What does 2 Chronicles 17:17 mean?
"And of Benjamin; Eliada a mighty man of valour, and with him armed men with bow and shield two hundred thousand." - 2 Chronicles 17:17

The verse 2 Chronicles 17:17 from the King James Version of the Bible reads: "And of Benjamin; Eliada a mighty man of valour, and with him armed men with bow and shield two hundred thousand."
2 Chronicles is a book in the Hebrew Bible and the Old Testament of the Christian Bible. It is a part of the historical books, which recount the history of the Israelite monarchy, focusing on the reigns of various kings. This particular verse is part of a passage that describes the organizational and military reforms carried out by King Jehoshaphat of Judah.
In this verse, we are introduced to Eliada, a mighty man of valor from the tribe of Benjamin. He is mentioned along with a large contingent of armed men who were skilled with the bow and shield, totaling two hundred thousand. This verse is part of a larger list of influential figures and their respective military forces, highlighting the strength and might of King Jehoshaphat's kingdom.
One of the themes that can be drawn from this verse is the importance of strength and valor in the context of warfare. In ancient times, military might was a crucial aspect of a king's rule, and the prowess of his warriors was often seen as a reflection of his own power and authority. The mention of Eliada as a mighty man of valor emphasizes the significance of courage and skill in battle, as well as the value placed on individual warriors within the larger military structure.
Furthermore, this verse also highlights the unity and organization within the kingdom of Judah under King Jehoshaphat. The fact that there were two hundred thousand armed men from the tribe of Benjamin alone speaks to the strength and readiness of the kingdom's military forces. It also demonstrates the level of preparation and discipline that was instilled within the army, reflecting the wise and strategic leadership of King Jehoshaphat.
Symbolically, this verse can be seen as a representation of the strength and unity of God's people when they are organized and prepared for battle. In the larger context of the biblical narrative, the Israelites often faced external threats and conflicts, and having a strong and well-equipped army was essential for their survival and prosperity. This verse can be interpreted as a testament to the importance of being spiritually and mentally prepared for the challenges and struggles that come with living a faithful life.
From a historical and contextual perspective, this verse provides valuable insight into the military prowess and organization of the kingdom of Judah during the reign of King Jehoshaphat. It offers a glimpse into the power and influence of Judah at that time, as well as the level of preparation and readiness that existed within its military forces.
In conclusion, 2 Chronicles 17:17 is a verse that emphasizes the significance of strength, valor, and organization within the military forces of King Jehoshaphat's kingdom. It underscores the importance of courage and skill in battle, as well as the unity and preparedness of God's people. Through its themes of strength, unity, and preparation, this verse offers valuable insights into the historical and spiritual significance of the passage, providing lessons that are relevant for believers today.
Have questions about 2 Chronicles 17:17?
Dive deeper into this scripture with Bible Chat — an AI-powered tool for exploring God's Word through conversation. Ask questions, get context, and grow in your understanding of the Bible.
Get Our Apps
2 Chronicles 17:17 Artwork
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."
"And of Benjamin; Eliada a mighty man of valour, and with him armed men with bow and shield two hundred thousand." - 2 Chronicles 17:17
2 Chronicles 23:17
2 Chronicles 23:17
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 17:12 - "¶ And Jehoshaphat waxed great exceedingly; and he built in Judah castles, and cities of store."
2 Chronicles 8:17 - "¶ Then went Solomon to Ezion-geber, and to Eloth, at the sea side in the land of Edom."
2 Chronicles 10:17 - "But as for the children of Israel that dwelt in the cities of Judah, Rehoboam reigned over them."
2 Chronicles 9:17 - "Moreover the king made a great throne of ivory, and overlaid it with pure gold."
2 Chronicles 28:17 - "For again the Edomites had come and smitten Judah, and carried away captives."
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."
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."
2 Chronicles 17:19 - "These waited on the king, beside those whom the king put in the fenced cities throughout all Judah."
2 Chronicles 26:17 - "And Azariah the priest went in after him, and with him fourscore priests of the LORD, that were valiant men:"
2 Chronicles 4:17 - "In the plain of Jordan did the king cast them, in the clay ground between Succoth and Zeredathah."
2 Chronicles 31:17 - "Both to the genealogy of the priests by the house of their fathers, and the Levites from twenty years old and upward, in their charges by their courses;"
2 Chronicles 17:13 - "And he had much business in the cities of Judah: and the men of war, mighty men of valour, were in Jerusalem."
2 Chronicles 33:17 - "Nevertheless the people did sacrifice still in the high places, yet unto the LORD their God only."
2 Chronicles 35:17 - "And the children of Israel that were present kept the passover at that time, and the feast of unleavened bread seven days."
2 Chronicles 15:17 - "But the high places were not taken away out of Israel: nevertheless the heart of Asa was perfect all his days."
2 Chronicles 34:17 - "And they have gathered together the money that was found in the house of the LORD, and have delivered it into the hand of the overseers, and to the hand of the workmen."
2 Chronicles 17:3 - "And the LORD was with Jehoshaphat, because he walked in the first ways of his father David, and sought not unto Baalim;"
2 Chronicles 17:9 - "And they taught in Judah, and had the book of the law of the LORD with them, and went about throughout all the cities of Judah, and taught the people."
2 Chronicles 18:17 - "And the king of Israel said to Jehoshaphat, Did I not tell thee that he would not prophesy good unto me, but evil?"
2 Chronicles 24:17 - "Now after the death of Jehoiada came the princes of Judah, and made obeisance to the king. Then the king hearkened unto them."
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."
2 Chronicles 17:5 - "Therefore the LORD stablished the kingdom in his hand; and all Judah brought to Jehoshaphat presents; and he had riches and honour in abundance."