2 Kings 13:4
And Jehoahaz besought the LORD, and the LORD hearkened unto him: for he saw the oppression of Israel, because the king of Syria oppressed them.
Original Language Analysis
וַיְחַ֥ל
besought
H2470
וַיְחַ֥ל
besought
Strong's:
H2470
Word #:
1 of 18
properly, to be rubbed or worn; hence (figuratively) to stroke (in flattering), entreat
אֶת
H853
אֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
3 of 18
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
פְּנֵ֣י
unto
H6440
פְּנֵ֣י
unto
Strong's:
H6440
Word #:
4 of 18
the face (as the part that turns); used in a great variety of applications (literally and figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a preposi
יְהוָ֔ה
and the LORD
H3068
יְהוָ֔ה
and the LORD
Strong's:
H3068
Word #:
5 of 18
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
וַיִּשְׁמַ֤ע
hearkened
H8085
וַיִּשְׁמַ֤ע
hearkened
Strong's:
H8085
Word #:
6 of 18
to hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.; causatively, to tell, etc.)
יְהוָ֔ה
and the LORD
H3068
יְהוָ֔ה
and the LORD
Strong's:
H3068
Word #:
8 of 18
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
כִּ֤י
H3588
כִּ֤י
Strong's:
H3588
Word #:
9 of 18
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
רָאָה֙
him for he saw
H7200
רָאָה֙
him for he saw
Strong's:
H7200
Word #:
10 of 18
to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)
אֶת
H853
אֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
11 of 18
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל
of Israel
H3478
יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל
of Israel
Strong's:
H3478
Word #:
13 of 18
he will rule as god; jisral, a symbolical name of jacob; also (typically) of his posterity
כִּֽי
H3588
כִּֽי
Strong's:
H3588
Word #:
14 of 18
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
לָחַ֥ץ
oppressed
H3905
לָחַ֥ץ
oppressed
Strong's:
H3905
Word #:
15 of 18
properly, to press, i.e., (figuratively) to distress
Cross References
2 Kings 14:26For the LORD saw the affliction of Israel, that it was very bitter: for there was not any shut up, nor any left, nor any helper for Israel.Exodus 3:7And the LORD said, I have surely seen the affliction of my people which are in Egypt, and have heard their cry by reason of their taskmasters; for I know their sorrows;Psalms 78:34When he slew them, then they sought him: and they returned and enquired early after God.Jeremiah 33:3Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and shew thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not.Isaiah 63:9In all their affliction he was afflicted, and the angel of his presence saved them: in his love and in his pity he redeemed them; and he bare them, and carried them all the days of old.Psalms 50:15And call upon me in the day of trouble: I will deliver thee, and thou shalt glorify me.Exodus 3:9Now therefore, behold, the cry of the children of Israel is come unto me: and I have also seen the oppression wherewith the Egyptians oppress them.Genesis 21:17And God heard the voice of the lad; and the angel of God called to Hagar out of heaven, and said unto her, What aileth thee, Hagar? fear not; for God hath heard the voice of the lad where he is.Numbers 21:7Therefore the people came to Moses, and said, We have sinned, for we have spoken against the LORD, and against thee; pray unto the LORD, that he take away the serpents from us. And Moses prayed for the people.
Historical Context
Historical Setting: 2 Kings 13 takes place during the declining years of the northern kingdom, 8th century BCE, culminating in exile in 722 BCE. The chapter's theme (Decline of Israel and Judah) 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 13 regarding god's patience with recurring apostasy?
- 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?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
And Jehoahaz besought the LORD, and the LORD hearkened unto him: for he saw the oppression of Israel, because the king of Syria oppressed them.
This verse contributes to the overall theme of chapter 13: God's patience with recurring apostasy. 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. The prophetic ministry served as God's primary means of covenant enforcement, calling both kings and people to faithfulness. 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.