2 Chronicles 11:7

KJV

And Bethzur, and Shoco, and Adullam,

KJV (with Strong's)

And Bethzur {H1049}, and Shoco {H7755}, and Adullam {H5725},

Complete Jewish Bible

Beit-Tzur, Sokho, 'Adulam,

Berean Standard Bible

Beth-zur, Soco, Adullam,

American Standard Version

And Beth-zur, and Soco, and Adullam,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Second Chronicles 11:7 is part of a detailed account of King Rehoboam's strategic fortification efforts following the division of the Israelite kingdom. This verse specifically names Bethzur, Shoco, and Adullam as three of the fifteen cities in Judah and Benjamin that Rehoboam strengthened with defensive structures, garrisons, and provisions. These fortifications were a pragmatic response to the political instability and vulnerability that arose after the northern tribes seceded, highlighting Rehoboam's focus on securing the remaining southern kingdom.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is embedded within a larger narrative in [2 Chronicles 11:5-12](/2_chronicles/11-5 "2 Chronicles 11:5-12 - Rehoboam's Fortifications") that meticulously details King Rehoboam's defensive strategy. Immediately preceding this passage, the chronicler recounts the schism of the united monarchy, where ten northern tribes rebelled against Rehoboam's harsh policies and formed their own kingdom under Jeroboam ([2 Chronicles 10:1-19](/2_chronicles/10-1 "2 Chronicles 10 - The Kingdom Divides")). Left with only the tribes of Judah and Benjamin, Rehoboam wisely recognized the precariousness of his position. The verses leading up to 2 Chronicles 11:7 establish the general principle of his fortification program, while verses 6-10 provide a comprehensive list of the specific cities he chose to fortify, emphasizing the extent and systematic nature of his efforts. This enumeration serves to underscore the king's diligence in securing his diminished territory.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The period immediately following the death of Solomon was marked by profound political upheaval and instability. The division of the kingdom, as detailed in [1 Kings 12](/1_kings/12 "1 Kings 12 - The Kingdom Divides") and [2 Chronicles 10](/2_chronicles/10 "2 Chronicles 10 - Rehoboam's Folly"), left Judah vulnerable to internal strife and external threats, particularly from the newly formed northern kingdom of Israel and traditional adversaries like the Philistines. Fortifying strategic cities was a common and essential practice for ancient Near Eastern monarchs to protect borders, control trade routes, and secure population centers. These fortresses served as administrative hubs, military outposts, and places of refuge for the populace during times of conflict. The cities listed in 2 Chronicles 11:7 were chosen for their critical geographical locations, controlling access points into the Judean heartland from the west (Shephelah) and south (Judean hills), reflecting a well-thought-out defensive strategy.
* **Key Themes:** The fortification efforts described in [2 Chronicles 11](/2_chronicles/11 "2 Chronicles 11 - Rehoboam's Fortifications") contribute to several key themes within the book of Chronicles. First, it highlights the **consequences of disobedience and division**, as the need for such extensive defense arose directly from the kingdom's split, a result of Rehoboam's folly and a divine judgment against the house of David (compare [1 Kings 12:15](/1_kings/12-15 "1 Kings 12:15 - The Lord's Doing")). Second, it emphasizes **human responsibility and strategic planning**, showing Rehoboam taking pragmatic steps to ensure the survival and security of his remaining kingdom, even amidst divine judgment. This contrasts with later periods where reliance on foreign alliances superseded trust in God. Third, the detailed geographical listing underscores the **importance of the land** and its defense, a recurring motif in Old Testament narratives concerning Israel's inheritance and security. Finally, it subtly introduces the theme of **Judah's resilience** and its continued existence as the lineage through which God's promises to David would ultimately be fulfilled, even if through a reduced and vulnerable state.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Bethzur (Hebrew, _Bêt-Ṣûr'_):** Meaning "House of Rock" or "House of the Fortress," this name aptly describes its purpose and function. Located in the Judean hills, approximately four miles north of Hebron, Bethzur was a historically significant fortress that commanded a crucial route leading to Jerusalem and the southern part of Judah. Its elevated position naturally lent itself to defensive capabilities, making it an ideal choice for fortification.
* **Shoco (Hebrew, _Sōkōh'_):** Also spelled Socoh, this city was situated in the Shephelah, the lowlands between the Judean hills and the Philistine plain. The name might be related to "thorns" or "hedges," suggesting a protective barrier. More importantly, its strategic location made it a vital control point for access from the west, particularly against Philistine incursions. It was near the Valley of Elah, famously associated with [David's victory over Goliath](/1_samuel/17-2 "1 Samuel 17:2 - David and Goliath in the Valley of Elah"), underscoring its historical military significance.
* **Adullam (Hebrew, _ʿAdullām'_):** Located in the Shephelah, Adullam is renowned for its cave, which served as a refuge for [David when he fled from King Saul](/1_samuel/22-1 "1 Samuel 22:1 - David's Refuge in the Cave of Adullam"). The name's etymology is debated, possibly meaning "refuge" or "justice of the people." Its natural caves and strategic position provided excellent defensive capabilities and control over a significant area, making it a logical choice for Rehoboam's network of strongholds.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And Bethzur":** This phrase introduces the first of three specific cities fortified by Rehoboam. Bethzur's inclusion highlights its critical role as a stronghold in the southern Judean highlands, guarding the approach to Jerusalem from the south and serving as a key defensive point in a region prone to conflict.
* **"and Shoco":** The addition of Shoco emphasizes Rehoboam's comprehensive approach to defense, extending his fortifications westward into the Shephelah. Shoco's position was crucial for repelling threats from the Philistine plain, demonstrating a strategic awareness of the kingdom's most vulnerable borders.
* **"and Adullam":** The final city listed in this verse, Adullam, further reinforces the strategic depth of Rehoboam's defensive network. Its historical association with David as a place of refuge and its natural defensive features made it an invaluable asset for controlling the western approaches to Judah, providing both a strong point and a potential fallback position.

