2 Chronicles 17:19
New International Version
These were the men who served the king, besides those he stationed in the fortified cities throughout Judah.

New Living Translation
These were the troops stationed in Jerusalem to serve the king, besides those Jehoshaphat stationed in the fortified towns throughout Judah.

English Standard Version
These were in the service of the king, besides those whom the king had placed in the fortified cities throughout all Judah.

Berean Standard Bible
These were the men who served the king, besides those he stationed in the fortified cities throughout Judah.

King James Bible
These waited on the king, beside those whom the king put in the fenced cities throughout all Judah.

New King James Version
These served the king, besides those the king put in the fortified cities throughout all Judah.

New American Standard Bible
These are the ones who served the king, apart from those whom the king put in the fortified cities throughout Judah.

NASB 1995
These are they who served the king, apart from those whom the king put in the fortified cities through all Judah.

NASB 1977
These are they who served the king, apart from those whom the king put in the fortified cities through all Judah.

Legacy Standard Bible
These are they who attended on the king, apart from those whom the king put in the fortified cities through all Judah.

Amplified Bible
These are the ones who were in the service of the king, besides those he had placed in fortified cities throughout Judah.

Christian Standard Bible
These were the ones who served the king, besides those he stationed in the fortified cities throughout all Judah.

Holman Christian Standard Bible
These were the ones who served the king, besides those he stationed in the fortified cities throughout all Judah.

American Standard Version
These were they that waited on the king, besides those whom the king put in the fortified cities throughout all Judah.

Contemporary English Version
These were the troops who protected the king in Jerusalem, not counting those he had assigned to the fortified cities throughout the country.

English Revised Version
These were they that waited on the king, beside those whom the king put in the fenced cities throughout all Judah.

GOD'S WORD® Translation
These were the men who served the king in addition to those whom the king put in the fortified cities throughout Judah.

Good News Translation
These soldiers served the king in Jerusalem, and in addition he stationed others in the other fortified cities of Judah.

International Standard Version
These men served the king, and there were others whom the king garrisoned inside fortified cities throughout all of Judah.

Majority Standard Bible
These were the men who served the king, besides those he stationed in the fortified cities throughout Judah.

NET Bible
These were the ones who served the king, besides those whom the king placed in the fortified cities throughout Judah.

New Heart English Bible
These were those who waited on the king, besides those whom the king put in the fortified cities throughout all Judah.

Webster's Bible Translation
These waited on the king, besides those whom the king put in the fortified cities throughout all Judah.

World English Bible
These were those who waited on the king, in addition to those whom the king put in the fortified cities throughout all Judah.
Literal Translations
Literal Standard Version
These [are] those serving the king, apart from those whom the king put in the fortress cities in all of Judah.

Young's Literal Translation
These are those serving the king, apart from those whom the king put in the cities of fortress, in all Judah.

Smith's Literal Translation
These serving the king, besides which the king gave in the fortified cities in all Judah.
Catholic Translations
Douay-Rheims Bible
All these were at the hand of the king, beside others, whom he had put in the walled cities, in all Juda.

Catholic Public Domain Version
All these were at the hand of the king, aside from the others, whom he had positioned in the walled cities, in all of Judah.

New American Bible
These attended the king; in addition to those whom the king had stationed in the fortified cities throughout all Judah.

New Revised Standard Version
These were in the service of the king, besides those whom the king had placed in the fortified cities throughout all Judah.
Translations from Aramaic
Lamsa Bible
These were all who served King Jehoshaphat, besides those whom the king put in the fortified cities throughout all the land of Judah.

Peshitta Holy Bible Translated
These were all serving King Yehoshaphat, apart from those whom the King authorized in the cities of power in all the land of Yehuda.
OT Translations
JPS Tanakh 1917
These were they that waited on the king beside those whom the king put in the fortified cities throughout all Judah.

Brenton Septuagint Translation
These were the king's servants besides those whom the king put in the strong cities in all Judea.

Additional Translations ...
Audio Bible



Context
Jehoshaphat Reigns in Judah
18and next to him, Jehozabad, and with him 180,000 armed for battle. 19These were the men who served the king, besides those he stationed in the fortified cities throughout Judah.

Cross References
1 Kings 22:41-43
In the fourth year of Ahab’s reign over Israel, Jehoshaphat son of Asa became king of Judah. / Jehoshaphat was thirty-five years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem twenty-five years. His mother’s name was Azubah daughter of Shilhi. / And Jehoshaphat walked in all the ways of his father Asa; he did not turn away from them, but did what was right in the eyes of the LORD. The high places, however, were not removed; the people still sacrificed and burned incense on the high places.

2 Chronicles 14:8
Asa had an army of 300,000 men from Judah bearing large shields and spears, and 280,000 men from Benjamin bearing small shields and drawing the bow. All these were mighty men of valor.

2 Chronicles 20:31-32
So Jehoshaphat reigned over Judah. He was thirty-five years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem twenty-five years. His mother’s name was Azubah daughter of Shilhi. / And Jehoshaphat walked in the way of his father Asa and did not turn away from it; he did what was right in the eyes of the LORD.

