Jehoshaphat Strengthens Judah and Reforms Justice
2 Chronicles 17:1-19
2 C.17.1 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- וימלך: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- יהושפט: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- בנו: NOUN,m,sg,abs+3ms
- תחתיו: PREP+PRON,3,m,sg
- ויתחזק: VERB,hitp,impf,3,m,sg
- על: PREP
- ישראל: NOUN,m,sg,abs
Parallels
- 1 Kings 22:41 (structural): Parallel royal summary: introduces Jehoshaphat son of Asa as king of Judah and functions as the corresponding opening statement to the account found in 2 Chronicles 17:1.
- 1 Kings 22:42–43 (verbal): Gives the same evaluation of Jehoshaphat’s reign (walking in the ways of Asa, removal of Asherah poles but not all high places), paralleling the character and reforms described around 2 Chronicles 17.
- 2 Chronicles 17:3–6 (verbal): Immediate continuation in the same chapter that develops the statement of verse 1—describing how Jehoshaphat strengthened himself, sought God, and enacted religious and administrative reforms.
- 2 Chronicles 20:31 (thematic): Later summary evaluation of Jehoshaphat’s reign that echoes the opening note of his kingship in 2 Chronicles 17:1—affirming his rule and the general assessment of his faithfulness and strength as king.
Alternative generated candidates
- And Jehoshaphat his son reigned in his place, and he strengthened himself over Israel.
- And Jehoshaphat his son reigned in his place, and he strengthened himself against Israel.
2 C.17.2 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ויתן: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- חיל: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- בכל: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ערי: NOUN,f,pl,cons
- יהודה: NOUN,m,sg,prop
- הבצרות: NOUN,f,pl,def
- ויתן: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- נציבים: NOUN,m,pl,abs
- בארץ: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,def
- יהודה: NOUN,m,sg,prop
- ובערי: CONJ+PREP+NOUN,f,pl,cons
- אפרים: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- אשר: PRON,rel
- לכד: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- אסא: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- אביו: NOUN,m,sg,abs+3,m,sg
Parallels
- 2 Chr 14:6 (verbal): Asa’s earlier program of building and fortifying cities in Judah uses similar vocabulary and idea of strengthening the land by fortifications.
- 2 Chr 11:5-12 (thematic): Rehoboam’s building and garrisoning of fortified towns (setting commanders/captains and provisions) parallels the policy of placing garrisons to secure territory.
- 1 Kgs 22:41-50 (structural): The parallel account of Jehoshaphat in Kings provides the same kingly framework; Chronicles here adds detail (fortified cities and garrisons) to the Kings narrative.
- 2 Chr 8:2 (thematic): Solomon’s construction and provisioning of fortified/store cities reflects the recurring royal practice of establishing fortified centers and garrisons to control the land.
Alternative generated candidates
- He put forces in all the fortified cities of Judah, and he appointed commanders in the land of Judah and in the fortified cities of Ephraim that Asa his father had captured.
- He fortified the fortified cities of Judah and placed garrisons throughout the land of Judah and in the cities of Ephraim that Asa his father had taken.
2 C.17.3 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ויהי: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,sg
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- עם: PREP
- יהושפט: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- כי: CONJ
- הלך: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- בדרכי: PREP+NOUN,f,pl,cstr+1s
- דויד: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- אביו: NOUN,m,sg,abs+3,m,sg
- הראשנים: ADJ,m,pl,def
- ולא: CONJ
- דרש: VERB,qal,ptc,ms,sg
- לבעלים: PREP+NOUN,m,pl,abs
Parallels
- 1 Kings 22:41-43 (structural): Parallel account of Jehoshaphat’s reign in the book of Kings that gives a similar evaluation—Jehoshaphat’s faithful conduct and God’s favor are reported in the Kings narrative alongside Chronicles.
- 2 Kings 18:3 (verbal): Hezekiah is described with the same formula—‘did what was right in the sight of the LORD, like David his father’—linking Davidic imitation to divine approval.
