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

2 CHRONICLES 17:19KJV
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2 Chronicles 17:19 (KJV)

What does 2 Chronicles 17:19 mean?

2 Chronicles 17:19 states that these men served the king directly, in addition to those soldiers and officials whom the king had stationed in the fortified cities throughout all Judah. The verse highlights the organization and distribution of King Jehoshaphat’s military forces.

This verse comes at the end of a list describing the commanders and troops who supported King Jehoshaphat of Judah. It clarifies that the men named were part of his personal forces at Jerusalem, separate from those assigned to defend the fortified cities (strongholds) across the kingdom. The verse shows the careful structure of the kingdom’s defenses during Jehoshaphat’s reign.

The Hebrew behind 2 Chronicles 17:19

  • "waited" (שָׁרַת, sharath): This word means "to minister" or "to serve." Here, it refers to those who attended or served the king directly, not just in a ceremonial way but as part of his trusted military support.
  • "fenced" (בִּירָה, birah): This word is often translated as "fortified" or "walled." It emphasizes that the cities mentioned were specially protected, highlighting the strategic defense system in Judah.

Why 2 Chronicles 17:19 matters

  • This verse clarifies that Jehoshaphat’s military was not only large but also well-organized, with some troops serving at the royal court and others stationed throughout the land for defense.
  • It helps the reader understand the administrative and military structure of Judah at that time, showing a deliberate approach to national security.
  • The verse connects to the broader passage by wrapping up the list of leaders and soldiers, emphasizing the strength and preparedness of Jehoshaphat’s reign.

Where else these words appear

“fenced” Hebrew H4013 · used in 37 verses

  • Numbers 13:19 And what the land is that they dwell in, whether it be good or bad; and what cities they be that they dwell in, whether in tents, or in strong holds;
  • 2 Kings 18:8 He smote the Philistines, even unto Gaza, and the borders thereof, from the tower of the watchmen to the fenced city.
  • Jeremiah 48:18 Thou daughter that dost inhabit Dibon, come down from thy glory, and sit in thirst; for the spoiler of Moab shall come upon thee, and he shall destroy thy strong holds.

“waited” Hebrew H8334 · used in 92 verses

  • Genesis 39:4 And Joseph found grace in his sight, and he served him: and he made him overseer over his house, and all that he had he put into his hand.
  • 1 Samuel 3:1 And the child Samuel ministered unto the LORD before Eli. And the word of the LORD was precious in those days; there was no open vision.
  • Esther 1:10 On the seventh day, when the heart of the king was merry with wine, he commanded Mehuman, Biztha, Harbona, Bigtha, and Abagtha, Zethar, and Carcas, the seven chamberlains that served in the presence of Ahasuerus the king,