John Gill's Bible Commentary Ver. 2. And he placed forces in all the fenced cities of Judah , etc.] A considerable number of soldiers, to defend them should they be attacked: and set garrisons in the land of Judah : on the frontiers and borders of it, to protect it: and in the cities of Ephraim ; soldiers to keep garrison there: which Asa his father had taken ; (see 2 Chronicles 15:8).
Matthew Henry Commentary
- Jehoshaphat promotes religion in Judah, His prosperity.
--Jehoshaphat found his people generally very ignorant, and therefor endeavoured to have them well taught. The public teaching of the wor of God forms, in all ages, the great method of promoting the power of godliness. Thereby the understanding is informed, the conscience is awakened and directed. We have a particular account of Jehoshaphat' prosperity. But it was not his formidable army that restrained the neighbouring nations from attempting any thing against Israel, but the fear of God which fell upon them, when Jehoshaphat reformed his country, and set up a preaching ministry in it. The ordinances of God are more the strength and safety of a kingdom, than soldiers an weapons of war. The Bible requires use to notice the hand of God in every event, yet this is little regarded. But let all employ the talents they have: be faithful, even in that which is little. Set u the worship of God in your houses. The charge of a family is important Why should you not instruct them as Jehoshaphat did his subjects, in the book of the law of the Lord. But be consistent. Do not recommen one thing, and practise another. Begin with yourselves. Seek to the Lord God of Israel, then call upon children and servants to follow you example _________________________________________________
Original Hebrew ויתן5414 חיל2428 בכל3605 ערי5892 יהודה3063 הבצרות1219 ויתן5414 נציבים5333 בארץ776 יהודה3063 ובערי5892 אפרים669 אשׁר834 לכד3920 אסא609 אביו׃1