#### Literary Devices
The primary literary device employed in 2 Chronicles 11:7 is **Enumeration** or **Listing**. The verse is part of a longer, meticulous list of fifteen fortified cities (verses 6-10), which serves to emphasize the comprehensive and systematic nature of Rehoboam's defensive strategy. This detailed enumeration lends an air of historical accuracy and thoroughness to the Chronicler's account, demonstrating the king's diligence and the tangible results of his efforts. Furthermore, there is an implied **Synecdoche**, where the naming of these specific, geographically significant cities stands in for the broader, extensive network of fortifications that Rehoboam established throughout Judah and Benjamin. Each city, by its inclusion, represents a vital component of the larger defensive whole, highlighting the king's foresight and the kingdom's newfound, albeit physically constructed, security. The **Geographical Specificity** of the names also grounds the narrative in a concrete historical reality, allowing the reader to visualize the strategic landscape of Rehoboam's kingdom.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Rehoboam's diligent efforts to fortify his physical kingdom, as exemplified by the cities in 2 Chronicles 11:7, offer a compelling theological parallel to the concept of spiritual preparedness. While Rehoboam relied on stone walls and garrisons, the ultimate security of God's people rests not in human strength or strategic planning alone, but in divine providence and faithfulness. However, this does not negate human responsibility; rather, it calls for wise stewardship and proactive engagement with the challenges of life. The need for these fortifications arose from the tragic division of the kingdom, a consequence of sin and disobedience, reminding us that brokenness often necessitates a renewed focus on defense and rebuilding. Spiritually, believers are called to build up their defenses against the schemes of the enemy, not with physical walls, but with spiritual disciplines and reliance on God's truth.

