Bible Strands
1 Chronicles 19:17
When this was reported to David, he gathered all Israel, crossed the Jordan, advanced toward the Arameans, and arrayed for battle against them. When David lined up to engage them in battle, they fought against him.
Berean Standard Bible
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Study note
Setting — The narrator reports David’s military response after messengers deliver news of Aramean reinforcements crossing the Euphrates. David mobilizes the entire population of Israel and moves the camp across the Jordan River to confront the advancing enemy.
The words — The Hebrew וַ/יֻּגַּ֣ד (va/i.yu.Gad) translates literally as "and it was told," denoting a formal report reaching the king. The phrase וַ/יַּעֲבֹ֣ר הַ/יַּרְדֵּ֔ן (va/i.ya.'a.Vor hai./yar.Den) means "and he passed over the Jordan," marking the tactical advance toward the Aramean position.
The thread — The verse continues the mobilization motif introduced in 1 Chronicles 19:9 and aligns with the chariot and shield imagery recorded in Isaiah 22:6. These passages collectively track the movement of foreign armies and Israel’s coordinated response.
Why it lands — The text requires the reader to observe that David’s immediate national gathering and river crossing directly precede the battle engagement. It demands acknowledgment of the cause-and-effect structure between the reported threat and the king’s tactical preparation.
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The Hebrew words
King James Version
And it was told David; and he gathered all Israel, and passed over Jordan, and came upon them, and set the battle in array against them. So when David had put the battle in array against the Syrians, they fought with him.
Cross-references
- 1 Chronicles 19:9 The Ammonites marched out and arrayed themselves for battle at the entrance to the city, while the kings who had come stayed by themselves in the open country.
- Isaiah 22:6 Elam takes up a quiver, with chariots and horsemen, and Kir uncovers the shield.