TRV
Translation
King James Version
And these are the numbers of them according to the house of their fathers: Of Judah, the captains of thousands; Adnah the chief, and with him mighty men of valour three hundred thousand.
Complete Jewish Bible
Here is a listing of them by clans: from Y'hudah, the captains of thousands: 'Adnah the leader, and with him 300,000 strong, brave men;
Berean Standard Bible
These are their numbers according to the houses of their fathers: From Judah, the commanders of thousands: Adnah the commander, and with him 300,000 mighty men of valor;
American Standard Version
And this was the numbering of them according to their fathers’ houses: Of Judah, the captains of thousands: Adnah the captain, and with him mighty men of valor three hundred thousand;
World English Bible Messianic
This was the numbering of them according to their fathers’ houses: Of Judah, the captains of thousands: Adnah the captain, and with him mighty men of valor three hundred thousand;
Geneva Bible (1599)
And these are the nombers of them after the house of their fathers, In Iudah were captaines of thousands, Adnah the captaine, and with him of valiant men three hundreth thousande.
Young's Literal Translation
And these are their numbers, for the house of their fathers: Of Judah, heads of thousands, Adnah the head, and with him mighty ones of valour, three hundred chiefs.
See also
In the KJVVerse 11,538 of 31,102
Study This Verse
Commentary on 2 Chronicles 17 verses 10–19
10 ¶ And the fear of the LORD fell upon all the kingdoms of the lands that were round about Judah, so that they made no war against Jehoshaphat.
11 Also some of the Philistines brought Jehoshaphat presents, and tribute silver; and the Arabians brought him flocks, seven thousand and seven hundred rams, and seven thousand and seven hundred he goats.
12 And Jehoshaphat waxed great exceedingly; and he built in Judah castles, and cities of store.
13 And he had much business in the cities of Judah: and the men of war, mighty men of valour, were in Jerusalem.
14 And these are the numbers of them according to the house of their fathers: Of Judah, the captains of thousands; Adnah the chief, and with him mighty men of valour three hundred thousand.
15 And next to him was Jehohanan the captain, and with him two hundred and fourscore thousand.
16 And next him was Amasiah the son of Zichri, who willingly offered himself unto the LORD; and with him two hundred thousand mighty men of valour.
17 And of Benjamin; Eliada a mighty man of valour, and with him armed men with bow and shield two hundred thousand.
18 And next him was Jehozabad, and with him an hundred and fourscore thousand ready prepared for the war.
19 These waited on the king, beside those whom the king put in the fenced cities throughout all Judah.
We have here a further account of Jehoshaphat's great prosperity and the flourishing state of his kingdom.
I. He had good interest in the neighbouring princes and nations. Though he was not perhaps so great a soldier as David (which might have made him their terror), nor so great a scholar as Solomon (which might have made him their oracle), yet the fear of the Lord fell so upon them (that is, God so influenced and governed their spirits) that they had all a reverence for him, Ch2 17:10. And, 1. None of them made war against him. God's good providence so ordered it that, while the princes and priests were instructing and reforming the country, none of his neighbours gave him any molestations, to take him off from that good work. Thus when Jacob and his sons were going to worship at Bethel the terror of God was upon the neighbouring cities, that they did not pursue after them, Gen 35:5, and see Exo 34:24. 2. Many of them brought presents to him (Ch2 17:11), to secure his friendship. Perhaps these were a tribute imposed upon them by Asa, who made himself master of the cities of the Philistines, and the tents of the Arabians, Ch2 14:14, Ch2 14:15. With the 7700 rams, and the same number of he-goats, which the Arabians brought, there was probably a proportionable number of ewes and lambs, she-goats and kids.
II. He had a very considerable stores laid up in the cities of Judah. He pulled down his barns, and built larger (Ch2 17:12), castles and cities of store, for arms and victuals. He was a man of business, and aimed at the public good in all his undertakings, either to preserve the peace or prepare for war.
III. He had the militia in good order. It was never in better since David modelled it. Five lord-lieutenants (if I may so call them) are here named, with the numbers of those under their command (the serviceable men, that were fit for war in their respective districts), three in Judah, and two in Benjamin. It is said of one of these great commanders, Amasiah, that he willingly offered himself unto the Lord (Ch2 17:16), not only to the king, to serve him in this post, but to the Lord, to glorify him in it. He was the most eminent among them for religion, he accepted the place, not for the honour, or power, or profit of it, but for conscience' sake towards God, that he might serve his country,. It was usual for great generals then to offer of their spoils to the Lord, Ch1 26:26. But this good man offered himself first to the Lord, and then his dedicated things. The number of the soldiers under these five generals amounts to 1,160,000 men, a vast number for so small a compass of ground as Judah's and Benjamin's lot to furnish out and maintain. Abijah could bring into the field but 400,000 (Ch2 13:3), Asa not 600,000 (Ch2 14:8), yet Jehoshaphat has at command almost 1,200,000. But it must be considered, 1. That God had promised to make the seed of Abraham like the sand of the sea for number. 2. There had now been a long peace. 3. We may suppose that the city of Jerusalem was very much enlarged. 4. Many had come over to them from the kingdom of Israel (Ch2 15:19), which would increase the numbers of the people. 5. Jehoshaphat was under a special blessing of God, which made his affairs to prosper greatly. The armies, we may suppose, were dispersed all the country over, and each man resided for the most part on his own estate; but they appeared often, to be mustered and trained, and were ready at call whenever there was occasion. The commanders waited on the king (Ch2 17:19) as officers of his court, privy-counsellors, and ministers of state.
