2 Chronicles 25:6

He also hired 100,000 mighty warriors from Israel for a hundred talents of silver.

Study Bible

He also hired 100,000 mighty men of valor from Israel
This phrase highlights King Amaziah's decision to strengthen his military forces by hiring mercenaries from the northern kingdom of Israel. At this time, the kingdom of Israel was separate from Judah, following the division after Solomon's reign. The term "mighty men of valor" indicates experienced and courageous warriors, suggesting that Amaziah sought to bolster his army with skilled fighters. This action reflects the political and military tensions between the two kingdoms, as well as the common practice of hiring mercenaries in the ancient Near East. The decision to hire from Israel, despite the divided kingdoms, underscores the pragmatic approach to military needs, though it later leads to divine disapproval (2 Chronicles 25:7-8).

for a hundred talents of silver
A hundred talents of silver was a significant sum, indicating the substantial investment Amaziah was willing to make for military strength. A talent was a large unit of weight, approximately 75 pounds or 34 kilograms, making this a considerable financial transaction. This reflects the economic resources available to the kingdom of Judah at the time and the importance placed on military preparedness. The use of silver as currency was common in the ancient world, and this transaction illustrates the economic interactions between the kingdoms. The financial aspect also highlights the reliance on human resources and wealth, contrasting with the biblical theme of trusting in God's provision and strength (Psalm 20:7).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Amaziah
The king of Judah who sought to strengthen his army by hiring mercenaries from Israel.

2. Judah
The southern kingdom, ruled by Amaziah, which was often in conflict with its northern counterpart, Israel.

3. Israel
The northern kingdom, from which Amaziah hired mercenaries, despite the spiritual and political tensions between the two kingdoms.

4. Mighty Warriors
The mercenaries hired by Amaziah, described as strong and capable soldiers.

5. Hundred Talents of Silver
The payment made by Amaziah to hire these warriors, indicating a significant financial investment.

Teaching Points

Reliance on God Over Human Strength
Amaziah's decision to hire mercenaries reflects a reliance on human strength rather than trusting in God's provision and protection. Believers are encouraged to place their trust in God rather than in worldly resources or alliances.

The Cost of Disobedience
The financial cost of hiring the mercenaries serves as a reminder that disobedience to God's guidance can lead to unnecessary expenses and consequences. Obedience to God often requires faith and trust, even when it seems counterintuitive.

The Importance of Seeking Godly Counsel
Amaziah's account highlights the importance of seeking and heeding godly counsel. The prophet's warning was an opportunity for Amaziah to realign his actions with God's will, illustrating the value of spiritual discernment.

The Dangers of Unequal Alliances
Forming alliances with those who do not share a commitment to God can lead to spiritual compromise. Believers are called to be discerning in their relationships and partnerships, ensuring they align with God's purposes.

Bible Study Questions

1. What motivated Amaziah to hire mercenaries from Israel, and how does this reflect on his faith in God?

2. How can we apply the lesson of relying on God rather than human strength in our personal lives today?

3. In what ways can seeking godly counsel help us avoid the pitfalls of disobedience and poor decision-making?

4. How does the account of Amaziah challenge us to evaluate our own alliances and partnerships in light of our faith?

5. Reflect on a time when you faced a decision that required trust in God over visible resources. What was the outcome, and what did you learn from the experience?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Chronicles 25:7-10
These verses provide context and consequences of Amaziah's decision, where a prophet warns him against relying on Israelite soldiers, emphasizing reliance on God.

1 Samuel 8:11-18
This passage discusses the dangers of relying on human strength and resources instead of trusting in God, similar to Amaziah's reliance on hired soldiers.

Psalm 20:7
This verse contrasts trust in chariots and horses with trust in the name of the Lord, paralleling the theme of reliance on God rather than human strength.