Judith 7:2 describes the size and movement of the Assyrian army under Holofernes as they approached the city of Bethulia. Let's break it down:
"Every mighty man of them moved that day": This emphasizes the overwhelming force and organized movement of the entire army. They all moved as a unit, implying readiness and discipline.
"The army of their men of war was one hundred seventy thousand footmen, plus twelve thousand horsemen...": This gives the numerical strength of the core fighting units: 170,000 infantry and 12,000 cavalry.
"...besides the baggage, and the men that were on foot among them: an exceedingly great multitude.": This acknowledges that the army's total size was much larger than just the soldiers. It included baggage carriers, support staff, and likely other non-combatants traveling with the army. The phrase "an exceedingly great multitude" reinforces the sheer size and intimidating nature of the invading force.
In essence, the verse paints a picture of a massive, well-organized army of immense scale and strength, intended to highlight the seemingly insurmountable odds facing Bethulia. It sets the stage for Judith's courageous act. The sheer number of the enemy serves to amplify the heroism and faith demonstrated by Judith in the subsequent narrative.
Judith 7:2 describes the size and movement of the Assyrian army under Holofernes as they approached the city of Bethulia. Let's break it down:
"Every mighty man of them moved that day": This emphasizes the overwhelming force and organized movement of the entire army. They all moved as a unit, implying readiness and discipline.
"The army of their men of war was one hundred seventy thousand footmen, plus twelve thousand horsemen...": This gives the numerical strength of the core fighting units: 170,000 infantry and 12,000 cavalry.
"...besides the baggage, and the men that were on foot among them: an exceedingly great multitude.": This acknowledges that the army's total size was much larger than just the soldiers. It included baggage carriers, support staff, and likely other non-combatants traveling with the army. The phrase "an exceedingly great multitude" reinforces the sheer size and intimidating nature of the invading force.
In essence, the verse paints a picture of a massive, well-organized army of immense scale and strength, intended to highlight the seemingly insurmountable odds facing Bethulia. It sets the stage for Judith's courageous act. The sheer number of the enemy serves to amplify the heroism and faith demonstrated by Judith in the subsequent narrative.
