2 Chronicles 17:13

KJV

And he had much business in the cities of Judah: and the men of war, mighty men of valour, [were] in Jerusalem.

KJV (with Strong's)

And he had much {H7227} business {H4399} in the cities {H5892} of Judah {H3063}: and the men {H582} of war {H4421}, mighty men {H1368} of valour {H2428}, were in Jerusalem {H3389}.

Complete Jewish Bible

He had many projects in the cities of Y'hudah; and in Yerushalayim he had warriors, strong brave men.

Berean Standard Bible

and kept vast supplies in the cities of Judah. He also had warriors in Jerusalem who were mighty men of valor.

American Standard Version

And he had many works in the cities of Judah; and men of war, mighty men of valor, in Jerusalem.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Second Chronicles 17:13 offers a concise yet profound glimpse into the comprehensive and effective governance of King Jehoshaphat of Judah. It highlights his diligent administrative oversight, indicated by his "much business" in the various cities, alongside his strategic military preparedness, evidenced by the formidable presence of "men of war, mighty men of valour" stationed in Jerusalem. This verse underscores the stability, strength, and organized nature of his kingdom, which was a direct result of his devotion to the Lord and his practical wisdom as a ruler.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within a broader passage (2 Chronicles 17:1-19) that meticulously details the early, prosperous, and God-blessed reign of King Jehoshaphat. Following the example of his father Asa, Jehoshaphat "walked in the first ways of his father David" and "sought to the Lord" ([2 Chronicles 17:3-4](/2_chronicles/17-3 "Jehoshaphat's Early Reign")). His commitment to eradicating pagan worship and promoting the Law of the Lord through a kingdom-wide teaching initiative ([2 Chronicles 17:7-9](/2_chronicles/17-7 "The Teaching Expedition")) led to divine favor, resulting in "riches and honour in abundance" ([2 Chronicles 17:5](/2_chronicles/17-5 "God's Blessing on Jehoshaphat")). Verse 13, therefore, serves as a practical illustration of the administrative and military strength that accompanied this spiritual revival and divine blessing, demonstrating how Jehoshaphat's devotion translated into tangible national security and stability, leading to the "fear of the Lord" falling upon surrounding nations ([2 Chronicles 17:10](/2_chronicles/17-10 "Nations Fear Judah")).

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Jehoshaphat reigned over the Southern Kingdom of Judah during a period (c. 870-848 BC) when the divided monarchy was well-established, with the Northern Kingdom of Israel often in conflict or uneasy alliance. The geopolitical landscape was volatile, with constant threats from neighboring peoples like the Philistines, Arabs, and later, the Ammonites and Moabites. In such an environment, a king's ability to maintain internal order and external defense was paramount. "Business in the cities" would have involved judicial administration, tax collection, public works, and ensuring loyalty to the crown, vital for a kingdom's cohesion. The strategic placement of "men of war" in Jerusalem, the capital and spiritual heart, underscored its importance as both a defensive stronghold and a command center, reflecting a common practice among ancient Near Eastern monarchs to centralize military power for rapid deployment and deterrence.

