2 Chronicles 34:1

Josiah was eight years old when he began to reign, and he reigned in Jerusalem one and thirty years.

Word-by-Word Analysis

בֶּן

H1121

old

a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or

שְׁמוֹנֶ֥ה

H8083

was eight

a cardinal number, eight (as if a surplus above the 'perfect' seven); also (as ordinal) eighth

שָׁנָ֔ה

H8141

years

a year (as a revolution of time)

יֹֽאשִׁיָּ֣הוּ

H2977

Josiah

joshijah, the name of two israelites

מָלַ֖ךְ

H4427

and he reigned

to reign; hence (by implication) to take counsel

וּשְׁלֹשִׁ֤ים

H7970

and thirty

thirty; or (ordinal) thirtieth

וְאַחַת֙

H259

one

properly, united, i.e., one; or (as an ordinal) first

שָׁנָ֔ה

H8141

years

a year (as a revolution of time)

מָלַ֖ךְ

H4427

and he reigned

to reign; hence (by implication) to take counsel

#10

בִּירֽוּשָׁלִָֽם׃

H3389

in Jerusalem

jerushalaim or jerushalem, the capital city of palestine

Analysis

Within the broader context of 2 Chronicles, this passage highlights kingdom of God through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by introducing key themes that will be developed throughout 2 Chronicles.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of kingdom of God within the theological tradition of 2 Chronicles Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

How might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
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 systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of kingdom of God, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of eschatology and the doctrine of last things?