- 2 Kings 22:2 (verbal): Josiah is likewise said to ‘walk in the ways of his father David’ and to seek the LORD; the same Davidic‑pattern language explains why God is with a king.
- 2 Chronicles 17:6 (structural): Immediate parallel within Chronicles: the chapter continues to explain Jehoshaphat’s success (his courage, reforms and God’s help) as the outcome of walking in the LORD’s ways and not seeking Baals.
Alternative generated candidates
- The LORD was with Jehoshaphat because he walked in the earlier ways of his father David, and he did not seek the Baals.
- The LORD was with Jehoshaphat, for he walked in the earlier ways of his father David and did not seek the Baals.
2 C.17.4 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- כי: CONJ
- לאלהי: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,const
- אביו: NOUN,m,sg,abs+3,m,sg
- דרש: VERB,qal,ptc,ms,sg
- ובמצותיו: CONJ,PREP,NOUN,f,pl,abs+3ms
- הלך: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- ולא: CONJ
- כמעשה: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ישראל: NOUN,m,sg,abs
Parallels
- 1 Kings 22:43 (verbal): Parallel account of Jehoshaphat in Kings: he 'walked in all the ways of Asa his father' and did not follow the practices of Israel — close verbal/thematic overlap with Chronicles' statement that he sought his father's God and walked in his commandments.
- 2 Chronicles 17:3 (structural): Immediate contextual parallel within Chronicles: verse 3 explains that the LORD was with Jehoshaphat because he walked in the ways of the LORD, reinforcing 17:4's claim that he sought God and kept his commandments.
- 2 Chronicles 14:2 (thematic): Asa is described as doing what was right 'as did David his father' and removing foreign high places — a similar theme of a Judean king following the faith of his forefather rather than the practices of Israel.
- 1 Kings 3:3 (thematic): Solomon is said to 'love the LORD, walking in the statutes of David his father' — a parallel theme of a king seeking and following the God and commandments associated with his father.
Alternative generated candidates
- He sought the God of his father and walked in his commandments, and did not follow the practices of Israel.
- He sought the God of his father and walked in his commandments; he did not act like the people of Israel.
2 C.17.5 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ויכן: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- את: PRT,acc
- הממלכה: NOUN,f,sg,def
- בידו: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs+3,m,sg
- ויתנו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- כל: DET
- יהודה: NOUN,m,sg,prop
- מנחה: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- ליהושפט: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ויהי: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,sg
- לו: PRON,3,m,sg
- עשר: NUM,card,m,sg,cons
- וכבוד: CONJ+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- לרב: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
Parallels
- 1 Kings 22:44 (verbal): Parallel regnal summary of Jehoshaphat in the Deuteronomistic history: similar wording about Jehoshaphat's wealth and honor and the peoples' tribute; Chronicles often rewrites material found in Kings.
- 2 Samuel 5:10 (thematic): Theme of the LORD granting success and establishing a king: David 'became greater and greater, for the LORD of hosts was with him,' echoing Chronicles’ claim that God established the kingdom in the king’s hand.
- Psalm 89:20–21 (allusion): God’s act of choosing and establishing a king (Davidic promise): 'I have found David my servant... my hand shall be established with him,' thematically parallel to the claim that the LORD established Jehoshaphat’s kingdom.
Alternative generated candidates
- So the LORD established the kingdom in his hand; all Judah brought tribute to Jehoshaphat, and he had abundant riches and honor.
- So the LORD established the kingdom in his hand, and all Judah brought tribute to Jehoshaphat; and he had great riches and honor.
2 C.17.6 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ויגבה: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- לבו: NOUN,m,sg,abs+PRON,3,m,sg
- בדרכי: PREP+NOUN,f,pl,cstr+1s
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- ועוד: CONJ
- הסיר: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- את: PRT,acc
- הבמות: NOUN,f,pl,def
- ואת: CONJ
- האשרים: NOUN,f,pl,def
- מיהודה: PREP+NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
Parallels
- Deuteronomy 12:2-3 (thematic): The Deuteronomic command to destroy high places and cut down Asherah poles provides the legal/ theological basis for removing local cultic sites, which Jehoshaphat implements.
