Topical Bible: Kings: Officers of Captain of the Host

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Topical Encyclopedia

In the biblical context, the term "Captain of the Host" refers to a high-ranking military officer, often serving directly under the king, responsible for leading the army and executing military strategies. This position was crucial in the ancient Israelite monarchy, as it was a time when military prowess was essential for the survival and expansion of the nation.

Biblical References and Roles

The role of the Captain of the Host is mentioned several times throughout the Old Testament, highlighting its significance in the governance and military operations of Israel. One of the most notable figures to hold this position was Joab, the nephew of King David. Joab's military leadership is chronicled extensively in the books of Samuel and Chronicles. In 2 Samuel 8:16 , it is stated, "Joab son of Zeruiah was over the army," indicating his role as the chief military officer during David's reign.

Another prominent Captain of the Host was Abner, who served under King Saul. Abner's influence extended beyond military matters, as he played a pivotal role in the political dynamics following Saul's death, as seen in 2 Samuel 2:8 : "Meanwhile, Abner son of Ner, the commander of Saul’s army, had taken Saul’s son Ish-bosheth and brought him over to Mahanaim."

Duties and Responsibilities

The Captain of the Host was responsible for organizing and leading the army into battle, making strategic decisions, and ensuring the security of the nation. This role required not only military acumen but also loyalty to the king and the ability to inspire and command respect from the troops. The Captain of the Host often acted as an advisor to the king on military matters and sometimes on political issues, as seen in the interactions between Joab and King David.

Significance in Israelite Society

The position of Captain of the Host was not merely a military appointment but also a symbol of the king's power and authority. The effectiveness of the Captain of the Host could directly impact the stability and prosperity of the kingdom. As such, the role was often filled by individuals with proven loyalty and capability, sometimes from the king's own family or close associates.

Spiritual and Theological Implications

From a theological perspective, the role of the Captain of the Host can be seen as a reflection of God's sovereignty and the divine order established for the governance of His people. The successes and failures of these military leaders often served as a testament to the faithfulness of Israel to God's commandments. When the Captains of the Host acted in accordance with God's will, Israel experienced victory and peace. Conversely, when they deviated from divine guidance, the nation faced turmoil and defeat.

In summary, the Captain of the Host was a vital position within the Israelite monarchy, embodying both military leadership and a reflection of divine order. Through figures like Joab and Abner, the Bible illustrates the complexities and responsibilities associated with this role, emphasizing its importance in the historical and spiritual narrative of Israel.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

2 Samuel 8:16
And Joab the son of Zeruiah was over the host; and Jehoshaphat the son of Ahilud was recorder;
Torrey's Topical Textbook

1 Kings 4:4
And Benaiah the son of Jehoiada was over the host: and Zadok and Abiathar were the priests:
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

That David Made Great Preparations for the House of God; and That ...
... they were in disorder; and Joab the captain of the ... of God, and of the donations which
the kings dedicated. ... When David had ordered all these officers after the ...
/.../josephus/the antiquities of the jews/chapter 14 that david made.htm

The Journey of the Three Holy Kings to Bethlehem
... I suppose they were customs officers. ... Judah; for out of you shall come forth the
captain that shall ... When the kings with their attendants had left the cave and ...
/.../emmerich/the life of the blessed virgin mary/xiii the journey of the.htm

Carried Captive into Babylon
... Jerusalem," to besiege the city.2 Kings 25:1 ... concerning Jeremiah to Nebuchadnezzar-
adan the captain of the ... from prison by the Babylonian officers, the prophet ...
/.../white/the story of prophets and kings/chapter 37 carried captive into.htm

Second Sunday after Epiphany
... Now we have spiritual lords, princes, kings, who neglect ... those who have oversight
of Church officers generally; who ... Again, how David cursed Joab, captain of his ...
/.../luther/epistle sermons vol ii/second sunday after epiphany.htm

The Holy War,
... Among their officers is Captain Pope, whose colours were the ... of adding one more"it
is Captain State-religion ... men, of laws, of countries, and of kings: And in ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the holy war.htm

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... till the time of the early kings, and retained ... otherwise; it would be better translated
chief, prince, captain. ... foot of Tabor, where the united host is stated ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm

I Know that My Redeemer Liveth
... wife of another of our Church-officers, a member ... the inner keep and donjon, where
the captain of the ... carried away captive by the four kings, Abraham summoned ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 9 1863/i know that my redeemer.htm

Justinian.
... of God, saying there were many kings in this ... Procopius records as derived from Gothic
officers themselves; and ... in the winter of 547 the great captain was drawn ...
/.../allies/the formation of christendom volume vi/chapter iv justinian.htm

Concerning Persecution
... as Eusebius relates), gave charge to his officers to put none ... Ye shall be brought
before kings for my sake ... Felix, captain to Emperor Charles the Fifth, being at ...
/.../the beatitudes an exposition of matthew 51-12/21 concerning persecution.htm

The Letter of the Church of Rome
... From him there come the kings and rulers and ... 3Not everybody is a general, colonel,
captain, sergeant, and ... the future, that they appointed the officers we have ...
/.../richardson/early christian fathers/the letter of the church.htm