2 Chronicles 26:13

KJV

And under their hand [was] an army, three hundred thousand and seven thousand and five hundred, that made war with mighty power, to help the king against the enemy.

KJV (with Strong's)

And under their hand {H3027} was an army {H2428}{H6635}, three {H7969} hundred {H3967} thousand {H505} and seven {H7651} thousand {H505} and five {H2568} hundred {H3967}, that made {H6213} war {H4421} with mighty {H2428} power {H3581}, to help {H5826} the king {H4428} against the enemy {H341}.

Complete Jewish Bible

They directed a trained army of 307,500 fighting men, a strong force supporting the king in war against the enemy.

Berean Standard Bible

Under their authority was an army of 307,500 trained for war, a powerful force to support the king against his enemies.

American Standard Version

And under their hand was an army, three hundred thousand and seven thousand and five hundred, that made war with mighty power, to help the king against the enemy.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
2 Chronicles 26:13 provides a precise and impressive account of the vast military strength commanded by King Uzziah, detailing an army of 307,500 highly organized and capable soldiers operating under the direct supervision of his appointed officers. This meticulous enumeration underscores the immense power and administrative prowess that characterized Judah during Uzziah's reign, enabling the king to effectively defend his kingdom, project influence, and engage his adversaries with formidable strength, all attributed to God's blessing upon his early faithfulness.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is intricately woven into the Chronicler's narrative of King Uzziah's reign (also known as Azariah), a period predominantly marked by prosperity, military expansion, and significant building projects. The Chronicler attributes this success to Uzziah's initial devotion to God, particularly his diligent seeking of God through the prophet Zechariah, as noted in [2 Chronicles 26:5](/2_chronicles/26-5 "2 Chronicles 26:5 - Uzziah Seeks God"). Immediately preceding this verse, [2 Chronicles 26:11-12](/2_chronicles/26-11-12 "2 Chronicles 26:11-12 - Organization of Uzziah's Army") details the meticulous organization of Uzziah's fighting force, mentioning the "number of their host" and the leadership structure under "Hananiah, one of the king's captains," along with "two thousand and six hundred chief of the fathers." Verse 13 then delivers the exact numerical strength of this formidable army, serving as the culmination of the description of Uzziah's divinely blessed and strategically astute military leadership. This detailed enumeration not only highlights the tangible results of his reign but also subtly sets the stage for the dramatic and tragic shift in his fortune later in the chapter due to pride.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** King Uzziah's reign, spanning approximately 792-740 BC, was one of the most extended and prosperous in the history of the Southern Kingdom of Judah. This era was characterized by relative geopolitical stability in the ancient Near East, allowing Judah to consolidate its power. Unlike larger regional empires such as Assyria or Egypt, Judah, a smaller kingdom, often relied on strategic fortifications, alliances, and divine favor for its security. The military might described in this verse, including successful campaigns against traditional adversaries like the Philistines and Arabs ([2 Chronicles 26:6-7](/2_chronicles/26-6-7 "2 Chronicles 26:6-7 - Uzziah's Victories")), enabled Judah to assert its influence, secure vital trade routes, and receive tribute from surrounding peoples, signifying a period of robust national strength and economic flourishing. The practice of meticulously counting and organizing troops was a common and essential aspect of ancient Near Eastern warfare, reflecting a monarch's administrative capabilities and the overall resources and stability of the kingdom.
* **Key Themes:** This verse significantly contributes to several overarching themes within 2 Chronicles and the broader narrative of Uzziah's reign. Firstly, it exemplifies the theme of **Divine Blessing and Empowerment**. The Chronicler consistently links Uzziah's early successes, including the formidable strength and organization of his army, to his initial faithfulness and his seeking of God ([2 Chronicles 26:5](/2_chronicles/26-5 "2 Chronicles 26:5 - Uzziah Seeks God")). This illustrates the theological principle that God grants resources, protection, and power to those who walk in obedience. Secondly, it highlights **Military Preparedness and National Security**. Uzziah's reign was defined by extensive strategic fortifications and a highly organized, well-equipped military, demonstrating a profound commitment to safeguarding Judah's sovereignty and deterring foreign aggression. The sheer number and "mighty power" of the army underscore Judah's formidable presence in the region. Finally, while celebrating Uzziah's strength, the verse subtly foreshadows the theme of **Pride and Downfall**. The Chronicler's audience would be acutely aware of Uzziah's eventual transgression ([2 Chronicles 26:16](/2_chronicles/26-16 "2 Chronicles 26:16 - Uzziah's Pride and Leprosy")), making this description of immense power a poignant setup for the dangers of human hubris when divine dependence is abandoned.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Hand (Hebrew, _yâd'_):** From H3027, this primitive word refers to the open hand, indicating power, means, direction, or dominion. In the phrase "under their hand," it signifies direct command, authority, or supervision. It emphasizes that the vast army was meticulously structured and operated under the immediate control and leadership of the chief officers and heads of families previously enumerated, highlighting the disciplined and hierarchical nature of Uzziah's military organization.
* **Army (Hebrew, _chayil'_):** From H2428, this term denotes a force, whether of men, means, or other resources, encompassing concepts like strength, valor, and wealth. Here, it refers to a formidable military force, emphasizing not just numerical strength but also the inherent capability, courage, and overall effectiveness of Uzziah's fighting men. It describes a force that was not merely numerous but also qualitatively strong and able to achieve its objectives.
* **Power (Hebrew, _kôach'_):** From H3581, this word signifies vigor, force, capacity, or might. When combined with _chayil_ in "mighty power," it further underscores the exceptional strength, effectiveness, and formidable nature of Uzziah's army. It points to their inherent ability and robust capacity to engage in war and achieve victory, reflecting the high caliber and prowess of the soldiers.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And under their hand [was] an army, three hundred thousand and seven thousand and five hundred,"**: This clause precisely quantifies King Uzziah's military force at 307,500 soldiers. The opening phrase, "under their hand," immediately establishes the direct link between this vast contingent and the command structure and leadership detailed in the preceding verses, indicating that this massive army was not a disorganized mob but meticulously organized and directed by appointed officers. This exact figure underscores the immense scale of Uzziah's military establishment, testifying to Judah's prosperity and his remarkable administrative capacity.
* **"that made war with mighty power,"**: This segment describes the operational effectiveness and qualitative strength of the army. The phrase "made war" indicates their active engagement in military campaigns, while "with mighty power" (literally, "with strength and valor" or "valiant warriors") emphasizes their formidable strength, exceptional skill, and consistent success in battle. It conveys that this army was not merely large but also highly capable, well-trained, courageous, and victorious in its endeavors, reflecting the prowess and valor of Uzziah's fighting men.
* **"to help the king against the enemy."**: This final clause clarifies the explicit purpose and strategic function of this formidable army. Their primary role was to provide military assistance and defense for King Uzziah, enabling him to effectively counter and overcome any adversaries or threats to the kingdom of Judah. This highlights the army's critical strategic importance in securing national borders, projecting royal authority, and ensuring the safety, stability, and prosperity of the realm.

