2 Kings Chapter 11 · Verse 10
And to the captains over hundreds did the priest give king David's spears and shields, that were in the temple of the LORD.
Original Language Analysis
וַיִּתֵּ֨ן
give
H5414
וַיִּתֵּ֨ן
give
Strong's:
H5414
Word #:
1 of 14
to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)
הַכֹּהֵ֜ן
did the priest
H3548
הַכֹּהֵ֜ן
did the priest
Strong's:
H3548
Word #:
2 of 14
literally one officiating, a priest; also (by courtesy) an acting priest (although a layman)
הַמֵּא֗יוֹת
over hundreds
H3967
הַמֵּא֗יוֹת
over hundreds
Strong's:
H3967
Word #:
4 of 14
a hundred; also as a multiplicative and a fraction
אֶֽת
H853
אֶֽת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
5 of 14
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
וְאֶת
H853
וְאֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
7 of 14
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
הַשְּׁלָטִ֔ים
and shields
H7982
הַשְּׁלָטִ֔ים
and shields
Strong's:
H7982
Word #:
8 of 14
probably a shield (as controlling, i.e., protecting the person)
אֲשֶׁ֖ר
H834
אֲשֶׁ֖ר
Strong's:
H834
Word #:
9 of 14
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
אֲשֶׁ֖ר
H834
אֲשֶׁ֖ר
Strong's:
H834
Word #:
12 of 14
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
Historical Context
Historical Setting: 2 Kings 11 takes place during the declining years of the northern kingdom, 8th century BCE, culminating in exile in 722 BCE. The chapter's theme (Athaliah's Usurpation and Downfall) reflects the historical reality of progressive political instability and external threats, particularly from Aram (Syria) and later Assyria. Archaeological evidence from this period includes royal inscriptions, administrative documents, and material culture that corroborate the biblical account while providing additional context for understanding the political and social dynamics at work.
Questions for Reflection
- How does this verse contribute to understanding the theological message of 2 Kings 11 regarding preservation of davidic line and covenant faithfulness?
- What does this passage reveal about God's character, particularly His justice, mercy, and faithfulness to covenant promises?
- In what practical ways should this text shape contemporary Christian thinking about faithfulness, worship, and obedience to God?
Analysis & Commentary
And to the captains over hundreds did the priest give king David's spears and shields, that were in the temple of the LORD.
This verse contributes to the overall theme of chapter 11: Preservation of Davidic line and covenant faithfulness. The divine name emphasizes Yahweh's covenant relationship with Israel and His sovereign control over historical events. The reference to kingship reminds readers that all human authority is subordinate to God's ultimate kingship. This passage occurs during the decline toward Israel's exile, demonstrating how persistent covenant unfaithfulness leads to national disaster.
The narrative demonstrates God's justice in judging covenant unfaithfulness while maintaining His ultimate purposes for redemption.