1 Chronicles 5:22

and many others fell slain, because the battle belonged to God. And they occupied the land until the exile.

Study Bible

and many others fell slain
This phrase indicates a significant victory for the Israelites, where numerous enemies were defeated. The context of 1 Chronicles 5 involves the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh, who were settled on the east side of the Jordan River. These tribes were often in conflict with neighboring peoples. The phrase "many others fell slain" underscores the scale of the victory, suggesting divine intervention and favor. This mirrors other biblical battles where God grants victory to His people, such as in the battles led by Joshua (Joshua 10:10-11) and Gideon (Judges 7:22).

because the battle belonged to God
This phrase emphasizes the theological perspective that God is the ultimate source of victory. It reflects the belief that success in battle is not due to human strength or strategy but to divine will. This concept is echoed in other scriptures, such as 1 Samuel 17:47, where David declares that "the battle is the Lord's" before defeating Goliath. It highlights the sovereignty of God over the affairs of nations and His ability to deliver His people. This idea is central to the faith of Israel and serves as a reminder of reliance on God rather than human might.

And they occupied the land until the exile
This phrase refers to the period of occupation by the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh. Their settlement in the Transjordan region was initially granted by Moses (Numbers 32) and confirmed by Joshua (Joshua 13:8-13). The "exile" mentioned here refers to the Assyrian captivity, which occurred in 722 BC when the northern kingdom of Israel was conquered and its people were deported (2 Kings 17:6). This historical event marked the end of their occupation of the land. The phrase serves as a reminder of the consequences of disobedience to God, as the exile was a result of Israel's persistent idolatry and sin. It also foreshadows the ultimate exile and restoration themes found throughout the prophetic books, pointing to the hope of redemption and return.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Reubenites, Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh
These tribes were involved in the battle described in this passage. They were part of the tribes of Israel that settled on the east side of the Jordan River.

2. The Hagrites
A group of people who were defeated by the Reubenites, Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh in this battle. They were likely descendants of Hagar, the mother of Ishmael.

3. The Battle
This was a significant conflict where the Israelite tribes mentioned above fought against the Hagrites and other groups. The victory was attributed to divine intervention.

4. The Exile
Refers to the eventual Assyrian exile of these tribes, which occurred because of their unfaithfulness to God.

5. The Land
The territory that the tribes occupied after their victory, which they held until the time of their exile.

Teaching Points

Divine Sovereignty in Battles
Recognize that God is sovereign over all battles and conflicts. Our victories are not by our strength but by His will and power.

Faithfulness and Consequences
The tribes' eventual exile serves as a reminder of the consequences of unfaithfulness to God. We must remain faithful to His commands.

God's Timing
The phrase "until the exile" reminds us that God's plans unfold in His timing. We must trust His timing in our lives.

Spiritual Warfare
Just as the physical battle was of God, our spiritual battles are also under His control. We must rely on His strength and guidance.

Occupying the Land
The occupation of the land signifies stewardship. We are called to be good stewards of the blessings and responsibilities God gives us.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding that "the battle was of God" change your perspective on the challenges you face today?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we remain faithful to God, avoiding the pitfalls that led to the exile of the tribes?

3. How can we apply the concept of divine timing in our personal and spiritual lives?

4. What are some practical ways to rely on God's strength in our spiritual battles?

5. How can we be good stewards of the "land" or responsibilities God has given us in our current season of life?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 20:4
This verse speaks of God going with the Israelites to fight for them against their enemies, which parallels the divine intervention seen in 1 Chronicles 5:22.

Joshua 23:10
Highlights how one man can chase a thousand because the Lord fights for Israel, similar to the victory described in 1 Chronicles 5:22.

2 Kings 17:6
Describes the Assyrian exile of the northern tribes, including the Reubenites, Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh, connecting to the "until the exile" part of the verse.