2 Chronicles 17:18

2 Chronicles 17:18 is part of a detailed account of King Jehoshaphat’s military strength and the organization of his army. This verse specifically highlights Jehozabad, one of the mighty men of valor, and the substantial number of troops under his command, emphasizing their readiness for conflict.

Context

This verse is situated within a broader description of King Jehoshaphat's reign in Judah. After his father Asa's death, Jehoshaphat began his rule by walking in the ways of the Lord, removing high places, and sending Levites and priests throughout Judah to teach the Law of the Lord (2 Chronicles 17:7-9). Because of his devotion, God established the kingdom in his hand, and he grew immensely powerful. The surrounding nations feared the Lord, and many brought gifts to Jehoshaphat, signifying his influence and prosperity (2 Chronicles 17:10-11). Verses 14-19 then enumerate the vast divisions of his army, commanded by various leaders, showcasing Judah's formidable defense capabilities. Jehozabad is listed as one of these key military commanders.

Key Themes

• Military Preparedness: The phrase "ready prepared for the war" underscores the high state of readiness and discipline within Jehoshaphat's army. This wasn't a mere conscription but a well-organized, trained fighting force.
• National Strength and Security: The immense number of soldiers (180,000 under Jehozabad alone, contributing to a total of over a million men listed in this chapter) demonstrates Judah's significant military might, providing security and deterring potential enemies. This strength was a direct result of Jehoshaphat's righteous rule and God's blessing.
• Effective Leadership: Jehoshaphat's ability to organize such a vast and prepared army speaks to his strong and effective leadership, ensuring the protection of his kingdom.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "an hundred and fourscore thousand" is KJV English for 180,000. This numerical detail, along with others in the chapter, emphasizes the sheer scale of Jehoshaphat's military might. The term "ready prepared" (Hebrew: עָרוּךְ, 'aruch, meaning "arranged, set in order, prepared") highlights the meticulous organization and readiness of these troops, not just their presence.

Practical Application

While this verse describes ancient military strength, it offers valuable principles for today:

• The Value of Preparedness: Just as a nation prepares for physical defense, individuals and communities should be prepared for various challenges, whether spiritual, emotional, or practical. This involves foresight, training, and organization.
• Blessings of Righteous Leadership: Jehoshaphat's strength was linked to his heart for God. This suggests that divine blessing can accompany righteous leadership, leading to stability and prosperity in various spheres of life.
• Diligence in Duty: The soldiers were "ready prepared." This illustrates the importance of diligence and commitment to one's responsibilities, whether in service to God, family, or community.