

2 Samuel 2:11

And the time that David was king in Hebron over the house of Judah was seven years and six months.

Joshua 20:7

¶ And they appointed Kedesh in Galilee in mount Naphtali, and Shechem in mount Ephraim, and Kirjatharba, which [is] Hebron, in the mountain of Judah.

Joshua 14:14

Hebron therefore became the inheritance of Caleb the son of Jephunneh the Kenezite unto this day, because that he wholly followed the LORD God of Israel.

Joshua 19:41

And the coast of their inheritance was Zorah, and Eshtaol, and Irshemesh,

Joshua 19:42

And Shaalabbin, and Ajalon, and Jethlah,

Joshua 15:33

[And] in the valley, Eshtaol, and Zoreah, and Ashnah,