2 Chronicles 26:13

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.

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}.

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

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

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

2 Chronicles 26:13 provides a detailed account of the impressive military strength and organization under King Uzziah of Judah, underscoring the vast size of his fighting force and its effectiveness in defending the kingdom.

Historical and Cultural Context

King Uzziah, also known as Azariah in 2 Kings 15:1, was one of Judah's most successful monarchs, reigning for 52 years. The Chronicler attributes his early prosperity and power to his devotion to God, stating that Uzziah sought God in the days of Zechariah. This verse illustrates the tangible results of God's blessing: a massive, well-organized army totaling 307,500 soldiers. Such a formidable military was a testament to Judah's national security and influence in the ancient Near East during Uzziah's reign, allowing him to contend effectively with neighboring enemies.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Divine Blessing and Empowerment: The sheer size and "mighty power" of Uzziah's army are presented as a direct consequence of God's favor on a king who initially walked in righteousness. It highlights that God can grant significant resources and strength to those who seek and obey Him.
  • Military Preparedness and Organization: Beyond just numbers, the verse implies a highly organized and capable fighting force. Uzziah was not only blessed with a large army but also strategically equipped and deployed them, ensuring his kingdom's defense and expansion.
  • National Strength and Security: A powerful military symbolized Judah's political and economic stability under Uzziah's leadership, making it a formidable presence among the surrounding nations.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "under their hand" (Hebrew: tachat yadam) signifies that the army was under the direct command and authority of the chief officers and heads of families mentioned in the preceding verses (2 Chronicles 26:11-12). This emphasizes a disciplined and hierarchical military structure. The description "made war with mighty power" uses the Hebrew phrase chayil gibborim, which literally translates to "army of mighty ones" or "valiant warriors," underscoring the valor and effectiveness of these soldiers in battle.

Practical Application

This verse serves as a powerful reminder that all our abilities, resources, and successes ultimately come from God. When we seek Him and align our lives with His will, He can empower us beyond our natural capabilities, whether in spiritual battles or everyday challenges. Just as Uzziah was blessed with a strong army, God can grant us the resources and strength needed for the tasks He calls us to. However, Uzziah's story also carries a vital cautionary tale: great power and blessing, if not managed with humility and continued reliance on God, can lead to pride and a devastating fall, as seen in 2 Chronicles 26:16. We are called to use our God-given strengths and resources for His glory, always remembering that our true might is found in Him.

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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.
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