- 2 Chronicles 14:3 (verbal): Asa's reform language—'removed the high places... and cut down the Asherah poles'—echoes Jehoshaphat's action in purging Judah of cultic sites.
- 2 Kings 18:4 (verbal): Hezekiah is described as removing high places and Asherah poles; a near-verbatim portrayal of royal cultic reform like that ascribed to Jehoshaphat.
- 2 Chronicles 34:3-4 (verbal): Josiah likewise 'removed the high places and smashed the sacred stones and cut down the Asherah poles,' a later renewal that parallels Jehoshaphat's centralizing religious reforms.
Alternative generated candidates
- His heart was lifted up in the ways of the LORD, and he moreover removed the high places and the Asherim from Judah.
- His heart was courageous in the ways of the LORD; moreover he removed the high places and the Asherim from Judah.
2 C.17.7 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ובשנת: NOUN,f,sg,cs
- שלוש: NUM,f,sg,abs
- למלכו: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs+3,m,sg
- שלח: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- לשריו: PREP+NOUN,m,pl,abs+PRON,3,m,sg
- לבן: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- חיל: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ולעבדיה: CONJ+PREP,NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ולזכריה: CONJ+PREP,NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ולנתנאל: CONJ+PREP,NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ולמיכיהו: CONJ+PREP,NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ללמד: PREP+VERB,qal,inf
- בערי: PREP+NOUN,f,pl,const
- יהודה: NOUN,m,sg,prop
Parallels
- 2 Chronicles 17:9 (verbal): Immediate continuation of the same action—names the Levites and priests whom Jehoshaphat sent to teach throughout Judah, expanding on v.7.
- 2 Chronicles 19:4-11 (thematic): Later in Jehoshaphat’s reign he appoints judges and charges them to fear the LORD and judge rightly—similar administrative reform and concern for legal/teaching order in the land.
- Nehemiah 8:7-8 (thematic): Levites and teachers explain the Law to the people in public assemblies—parallel practice of sending qualified instructors to teach the people the statutes and ordinances.
- Ezra 7:25-26 (structural): Artaxerxes authorizes Ezra to appoint magistrates and judges to administer and teach the Law in the provinces—comparable to sending officials to teach and enforce the law in Judah’s towns.
- Deuteronomy 17:18-20 (thematic): Instruction that the king write out and read the law all his days emphasizes royal responsibility for the instruction of the people—background principle for a king sending teachers into the cities.
Alternative generated candidates
- In the third year of his reign he sent to his princes—Ben‑Hail, Obadiah, Zechariah, Nethanel, and Michaiah—to teach in the cities of Judah.
- In the third year of his reign he sent to his princes—Ben‑hail, Obadiah, Zechariah, Nethanel, and Micaiah—to teach in the cities of Judah.
2 C.17.8 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ועמהם: PREP
- הלוים: NOUN,m,pl,def
- שמעיהו: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- ונתניהו: CONJ+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- וזבדיהו: CONJ+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ועשהאל: CONJ+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ושמירמות: CONJ+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ויהונתן: CONJ+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ואדניהו: CONJ+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- וטוביהו: CONJ+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- וטוב: CONJ+ADJ,m,sg
- אדוניה: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- הלוים: NOUN,m,pl,def
- ועמהם: PREP
- אלישמע: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ויהורם: CONJ+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- הכהנים: NOUN,m,pl,def
Parallels
- 2 Chronicles 17:7 (verbal): Immediately precedes v.8 and introduces the Levites and priests whom Jehoshaphat set to teach in the cities of Judah; v.8 continues the roster.
- 2 Chronicles 17:9 (verbal): Follows v.8 and names the priests Elishama and Jehoram who accompanied the Levites; part of the same catalogic unit.
- Nehemiah 8:7-8 (thematic): Describes Levites and priests reading and explaining the Law to the people — parallels the function of Levites sent out to instruct the people in Judah.
