2 Kings Chapter 12 · Verse 20
And his servants arose, and made a conspiracy, and slew Joash in the house of Millo, which goeth down to Silla.
Original Language Analysis
וַיָּקֻ֥מוּ
arose
H6965
וַיָּקֻ֥מוּ
arose
Strong's:
H6965
Word #:
1 of 11
to rise (in various applications, literal, figurative, intensive and causative)
וַיִּקְשְׁרוּ
and made
H7194
וַיִּקְשְׁרוּ
and made
Strong's:
H7194
Word #:
3 of 11
to tie, physically (gird, confine, compact) or mentally (in love, league)
וַיַּכּוּ֙
and slew
H5221
וַיַּכּוּ֙
and slew
Strong's:
H5221
Word #:
5 of 11
to strike (lightly or severely, literally or figuratively)
אֶת
H853
אֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
6 of 11
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
בֵּ֥ית
in the house
H1004
בֵּ֥ית
in the house
Strong's:
H1004
Word #:
8 of 11
a house (in the greatest variation of applications, especially family, etc.)
Cross References
2 Kings 14:5And it came to pass, as soon as the kingdom was confirmed in his hand, that he slew his servants which had slain the king his father.2 Samuel 5:9So David dwelt in the fort, and called it the city of David. And David built round about from Millo and inward.Judges 9:6And all the men of Shechem gathered together, and all the house of Millo, and went, and made Abimelech king, by the plain of the pillar that was in Shechem.
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 his servants arose, and made a conspiracy, and slew Joash in the house of Millo, which goeth down to Silla.
This verse contributes to the overall theme of chapter 12: Religious reform and temple restoration. 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.