* **Key Themes:** Several significant themes emerge from this verse within the broader narrative of Jehoshaphat's reign. Firstly, **Diligent Governance and Administration** is highlighted by his "much business in the cities of Judah," signifying a king who actively engaged in the practical oversight of his entire kingdom, not merely the capital. This reflects a commitment to the welfare and order of his people, extending the reach of his righteous rule. Secondly, **Military Preparedness and Strength** is evident in the presence of "mighty men of valour" in Jerusalem. This elite force not only provided formidable defense for the capital but also served as a powerful deterrent to potential adversaries, contributing to the "fear of the Lord" that fell upon surrounding kingdoms ([2 Chronicles 17:10](/2_chronicles/17-10 "The Fear of the Lord on Surrounding Nations")). Finally, the verse subtly emphasizes **Centralized Authority and Strategic Planning**. Stationing the most capable warriors in Jerusalem reinforced the city's role as the administrative and military nexus of Judah, ensuring swift response to threats and solidifying the king's control over the kingdom's resources and manpower, a practice that ensured stability and security for the nation.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Business (Hebrew, _melakhah'_):** The Hebrew word מְלָאכָה (_melakhah_) denotes "work," "occupation," "undertaking," or "affairs." When combined with "much" (רַבָּה, _rabbah_), as "מְלָאכָה רַבָּה" (_melakhah rabbah_), it signifies extensive and significant activity or engagement. In this context, it implies Jehoshaphat's diligent and comprehensive involvement in the administrative, judicial, and perhaps even economic affairs of the various cities throughout Judah, demonstrating a hands-on and proactive approach to governance beyond mere ceremonial duties.
* **Men of war (Hebrew, _'anshei milchamah'_):** This phrase, אֲנְשֵׁי מִלְחָמָה (_'anshei milchamah_), literally translates to "men of battle" or "men of conflict." It refers specifically to those trained and equipped for military combat. The use of this term emphasizes their professional role as soldiers, distinct from the general populace, and highlights their readiness for engagement.
* **Mighty men of valour (Hebrew, _gibborim chayil'_):** This powerful descriptive phrase, גִּבֹּורֵי חַיִל (_gibborim chayil_), is a common biblical idiom. _Gibborim_ (גִּבֹּורִים) means "mighty ones" or "heroes," denoting strength, power, and courage. _Chayil_ (חַיִל) can mean "strength," "wealth," "army," or "valor." Together, "mighty men of valour" describes elite, highly capable, and courageous warriors, often implying a distinguished status within the military. Their presence signifies not just quantity but quality and formidable prowess.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And he had much business in the cities of Judah":** This clause reveals Jehoshaphat's active and widespread administrative engagement. It indicates that his leadership was not confined to the capital, Jerusalem, but extended throughout the provincial cities of Judah. This "much business" would have encompassed judicial oversight, ensuring justice and order; administrative duties, such as tax collection and resource management; and possibly even the implementation of his religious reforms, ensuring that the Levites and priests he sent out were effective in teaching the Law. It speaks to a king deeply invested in the well-being and proper functioning of his entire kingdom.
* **"and the men of war, mighty men of valour, [were] in Jerusalem":** This second clause highlights Jehoshaphat's strategic military organization. The presence of "men of war," specifically described as "mighty men of valour," signifies a strong, well-trained, and elite military force. Their stationing in Jerusalem underscores the capital's role as the central hub of military power, serving as a primary defense for the kingdom's heart and a ready reserve for deployment. This concentration of elite forces provided security, projected strength, and acted as a deterrent to potential enemies, contributing to the peace and stability of Jehoshaphat's reign.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several literary devices to convey its message effectively. **Merism** is subtly present by describing both Jehoshaphat's administrative reach ("much business in the cities of Judah") and his military strength ("men of war...in Jerusalem"), thereby encompassing the holistic nature of his governance – both civil and martial, internal and central. This suggests a comprehensive and well-rounded leadership. The phrase "much business" can be seen as a form of **Hyperbole** or **Emphasis**, underscoring the extensive nature of his administrative efforts, far beyond a minimal engagement. The specific description of the soldiers as "mighty men of valour" is a form of **Epithet**, serving to elevate their status and highlight their exceptional quality, thereby emphasizing the formidable strength of Jehoshaphat's military. The structure of the verse also exhibits a form of **Parallelism**, juxtaposing the king's administrative diligence with his military preparedness, showing these two pillars as foundational to his successful reign.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
2 Chronicles 17:13 powerfully illustrates the biblical principle that divine blessing often accompanies diligent human effort and righteous governance. Jehoshaphat's commitment to the Lord (as seen in [2 Chronicles 17:3-6](/2_chronicles/17-3 "Jehoshaphat's Devotion to the Lord")) was not merely spiritual; it manifested in practical, effective leadership. His "much business" and organized military were not just human achievements but were empowered by God's favor, leading to a kingdom that was both spiritually upright and politically secure. This verse teaches that true leadership, especially in a God-ordained context, requires both spiritual fidelity and pragmatic wisdom, ensuring that the kingdom's affairs are managed with excellence and integrity for the well-being of its people. It underscores the idea that God blesses order, diligence, and preparedness.