2 Chronicles 15:17
The high places were not removed from Israel, but Asa’s heart was fully devoted all his days.

2 Chronicles 16:9
For the eyes of the LORD roam to and fro over all the earth, to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose hearts are fully devoted to Him. You have acted foolishly in this matter. From now on, therefore, you will be at war.”

2 Chronicles 19:4-5
Jehoshaphat lived in Jerusalem, and once again he went out among the people from Beersheba to the hill country of Ephraim and turned them back to the LORD, the God of their fathers. / He appointed judges in the land, in each of the fortified cities of Judah.

2 Chronicles 20:35-37
Later, Jehoshaphat king of Judah made an alliance with Ahaziah king of Israel, who acted wickedly. / They agreed to make ships to go to Tarshish, and these were built in Ezion-geber. / Then Eliezer son of Dodavahu of Mareshah prophesied against Jehoshaphat, saying, “Because you have allied yourself with Ahaziah, the LORD has destroyed your works.” So the ships were wrecked and were unable to sail to Tarshish.

2 Chronicles 21:1-3
And Jehoshaphat rested with his fathers and was buried with them in the City of David. And his son Jehoram reigned in his place. / Jehoram’s brothers, the sons of Jehoshaphat, were Azariah, Jehiel, Zechariah, Azariah, Michael, and Shephatiah; these were all sons of Jehoshaphat king of Israel. / Their father had given them many gifts of silver and gold and precious things, as well as the fortified cities in Judah; but he gave the kingdom to Jehoram because he was the firstborn.

1 Kings 15:24
And Asa rested with his fathers and was buried with them in the city of his father David, and his son Jehoshaphat reigned in his place.

1 Kings 22:45-46
As for the rest of the acts of Jehoshaphat, along with the might he exercised and how he waged war, are they not written in the Book of the Chronicles of the Kings of Judah? / He banished from the land the male shrine prostitutes who remained from the days of his father Asa.

2 Chronicles 11:1
When Rehoboam arrived in Jerusalem, he mobilized the house of Judah and Benjamin—180,000 chosen warriors—to fight against Israel and restore the kingdom to Rehoboam.

2 Chronicles 12:1
After Rehoboam had established his sovereignty and royal power, he and all Israel with him forsook the Law of the LORD.

2 Chronicles 13:3
Abijah went into battle with an army of 400,000 chosen men, while Jeroboam drew up in formation against him with 800,000 chosen and mighty men of valor.

2 Chronicles 26:11-13
Uzziah had an army ready for battle that went out to war by assigned divisions, as recorded by Jeiel the scribe and Maaseiah the officer under the direction of Hananiah, one of the royal officers. / The total number of family leaders of the mighty men of valor was 2,600. / Under their authority was an army of 307,500 trained for war, a powerful force to support the king against his enemies.

2 Chronicles 27:1-2
Jotham was twenty-five years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem sixteen years. His mother’s name was Jerushah daughter of Zadok. / And he did what was right in the eyes of the LORD, just as his father Uzziah had done. In addition, he did not enter the temple of the LORD. But the people still behaved corruptly.


Treasury of Scripture

These waited on the king, beside those whom the king put in the fenced cities throughout all Judah.

put in

2 Chronicles 17:2,12
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 11:12,23
And in every several city he put shields and spears, and made them exceeding strong, having Judah and Benjamin on his side…

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Addition Apart Besides Cities Fenced Fortified Fortress Judah Placed Served Service Stationed Throughout Towns Waited Waiting Walled
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Addition Apart Besides Cities Fenced Fortified Fortress Judah Placed Served Service Stationed Throughout Towns Waited Waiting Walled
2 Chronicles 17
1. Jehoshaphat, succeeding Asa, reigns well, and prospers
7. He sends Levites with the princes to teach Judah
10. His enemies being terrified by God, some of them bring him presents and tribute
12. His greatness, captains, and armies














These were the men who served the king
This phrase refers to the military forces under King Jehoshaphat's command. Jehoshaphat, the fourth king of Judah, was known for his religious reforms and efforts to strengthen the kingdom militarily and spiritually. The men who served the king were likely part of a well-organized army, reflecting the king's commitment to national security and stability. This military organization can be seen as a continuation of the efforts of previous kings like David and Solomon, who also maintained strong armies. The service to the king can be seen as a type of service to God, as the king was considered God's representative on earth.

besides those he stationed in the fortified cities throughout Judah
This part of the verse highlights Jehoshaphat's strategic military planning. Fortified cities were crucial for defense against invasions, and their mention indicates a network of strongholds throughout Judah. These cities served as military and administrative centers, ensuring the kingdom's security and stability. The practice of stationing troops in fortified cities was common in the ancient Near East, reflecting the geopolitical realities of the time. This strategy is reminiscent of the fortified cities established by Solomon (1 Kings 9:15-19) and Rehoboam (2 Chronicles 11:5-12). The fortified cities also symbolize spiritual fortification, as Jehoshaphat sought to protect his people not only physically but also spiritually by promoting the worship of Yahweh and eliminating idolatry.

