2 Kings Chapter 12 · Verse 5
Let the priests take it to them, every man of his acquaintance: and let them repair the breaches of the house, wheresoever any breach shall be found.
Original Language Analysis
הַכֹּ֣הֲנִ֔ים
Let the priests
H3548
הַכֹּ֣הֲנִ֔ים
Let the priests
Strong's:
H3548
Word #:
3 of 16
literally one officiating, a priest; also (by courtesy) an acting priest (although a layman)
אִ֖ישׁ
it to them every man
H376
אִ֖ישׁ
it to them every man
Strong's:
H376
Word #:
4 of 16
a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term (and in such cases frequently not expressed in translation)
מֵאֵ֣ת
H853
מֵאֵ֣ת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
5 of 16
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
יְחַזְּקוּ֙
and let them repair
H2388
יְחַזְּקוּ֙
and let them repair
Strong's:
H2388
Word #:
8 of 16
to fasten upon; hence, to seize, be strong (figuratively, courageous, causatively strengthen, cure, help, repair, fortify), obstinate; to bind, restra
אֶת
H853
אֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
9 of 16
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
הַבַּ֔יִת
of the house
H1004
הַבַּ֔יִת
of the house
Strong's:
H1004
Word #:
11 of 16
a house (in the greatest variation of applications, especially family, etc.)
לְכֹ֛ל
H3605
לְכֹ֛ל
Strong's:
H3605
Word #:
12 of 16
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
אֲשֶׁר
H834
אֲשֶׁר
Strong's:
H834
Word #:
13 of 16
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
יִמָּצֵ֥א
shall be found
H4672
יִמָּצֵ֥א
shall be found
Strong's:
H4672
Word #:
14 of 16
properly, to come forth to, i.e., appear or exist; transitively, to attain, i.e., find or acquire; figuratively, to occur, meet or be present
שָׁ֖ם
H8033
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
Let the priests take it to them, every man of his acquaintance: and let them repair the breaches of the house, wheresoever any breach shall be found.
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.