2 Kings Chapter 12 · Verse 2
And Jehoash did that which was right in the sight of the LORD all his days wherein Jehoiada the priest instructed him.
Original Language Analysis
וַיַּ֨עַשׂ
did
H6213
וַיַּ֨עַשׂ
did
Strong's:
H6213
Word #:
1 of 11
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
הַיָּשָׁ֛ר
that which was right
H3477
הַיָּשָׁ֛ר
that which was right
Strong's:
H3477
Word #:
3 of 11
straight (literally or figuratively)
בְּעֵינֵ֥י
in the sight
H5869
בְּעֵינֵ֥י
in the sight
Strong's:
H5869
Word #:
4 of 11
an eye (literally or figuratively); by analogy, a fountain (as the eye of the landscape)
יְהוָ֖ה
of the LORD
H3068
יְהוָ֖ה
of the LORD
Strong's:
H3068
Word #:
5 of 11
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
כָּל
H3605
כָּל
Strong's:
H3605
Word #:
6 of 11
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
יָמָ֑יו
all his days
H3117
יָמָ֑יו
all his days
Strong's:
H3117
Word #:
7 of 11
a day (as the warm hours), whether literal (from sunrise to sunset, or from one sunset to the next), or figurative (a space of time defined by an asso
אֲשֶׁ֣ר
H834
אֲשֶׁ֣ר
Strong's:
H834
Word #:
8 of 11
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
הוֹרָ֔הוּ
instructed
H3384
הוֹרָ֔הוּ
instructed
Strong's:
H3384
Word #:
9 of 11
properly, to flow as water (i.e., to rain); transitively, to lay or throw (especially an arrow, i.e., to shoot); figuratively, to point out (as if by
Historical Context
Historical Setting: 2 Kings 12 takes place during the declining years of the northern kingdom, 8th century BCE, culminating in exile in 722 BCE. The chapter's theme (Joash Repairs the Temple) 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 12 regarding religious reform and temple restoration?
- 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 Jehoash did that which was right in the sight of the LORD all his days wherein Jehoiada the priest instructed him.
This verse contributes to the overall theme of chapter 12: Religious reform and temple restoration. The divine name emphasizes Yahweh's covenant relationship with Israel and His sovereign control over historical events. 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.