Persons / Places / Events
1. King Jehoshaphat
The king of Judah during this time, known for his reforms and efforts to strengthen the kingdom both spiritually and militarily.

2. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, where Jehoshaphat reigned. It was a region with fortified cities that played a crucial role in the defense strategy of the kingdom.

3. Fortified Cities
Strategic locations throughout Judah that were strengthened to protect against invasions and maintain the security of the kingdom.

4. Men Who Served the King
These were the military leaders and soldiers who were directly under the command of King Jehoshaphat, indicating a well-organized and prepared military force.

5. Military Organization
The structure and readiness of the army under Jehoshaphat's leadership, highlighting the importance of preparation and defense.
Teaching Points
Leadership and Responsibility
Jehoshaphat's organization of his military reflects the importance of responsible leadership. Leaders are called to prepare and protect those under their care.

Spiritual and Physical Preparedness
Just as Jehoshaphat fortified cities, Christians are called to fortify their lives with spiritual disciplines, ensuring they are prepared for spiritual battles.

Trust in God’s Sovereignty
While Jehoshaphat prepared militarily, his ultimate trust was in God. Believers should balance practical preparation with faith in God's sovereignty.

Community and Cooperation
The mention of those stationed in fortified cities highlights the importance of community and working together for a common purpose.

Legacy of Faithfulness
Jehoshaphat's actions left a legacy of faithfulness and strength. Christians are encouraged to consider the legacy they are building through their actions and faith.(19) These waited on the king.--Rather, these are they that ministered unto the king, viz., the five generals above named.

Beside those whom the king put in the fenced cities--i.e., the commandants of the fortresses of the kingdom (2Chronicles 11:11; 2Chronicles 11:23). These latter, as well as the generals of the forces, are called the king's "ministers" (m?sh?r?thim)--a word which is not used of service in the field, but implies their presence at court ("in Jerusalem," 2Chronicles 17:13, as the royal staff).

According to the above list, the army of Jehoshaphat was organised in five grand divisions, corresponding perhaps to five territorial divisions of the southern kingdom. The totals are the largest assigned to the two tribes anywhere in the Old Testament; viz., Judah 780,000, and Benjamin 380,000; in all, 1,160,000. At David's census Judah had 500,000 warriors (2Samuel 24:9); and Israel 800,000. Again, in 2Chronicles 14:8, Asa's army consists of 300,000 men of Judah and 280,000 Benjaminites: clearly such an increase as our text indicates is unaccountable. At the same time, it is equally clear that the present numbers are not fortuitous results of clerical errors, for they follow each other in the order of relative strength: Judah, 300,000, 280,000, 200,000; Benjamin, 200,000, 180,000; and they are evidently not independent of the estimates of 2Chronicles 14:8 above quoted. . . .

Verse 19. - These waited; Hebrew, הַמְשָׁרְתִים, plur. piel part. of שָׁרַת. The verse states that this enormous fivefold army, with its five princes (counting, in our corrupt text, one million one hundred and sixty thousand), was the king's Jerusalem standing army, while other separate regiments or bands of troops were spread through all Judah, where they might be most needed for defence.



Parallel Commentaries ...


Hebrew
These were the men
אֵ֖לֶּה (’êl·leh)
Pronoun - common plural
Strong's 428: These, those

who served
הַמְשָׁרְתִ֣ים (ham·šā·rə·ṯîm)
Article | Verb - Piel - Participle - masculine plural
Strong's 8334: To attend as a, menial, worshipper, to contribute to

the king,
הַמֶּ֑לֶךְ (ham·me·leḵ)
Article | Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 4428: A king

besides
מִלְּבַ֞ד (mil·lə·ḇaḏ)
Preposition-m, Preposition-l | Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 905: Separation, a part of the body, branch of a, tree, bar for, carrying, chief of

those
אֲשֶׁר־ (’ă·šer-)
Pronoun - relative
Strong's 834: Who, which, what, that, when, where, how, because, in order that

he
הַמֶּ֛לֶךְ (ham·me·leḵ)
Article | Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 4428: A king

stationed
נָתַ֥ן (nā·ṯan)
Verb - Qal - Perfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 5414: To give, put, set

in the fortified
הַמִּבְצָ֖ר (ham·miḇ·ṣār)
Article | Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 4013: A fortification, castle, fortified city, a defender

cities
בְּעָרֵ֥י (bə·‘ā·rê)
Preposition-b | Noun - feminine plural construct
Strong's 5892: Excitement

throughout
בְּכָל־ (bə·ḵāl)
Preposition-b | Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 3605: The whole, all, any, every

Judah.
יְהוּדָֽה׃ (yə·hū·ḏāh)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 3063: Judah -- 'praised', a son of Jacob, also the southern kingdom, also four Israelites


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OT History: 2 Chronicles 17:19 These were those who waited (2 Chron. 2Ch iiCh ii ch 2 chr 2chr)
2 Chronicles 17:18
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