2 Chronicles 14:12 Meaning and Explanation
“So the LORD smote the Ethiopians before Asa, and before Judah; and the Ethiopians fled.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →God defeats the Ethiopian army before Asa's forces, and the Ethiopians flee in retreat.
The Context of 2 Chronicles 14:12
The LORD defeats the Ethiopian army in response to Asa's prayer.
What Does 2 Chronicles 14:12 Mean?
The battle's outcome is stated directly: the LORD defeats the Ethiopians. The text attributes victory to divine action—'the LORD smote the Ethiopians'—not to Judah's military tactics or superior strategy. Zerah's vast army, which appeared overwhelming, breaks and flees. Asa's prayer is answered immediately and decisively.
This reversal demonstrates the theological principle Asa invoked in his prayer: God's power is not constrained by numerical superiority or military advantage. The numerical disparity between Judah's 580,000 and Zerah's reportedly one million becomes irrelevant when divine action intervenes. The Ethiopians' flight confirms the rout.
2 Chronicles 14:12 in the Original Language
Smote (נָגַף, nagaph) — to strike, defeat, wound; indicates decisive divine action in battle.
Frequently Asked Questions About 2 Chronicles 14:12
What does 2 Chronicles 14:12 mean?
God defeats the Ethiopian army before Asa's forces, and the Ethiopians flee in retreat.
What is the context of 2 Chronicles 14:12?
The LORD defeats the Ethiopian army in response to Asa's prayer.