#### Literary Devices
The Chronicler masterfully employs several literary devices in 2 Chronicles 26:13 to convey the extraordinary nature of Uzziah's army and its significance. **Enumeration** is prominently featured, providing the exact numerical figure of 307,500 soldiers. This precise statistical detail serves to emphasize the sheer magnitude and scale of Uzziah's military might, making the description concrete, verifiable, and impactful. This detailed counting also contributes to **Emphasis**, highlighting the extraordinary resources, organizational capabilities, and overall strength of Judah under Uzziah's reign. The phrase "mighty power" (חיל גבורים, _chayil gibborim_) functions as a form of **Hyperbole** or strong descriptive language, underscoring the exceptional valor, effectiveness, and formidable nature of the troops beyond mere numerical strength, suggesting they were truly a force to be reckoned with. Furthermore, within the broader narrative of Uzziah's reign, this entire description functions as a poignant **Foreshadowing**; the immense power and success described here set up the subsequent narrative of Uzziah's pride and fall ([2 Chronicles 26:16](/2_chronicles/26-16 "2 Chronicles 26:16 - Uzziah's Pride")), subtly suggesting that even great human strength, if not rooted in humility and continued divine dependence, can lead to catastrophic ruin.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The formidable army of King Uzziah, as meticulously detailed in 2 Chronicles 26:13, stands as a tangible testament to God's blessing upon a king who initially sought Him. The Chronicler consistently attributes Uzziah's prosperity and strength, including his remarkable military might, to his faithfulness and seeking of God (2 Chronicles 26:5). This verse powerfully illustrates a profound theological principle: when leaders and nations align themselves with God's will and walk in obedience, He can grant them extraordinary resources, protection, and success. It underscores divine sovereignty over human affairs and the practical, tangible benefits that flow from a right relationship with the Almighty. However, it also subtly introduces the critical theme of the inherent dangers of human pride that can arise from such blessings, a theme tragically realized in Uzziah's later life (2 Chronicles 26:16). The true source of all enduring strength is always God, and human power, no matter how great or impressive, is ultimately contingent upon and dependent on His sustaining hand.