- Ezra 7:6-10 (thematic): Portrays Ezra the priest/scribe who taught the people the Law and established instruction — a later parallel to priestly/Levitical teaching activity.
- 1 Chronicles 23:3-5 (structural): Gives a systematic listing and assignment of Levites by families and duties; structurally parallels Chronicles' practice of naming Levites and assigning religious roles.
Alternative generated candidates
- With them were the Levites Shemaiah, Nethaniah, Zebadiah, Asahel, Shemiramoth, Jehonathan, Adonijah, Tobijah, and Tob‑Adonijah; and with them the priests Elishama and Jehoram.
- And with them were the Levites: Shemaiah, Nethaniah, Zebadiah, Asahel, Shemiramoth, Yehonathan, Adonijah, Tobiah, and Tov‑Adonijah—the Levites; and with them Elishama and Jehoram the priests.
2 C.17.9 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- וילמדו: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,pl
- ביהודה: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ועמהם: PREP
- ספר: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- תורת: NOUN,f,sg,cons
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- ויסבו: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,pl
- בכל: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ערי: NOUN,f,pl,cons
- יהודה: NOUN,m,sg,prop
- וילמדו: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,pl
- בעם: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,def
Parallels
- Ezra 7:10 (verbal): Ezra's stated purpose is to 'study the law of the LORD and to do it and to teach statutes and ordinances in Israel,' closely paralleling Chronicles' emphasis on sending teachers who carried and taught the book of the law.
- Nehemiah 8:1-8 (structural): Public reading and explanation of the Law to the people (Ezra and the Levites standing and giving the sense) parallels Jehoshaphat’s sending of instructors to read/teach throughout the cities.
- Deuteronomy 31:10-13 (allusion): Mosaic injunction that the law be read aloud to all Israel (at appointed times) provides the legal-theological precedent for sending teachers to ensure the people hear and learn the law.
- 2 Kings 23:1-3 (thematic): Josiah gathers all Judah, reads the book of the covenant, and renews the people’s obligation to the law—a later, larger-scale instance of public instruction and covenantal teaching like Jehoshaphat’s mission.
Alternative generated candidates
- They taught in Judah, and with them was the book of the law of the LORD; they went about through all the cities of Judah and taught the people.
- They taught in Judah, and the book of the law of the LORD was with them; they went about through all the cities of Judah and taught the people.
2 C.17.10 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ויהי: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,sg
- פחד: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- על: PREP
- כל: DET
- ממלכות: NOUN,f,pl,cs
- הארצות: NOUN,f,pl,def
- אשר: PRON,rel
- סביבות: NOUN,f,pl,abs
- יהודה: NOUN,m,sg,prop
- ולא: CONJ
- נלחמו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- עם: PREP
- יהושפט: NOUN,m,sg,abs
Parallels
- 2Chr.20.29 (verbal): Nearly identical wording and thought: after the LORD’s deliverance the fear of God falls on surrounding kingdoms and they make no war against Jehoshaphat (repetition of the same consequence).
- 1 Kgs.22:41-50 (structural): Parallel summary of Jehoshaphat’s reign in Kings; both accounts emphasize his prosperous, secure rule and absence of hostile attacks from neighboring states.
- 2Chr.14:11-13 (thematic): Asa’s earlier deliverance: God defeats enemies and fear falls on surrounding peoples, producing security for Judah—same theme of divine protection leading to neighboring nations’ reluctance to fight.
- Exod.15:14-16 (thematic): After the exodus victory, surrounding peoples are seized with terror at God’s power; thematically parallels the motif that God’s acts inspire fear among neighboring nations, preventing hostile action.
Alternative generated candidates
- The fear of the LORD fell on all the kingdoms of the lands that were round about Judah, so that they made no war against Jehoshaphat.
- The fear of the LORD fell on all the kingdoms of the lands that were around Judah, so that they did not make war against Jehoshaphat.
