1 Chronicles 21:5
And Joab gave the sum of the number of the people unto David. And all they of Israel were a thousand thousand and an hundred thousand men that drew sword: and Judah was four hundred threescore and ten thousand men that drew sword.
1 Chronicles 21:5 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse from the Bible, Joab provides King David with a census of the fighting men in Israel and Judah. The number given by Joab reveals the military strength of both kingdoms at that time. The total number of soldiers counted in Israel was one million one hundred thousand, while the tribe of Judah alone had four hundred and seventy thousand men ready for battle. This detailed account of the military forces highlights the organization and readiness of the Israelite army under King David's leadership. By having this information, David could strategize and make informed decisions regarding the defense and security of his kingdom against potential threats or enemies. It also reflects the importance of military preparedness in ancient times and the significance of numerical strength in conflicts and battles.
Theological Overview
In this verse from 2 Samuel 24:9, we see Joab reporting the total count of fighting men in Israel and Judah to King David. The detailed numbers provided demonstrate the military strength of the nation at that time. The use of specific numerical figures, such as "a thousand thousand and an hundred thousand" for Israel and "four hundred threescore and ten thousand" for Judah, highlights the meticulous record-keeping and organization of the military forces. The emphasis on the number of men who "drew sword" serves to underscore the readiness and preparedness of the Israelites for battle. From a theological perspective, this verse can be seen as reflecting the importance of military strength and strategic planning in the Old Testament narrative. It also provides insight into the historical context of the Israelites' military capabilities and the role of the army in protecting the nation. Overall, this verse offers valuable information about the military structure and strength of Israel and Judah during the time of King David.
1 Chronicles 21:5 in other translations
American Standard Version
And Joab gave up the sum of the numbering of the people unto David. And all they of Israel were a thousand thousand and a hundred thousand men that drew sword: and Judah was four hundred threescore and ten thousand men that drew sword.
World English Bible
Joab gave up the sum of the numbering of the people to David. All those of Israel were one million one hundred thousand men who drew sword: and in Judah were four hundred seventy thousand men who drew sword.
Douay-Rheims
And he gave David the number of them, whom he had surveyed: and all the number of Israel was found to be eleven hundred thousand men that drew the sword: and of Juda four hundred and seventy thousand fighting men.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And Ioab gaue the nomber and summe of the people vnto Dauid: and all Israel were eleuen hundreth thousande men that drewe sword: and Iudah was foure hundreth and seuentie thousande men that drewe sword.