But, lastly, observe, It was not this formidable army that struck a terror upon the neighbouring nations, that restrained them from attempting any thing against Israel, or obliged them to pay tribute, but the fear of God which fell upon them when Jehoshaphat reformed his country and set up a preaching ministry in it, Ch2 17:10. The ordinances of God are more the strength and safety of a kingdom than its military force - its men of God more than its men of war.
Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 10–19. Public domain.
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Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.
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SUMMARY
Second Chronicles 17:14 introduces the detailed enumeration of King Jehoshaphat's impressive military forces, specifically highlighting the contingent from the tribe of Judah. This verse records Adnah as the chief commander of three hundred thousand "mighty men of valour," underscoring Jehoshaphat's strategic military organization and the substantial strength of his kingdom. This preparedness is presented as a direct outcome of God's favor upon his obedient reign, establishing Judah as a secure and formidable power in the ancient Near East.
CONTEXT
Literary Context: This verse is an integral part of the Chronicler's account of King Jehoshaphat's reign, which commences in 2 Chronicles 17. Following the example of his father Asa, Jehoshaphat is depicted as a righteous king who faithfully walked in the Lord's ways, actively rejecting the idolatrous practices prevalent in the northern kingdom of Israel. The preceding verses detail his significant spiritual reforms, including the removal of high places and Asherim, and his groundbreaking initiative to send princes, Levites, and priests throughout Judah to teach the Law of the Lord (2 Chronicles 17:7-9). This period of spiritual renewal is immediately followed by a description of his increasing greatness, wealth, and military might (2 Chronicles 17:10-12). Verse 14 marks the beginning of a detailed inventory of his vast army, demonstrating that his national security was not solely a matter of piety but also of meticulous preparation, empowered by divine favor. The subsequent verses (2 Chronicles 17:15-19) continue this enumeration, emphasizing the comprehensive nature of his military organization.
Historical & Cultural Context: Jehoshaphat ruled over the Kingdom of Judah during the 9th century BC (approximately 870-848 BC), a tumultuous era characterized by pervasive regional instability and the constant threat of invasion from powerful neighboring kingdoms. In the ancient Near East, the possession of a strong, well-organized army was absolutely critical for maintaining national sovereignty, deterring aggression, and projecting power. Kings frequently conducted censuses not only to assess their military strength but also to facilitate the levying of troops. The mention of "captains of thousands" reflects a standard military organizational structure of the period, where large contingents were systematically divided into smaller, more manageable units, each under the command of a specific officer. The phrase "according to the house of their fathers" highlights that military service was often deeply rooted in tribal or clan lineage, a traditional Israelite practice that ensured accountability and participation from each ancestral group. Jehoshaphat's reign stands in stark contrast to the frequently turbulent and idolatrous reigns of the northern kingdom of Israel, underscoring Judah's relative stability and prosperity under a king who sought the Lord. The sheer magnitude of his army, as meticulously detailed in this chapter, would have served as a formidable deterrent to potential adversaries, contributing to the "fear of the Lord" falling upon the surrounding nations (2 Chronicles 17:10).
