2 Chronicles 17:2

And he placed forces in all the fenced cities of Judah, and set garrisons in the land of Judah, and in the cities of Ephraim, which Asa his father had taken.

And he placed {H5414} forces {H2428} in all the fenced {H1219} cities {H5892} of Judah {H3063}, and set {H5414} garrisons {H5333} in the land {H776} of Judah {H3063}, and in the cities {H5892} of Ephraim {H669}, which Asa {H609} his father {H1} had taken {H3920}.

by placing forces in all the fortified cities of Y'hudah, and by garrisoning troops in the territory of Y'hudah and in the cities of Efrayim that Asa his father had captured.

He stationed troops in every fortified city of Judah and put garrisons in the land of Judah and in the cities of Ephraim that his father Asa had captured.

And he placed forces in all the fortified cities of Judah, and set garrisons in the land of Judah, and in the cities of Ephraim, which Asa his father had taken.

Commentary

2 Chronicles 17:2 details the immediate and strategic actions taken by King Jehoshaphat upon ascending the throne of Judah. This verse highlights his proactive approach to national security and his continuation of certain policies established by his father, King Asa.

Context

This verse introduces us to the prudent leadership of King Jehoshaphat, who succeeded his father Asa on the throne of Judah. Following a period where Judah had faced various challenges and military encounters, Jehoshaphat immediately focused on strengthening the kingdom's defenses. The mention of "cities of Ephraim, which Asa his father had taken" refers to King Asa's earlier military success against the northern kingdom of Israel, specifically against Baasha, where Asa gained control over certain territories in Ephraim (see 2 Chronicles 16:4). Jehoshaphat's action here demonstrates a continuation of this strategic control and a commitment to maintaining the territorial gains and security of Judah.

Key Themes

  • Strategic Leadership: Jehoshaphat demonstrates wise and proactive leadership by prioritizing the defense and security of his kingdom immediately upon taking power. He didn't wait for a threat but prepared for one.
  • National Security: The placement of "forces" and "garrisons" in "fenced cities" underscores a strong emphasis on military preparedness and the protection of Judah's borders and key strongholds.
  • Continuity and Inheritance: By securing the cities in Ephraim that Asa had captured, Jehoshaphat shows respect for his father's legacy and a determination to maintain Judah's influence and territorial integrity. This also suggests a stable transition of power.
  • Prudence and Diligence: While Jehoshaphat is later known for his faith and reliance on God (e.g., 2 Chronicles 20:12), this verse shows that godly leadership also involves practical, diligent efforts in governance and defense.

Linguistic Insights

The term "fenced cities" translates from the Hebrew 'arim mibtsar (ืขึธืจึดื™ื ืžึดื‘ึฐืฆึธืจ), meaning "fortified cities" or "strongholds." These were strategically important locations equipped with walls, towers, and gates designed to withstand sieges. "Garrisons" comes from the Hebrew netzivim (ื ึฐืฆึดื™ื‘ึดื™ื), which refers to appointed military posts or officials stationed in strategic locations to maintain order and control.

Practical Application

Jehoshaphat's actions in 2 Chronicles 17:2 offer valuable lessons for today. It highlights that faith in God does not negate the need for practical wisdom and diligent preparation. Whether in personal life, family, or leadership roles, it's important to:

  • Be Proactive: Don't wait for crises to act; take preventative measures and prepare for potential challenges.
  • Build on Successes: Recognize and maintain the good foundations laid by those who came before you.
  • Prioritize Security: For a nation, this means defense; for individuals, it can mean securing finances, health, or spiritual foundations.
  • Exercise Prudence: Wise leadership balances reliance on divine guidance with practical, strategic planning and diligent execution.

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Cross-References

  • 2 Chronicles 15:8 (5 votes)

    ยถ And when Asa heard these words, and the prophecy of Oded the prophet, he took courage, and put away the abominable idols out of all the land of Judah and Benjamin, and out of the cities which he had taken from mount Ephraim, and renewed the altar of the LORD, that [was] before the porch of the LORD.

  • 2 Chronicles 11:5 (2 votes)

    And Rehoboam dwelt in Jerusalem, and built cities for defence in Judah.

  • 2 Chronicles 11:11 (2 votes)

    And he fortified the strong holds, and put captains in them, and store of victual, and of oil and wine.

  • 2 Chronicles 11:12 (2 votes)

    And in every several city [he put] shields and spears, and made them exceeding strong, having Judah and Benjamin on his side.