Joshaphat is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically within the genealogies and lists of King David's mighty warriors. His name, meaning "Yahweh has judged," reflects the theocentric nature of Hebrew names, often signifying a divine attribute or action.

Genealogical Context

Joshaphat is listed in the genealogies of the tribe of Judah, which is significant given the tribe's prominence in Israel's history. The tribe of Judah is known for producing key figures, including King David and, ultimately, Jesus Christ, according to the genealogical records in the Gospels of Matthew and Luke.

Association with King David

Joshaphat is noted as one of the mighty warriors who served under King David. These warriors, often referred to as "David's Mighty Men," were a group of elite soldiers who played a crucial role in establishing and securing David's kingdom. Their exploits are detailed in the books of Samuel and Chronicles, highlighting their bravery, loyalty, and skill in battle.

In 1 Chronicles 11:43 , Joshaphat is mentioned among these valiant men: "Hanan son of Maacah, Joshaphat the Mithnite." This brief mention places him within the context of a larger narrative of heroism and divine favor that characterized David's reign. The term "Mithnite" likely refers to his place of origin or a family designation, though specific details about this are not extensively documented in the biblical text.

Role and Significance

While the Bible does not provide extensive details about Joshaphat's individual exploits, his inclusion in the list of David's mighty men suggests a person of considerable valor and importance. These men were instrumental in David's military campaigns and the consolidation of his rule over Israel. Their loyalty and prowess were seen as a reflection of God's blessing upon David's leadership.

The mention of Joshaphat, though brief, serves as a testament to the collective strength and faithfulness of those who supported David. It underscores the importance of community and collaboration in achieving God's purposes, as seen throughout the biblical narrative.

Theological Implications

From a theological perspective, the inclusion of figures like Joshaphat in the biblical record highlights the theme of divine judgment and providence. His name, "Yahweh has judged," serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and justice. The lives and actions of David's mighty men, including Joshaphat, illustrate the belief that God works through individuals to accomplish His divine will, often using seemingly ordinary people to achieve extraordinary outcomes.

In summary, while Joshaphat's individual account may not be extensively detailed, his role as one of David's mighty men places him within the broader narrative of God's unfolding plan for Israel. His mention in the genealogies and lists of warriors serves as a reminder of the collective effort and divine guidance that characterized the establishment of David's kingdom.Joshaphat

(whom Jehovah judges), the Mithnite, one of David's guard. (1 Chronicles 11:43)

JOSHAPHAT

josh'-a-fat (yoshaphaT, "Yahweh has judged"; compare JEHOSHAPHAT):

(1) One of David's mighty men (1 Chronicles 11:43), a "Mithnite," but not included in the list of 2 Samuel 23.

(2) A priest and trumpeter of David's time (1 Chronicles 15:24), the King James Version "Jehoshaphat."

3146. Yoshaphat -- Joshaphat
... 3145, 3146. Yoshaphat. 3147 . Joshaphat. Transliteration: Yoshaphat Phonetic
Spelling: (yo-shaw-fawt') Short Definition: Joshaphat. ... Joshaphat ...
/hebrew/3146.htm - 5k

3092. Yehoshaphat -- "the LORD has judged," the name of a number ...
... Word Origin from Yhvh and shaphat Definition "the LORD has judged," the name of
a number of Isr. NASB Word Usage Jehoshaphat (84), Joshaphat (2). Jehoshaphat. ...
/hebrew/3092.htm - 6k

Joshaphat (2 Occurrences)
... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia JOSHAPHAT. josh'-a-fat ... Jehoshaphat.".
Multi-Version Concordance Joshaphat (2 Occurrences). 1 Chronicles ...
/j/joshaphat.htm - 7k

Josh'aphat (2 Occurrences)
Josh'aphat. Joshaphat, Josh'aphat. Joshaviah . ... Josh'aphat (2 Occurrences). 1
Chronicles 11:43 Hanan the son of Maacah, and Joshaphat the Mithnite; (See RSV) ...
/j/josh'aphat.htm - 7k

Zechari'ah (51 Occurrences)
... 1 Chronicles 15:24 And Shebaniah, and Joshaphat, and Nethanel, and Amasai, and
Zechariah, and Benaiah, and Eliezer, the priests, did blow with the trumpets ...
/z/zechari'ah.htm - 20k

Nethan'el (14 Occurrences)
... 1 Chronicles 15:24 And Shebaniah, and Joshaphat, and Nethanel, and Amasai, and
Zechariah, and Benaiah, and Eliezer, the priests, did blow with the trumpets ...
/n/nethan'el.htm - 10k

Nethanel (14 Occurrences)
... 1 Chronicles 15:24 Shebaniah, and Joshaphat, and Nethanel, and Amasai, and Zechariah,
and Benaiah, and Eliezer, the priests, did blow the trumpets before the ...
/n/nethanel.htm - 12k

O'bed-e'dom (14 Occurrences)
... 1 Chronicles 15:24 Shebaniah, and Joshaphat, and Nethanel, and Amasai, and Zechariah,
and Benaiah, and Eliezer, the priests, did blow the trumpets before the ...
/o/o'bed-e'dom.htm - 10k

Joshah (1 Occurrence)

/j/joshah.htm - 6k

Jehi'ah (1 Occurrence)
... 1 Chronicles 15:24 And Shebaniah, and Joshaphat, and Nethanel, and Amasai, and
Zechariah, and Benaiah, and Eliezer, the priests, did blow with the trumpets ...
/j/jehi'ah.htm - 6k

Jehiah (1 Occurrence)
... 1 Chronicles 15:24 Shebaniah, and Joshaphat, and Nethanel, and Amasai, and Zechariah,
and Benaiah, and Eliezer, the priests, did blow the trumpets before the ...
/j/jehiah.htm - 7k

Gatekeepers (38 Occurrences)
... 1 Chronicles 15:24 And Shebaniah, and Joshaphat, and Nethaneel, and Amasai, and
Zechariah, and Benaiah, and Eliezer the priests, are blowing with trumpets ...
/g/gatekeepers.htm - 19k

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