* [Deuteronomy 28:7](/deuteronomy/28-7 "Deuteronomy 28:7 - Victory Over Enemies")
* [Psalm 18:32-34](/psalm/18-32-34 "Psalm 18:32-34 - God Equips for Battle")
* [Proverbs 16:18](/proverbs/16-18 "Proverbs 16:18 - Pride Goes Before a Fall")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The account of Uzziah's mighty army in 2 Chronicles 26:13 offers profound and enduring lessons for contemporary believers. It serves as a powerful reminder that God is the ultimate source of all strength, resources, and success in our lives. Just as He empowered Uzziah with a formidable military to protect his kingdom and fulfill his purposes, God equips each of us with unique gifts, talents, opportunities, and resources for the spiritual, relational, and professional "battles" we face. Our effectiveness and fruitfulness in any endeavor are not solely dependent on our natural abilities or human ingenuity but fundamentally on our willingness to seek God, rely on His empowering presence, and steward what He has given us. This verse challenges us to soberly consider how we are stewarding the "armies"—the strengths, opportunities, influence, and material blessings—God has placed "under our hand." Are we using them for His glory, for the defense of truth, for the advancement of His kingdom, and for the good of others? Or are we, like Uzziah eventually did, allowing success and perceived strength to breed self-reliance, arrogance, and a forgetfulness of the true source of our power? The call is to cultivate deep humility, acknowledge God's sovereign hand in all our successes, and continually seek His guidance, ensuring that our "might" remains consecrated to His divine purposes, preventing the very pride that led to Uzziah's downfall.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "armies" or resources (talents, influence, finances, relationships) has God placed "under your hand" that you are called to steward for His purposes and glory?**
* **How does the temptation of pride manifest in your own life when you experience success, achieve a goal, or perceive yourself as strong and capable in a particular area?**
* **In what practical and tangible ways can you actively acknowledge God as the ultimate source of your strength, wisdom, and resources in your daily life and endeavors?**

### FAQ

**What was the significance of such a large army for King Uzziah?**

Answer: The army of 307,500 soldiers was profoundly significant for several reasons during Uzziah's reign. Firstly, it demonstrated Uzziah's remarkable administrative and organizational skills, as managing such a large and complex force required extensive logistics, training, and a sophisticated command structure. Secondly, it unequivocally signaled Judah's formidable national strength and security during his reign. This immense military might allowed Uzziah to successfully defend his borders, conquer surrounding territories like the Philistines and Arabs ([2 Chronicles 26:6-7](/2_chronicles/26-6-7 "2 Chronicles 26:6-7 - Uzziah's Victories")), and even receive tribute from the Ammonites ([2 Chronicles 26:8](/2_chronicles/26-8 "2 Chronicles 26:8 - Ammonite Tribute")). In the ancient Near East, military power was directly correlated with a kingdom's influence, stability, and economic prosperity, making Uzziah's army a key indicator of Judah's flourishing state and serving as a powerful deterrent to potential enemies, ensuring a period of relative peace and prosperity for the nation.