* [Psalm 18:2](/psalms/18-2 "Psalm 18:2 - The Lord is my rock, my fortress, and my deliverer")
* [Ephesians 6:11](/ephesians/6-11 "Ephesians 6:11 - Put on the full armor of God")
* [Proverbs 21:31](/proverbs/21-31 "Proverbs 21:31 - The horse is made ready for the day of battle, but victory rests with the Lord")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Rehoboam's strategic fortification of cities like Bethzur, Shoco, and Adullam serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of proactive preparation and wise stewardship in the face of adversity. Just as he assessed the vulnerabilities of his kingdom and invested resources to strengthen its defenses, we too are called to evaluate the "vulnerabilities" in our lives—whether spiritual, emotional, relational, or physical—and take intentional steps to build resilience. This might involve fortifying our faith through consistent engagement with God's Word and prayer, strengthening our relationships through intentional communication and forgiveness, or shoring up our personal boundaries against destructive influences. The passage implicitly challenges us to consider where we are investing our energy and resources. Are we merely reacting to crises, or are we proactively building strong foundations that can withstand the inevitable storms of life? True security, both then and now, comes not from complacency, but from a diligent, God-honoring approach to preparation and protection.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life do you feel most vulnerable, and what "fortifications" can you proactively build to strengthen them?**
* **How does Rehoboam's physical defense strategy parallel the spiritual call to "put on the full armor of God" in your daily walk?**
* **What role does wise stewardship and proactive planning play in your spiritual growth and resilience?**

### FAQ
**Why did Rehoboam need to fortify these cities so extensively?**

Answer: Rehoboam's extensive fortification program, which included cities like Bethzur, Shoco, and Adullam, was a direct response to the political and military instability that followed the division of the united kingdom of Israel. After the ten northern tribes seceded to Jeroboam ([1 Kings 12:19](/1_kings/12-19 "1 Kings 12:19 - The Division of the Kingdom")), Rehoboam was left with only the tribes of Judah and Benjamin. This significantly reduced his territory and resources, making the remaining southern kingdom vulnerable to external threats, particularly from the newly formed northern kingdom and traditional enemies like the Philistines. The fortifications were a pragmatic and necessary measure to secure his borders, protect key routes, and establish strongholds for his remaining populace, ensuring the survival of the Davidic dynasty in Judah.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While 2 Chronicles 11:7 describes physical fortifications built by a king to secure his earthly kingdom, it points to a profound spiritual reality fulfilled in Christ. Rehoboam's strongholds were made of stone and mortar, designed to protect against human enemies and physical invasion. Yet, the ultimate "fortress" and "refuge" for God's people is not a city built by human hands, but the Lord Himself. The psalmist declares, "[The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge](/psalms/18-2 "Psalm 18:2 - The Lord is my rock, my fortress, and my deliverer")". Jesus Christ is the ultimate fulfillment of this imagery. He is our impregnable stronghold against sin, death, and the powers of darkness. His kingdom is not of this world, nor is it defended by physical armies ([John 18:36](/john/18-36 "John 18:36 - Jesus' Kingdom is Not of This World")). Instead, it is a spiritual kingdom, and His followers are called to put on the "[full armor of God](/ephesians/6-11 "Ephesians 6:11 - The Full Armor of God")" to stand firm in the spiritual battle. In Christ, we find true and eternal security, a refuge more steadfast than any stone wall, for He has overcome the world ([John 16:33](/john/16-33 "John 16:33 - Jesus Overcomes the World")) and offers an unshakable kingdom ([Hebrews 12:28](/hebrews/12-28 "Hebrews 12:28 - An Unshakable Kingdom")).

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

Joshua 15:35

Jarmuth, and Adullam, Socoh, and Azekah,

Micah 1:15

Yet will I bring an heir unto thee, O inhabitant of Mareshah: he shall come unto Adullam the glory of Israel.

1 Samuel 22:1

¶ David therefore departed thence, and escaped to the cave Adullam: and when his brethren and all his father's house heard [it], they went down thither to him.

Joshua 12:15

The king of Libnah, one; the king of Adullam, one;

2 Samuel 23:13

And three of the thirty chief went down, and came to David in the harvest time unto the cave of Adullam: and the troop of the Philistines pitched in the valley of Rephaim.

Joshua 15:58

Halhul, Bethzur, and Gedor,