2 Chronicles 19:5

¶ And he set judges in the land throughout all the fenced cities of Judah, city by city,

And he set {H5975} judges {H8199} in the land {H776} throughout all the fenced {H1219} cities {H5892} of Judah {H3063}, city {H5892} by city {H5892},

He appointed judges throughout the land in all the fortified cities of Y'hudah, city by city,

He appointed judges in the land, in each of the fortified cities of Judah.

And he set judges in the land throughout all the fortified cities of Judah, city by city,

Commentary

2 Chronicles 19:5 details a significant administrative and judicial reform initiated by King Jehoshaphat of Judah, aimed at establishing a system of justice throughout his kingdom.

Context

This verse follows a critical period in King Jehoshaphat's reign. After a controversial alliance with King Ahab of Israel and a narrow escape from death in battle, Jehoshaphat returned to Jerusalem and was rebuked by the prophet Jehu for helping the ungodly (2 Chronicles 19:2). Humbled by this divine correction, Jehoshaphat embarked on a renewed commitment to spiritual and societal reform. This act of setting up judges is part of his broader effort to restore righteousness and proper governance, building upon his earlier initiatives to teach the Law of the Lord throughout Judah (2 Chronicles 17:9).

Key Themes

  • Judicial System and Justice: Jehoshaphat's primary aim was to ensure fair and accessible justice for his people. By appointing judges, he sought to uphold the divine standard of righteousness and ensure that disputes were resolved equitably, reflecting the importance of justice in biblical governance.
  • Decentralized Authority and Accessibility: The phrase "throughout all the fenced cities of Judah, city by city" emphasizes a systematic and comprehensive implementation of justice across the kingdom. This decentralized approach made judicial recourse available locally, rather than requiring all matters to be brought to the capital, Jerusalem. These "fenced cities" were often significant population centers and strategic locations.
  • Leadership and Accountability: This reform demonstrates Jehoshaphat's dedication to leading his nation in accordance with God's will, especially after his personal failure in the alliance with Ahab. It highlights a leader's responsibility to establish and maintain structures that promote integrity and order within society.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew term for "judges" (shofetim) refers not merely to legal arbiters but often to those who administer justice, govern, and even deliver the people, similar to the roles found in the Book of Judges. This system of local judges was commanded in the Mosaic Law (Deuteronomy 16:18), underscoring that Jehoshaphat's actions were a direct fulfillment of God's instructions for Israelite society.

Practical Application

This verse carries significant relevance for contemporary leadership and societal structures. It underscores the enduring importance of establishing and maintaining just systems that are accessible and fair to all. For leaders in any sphere—government, business, or ministry—it serves as a powerful reminder to prioritize integrity, accountability, and the equitable application of principles. For individuals, it encourages a commitment to seeking and upholding justice in their communities, recognizing that a society built on righteous judgment contributes to peace, stability, and human flourishing.

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Cross-References

  • Deuteronomy 16:18

    ¶ Judges and officers shalt thou make thee in all thy gates, which the LORD thy God giveth thee, throughout thy tribes: and they shall judge the people with just judgment.

  • Deuteronomy 16:20

    That which is altogether just shalt thou follow, that thou mayest live, and inherit the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.

  • 1 Peter 2:13

    ¶ Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake: whether it be to the king, as supreme;

  • 1 Peter 2:14

    Or unto governors, as unto them that are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers, and for the praise of them that do well.

  • 2 Chronicles 19:8

    Moreover in Jerusalem did Jehoshaphat set of the Levites, and [of] the priests, and of the chief of the fathers of Israel, for the judgment of the LORD, and for controversies, when they returned to Jerusalem.

  • Romans 13:1

    ¶ Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God.

  • Romans 13:5

    Wherefore [ye] must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake.
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