The term "Captain of the Ward" refers to a position of authority and responsibility within the context of ancient Israel, particularly in relation to the temple and its associated duties. This role is mentioned in the Old Testament, where it is associated with the oversight and protection of sacred spaces and the management of those who served in various capacities.

Biblical References:

1. 2 Kings 11:5-9 : The role of the Captain of the Ward is highlighted during the account of Jehoiada the priest's plan to protect the young king Joash from the usurper Athaliah. Jehoiada commanded the captains of hundreds, including those who were "captains of the guard," to organize shifts and protect the king. The passage states: "He commanded them, 'This is what you are to do: A third of you who come on duty on the Sabbath are to guard the royal palace, a third are to be at the Sur Gate, and a third at the gate behind the guard, who take turns guarding the temple.'"

2. 1 Chronicles 9:11 : This verse mentions Azariah, the son of Hilkiah, as a leader among the priests, indicating a hierarchical structure within the temple service. While not explicitly titled "Captain of the Ward," the verse reflects the organized nature of temple duties: "Azariah son of Hilkiah, the son of Meshullam, the son of Zadok, the son of Meraioth, the son of Ahitub, the chief officer of the house of God."

Role and Responsibilities:

The Captain of the Ward was responsible for the security and orderly conduct of activities within the temple precincts. This included overseeing the guards who protected the temple from any profane intrusion or disturbance. The position required vigilance and a deep sense of duty to ensure that the sanctity of the temple was maintained at all times.

Historical Context:

In ancient Israel, the temple was not only a place of worship but also a symbol of national identity and divine presence. The Captain of the Ward played a crucial role in safeguarding this sacred institution. The position was likely filled by individuals of high integrity and loyalty, often chosen from among the Levites or those with a military background.

Theological Significance:

From a theological perspective, the Captain of the Ward underscores the importance of holiness and reverence in worship. The meticulous care taken to protect the temple reflects the broader biblical theme of God's holiness and the need for His people to approach Him with respect and awe. The role serves as a reminder of the spiritual vigilance required in the life of faith, guarding against anything that might defile or disrupt one's relationship with God.

Application for Today:

While the specific role of Captain of the Ward is not present in contemporary Christian practice, the principles of stewardship, vigilance, and reverence remain relevant. Believers are called to guard their hearts and communities, ensuring that their worship and service are conducted in a manner that honors God. The legacy of the Captain of the Ward invites Christians to consider how they can contribute to the spiritual well-being and protection of their faith communities.Jeremiah 37:13
And when he was in the gate of Benjamin, a captain of the ward was there, whose name was Irijah, the son of Shelemiah, the son of Hananiah; and he took Jeremiah the prophet, saying, You fall away to the Chaldeans.
Nave's Topical Index

The World's Wages to a Prophet
... And when he was in the gate of Benjamin, a captain of the ward was there, whose
name was Irijah, the son of Shelemiah, the son of Hananiah; and he took ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture h/the worlds wages to a.htm

I Will Pray with the Spirit and with the Understanding Also-
... were placed, by order of Diabolous, "the Lord Will-be-will, who made one old Mr.
Prejudice, an angry and ill-conditioned fellow, captain of that ward, and put ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/i will pray with the.htm

Goodness in a Dungeon
... And he put them in ward in the house of the captain of the guard, into the
prison, the place where Joseph was bound. And the captain ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture k/goodness in a dungeon.htm

Joseph and his Brethren
... And he put them in ward in the house of the captain of the guard, into the
prison, the place where Joseph was bound. And the captain ...
/.../select masterpieces of biblical literature/i joseph and his brethren.htm

Unexpected Orders
... to remain at the garrison because of the tender love Staff-Captain Lee expended
on ... call to service, and, at the request of the Sister of the ward Kate occupied ...
/.../carpenter/the angel adjutant of twice born men/xvi unexpected orders.htm

The Life of Mr. Andrew Duncan.
... which account he was in a few days after, apprehended by the captain of the guards,
and brought before the council, who accused him for breaking ward, after he ...
/.../howie/biographia scoticana scots worthies/the life of mr andrew 2.htm

The Fort Sumter Expedition
... along, or William Lloyd Garrison and Senator Wilson together, Henry Ward Beecher
and ... Passing a pilot boat, the captain shouted, "What's the news?" The reply ...
/.../griswold/sixty years with plymouth church/the fort sumter expedition.htm

Pagans.
... Mr. Ward, a distinguished missionary, was present at the worship of the goddess
Doorga ... adorned with a splendor proportioned to the wealth of the captain of the ...
//christianbookshelf.org/hayward/the book of religions/pagans.htm

Chapter xl
... The captain of the bodyguard may have reckoned from the very outset with the
possibility ... he asked these eunuchs of Pharaoh which were with him in ward in his ...
//christianbookshelf.org/leupold/exposition of genesis volume 1/chapter xl.htm

The New Crusade --Serampore and the Brotherhood
... Before arriving within the limits of the port of Calcutta Captain Wickes sent ... Ward's
journal thus simply tells the story of the landing of the missionaries at ...
/.../smith/the life of william carey/chapter v the new crusadeserampore.htm

What was the Great Disappointment? | GotQuestions.org

How long was Joseph in prison? | GotQuestions.org

Who was Adonijah in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

Captain: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

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