And they were helped against them, and the Hagarites were delivered into their hand, and all that were with them: for they cried to God in the battle, and he was intreated of them; because they put their trust in him.
1 CHRONICLES 5:20KJVWhat does 1 Chronicles 5:20 mean?
1 Chronicles 5:20 describes how the people of Israel were helped by God in battle against the Hagarites and their allies because they cried out to God and trusted in Him. The verse explains that God answered their plea and handed their enemies over to them because of their faith and reliance on Him.
This verse is part of a historical account where the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh fought against a group called the Hagarites. The writer is explaining to the reader that the victory was not just due to military strength, but because the people earnestly called out to God during the conflict and put their trust in Him, leading to divine intervention.
The Hebrew behind 1 Chronicles 5:20
- "helped" (עָזַר, `azar): This word means to give aid or support. The verse emphasizes that the Israelites did not win by their own power, but were actively supported by God in the fight.
- "cried" (זָעַק, za‘aq): This word often describes a desperate or urgent call for help. The Israelites were not just praying quietly; they were earnestly pleading with God in the midst of battle.
- "intreated" (עָתַר, ‘atar): This word means that God responded favorably or was moved by their plea. It highlights that God was not distant, but listened and acted because of their trust.
- "trust" (בָּטַח, batach): This word means to rely on or have confidence in someone. The verse points out that the key reason God responded was because the people truly depended on Him, not on their own abilities.
Why 1 Chronicles 5:20 matters
- This verse clarifies that the victory was not just a result of military strategy or numbers, but was directly tied to the people's dependence on God and their earnest prayer.
- 1 Chronicles 5:20 highlights a pattern seen throughout the Bible: when people genuinely seek God and trust Him, He responds to their needs, especially in times of crisis.
- The verse connects to the broader message of 1 Chronicles, which often emphasizes the importance of faithfulness to God and the consequences of either trusting or turning away from Him.