2 C.17.11 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ומן: CONJ+PREP
- פלשתים: NOUN,m,pl,cstr
- מביאים: VERB,hif,ptc,3,m,pl
- ליהושפט: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- מנחה: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- וכסף: CONJ+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- משא: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- גם: ADV
- הערביאים: NOUN,m,pl,def
- מביאים: VERB,hif,ptc,3,m,pl
- לו: PRON,3,m,sg
- צאן: NOUN,m,pl,abs
- אילים: NOUN,m,pl,abs
- שבעת: NUM,card,construct
- אלפים: NOUN,m,pl,abs
- ושבע: NUM,m,sg,abs
- מאות: NOUN,f,pl,abs
- ותישים: CONJ+NUM,m,pl,abs
- שבעת: NUM,card,construct
- אלפים: NOUN,m,pl,abs
- ושבע: NUM,m,sg,abs
- מאות: NOUN,f,pl,abs
Parallels
- 1 Kings 22:48 (verbal): Parallel narrative in the Deuteronomistic history about Jehoshaphat's wealth and prestige; Chronicles frequently expands the brief notice found in Kings.
- 2 Chronicles 17:12 (structural): Immediate continuation in the same chapter: the gifts and tribute described in v.11 are tied directly to Jehoshaphat's subsequent prosperity and building activity.
- 2 Samuel 8:10-11 (thematic): After military success foreign rulers send delegations with gifts to the Israelite king (Toi of Hamath sending gifts to David), a comparable motif of tribute and recognition.
- 1 Kings 10:2 (thematic): The queen of Sheba brings abundant gifts to Solomon—another example of foreign rulers presenting valuable tribute to an Israelite king, illustrating the same diplomatic/tribute practice.
- Psalm 72:10-11 (thematic): Royal oracle envisioning foreign kings bringing presents and bowing before the king; a theological motif parallel to the historical note of surrounding peoples bringing gifts to Israel's ruler.
Alternative generated candidates
- Some of the Philistines also brought Jehoshaphat presents and tribute; and the Arabians brought him flocks—seven thousand rams and seven thousand he‑goats.
- Some of the Philistines also brought Jehoshaphat presents and silver; and the Arabians brought him flocks—seven thousand rams and seven thousand he‑goats.
2 C.17.12 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ויהי: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,sg
- יהושפט: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- הלך: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- וגדל: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- עד: PREP
- למעלה: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,abs
- ויבן: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- ביהודה: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- בירניות: NOUN,f,pl,abs
- וערי: NOUN,f,pl,const
- מסכנות: NOUN,f,pl,abs
Parallels
- 1 Kings 22:42-44 (verbal): Parallel account of Jehoshaphat’s reign mentioning that he built cities in Judah and had riches/store-cities; direct narrative overlap with Chronicles.
- 2 Chronicles 14:6 (thematic): Asa’s building and fortifying of cities in Judah — similar royal policy of constructing and strengthening towns in the kingdom.
- 1 Kings 9:15-19 (verbal): Solomon’s construction of cities and “store-cities” (supply towns) provides a close lexical and functional parallel for royal storehouses in Judah.
- 2 Chronicles 26:6 (thematic): Uzziah’s building activity in Judah (establishing cities/fortifications) echoes the same theme of kings strengthening territorial infrastructure.
Alternative generated candidates
- Jehoshaphat continued to grow greater; he built forts and store cities in Judah.
- Jehoshaphat grew greater and went on building in Judah; he built fortresses and store‑cities.
2 C.17.13 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ומלאכה: CONJ+NOUN,f,sg,abs
- רבה: ADJ,f,sg,abs
- היה: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- לו: PRON,3,m,sg
- בערי: PREP+NOUN,f,pl,const
- יהודה: NOUN,m,sg,prop
- ואנשי: CONJ+NOUN,m,pl,cons
- מלחמה: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- גבורי: NOUN,m,pl,construct
- חיל: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- בירושלם: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,abs
Parallels
- 1 Chr.11:10 (verbal): Lists David’s “mighty men” (gibborim) associated with his rule in Jerusalem — parallels the presence of ‘men of war, mighty men of valor, in Jerusalem.’
- 1 Chr.12:38 (verbal): Uses the phrase ‘men of war’ (anšê milchamah) who came to David; parallels the catalogue-like reference to fighting men in Judah/ Jerusalem.
