Book of 1 Chronicles - Chapter 7 - Verse 4

This verse from the Old Testament book of 1 Chronicles provides a glimpse into the organization and strength of the Israelite army during the time of King David. The verse highlights the practice of military recruitment based on family lineage, as soldiers were gathered "by their generations, after the house of their fathers." The army consisted of a formidable force of 36,000 men, a significant number indicative of the military prowess of the Israelites. The verse also references the large number of wives and sons among the soldiers, suggesting that the community was populous and robust. This emphasis on familial ties and the sheer size of the army underscores the importance of unity and solidarity in times of war. Overall, this verse serves as a reminder of the strategic military planning and the familial support system that characterized the Israelite army in ancient times.

One theological interpretation of this verse could be focusing on the importance of inheritance and lineage within the ancient Israelite society. The mention of "their generations, after the house of their fathers" highlights the idea of passing down not only property but also skills and responsibilities from one generation to the next. This can be seen in the context of the bands of soldiers for war, where the men are organized based on their familial ties and lineage, indicating a strong sense of unity and solidarity within the community. Additionally, the reference to "many wives and sons" underscores the emphasis on familial structure and the role of women in bearing children to continue the lineage. This verse could be seen as a reflection of the cultural norms and societal values of the time, with an emphasis on the importance of family and inheritance in the community.