The number 18,000 appears in the Bible in the context of military and administrative records, reflecting the organizational and historical aspects of ancient Israel. This number is significant in the context of King David's reign and the military campaigns that established his kingdom.

1. Military Context:

In the biblical narrative, the number 18,000 is associated with the military victories of King David. In 2 Samuel 8:13, it is recorded that David achieved a significant victory over the Edomites in the Valley of Salt, where he struck down 18,000 men. This victory is part of a series of military campaigns that expanded David's kingdom and secured his rule over Israel. The Berean Standard Bible states:

"And David made a name for himself when he returned from striking down eighteen thousand Edomites in the Valley of Salt." (2 Samuel 8:13)

This victory is also mentioned in 1 Chronicles 18:12, where it is attributed to Abishai, the son of Zeruiah, one of David's commanders. The chronicler's account emphasizes the role of David's military leaders in securing these victories:

"Moreover, Abishai son of Zeruiah struck down eighteen thousand Edomites in the Valley of Salt." (1 Chronicles 18:12)

2. Administrative Context:

The number 18,000 also appears in the context of the administrative organization of the Levitical priesthood during the reign of King David. In 1 Chronicles 23:3-4, the Levites are numbered, and it is noted that 24,000 were to oversee the work of the house of the LORD, with 6,000 serving as officers and judges. The total number of Levites aged thirty years and older was 38,000, indicating a well-structured system for religious and civil duties.

While the specific number 18,000 is not directly mentioned in this passage, the broader context of organizing large groups for specific tasks reflects the administrative capabilities of David's kingdom. The Levites played a crucial role in maintaining the religious and social order of Israel, and their organization into divisions and roles was essential for the functioning of the temple and the community.

3. Symbolic Interpretation:

In biblical numerology, numbers often carry symbolic meanings. The number 18,000, being a multiple of 18, can be seen as a symbol of completeness and strength, particularly in the context of military and administrative achievements. The victories and organizational efforts associated with this number highlight the themes of divine favor and the establishment of a strong and enduring kingdom under David's leadership.

The use of large numbers in the biblical text often serves to emphasize the magnitude of events or the significance of certain achievements. In the case of 18,000, it underscores the scale of David's military successes and the comprehensive nature of his administrative reforms.18000 (3 Occurrences)

1 Chronicles 12:31
Of the half-tribe of Manasseh eighteen thousand, who were mentioned by name, to come and make David king.
(See NAS)

1 Chronicles 29:7
and they gave for the service of the house of God of gold five thousand talents and ten thousand darics, and of silver ten thousand talents, and of brass eighteen thousand talents, and of iron a hundred thousand talents.
(See NAS)

Ezekiel 48:35
It shall be eighteen thousand reeds around: and the name of the city from that day shall be, Yahweh is there.
(See RSV)

18000 (3 Occurrences)
... Multi-Version Concordance 18000 (3 Occurrences). 1 Chronicles 12:31 Of the
half-tribe of Manasseh eighteen thousand, who were mentioned ...
/num/18000.htm - 7k

20000 (4 Occurrences)

/num/20000.htm - 7k

17200 (1 Occurrence)

/num/17200.htm - 6k

Edomites (22 Occurrences)
... David prosecuted the war with terrific energy, slaying 18,000 Edomites (so read
instead of "Syrians") in the Valley of Salt (2 Samuel 8:13 f); Joab remaining ...
/e/edomites.htm - 23k

Edom (108 Occurrences)
... David prosecuted the war with terrific energy, slaying 18,000 Edomites (so read
instead of "Syrians") in the Valley of Salt (2 Samuel 8:13 f); Joab remaining ...
/e/edom.htm - 53k

Manasseh (140 Occurrences)
... From the half-tribe West of the Jordan 18,000 men, expressed by name, came to David
at Hebron to make him king (1 Chronicles 12:31); while those who came from ...
/m/manasseh.htm - 68k

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