2 Kings Chapter 11 · Verse 20
And all the people of the land rejoiced, and the city was in quiet: and they slew Athaliah with the sword beside the king's house.
Original Language Analysis
וַיִּשְׂמַ֥ח
rejoiced
H8055
וַיִּשְׂמַ֥ח
rejoiced
Strong's:
H8055
Word #:
1 of 12
probably to brighten up, i.e., (figuratively) be (causatively, make) blithe or gleesome
כָּל
H3605
כָּל
Strong's:
H3605
Word #:
2 of 12
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
עַם
And all the people
H5971
עַם
And all the people
Strong's:
H5971
Word #:
3 of 12
a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock
וְהָעִ֣יר
and the city
H5892
וְהָעִ֣יר
and the city
Strong's:
H5892
Word #:
5 of 12
a city (a place guarded by waking or a watch) in the widest sense (even of a mere encampment or post)
וְאֶת
H853
וְאֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
7 of 12
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
עֲתַלְיָ֛הוּ
Athaliah
H6271
עֲתַלְיָ֛הוּ
Athaliah
Strong's:
H6271
Word #:
8 of 12
athaljah, the name of an israelitess and two israelites
הֵמִ֥יתוּ
and they slew
H4191
הֵמִ֥יתוּ
and they slew
Strong's:
H4191
Word #:
9 of 12
to die (literally or figuratively); causatively, to kill
בַחֶ֖רֶב
with the sword
H2719
בַחֶ֖רֶב
with the sword
Strong's:
H2719
Word #:
10 of 12
drought; also a cutting instrument (from its destructive effect), as a knife, sword, or other sharp implement
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 all the people of the land rejoiced, and the city was in quiet: and they slew Athaliah with the sword beside the king's house.
This verse contributes to the overall theme of chapter 11: Preservation of Davidic line and covenant faithfulness. 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.