2 Kings Chapter 14 · Verse 5
And 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.
Original Language Analysis
וַיְהִ֕י
H1961
וַיְהִ֕י
Strong's:
H1961
Word #:
1 of 12
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
כַּֽאֲשֶׁ֛ר
H834
כַּֽאֲשֶׁ֛ר
Strong's:
H834
Word #:
2 of 12
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
חָזְקָ֥ה
was confirmed
H2388
חָזְקָ֥ה
was confirmed
Strong's:
H2388
Word #:
3 of 12
to fasten upon; hence, to seize, be strong (figuratively, courageous, causatively strengthen, cure, help, repair, fortify), obstinate; to bind, restra
הַמַּמְלָכָ֖ה
And it came to pass as soon as the kingdom
H4467
הַמַּמְלָכָ֖ה
And it came to pass as soon as the kingdom
Strong's:
H4467
Word #:
4 of 12
dominion, i.e., (abstractly) the estate (rule) or (concretely) the country (realm)
בְּיָד֑וֹ
in his hand
H3027
בְּיָד֑וֹ
in his hand
Strong's:
H3027
Word #:
5 of 12
a hand (the open one [indicating power, means, direction, etc.], in distinction from h3709, the closed one); used (as noun, adverb, etc.) in a great v
הַמַּכִּ֖ים
that he slew
H5221
הַמַּכִּ֖ים
that he slew
Strong's:
H5221
Word #:
6 of 12
to strike (lightly or severely, literally or figuratively)
אֶת
H853
אֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
7 of 12
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
הַמַּכִּ֖ים
that he slew
H5221
הַמַּכִּ֖ים
that he slew
Strong's:
H5221
Word #:
9 of 12
to strike (lightly or severely, literally or figuratively)
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 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.
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.