- 2 Chr.14:7 (thematic): Speaks of peace, building and strengthening cities in Judah under Asa — parallels the activity (‘much work’ / fortification and organization) in the cities of Judah.
- 2 Sam.23:8 (verbal): Introduces the roster of David’s mighty warriors (‘these are the names of the mighty men’) — thematically and verbally related to the reference to ‘mighty men of valor’ in Jerusalem.
Alternative generated candidates
- There was much industry in the cities of Judah; and the men of war, mighty men of valor, were in Jerusalem.
- There was much business in the cities of Judah; and men of war, mighty men of valor, were in Jerusalem.
2 C.17.14 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ואלה: CONJ+DEM,pl,abs
- פקדתם: VERB,qal,perf,2,m,pl
- לבית: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,cns
- אבותיהם: NOUN,m,pl,abs,3,m,pl
- ליהודה: PREP+PN,masc,sg
- שרי: NOUN,m,pl,cs
- אלפים: NOUN,m,pl,abs
- עדנה: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- השר: NOUN,m,sg,def
- ועמו: PREP+3,m,sg
- גבורי: NOUN,m,pl,construct
- חיל: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- שלש: NUM,card,f,sg
- מאות: NOUN,f,pl,abs
- אלף: NUM,m,sg
Parallels
- 2Chr.17.13 (structural): Immediate context — the verse is part of the register of Judah’s military officers and families; v.13–19 form the same administrative/military list.
- 1 Chr.27:25-31 (structural): Davidic parallel: a formal register of military officers and their duties/numbers — same genre of listing commanders and organization of the army.
- 2 Chr.26:11-15 (thematic): Uzziah’s military organization and armaments (officers, weaponry, and troops) — comparable theme of royal military administration and numbers.
- 2 Sam.23:8-39 (verbal): Lists of David’s 'mighty men' (gibborim) — verbal and thematic parallel in the designation and listing of valiant warriors.
- 1 Chr.11:10-47 (verbal): Catalogue of David’s mighty men and their exploits/numbers — another instance of enumerating elite fighters, matching the 'mighty men of valor' motif.
Alternative generated candidates
- These were the commanders of the divisions by their fathers' houses for Judah: the chief of the thousands was Adnah, and with him mighty men of valor, three hundred thousand.
- These are the officers of their ancestral houses in Judah: Adnah the leader, and with him mighty men of valor, three hundred thousand.
2 C.17.15 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ועל: CONJ+PREP
- ידו: NOUN,m,sg,abs+PRON,3,m,sg
- יהוחנן: NOUN,m,sg,abs,prop
- השר: NOUN,m,sg,def
- ועמו: PREP+3,m,sg
- מאתים: NUM,m,pl,abs
- ושמונים: NUM,card,pl,m
- אלף: NUM,m,sg
Parallels
- 2 Chronicles 17:12–14 (structural): Immediate context: the chapter lists Jehoshaphat’s officers and the numbers under their command—verse 15 continues this roster (same structural motif).
- 2 Chronicles 17:5–6 (thematic): Describes Jehoshaphat’s prosperity and strength—provides the background for why he had numerous commanders and large forces (theme of royal power and military organization).
- 1 Chronicles 12:23–38 (thematic): A comparable Old Testament list of leaders and fighting men who served a king (David); parallels the practice of naming captains and their forces.
- 2 Chronicles 14:8–12 (thematic): Account of Asa facing a large invading army and Judah’s military mustering; thematically parallels the presentation of Judah’s military leaders and forces under a king.
Alternative generated candidates
- And with him was Jehohanan the captain, and with him two hundred and eighty thousand.
- And with him Jehohanan the commander, and with him two hundred and eighty thousand.
