2 Chronicles 26:14
And Uzziah prepared for them throughout all the hoste, shields, and speares, and helmets, and habergions, and bowes, and slings to cast stones. 2 Chronicles 26:14 (KJV)
2 Chronicles 26:14 is part of the account of Uzziah’s reign as king of Judah. Uzziah, also called Azariah, ascended the throne at the young age of sixteen and ruled for fifty‑two years. The biblical record describes him as a king who did what was right in the sight of the Lord and who sought God, receiving instruction in the fear of God from the priest Zechariah (cf. 2 Chronicles 26:4‑5).
In this verse we see Uzziah’s concrete preparations for the defense of his kingdom. He equipped the entire host with a full complement of weapons and armor: shields, spears, helmets, habergeons (a type of coat of mail), bows, and slings for casting stones. Such thorough provisioning indicates a proactive stance toward the security and protection of the nation.
Uzziah’s actions demonstrate a responsible and diligent approach to governance. By supplying his army with the necessary equipment and ensuring they were trained for battle, he showed a clear commitment to the well‑being and safety of his people and the land over which he ruled.
Nevertheless, the passage does not suggest that Uzziah relied solely on military strength. Earlier verses in the chapter stress his dependence on God’s guidance. It was under divine favor that Uzziah prospered in both military endeavors and building projects (see 2 Chronicles 26:5). His overall success is presented as a result of his faithfulness to the Lord, rather than merely the might of his armaments.
