2 Chronicles 34:20

Authorized King James Version

And the king commanded Hilkiah, and Ahikam the son of Shaphan, and Abdon the son of Micah, and Shaphan the scribe, and Asaiah a servant of the king's, saying,

Word-by-Word Analysis

וַיְצַ֣ו

H6680

commanded

(intensively) to constitute, enjoin

הַמֶּ֖לֶךְ

H4428

And the king

a king

אֶת

H853

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

חִלְקִיָּ֡הוּ

H2518

Hilkiah

chilhijah, the name of eight israelites

וְאֶת

H853

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

אֲחִיקָ֣ם

H296

and Ahikam

achikam, an israelite

בֶּן

H1121

the son

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

שָׁפָ֣ן

H8227

and Shaphan

a species of rock-rabbit (from its hiding), i.e., probably the hyrax

וְאֶת

H853

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

#10

עַבְדּ֨וֹן

H5658

and Abdon

abdon, the name of a place in palestine and of four israelites

#11

בֶּן

H1121

the son

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

#12

מִיכָ֜ה

H4318

of Micah

micah, the name of seven israelites

#13

וְאֵ֣ת׀

H853

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

#14

שָׁפָ֣ן

H8227

and Shaphan

a species of rock-rabbit (from its hiding), i.e., probably the hyrax

#15

הַסּוֹפֵ֗ר

H5608

the scribe

properly, to score with a mark as a tally or record, i.e., (by implication) to inscribe, and also to enumerate; intensively, to recount, i.e., celebra

#16

וְאֵ֛ת

H853

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

#17

עֲשָׂיָ֥ה

H6222

and Asaiah

asajah, the name of three or four israelites

#18

עֶֽבֶד

H5650

a servant

#19

הַמֶּ֖לֶךְ

H4428

And the king

a king

#20

לֵאמֹֽר׃

H559

saying

to say (used with great latitude)

Analysis

Within the broader context of 2 Chronicles, this passage highlights salvation 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 building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of 2 Chronicles.

Historical Context

The historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?
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?