What does 2 Chronicles 17:14 mean?
"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 17:14

The verse 2 Chronicles 17:14 from the King James Version of the Bible reads, "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." This verse is part of a larger passage that details the military organization and might of Judah under the rule of King Jehoshaphat.
In order to understand the full meaning and commentary of this verse, it is important to provide some context. The book of 2 Chronicles is a historical account of the kings of Judah, the southern kingdom of the divided Israel. King Jehoshaphat ruled Judah for 25 years, and during his reign, he sought to strengthen the kingdom through military and spiritual means. This verse comes at a time when Jehoshaphat is organizing the military forces of Judah in preparation for potential conflicts.
The verse begins by detailing the numbers of the captains of thousands in Judah, with Adnah being named as the chief captain. The mention of the "house of their fathers" refers to the ancestral lineage and tribal affiliations of the captains, highlighting the importance of family and lineage in ancient Israel. This emphasis on ancestral lines was significant in determining one's standing and role within the community, especially in matters of leadership and military command.
The verse then goes on to emphasize the strength and valor of the warriors in Judah, with "mighty men of valor" numbering three hundred thousand. This demonstrates the significant military might and prowess of Judah under Jehoshaphat's rule. These soldiers were not only numerous but also brave and courageous, ready to defend their kingdom and its people.
From a thematic perspective, this verse highlights the importance of organization, leadership, and strength in the face of potential conflict. King Jehoshaphat understood the need for a strong and well-organized military force to protect his kingdom against external threats. This theme of preparedness and strength in the face of adversity is a recurring motif throughout the Bible, emphasizing the importance of being ready for spiritual and physical battles.
Symbolically, this verse represents the idea of standing ready and being prepared for the challenges and conflicts that may arise in life. The captains of thousands and the mighty men of valor symbolize the need for strong and capable leadership, as well as a courageous and resilient spirit. This can be applied to individuals in their personal lives, emphasizing the importance of being mentally, emotionally, and spiritually prepared to face difficulties and opposition.
In conclusion, 2 Chronicles 17:14 provides a detailed account of the military organization and strength of Judah under King Jehoshaphat. This verse emphasizes the importance of leadership, organization, and strength in the face of potential conflict, with a symbolic message of being prepared for the challenges of life. Within the larger context of the Bible, this verse serves as a reminder of the need to be spiritually and mentally prepared for the battles and struggles that may come our way.
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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."
"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 17:14
2 Chronicles 23:17
2 Chronicles 23:17
2 chronicles 7:14
2 chronicles 7:14
1 Chronicles 14:17 - "And the fame of David went out into all lands; and the LORD brought the fear of him upon all nations."
1 Chronicles 17:14 - "But I will settle him in mine house and in my kingdom for ever: and his throne shall be established for evermore."
1 Chronicles 2:14 - "Nethaneel the fourth, Raddai the fifth,"
2 Chronicles 17:17 - "And of Benjamin; Eliada a mighty man of valour, and with him armed men with bow and shield two hundred thousand."
2 Chronicles 14:2 - "And Asa did that which was good and right in the eyes of the LORD his God:"
1 Chronicles 2:17 - "And Abigail bare Amasa: and the father of Amasa was Jether the Ishmeelite."
2 Chronicles 17:15 - "And next to him was Jehohanan the captain, and with him two hundred and fourscore thousand."
2 Chronicles 8:17 - "¶ Then went Solomon to Ezion-geber, and to Eloth, at the sea side in the land of Edom."
2 Chronicles 9:17 - "Moreover the king made a great throne of ivory, and overlaid it with pure gold."
2 Chronicles 10:17 - "But as for the children of Israel that dwelt in the cities of Judah, Rehoboam reigned over them."
2 Chronicles 28:17 - "For again the Edomites had come and smitten Judah, and carried away captives."
2 Chronicles 17:12 - "¶ And Jehoshaphat waxed great exceedingly; and he built in Judah castles, and cities of store."
2 Kings 14:18 - "And the rest of the acts of Amaziah, are they not written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Judah?"
2 Chronicles 29:14 - "And of the sons of Heman; Jehiel, and Shimei: and of the sons of Jeduthun; Shemaiah, and Uzziel."
2 Chronicles 15:14 - "And they sware unto the LORD with a loud voice, and with shouting, and with trumpets, and with cornets."
1 Chronicles 17:2 - "Then Nathan said unto David, Do all that is in thine heart; for God is with thee."
2 Chronicles 17:18 - "And next him was Jehozabad, and with him an hundred and fourscore thousand ready prepared for the war."
2 Chronicles 17:1 - "And Jehoshaphat his son reigned in his stead, and strengthened himself against Israel."
Humble ourselves and pray 2 Chronicles 7:14
2 Chronicles 17:4 - "But sought to the LORD God of his father, and walked in his commandments, and not after the doings of Israel."
2 Chronicles 4:14 - "He made also bases, and lavers made he upon the bases;"
2 Chronicles 14:4 - "And commanded Judah to seek the LORD God of their fathers, and to do the law and the commandment."
2 Chronicles 14:14 - "And they smote all the cities round about Gerar; for the fear of the LORD came upon them: and they spoiled all the cities; for there was exceeding much spoil in them."
2 Chronicles 4:17 - "In the plain of Jordan did the king cast them, in the clay ground between Succoth and Zeredathah."