* [Proverbs 21:31](/proverbs/21-31 "Preparation and Victory")
* [Romans 13:1-7](/romans/13-1 "Submission to Governing Authorities")
* [1 Timothy 3:4-5](/1_timothy/3-4 "Managing One's Household")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Jehoshaphat's example in 2 Chronicles 17:13 offers profound lessons for leadership and personal responsibility in any sphere. His diligent "business" in the cities reminds us that effective stewardship requires active engagement beyond the immediate or obvious. Whether in our families, workplaces, or communities, true impact comes from extending our influence and care to all areas of our responsibility, not just the central hub. Similarly, the presence of "mighty men of valour" speaks to the importance of preparedness, strength, and strategic organization. Spiritually, this calls us to be "mighty men and women of valor" in our faith, equipped with the full armor of God ([Ephesians 6:11](/ephesians/6-11 "The Whole Armor of God")), ready to defend truth and stand firm against spiritual adversaries. Practically, it encourages us to be disciplined, to plan, and to cultivate excellence in our chosen fields, recognizing that our diligence can be a channel for God's blessing and a testimony to His order.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what "cities" or spheres of your life are you called to have "much business," and how can you be more diligently engaged in those areas?**
* **How does Jehoshaphat's balance of spiritual devotion and practical administration challenge your own approach to leadership or personal responsibilities?**
* **What does it mean for you to be a "mighty man/woman of valour" in your spiritual walk, and how can you better prepare yourself for spiritual challenges?**
* **How can diligence and strategic planning in your daily life contribute to a sense of peace and security, reflecting God's order?**

### FAQ

**How did Jehoshaphat's administrative efforts relate to his spiritual reforms?**

Answer: Jehoshaphat's administrative efforts were deeply intertwined with his spiritual reforms, demonstrating a holistic approach to kingship. His "much business in the cities of Judah" (2 Chronicles 17:13) was not merely secular governance but included the practical implementation and reinforcement of his spiritual initiatives. For instance, he sent out Levites, priests, and princes to teach the Law of the Lord throughout all the cities of Judah ([2 Chronicles 17:7-9](/2_chronicles/17-7 "Jehoshaphat's Teaching Expedition")). This required administrative coordination, logistical support, and the establishment of a framework for justice and education in every locality. Thus, his diligence in managing the cities ensured that the spiritual revival he initiated had a lasting and widespread impact, reflecting the biblical principle that true faith often manifests in good order and responsible stewardship.

**What was the significance of Jerusalem as a military center during Jehoshaphat's reign?**

Answer: Jerusalem's significance as a military center during Jehoshaphat's reign was paramount, serving as the strategic heart of Judah's defense. By stationing "men of war, mighty men of valour" in Jerusalem ([2 Chronicles 17:13](/2_chronicles/17-13 "Jehoshaphat's Military Organization")), Jehoshaphat ensured the capital's security and established a formidable central command. Jerusalem's natural defenses, reinforced by its elite military presence, made it a strong deterrent against invasion. Furthermore, a centralized elite force allowed for rapid deployment to any part of the kingdom under threat, providing a quick response capability. This strategic concentration of military power in the capital not only protected the king and the religious center but also projected an image of strength and stability, contributing to the "fear of the Lord" that fell upon surrounding nations, preventing them from making war against Judah ([2 Chronicles 17:10](/2_chronicles/17-10 "Nations Fear Judah")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Jehoshaphat's reign exemplifies diligent and blessed earthly kingship, it ultimately points forward to the perfect and eternal reign of Jesus Christ. Jehoshaphat's "much business" in the cities of Judah and his strategic placement of "mighty men of valour" in Jerusalem foreshadow the comprehensive and sovereign rule of Christ. Jesus, as the true King, exercises perfect "business" over His spiritual kingdom, the Church, extending His authority and care to every "city" or believer across the globe ([Matthew 28:18-20](/matthew/28-18 "The Great Commission")). He is the ultimate administrator, ensuring justice, peace, and spiritual flourishing in His dominion, not by human effort alone, but by divine power ([Colossians 1:16-17](/colossians/1-16 "Christ's Supremacy")). Furthermore, Christ's "men of war" are not earthly soldiers, but His saints, equipped with spiritual armor ([Ephesians 6:11-17](/ephesians/6-11 "The Full Armor of God")) and empowered by the Holy Spirit, stationed in a spiritual Jerusalem, the heavenly city ([Hebrews 12:22](/hebrews/12-22 "The Heavenly Jerusalem")). He is the Lamb who is also the Lion ([Revelation 5:5-6](/revelation/5-5 "The Lion of Judah and the Lamb")), the ultimate "Mighty Man of Valour" who has conquered sin, death, and the grave ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Christ's Triumph")). His reign provides not just temporal stability but eternal security and a perfect, unshakeable kingdom ([Hebrews 12:28](/hebrews/12-28 "An Unshakable Kingdom")), fulfilling all the aspirations of an ideal earthly king.

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.