Topical Bible: The Armies of Israel: Divided Into: Companies of Thousands

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Topical Encyclopedia

The organization of the armies of Israel into companies of thousands is a significant aspect of the military structure described in the Old Testament. This division reflects both the practical needs of warfare and the administrative order established by God through His chosen leaders.

Biblical Foundation

The division of the armies into companies of thousands is first seen during the Exodus when Moses, under the guidance of his father-in-law Jethro, established a system of governance to manage the people effectively. In Exodus 18:21, Jethro advises Moses, "Furthermore, select capable men from among the people—God-fearing, trustworthy men who hate dishonest gain. Appoint them over the people as leaders of thousands, hundreds, fifties, and tens."

This structure was not only for civil administration but also laid the groundwork for military organization. The division into thousands allowed for a manageable and efficient command structure, ensuring that orders could be disseminated quickly and effectively during times of war.

Military Organization

The concept of organizing the military into companies of thousands is further illustrated in the book of Numbers. In Numbers 31:4-5, Moses commands, "Send into battle a thousand men from each of the tribes of Israel." This directive resulted in a total of twelve thousand men, one thousand from each tribe, being sent to war against the Midianites.

The division into thousands was a practical necessity for a nation that often found itself in conflict with surrounding peoples. It allowed for a scalable and flexible military force that could be mobilized quickly in response to threats.

Leadership and Command

The leaders of these companies of thousands were typically chosen for their capability and integrity. They were responsible for the welfare and discipline of their men, as well as for executing the strategies devised by the higher command. This hierarchical structure ensured that the army operated with unity and purpose, reflecting the order that God desired for His people.

In 1 Samuel 8:12, the prophet Samuel warns the Israelites about the implications of having a king, stating, "He will appoint for himself commanders of thousands and commanders of fifties, and some to plow his ground and reap his harvest, and to make his weapons of war and equipment for his chariots." This passage highlights the continued use of this military organization even as Israel transitioned from a theocracy to a monarchy.

Historical Context

Throughout Israel's history, the division into companies of thousands remained a consistent feature of its military organization. During the reigns of Saul, David, and Solomon, this structure was maintained and adapted to meet the changing needs of the nation. The effectiveness of this organization is evident in the numerous military victories recorded in the historical books of the Old Testament.

Spiritual Significance

From a spiritual perspective, the division of the armies into thousands can be seen as a reflection of God's order and provision for His people. It underscores the importance of leadership, accountability, and community within the body of Israel. Each company, while part of a larger whole, had its own identity and role, much like the tribes of Israel themselves.

In summary, the division of the armies of Israel into companies of thousands was a divinely inspired system that provided structure, efficiency, and effectiveness in both military and civil affairs. It served as a model of organization that emphasized the importance of leadership and the collective responsibility of the people of God.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Numbers 31:14
And Moses was wroth with the officers of the host, with the captains over thousands, and captains over hundreds, which came from the battle.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

2 Kings 1:9,11
Then the king sent to him a captain of fifty with his fifty. And he went up to him: and, behold, he sat on the top of an hill. And he spoke to him, You man of God, the king has said, Come down.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

1 Chronicles 13:1
And David consulted with the captains of thousands and hundreds, and with every leader.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

1 Chronicles 27:1
Now the children of Israel after their number, to wit, the chief fathers and captains of thousands and hundreds, and their officers that served the king in any matter of the courses, which came in and went out month by month throughout all the months of the year, of every course were twenty and four thousand.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

A Battle Without a Sword
... And he divided the three hundred men into three companies ... on the Jehovah revealed
by His acts to Israel. ... mobs of undisciplined men, as Eastern armies are, and ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture f/a battle without a sword.htm

The Seventh (And Last) vision "On Earth"
... great subject of the Word of God could not be otherwise divided. ... There are no contending
armies here ... (6) They get no nearer than "the Mountains of Israel" (xxxix ...
/.../bullinger/commentary on revelation/the seventh and last vision.htm

Book ii.
... of one great nations have been delivered; the armies of the ... trumpet, all the princes
and leaders of Israel shall come ... if ye shall go out to war into your own ...
//christianbookshelf.org/ambrose/works and letters of st ambrose/book ii.htm

The Reaction against Egypt
... Syrian coast, sometimes by land in companies of foot ... Mysians, Dardanians, were the
national armies of these ... This basin is divided into two parts, one of which ...
/.../chapter iithe reaction against egypt.htm

The Birth of England's Foreign Missions
... of Britain which were proof against the Roman armies, were conquered ... voices and wept,
as the children of Israel did at ... "2. As in the present divided state of ...
/.../smith/the life of william carey/chapter ii the birth of.htm

part i
... the five loaves and fed with these five loaves several thousands of people. ... Your
spiritual life is clearly divided into two states, differing acutely one from ...
//christianbookshelf.org/calvin/my life in christ/part i.htm