2 Chronicles 14:3

Authorized King James Version

For he took away the altars of the strange gods, and the high places, and brake down the images, and cut down the groves:

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַיָּ֛סַר
For he took away
to turn off (literally or figuratively)
#2
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#3
מִזְבְּח֥וֹת
the altars
an altar
#4
הַנֵּכָ֖ר
of the strange
foreign, or (concretely) a foreigner, or (abstractly) heathendom
#5
וְהַבָּמ֑וֹת
gods and the high places
an elevation
#6
וַיְשַׁבֵּר֙
and brake down
to burst (literally or figuratively)
#7
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#8
הַמַּצֵּב֔וֹת
the images
something stationed, i.e., a column or (memorial stone); by analogy, an idol
#9
וַיְגַדַּ֖ע
and cut down
to fell a tree; generally, to destroy anything
#10
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#11
הָֽאֲשֵׁרִֽים׃
the groves
asherah (or astarte) a phoenician goddess; also an image of the same

Analysis

Within the broader context of 2 Chronicles, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of 2 Chronicles.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection