Topical Encyclopedia In the context of biblical narratives, the term "captain of a hundred" refers to a military officer responsible for commanding a unit of one hundred soldiers. This rank is mentioned in various passages throughout the Old Testament, illustrating the military organization and hierarchy within ancient Israel and neighboring nations. The role of a captain of a hundred was significant, as it involved leadership, strategy, and the welfare of the soldiers under their command.One notable mention of a captain of a hundred is found in 2 Kings 11:4, where Jehoiada the priest orchestrates a coup to protect and establish Joash as king. The verse states: "In the seventh year, Jehoiada sent for the commanders of hundreds, the Carites, and the guards. He had them come to him in the house of the LORD, where he made a covenant with them and put them under oath. Then he showed them the king’s son" . Here, the captains of hundreds play a crucial role in the successful overthrow of Athaliah and the enthronement of Joash, demonstrating their influence and importance in the political and military spheres. The position of a captain of a hundred is also seen in the context of King Saul's reign. In 1 Samuel 22:7, Saul addresses his servants, including the captains of hundreds, expressing his paranoia and suspicion: "Then Saul said to his servants who stood around him, 'Hear now, O Benjamites! Will the son of Jesse give every one of you fields and vineyards? Will he make you all commanders of thousands and commanders of hundreds?'" . This passage highlights the hierarchical structure within Saul's army and the potential for advancement based on loyalty and service. In the New Testament, while the specific term "captain of a hundred" is not used, the concept of centurions, who were Roman officers commanding a hundred soldiers, is prevalent. These centurions often appear in the Gospels and Acts, sometimes demonstrating faith and respect for Jesus and His followers. For instance, in Matthew 8:5-13, a centurion approaches Jesus, seeking healing for his servant. Jesus commends the centurion's faith, saying, "Truly I tell you, I have not found anyone in Israel with such great faith" (Matthew 8:10). The role of a captain of a hundred, whether in the Israelite or Roman context, underscores the importance of leadership, authority, and responsibility within military structures. These individuals were pivotal in executing military strategies, maintaining order, and influencing the course of events in biblical history. Their presence in the biblical narrative serves as a reminder of the intricate interplay between faith, leadership, and divine providence. Nave's Topical Index 2 Chronicles 23:1And in the seventh year Jehoiada strengthened himself, and took the captains of hundreds, Azariah the son of Jeroham, and Ishmael the son of Jehohanan, and Azariah the son of Obed, and Maaseiah the son of Adaiah, and Elishaphat the son of Zichri, into covenant with him. Nave's Topical Index Library Appendix Man Proposes, God Disposes Chapter xxvi Providence On a Piece of Chalk. A Lecture to Working Men. Chapter xv The Breach with Gregory of Nazianzus. La Brea The Vanguard and Rereward of the Church Chapter xxi Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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