2 Chronicles 23:9

Moreover Jehoiada the priest delivered to the captains of hundreds spears, and bucklers, and shields, that [had been] king David's, which [were] in the house of God.

Moreover Jehoiada {H3077} the priest {H3548} delivered {H5414} to the captains {H8269} of hundreds {H3967} spears {H2595}, and bucklers {H4043}, and shields {H7982}, that had been king {H4428} David's {H1732}, which were in the house {H1004} of God {H430}.

Y'hoyada the cohen issued to the captains of hundreds the spears and the large and small shields that had been King David's and were kept in the house of God.

Then Jehoiada the priest gave to the commanders of hundreds the spears and the large and small shields of King David that were in the house of God.

And Jehoiada the priest delivered to the captains of hundreds the spears, and bucklers, and shields, that had been king David’s, which were in the house of God.

Commentary

2 Chronicles 23:9 describes a critical moment in the restoration of the rightful Davidic king, Joash, to the throne of Judah. Jehoiada the priest, orchestrating a bold coup against the wicked queen Athaliah, arms the loyal captains with ancient and revered weaponry.

Context

This verse is set during a pivotal period in Judah's history, following the usurpation of the throne by Athaliah, the daughter of Ahab and Jezebel, who had slaughtered the royal seed to secure her power (see 2 Chronicles 22:10). Only young Joash, hidden by Jehoiada, survived (2 Chronicles 22:11). After six years, Jehoiada initiates a carefully planned rebellion to crown Joash. Arming the loyal Levites and captains was a crucial step in securing the Temple and ensuring the success of this divinely sanctioned overthrow.

Key Themes

  • Divine Providence and Preservation: The fact that these weapons were "king David's" and had been "in the house of God" highlights God's foresight. For generations, these historic armaments were preserved in the sacred space, ready for the moment they would be needed to restore the legitimate Davidic line. This speaks to God's careful preparation for His purposes.
  • Faithful Leadership: Jehoiada exemplifies courageous and wise leadership. He not only preserved the rightful heir but also meticulously planned and executed a strategic operation to restore God's order in the kingdom. His actions demonstrate unwavering faith and commitment to the Davidic covenant.
  • Restoration of Righteous Rule: The arming of these forces was a prelude to the overthrow of an idolatrous and illegitimate ruler and the re-establishment of a king in line with God's promises to David. It signifies a turning point from wickedness back to righteousness in Judah.
  • Significance of the Temple: The Temple served not only as a place of worship and refuge but also as a strategic repository for important national artifacts and a secure base for this critical operation.

Linguistic Insights

The terms "spears, and bucklers, and shields" refer to standard ancient military equipment. A buckler was typically a smaller, round shield, often used for close combat and deflecting blows, while a shield was larger, offering more comprehensive body protection. Their connection to King David underscores their symbolic value, linking the present struggle to the glorious past of Israel's greatest king.

Practical Application

This verse reminds us that God often prepares resources, even seemingly dormant ones, for specific times of need. It highlights the importance of faithful leadership in times of moral decay, demonstrating that proactive and courageous steps are sometimes necessary to uphold truth and righteousness. Just as Jehoiada used what was available (David's preserved weapons) for a righteous cause, we are called to utilize our gifts and resources for God's purposes, trusting in His overarching plan for restoration and justice.

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Cross-References

  • 2 Samuel 8:7 (2 votes)

    And David took the shields of gold that were on the servants of Hadadezer, and brought them to Jerusalem.

  • 1 Samuel 21:9 (2 votes)

    And the priest said, The sword of Goliath the Philistine, whom thou slewest in the valley of Elah, behold, it [is here] wrapped in a cloth behind the ephod: if thou wilt take that, take [it]: for [there is] no other save that here. And David said, [There is] none like that; give it me.