2 C.17.16 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ועל: CONJ+PREP
- ידו: NOUN,m,sg,abs+PRON,3,m,sg
- עמסיה: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- בן: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- זכרי: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- המתנדב: VERB,qal,ptc,3,m,sg
- ליהוה: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,def
- ועמו: PREP+3,m,sg
- מאתים: NUM,m,pl,abs
- אלף: NUM,m,sg
- גבור: ADJ,m,sg,abs
- חיל: NOUN,m,sg,abs
Parallels
- 2 Chronicles 17:14 (structural): Same chapter’s military summary — lists of commanders and fighting men provide immediate literary context for v.16’s mention of a leader and 200,000 valiant troops.
- 2 Chronicles 25:6–8 (thematic): Amaziah (a related name) musters and organizes large forces (including hiring foreign troops); parallels concerns with troop-raising, leaders named Amaziah/Amasiah, and reliance on military manpower.
- 1 Chronicles 12:1–22 (thematic): Passage describing men who volunteered to join David — parallels the motif of ‘volunteers for the LORD’ and the enlistment of mighty men into Israel’s forces.
- 1 Chronicles 27:1–15 (structural): Systematic listing of the king’s military divisions and commanders; parallels Chronicles’ interest in documenting commanders, troop numbers, and military organization (as in v.16).
Alternative generated candidates
- Under him was Amasiah the son of Zichri, who volunteered himself to the LORD, and with him two hundred thousand mighty men of valor.
- And with him Amasiah the son of Zichri, who volunteered for the LORD, and with him two hundred thousand valiant men.
2 C.17.17 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ומן: CONJ+PREP
- בנימן: NOUN,m,sg,proper
- גבור: ADJ,m,sg,abs
- חיל: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- אלידע: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ועמו: PREP+3,m,sg
- נשקי: NOUN,m,pl,cons
- קשת: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- ומגן: CONJ+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- מאתים: NUM,m,pl,abs
- אלף: NUM,m,sg
Parallels
- 2 Chronicles 17:16 (structural): Immediate parallel within the same chapter — the chapter gives a sequential roll-call of tribal commanders and the numbers of fighting men (verse 16 begins the list continued in v.17).
- 2 Chronicles 17:18 (structural): Another verse in the same roster of tribal levies (continuation of the catalogue of 'mighty men' and their numbers in 2 Chr 17:14–19).
- 1 Chronicles 12:1–22 (thematic): Lists of 'mighty men' from the tribes who served the king (David); thematically parallels the Chronicles' presentation of tribal warriors and named leaders who can bear arms for the kingdom.
- Numbers 1:35–47 (structural): The Mosaic census/muster of the tribes for military service, including the tribe of Benjamin — a structural parallel in purpose (counting and organizing fighting men by tribe).
- Judges 20:14–15 (thematic): Describes the fighting strength of the tribe of Benjamin (numbers and selected warriors) in a martial context — thematically comparable portrayal of Benjamin as a tribe of mighty men.
Alternative generated candidates
- From Benjamin was Eliada, and with him two hundred thousand equipped with bow and shield.
- From Benjamin, Elidad a mighty man of valor, and with him two hundred thousand equipped with bow and shield.
2 C.17.18 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ועל: CONJ+PREP
- ידו: NOUN,m,sg,abs+PRON,3,m,sg
- יהוזבד: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ועמו: PREP+3,m,sg
- מאה: NUM,f,sg,abs
- ושמונים: NUM,card,pl,m
- אלף: NUM,m,sg
- חלוצי: NOUN,m,pl,cons
- צבא: NOUN,m,sg,const
Parallels
- 2 Chronicles 17:16-19 (structural): Immediate context: the chapter continues with a roll of Jehoshaphat’s military officers and the numbers of their troops—this verse is part of that same cataloging of commanders and fighting men.
- 1 Chronicles 12:1–40 (thematic): A broad list of 'mighty men' and the numbers of warriors who joined David; parallels the chronicler’s interest in naming leaders and enumerating military forces (the motif of commanders and troop counts).
- 1 Chronicles 27:1–15 (structural): Detailed organization of David’s army by divisions, captains, and numbers—serves as an analogous administrative/military listing to Chronicles’ catalogue of officers and troop strengths.
