2 Chronicles 17:11
Arabic Simplified (الكِتاب المُقَدَّس: التَّرْجَمَةُ العَرَبِيَّةُ المُبَسَّطَةُ)
وَأحضَرَ بَعْضُ الفِلَسطِيِّينَ هَدَايَا وَفِضَّةً لِلمَلِكِ يَهُوشَافَاطَ لِأنَّهُمْ عَرَفُوا أنَّهُ مَلِكٌ قَوِيٌّ. وَأتَى بَعْضُ العَرَبِ بِمَوَاشِي لِيَهُوشَافَاطَ. فَجَلَبُوا إلَيْه سَبْعَةَ آلَافٍ وَسَبعَ مِئَةِ كَبْشٍ وَسَبعَةَ آلَافٍ وَسَبعَ مئَةِ تَيسٍ.
What Does This Mean?
This verse tells us that the Philistines and Arabians brought gifts to King Jehoshaphat. The Philistines gave him silver, and the Arabians gave him many sheep and goats. This shows that even though Jehoshaphat's enemies gave him gifts, it was a sign of respect and peace.
Explained for Children
Imagine if your neighbors, who don't usually like you, suddenly brought you a bunch of toys and candy. That would be pretty surprising, right? That's kind of what happened here. King Jehoshaphat's neighbors, who didn't always get along with him, brought him gifts to show they were being nice and peaceful.
Historical Background
This verse is part of the historical account found in 2 Chronicles, written by an unknown author after the Babylonian exile. The book aims to encourage the people of Israel by recounting the history of their kings and God's involvement in their lives. This passage highlights Jehoshaphat's reign and how even his enemies brought him gifts.
Living It Out Today
In modern times, this verse can remind us that sometimes, people who we least expect to be friendly might surprise us with acts of kindness. This can be a chance to foster better relationships and peace, even with those who were once considered enemies.
Topics
peacegiftsenemiesrespectkingdomforeign relations
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean that the Arabians brought 7,700 rams and 7,700 he goats?
The large number of animals emphasizes the significance of the gift and the respect the Arabians had for King Jehoshaphat. In ancient times, such large numbers of livestock would have been very valuable.
How does this verse relate to Jehoshaphat's reign?
This verse shows that Jehoshaphat's reign was marked by peace and prosperity, even with his traditional enemies. The gifts indicate that his leadership was respected and that he had gained the favor of neighboring peoples.
What can we learn about relationships from this verse?
This verse teaches us that peace can sometimes be found in surprising places and that acts of kindness can change relationships between people who were once enemies.
Why is it significant that the Philistines brought tribute silver?
The Philistines were often at odds with the Israelites, so their act of bringing tribute silver shows a significant shift towards peace and recognition of Jehoshaphat's authority.