2 Chronicles 33:14
Now after this he built a wall without the city of David, on the west side of Gihon, in the valley, even to the entering in at the fish gate, and compassed about Ophel, and raised it up a very great height, and put captains of war in all the fenced cities of Judah.
2 Chronicles 33:14 · King James Version
Meaning
After King Hezekiah successfully restored the worship of the Lord in Judah, he turned his attention to fortifying the city of Jerusalem. The verse describes how he built a wall outside the city of David, on the west side of Gihon, in the valley, all the way to the fish gate, encompassing Ophel. The mention of putting captains of war in all the fenced cities of Judah signifies his preparation for potential attacks and ensuring the safety of the people. By raising the wall to a very great height, Hezekiah was taking strategic measures to protect his kingdom from enemies. This verse showcases the importance of physical defense and military strategy in ancient times, as rulers like Hezekiah had to constantly be vigilant against threats to their kingdom. Overall, this passage highlights the importance of leadership and protection for the people of Judah during King Hezekiah's reign.
Theological Overview
This verse from 2 Chronicles 33:14 describes King Hezekiah's strategic military preparations to defend the city of Jerusalem against potential threats. The building of a wall on the west side of Gihon in the valley, extending to the fish gate and surrounding Ophel, demonstrates the king's commitment to strengthening the city's defenses. The mention of putting captains of war in all the fortified cities of Judah further illustrates his proactive approach to protecting his kingdom. The theological interpretation of this verse shows that Hezekiah recognized the importance of being prepared for potential attacks and understood the need to take practical measures to ensure the safety and security of his people. By fortifying the cities of Judah, he was fulfilling his role as a leader to safeguard his kingdom and its inhabitants. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of being vigilant and prepared in the face of adversity, both in a physical and spiritual sense.
2 Chronicles 33:14 in other translations
American Standard Version
Now after this he built an outer wall to the city of David, on the west side of Gihon, in the valley, even to the entrance at the fish gate; and he compassed Ophel about [with it], and raised it up to a very great height: and he put valiant captains in all the fortified cities of Judah.
World English Bible
Now after this he built an outer wall to the city of David, on the west side of Gihon, in the valley, even to the entrance at the fish gate; and he encircled Ophel with it, and raised it up to a very great height: and he put valiant captains in all the fortified cities of Judah.
Douay-Rheims
After this he built a wall without the city of David, on the west side of Gihon in the valley, from the entering in of the gate round about to Ophel, and raised it up to a great height: and he appointed captains of the army in all the fenced cities of Juda:
Geneva Bible (1599)
Nowe after this he built a wall without the citie of Dauid, on the Westside of Gihon in the valley, euen at the entrie of the fish gate, and compassed about Ophel, and raised it very hie, and put captaines of warre in all the strong cities of Iudah.