King James Version

What Does 1 Chronicles 12:14 Mean?

These were of the sons of Gad, captains of the host: one of the least was over an hundred, and the greatest over a thousand. one: or, one that was least could resist an hundred, and the greatest a thousand

Context

12

Johanan the eighth, Elzabad the ninth,

13

Jeremiah the tenth, Machbanai the eleventh .

14

These were of the sons of Gad, captains of the host: one of the least was over an hundred, and the greatest over a thousand. one: or, one that was least could resist an hundred, and the greatest a thousand

15

These are they that went over Jordan in the first month, when it had overflown all his banks ; and they put to flight all them of the valleys, both toward the east, and toward the west. overflown: Heb. filled over

16

And there came of the children of Benjamin and Judah to the hold unto David.

Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(14) **These were.**—Subscription. **Captains of the host.**—Literally, *heads of the host, i.e.,* chief warriors. **One of the least was over an hundred.**—The margin is correct. David’s band at this time was about 600 strong. The rendering of the text is that of the Syr. and Vulg. The LXX. closely intimates the Heb. εἷς τοῖς ἑκατὸν μικρὸς κτλ. For the true meaning, comp. Deuteronomy 32:30; and Leviticus 26:8. The Heb. says: “One to a hundred, the little one; and the great one to a thousand.” This. too, is poetic, or, at least, rhetorical in character, and quite unlike the chronicler’s usual style.

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of 1 Chronicles. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

1 Chronicles 12:14 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to 1 Chronicles 12:14

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