- 2 Chronicles 14:8–15 (thematic): Narrative emphasis on military forces and commanders in Judah (Asa’s confrontation with Zerah) provides a thematic parallel in reporting armies, commanders, and the scale of forces in Judahite history.
Alternative generated candidates
- And under him was Jehozabad, and with him one hundred and eighty thousand ready troops.
- And with him Jehozabad, and with him one hundred and eighty thousand ready troops.
2 C.17.19 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- אלה: DEM,pl,abs
- המשרתים: NOUN,m,pl,def
- את: PRT,acc
- המלך: NOUN,m,sg,def
- מלבד: PREP
- אשר: PRON,rel
- נתן: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- המלך: NOUN,m,sg,def
- בערי: PREP+NOUN,f,pl,const
- המבצר: NOUN,m,sg,def
- בכל: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- יהודה: NOUN,m,sg,prop
Parallels
- 1 Kings 22:41-50 (structural): Parallel account of Jehoshaphat's reign — Chronicles' material on his officials, administration and peace corresponds to the summary in 1 Kings.
- 2 Chronicles 19:4-11 (thematic): Jehoshaphat's administrative reforms: appointment of judges and instructions for justice across Judah, echoing the king's establishment of officials and governance.
- 2 Chronicles 11:5-12 (verbal): Rehoboam's fortifying of cities and provisioning/placement of officials and supplies — similar language and practice of stationing persons in fortified towns.
- 2 Samuel 8:6 (thematic): David 'put garrisons' in captured cities — a comparable royal policy of placing troops/officials in fortified places to secure territory.
- 2 Chronicles 8:2-6 (verbal): Solomon's building and fortifying of cities and organization of officials and storehouses, paralleling the Chronicle motif of kings installing personnel in fortified towns.
Alternative generated candidates
- These were those who served the king, besides those whom the king put in the fortified cities throughout Judah.
- These served the king, besides those whom the king set over the fortified cities throughout Judah.
Jehoshaphat his son reigned in his place; and he grew strong in power over Israel.
He stationed forces in all the fortified cities of Judah and set commanders throughout the land of Judah and in the cities of Ephraim that Asa his father had taken.
The LORD was with Jehoshaphat, for he walked in the former ways of his father David and did not seek the Baals.
For he sought the God of his father and walked in his commandments; he did not act like the people of Israel. So the LORD established the kingdom in his hand. All Judah brought tribute to Jehoshaphat, and he had great riches and honor.
His heart was set to follow the ways of the LORD; and he furthermore removed the high places and the Asherim from Judah.
In the third year of his reign he sent to his princes — to Ben‑Hail, to Obadiah, to Zechariah, to Nethanel, and to Michaiah — to teach in the cities of Judah. And with them were the Levites: Shemaiah, Nethaniah, Zebadiah, Asahel, Shemiramoth, Jehonathan, Adnah, Tobiah, and Tob‑Adonijah — the Levites; and with them Elishama and Jehoram the priests.
They taught in Judah, and they had the book of the law of the LORD with them; they went about through all the cities of Judah and taught the people.
The fear of the LORD fell upon all the kingdoms of the lands that were round about Judah, and they made no war against Jehoshaphat.
From the Philistines they brought Jehoshaphat tribute and silver; and from the Arabians they brought flocks — seven thousand seven hundred rams and seven thousand seven hundred male goats.
Jehoshaphat continued to increase; he built fortresses and store‑cities in Judah.
There was much activity in the cities of Judah, and men of war, mighty and valiant, were in Jerusalem.
These are their muster‑rolls by the house of their fathers for Judah: the commanders of thousands — Adnah the leader, and with him three hundred thousand valiant men.
Next to him Jehohanan the commander, and with him two hundred and eighty thousand.
Next to him Amasiah son of Zichri, who volunteered himself to the LORD, and with him two hundred thousand valiant men.
From Benjamin, the valiant Eliada and with him two hundred thousand armed for battle with bow and shield. And next to him Jehozabad, and with him one hundred and eighty thousand ready troops.
These served the king, besides those whom the king had placed in the fortified cities throughout all Judah.