2 Kings Chapter 15 · Verse 10
And Shallum the son of Jabesh conspired against him, and smote him before the people, and slew him, and reigned in his stead.
Original Language Analysis
וַיִּקְשֹׁ֤ר
conspired
H7194
וַיִּקְשֹׁ֤ר
conspired
Strong's:
H7194
Word #:
1 of 11
to tie, physically (gird, confine, compact) or mentally (in love, league)
עָלָיו֙
H5921
עָלָיו֙
Strong's:
H5921
Word #:
2 of 11
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
בֶּן
the son
H1121
בֶּן
the son
Strong's:
H1121
Word #:
4 of 11
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
יָבֵ֔שׁ
of Jabesh
H3003
יָבֵ֔שׁ
of Jabesh
Strong's:
H3003
Word #:
5 of 11
jobesh, the name of an israelite and of a place in palestine
וַיַּכֵּ֥הוּ
against him and smote
H5221
וַיַּכֵּ֥הוּ
against him and smote
Strong's:
H5221
Word #:
6 of 11
to strike (lightly or severely, literally or figuratively)
עָ֖ם
the people
H5971
עָ֖ם
the people
Strong's:
H5971
Word #:
8 of 11
a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock
וַיְמִיתֵ֑הוּ
and slew
H4191
וַיְמִיתֵ֑הוּ
and slew
Strong's:
H4191
Word #:
9 of 11
to die (literally or figuratively); causatively, to kill
Historical Context
Historical Setting: 2 Kings 15 takes place during the declining years of the northern kingdom, 8th century BCE, culminating in exile in 722 BCE. The chapter's theme (Rapid Succession and Instability) 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 15 regarding political chaos reveals spiritual bankruptcy?
- 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 Shallum the son of Jabesh conspired against him, and smote him before the people, and slew him, and reigned in his stead.
This verse contributes to the overall theme of chapter 15: Political chaos reveals spiritual bankruptcy. 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.