2 Chronicles 14:5

Authorized King James Version

Also he took away out of all the cities of Judah the high places and the images: and the kingdom was quiet before him.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וַיָּ֙סַר֙

H5493

Also he took away

to turn off (literally or figuratively)

מִכָּל

H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

עָרֵ֣י

H5892

out of all the cities

a city (a place guarded by waking or a watch) in the widest sense (even of a mere encampment or post)

יְהוּדָ֔ה

H3063

of Judah

jehudah (or judah), the name of five israelites; also of the tribe descended from the first, and of its territory

אֶת

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

הַבָּמ֖וֹת

H1116

the high places

an elevation

וְאֶת

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

הַֽחַמָּנִ֑ים

H2553

and the images

a sun-pillar

וַתִּשְׁקֹ֥ט

H8252

was quiet

to repose (usually figurative)

#10

הַמַּמְלָכָ֖ה

H4467

and the kingdom

dominion, i.e., (abstractly) the estate (rule) or (concretely) the country (realm)

#11

לְפָנָֽיו׃

H6440

before

the face (as the part that turns); used in a great variety of applications (literally and figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a preposi

Analysis

The kingdom of God theme here intersects with the progressive revelation of God's rule from creation to consummation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of development from creation mandate through Davidic kingdom to eschatological fulfillment. The phrase emphasizing kingdom relates to eschatology and the ultimate purpose of God's redemptive plan and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's reign from creation through the millennial kingdom.

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 kingdom of God particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show imperial and royal imagery familiar to subjects of ancient monarchies, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

In what ways does this verse's emphasis on kingdom address the apparent delay of Christ's return and God's justice, and how should the church respond?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from earthly theocracy through Davidic kingdom to eschatological fulfillment, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
What practical applications emerge from understanding kingdom of God as presented in this verse, particularly in light of providing hope in times of political and social upheaval?