Key Themes: This verse significantly contributes to several overarching themes within 2 Chronicles:
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
The Chronicler employs several potent literary devices in 2 Chronicles 17:14 to convey the profound significance of Jehoshaphat's military strength. Enumeration is the most prominent, as the verse explicitly states precise numerical figures, setting the stage for the comprehensive list of military contingents that follows. This numerical precision lends an air of historical veracity and powerfully emphasizes the sheer scale of Jehoshaphat's preparedness. Emphasis is strategically achieved through the specific mention of Judah's contribution, placing it first in the detailed list and highlighting its substantial size, thereby underscoring the strength of the king's own tribe as the foundational backbone of his kingdom. The descriptive phrase "mighty men of valour" functions as a powerful Epithet, providing a qualitative assessment of the soldiers that goes beyond mere quantity, indicating their superior quality, effectiveness, and courage. This detailed military account, appearing immediately after Jehoshaphat's spiritual reforms, illustrates the Chronicler's theological perspective through Juxtaposition, demonstrating that divine blessing manifests in holistic national strength, encompassing both spiritual integrity and practical, tangible preparedness.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The meticulous account of Jehoshaphat's army in 2 Chronicles 17:14 and the subsequent verses is far more than a mere historical record of military strength; it serves as a profound theological statement about the tangible fruits of obedience and divine favor. Jehoshaphat's diligent pursuit of God's ways, epitomized by his commitment to teaching the Law throughout the land, resulted in God granting him peace and prosperity. This divine blessing manifested tangibly in a powerful and secure kingdom. The immense size and superior quality of his army are presented as a direct consequence of God's blessing, demonstrating that true national security and strength are ultimately derived from aligning with God's will. While human preparation and strategic planning are undeniably important, the ultimate source of victory, stability, and protection is the Lord Himself. This narrative powerfully reminds believers that while we are called to be diligent and wise stewards of our resources and responsibilities, our ultimate trust must remain firmly in God, who sovereignly provides and protects.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The detailed account of Jehoshaphat's military organization in 2 Chronicles 17:14 offers profound and enduring lessons for contemporary believers. While our primary battles are spiritual rather than physical, the principle of diligent preparation and strategic planning, coupled with absolute reliance on God, remains paramount. Just as Jehoshaphat meticulously fortified his kingdom and organized his forces, we are called to be spiritually prepared, actively putting on the full armor of God to effectively stand against the schemes of the enemy. Our "strength" is not merely our own abilities or finite resources, but the boundless power of God working through us as we walk in faithful obedience. This passage reminds us that true security is found not in the size of our "army" or the robustness of our defenses, but in the favor of God that empowers and blesses our diligent efforts. It powerfully underscores the importance of wise leadership, effective organization, and faithful stewardship in every sphere of life—whether in our families, churches, or communities—always recognizing that all genuine and lasting strength flows ultimately from our deep and abiding relationship with the Lord.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why is the army's size so emphasized in this chapter?
Answer: The emphasis on the army's immense size (totaling 1,160,000 men across all tribes, as detailed in 2 Chronicles 17:14-18) serves several crucial purposes. Firstly, it powerfully highlights the extensive nature of God's blessing upon Jehoshaphat's obedient reign, demonstrating that faithfulness to God leads to tangible prosperity and national strength. Secondly, it showcases Jehoshaphat's exceptional leadership and administrative skills in meticulously organizing such a vast and effective fighting force. Thirdly, it underscores Judah's formidable position in the region, acting as a significant deterrent to potential enemies and contributing to the "fear of the Lord" falling upon surrounding nations (2 Chronicles 17:10), thereby ensuring a period of peace and stability for the kingdom.
What is the significance of "mighty men of valour" beyond just numbers?
Answer: The phrase "mighty men of valour" (Hebrew: gibborim chayil) is profoundly significant because it describes the quality of the soldiers, not merely their quantity. It implies that these men were not just numerous, but also inherently brave, highly skilled, capable, and exceptionally effective warriors. This term is frequently reserved for elite or courageous fighters in the Old Testament, indicating a high level of military prowess, moral fortitude, and readiness for battle. Thus, Jehoshaphat's army was not merely large; it was composed of highly formidable and competent individuals, further emphasizing the depth of God's blessing and the king's wise and discerning leadership in assembling such a force.
How does this military strength relate to Jehoshaphat's spiritual reforms mentioned earlier in the chapter?
Answer: The Chronicler intentionally places the account of Jehoshaphat's military might immediately after detailing his spiritual reforms, such as the removal of idolatry and his initiative to send teachers of the Law throughout the land (2 Chronicles 17:3-9). This deliberate literary arrangement underscores a crucial theological point: the strength and security of the kingdom were a direct and tangible consequence of the king's and the nation's obedience to God. His military power was not merely the result of human strategy or natural resources but a profound divine blessing, demonstrating that true prosperity and national defense are ultimately rooted in a right and faithful relationship with the Lord. It illustrates a holistic view of national well-being, where spiritual integrity directly leads to tangible blessings, including physical security and military might.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The earthly strength and meticulous organization of King Jehoshaphat's army, as detailed in 2 Chronicles 17:14, find their ultimate fulfillment and spiritual parallel in the person and redemptive work of Jesus Christ. While Jehoshaphat was an earthly king leading a physical army, Christ is the King of kings and Lord of lords, who reigns over an eternal, spiritual kingdom and leads an invincible army of believers. The "mighty men of valour" from Judah, meticulously equipped for physical battle, beautifully foreshadow the Church—Christ's spiritual army—empowered by the Holy Spirit for profound spiritual warfare. Just as Jehoshaphat's righteous reign brought a measure of peace and security to Judah through divine blessing, Christ's perfect reign establishes an eternal kingdom of peace, offering ultimate security and definitive victory over sin, death, and all spiritual adversaries for all who believe. He is the true Adnah, the "chief" and ultimate Commander, under whom all believers are enlisted, not with carnal weapons, but with the spiritual armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-18). The vastness of Jehoshaphat's forces points to the innumerable multitude of those redeemed by Christ from every tribe, tongue, people, and nation, who joyfully serve in His invincible kingdom, which is not of this world (John 18:36). Through His perfect obedience, atoning sacrifice, and glorious resurrection, Christ has secured a victory far greater and more enduring than any earthly king could ever achieve, leading His people in triumph over every spiritual foe (Colossians 2:15).