**How does this verse relate to Uzziah's overall reign and character?**

Answer: This verse is crucial for understanding the zenith of Uzziah's power and the initial, divinely blessed phase of his reign, which the Chronicler portrays as a direct consequence of the king's faithfulness. The massive army and its "mighty power" are presented as a tangible result of Uzziah "seeking God in the days of Zechariah" ([2 Chronicles 26:5](/2_chronicles/26-5 "2 Chronicles 26:5 - Uzziah Seeks God")). However, the Chronicler's narrative is not solely celebratory. This detailed description of Uzziah's immense strength and success also serves as a poignant and ironic contrast to his later downfall. After achieving such great power and widespread success, Uzziah's heart became "lifted up to his destruction" ([2 Chronicles 26:16](/2_chronicles/26-16 "2 Chronicles 26:16 - Uzziah's Pride and Leprosy")), leading him to presumptuously enter the temple to burn incense, a sacred duty reserved exclusively for the priests. Thus, while 2 Chronicles 26:13 highlights the glorious outcome of his early obedience and divine favor, it simultaneously sets the stage for the tragic consequences of pride that would ultimately mar his otherwise illustrious reign.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While 2 Chronicles 26:13 vividly describes the impressive physical military might of an earthly king, it profoundly foreshadows a far greater and more enduring spiritual reality found in Jesus Christ. Uzziah's army, vast and powerful, was assembled "to help the king against the enemy," securing a temporal kingdom. In the New Testament, Jesus Christ is revealed as the ultimate King of Kings and Lord of Lords, and His "army" is not one of flesh and blood, but a spiritual host empowered by the Holy Spirit. Just as Uzziah's strength and success came from God's blessing, the true power of the believer and the Church comes from Christ, who has already decisively disarmed the spiritual forces of evil and triumphed over them on the cross ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Christ's Triumph Over Powers")). We are called to be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might ([Ephesians 6:10](/ephesians/6-10 "Ephesians 6:10 - Be Strong in the Lord")), donning the full armor of God not to fight human adversaries, but spiritual ones ([Ephesians 6:11-17](/ephesians/6-11-17 "Ephesians 6:11-17 - The Armor of God")). The victories that Uzziah's army achieved were temporal and limited; the victory Christ secured on the cross is eternal, absolute, and comprehensive, overcoming sin, death, and the devil himself. He leads a triumphant procession, not of earthly soldiers, but of redeemed saints who, through Him, are more than conquerors ([Romans 8:37](/romans/8-37 "Romans 8:37 - More Than Conquerors Through Christ")). Thus, Uzziah's impressive military might, a testament to God's blessing and the dangers of pride, ultimately points us to the infinitely superior, eternally victorious, and spiritually empowering reign of King Jesus, who truly helps His people against their ultimate enemy, securing a lasting peace and an unshakable kingdom that will never end.

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

2 Chronicles 25:5

Moreover Amaziah gathered Judah together, and made them captains over thousands, and captains over hundreds, according to the houses of [their] fathers, throughout all Judah and Benjamin: and he numbered them from twenty years old and above, and found them three hundred thousand choice [men, able] to go forth to war, that could handle spear and shield.

2 Chronicles 17:14

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.

2 Chronicles 17:19

These waited on the king, beside [those] whom the king put in the fenced cities throughout all Judah.

2 Chronicles 11:1

¶ And when Rehoboam was come to Jerusalem, he gathered of the house of Judah and Benjamin an hundred and fourscore thousand chosen [men], which were warriors, to fight against Israel, that he might bring the kingdom again to Rehoboam.

2 Chronicles 13:3

And Abijah set the battle in array with an army of valiant men of war, [even] four hundred thousand chosen men: Jeroboam also set the battle in array against him with eight hundred thousand chosen men, [being] mighty men of valour.

2 Chronicles 14:8

And Asa had an army [of men] that bare targets and spears, out of Judah three hundred thousand; and out of Benjamin, that bare shields and drew bows, two hundred and fourscore thousand: all these [were] mighty men of valour.