2 Kings Chapter 14 · Verse 17
And Amaziah the son of Joash king of Judah lived after the death of Jehoash son of Jehoahaz king of Israel fifteen years.
Original Language Analysis
וַיְחִ֨י
lived
H2421
וַיְחִ֨י
lived
Strong's:
H2421
Word #:
1 of 16
to live, whether literally or figuratively; causatively, to revive
בֶּן
son
H1121
בֶּן
son
Strong's:
H1121
Word #:
3 of 16
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
יְהוּדָ֔ה
of Judah
H3063
יְהוּדָ֔ה
of Judah
Strong's:
H3063
Word #:
6 of 16
jehudah (or judah), the name of five israelites; also of the tribe descended from the first, and of its territory
אַֽחֲרֵ֣י
after
H310
אַֽחֲרֵ֣י
after
Strong's:
H310
Word #:
7 of 16
properly, the hind part; generally used as an adverb or conjunction, after (in various senses)
מ֔וֹת
the death
H4194
מ֔וֹת
the death
Strong's:
H4194
Word #:
8 of 16
death (natural or violent); concretely, the dead, their place or state (hades); figuratively, pestilence, ruin
בֶּן
son
H1121
בֶּן
son
Strong's:
H1121
Word #:
10 of 16
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל
of Israel
H3478
יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל
of Israel
Strong's:
H3478
Word #:
13 of 16
he will rule as god; jisral, a symbolical name of jacob; also (typically) of his posterity
Historical Context
Historical Setting: 2 Kings 14 takes place during the declining years of the northern kingdom, 8th century BCE, culminating in exile in 722 BCE. The chapter's theme (Amaziah of Judah and Jeroboam II) 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 14 regarding pride leads to downfall; god's mercy continues?
- 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 Amaziah the son of Joash king of Judah lived after the death of Jehoash son of Jehoahaz king of Israel fifteen years.
This verse contributes to the overall theme of chapter 14: Pride leads to downfall; God's mercy continues. 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.