Old Testament
2 Chronicles 23:1
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
In the seventh year, Jehoiada strengthened himself and made a covenant with the captains of hundreds: Azariah son of Jeroham, Ishmael son of Jehohanan, Azariah son of Obed, Maaseiah son of Adaiah, and Elishaphat son of Zichri.
Compare translations
And in the seventh year Jehoiada strengthened himself, and took the captains of hundreds, Azariah the son of Jeroham, and Ishmael the son of Jehohanan, and Azariah the son of Obed, and Maaseiah the son of Adaiah, and Elishaphat the son of Zichri, into covenant with him.
What 2 Chronicles 23:1 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In the seventh year of his life, Jehoiada, a priest, took a bold step to change the course of his nation. He gathered the leaders of the military, known as the captains of hundreds, to form a strong alliance. These leaders included Azariah, Ishmael, Obed, Maaseiah, and Elishaphat. Together, they made a serious commitment to support Jehoiada's plan. This moment was crucial because it marked the beginning of a significant shift in leadership and direction for the people. Jehoiada's determination and strategic partnerships were essential in restoring rightful leadership and bringing hope to the nation. His actions remind us that sometimes, it takes courage and collaboration to bring about change. By standing firm and uniting with others, we can create a powerful impact in our communities and lives. Jehoiada's story encourages us to seek alliances that can help us achieve our goals and make a difference in the world around us. It shows the importance of leadership and the strength found in unity.
How to apply 2 Chronicles 23:1 to your life
Consider the importance of forming alliances in your own life. Who are the people you can trust to support your goals? Like Jehoiada, be bold in seeking partnerships that can help you make a positive impact. Remember, change often requires collaboration and shared commitment to a common purpose. Embrace the strength of unity!
Curated for this public verse page. 2 Chronicles Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Esther's story: Esther Becomes Queen (Esther 2:1–18)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Esther
Photo: Deror Avi, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 4.0. Source. Location: Tel Shiloh archaeological site, West Bank. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Shiloh
Where Israel set up the tabernacle, and where God called the boy Samuel.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about 2 Chronicles 23:1
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying 2 Chronicles 23:1
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of 2 Chronicles
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Ezra
- Written
- Around 430 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Post-exilic Jews
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 2 Chronicles 23:1 teach about leadership?
2 Chronicles 23:1 highlights the importance of strong leadership in times of change. Jehoiada, a priest, took decisive action to unite military leaders, demonstrating that effective leaders often need to collaborate with others to achieve their goals. This verse encourages us to recognize the value of strategic partnerships in leadership roles.
Who were the captains mentioned in 2 Chronicles 23:1?
The captains mentioned in 2 Chronicles 23:1 are Azariah son of Jeroham, Ishmael son of Jehohanan, Azariah son of Obed, Maaseiah son of Adaiah, and Elishaphat son of Zichri. These individuals were military leaders who joined Jehoiada in a covenant to support his plans for restoring rightful leadership in Judah.
What is the significance of making a covenant in this verse?
In 2 Chronicles 23:1, the covenant made by Jehoiada and the captains signifies a serious commitment to a shared purpose. Covenants in the Bible often represent binding agreements that involve mutual support and loyalty. This act of forming a covenant illustrates the importance of unity and collaboration in achieving significant change.
How can I apply the lessons from 2 Chronicles 23:1 in my life?
You can apply the lessons from 2 Chronicles 23:1 by seeking out trustworthy individuals to form alliances with in your personal or professional life. Just as Jehoiada united leaders for a common cause, look for opportunities to collaborate with others who share your goals. Embrace the strength found in unity and be bold in pursuing partnerships that can help you make a positive impact.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.