2 Chronicles 26:12
The whole number of the chiefe of the fathers of the mightie men of valour, were two thousand and sixe hundred. 2 Chronicles 26:12 (KJV)
2 Chronicles 26:12 is part of the narrative that describes the reign of King Uzziah, also called Azariah, over the kingdom of Judah. Uzziah is presented as a righteous king who sought the Lord, and because of his devotion God blessed him with military success, prosperity, and fame. This verse gives a concrete picture of the organization and strength of his armed forces.
In the passage the phrase “the chief of the fathers” refers to the heads of families or clans in Judah. These leaders were influential individuals who held positions of authority and commanded groups of mighty men of valor—skilled warriors renowned for their bravery and prowess in battle. By counting these chief fathers, the chronicler records that the total number of such leaders, together with the mighty men under their command, was two thousand six hundred.
The figure of 2,600 indicates a considerable pool of military leadership that King Uzziah could draw upon. It reflects his dedication to maintaining a strong, well‑prepared defense for the nation. The chronicler’s inclusion of this detail underscores the stability and security of Judah during Uzziah’s reign. A robust military hierarchy enabled the king to protect his kingdom from external threats and to promote peace within its borders, contributing to the overall prosperity of the nation.
Thus, the verse not only supplies a numerical datum but also highlights the broader theme of divine blessing linked to faithful leadership. Uzziah’s commitment to a disciplined and organized defense was a crucial aspect of his successful reign, illustrating how obedience to God can translate into tangible benefits for a people’s safety and well‑being.
