2 Kings Chapter 16 · Verse 19
Now the rest of the acts of Ahaz which he did, are they not written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Judah?
Original Language Analysis
וְיֶ֛תֶר
Now the rest
H3499
וְיֶ֛תֶר
Now the rest
Strong's:
H3499
Word #:
1 of 14
properly, an overhanging, i.e., (by implication) a small rope (as hanging free)
דִּבְרֵ֥י
of the acts
H1697
דִּבְרֵ֥י
of the acts
Strong's:
H1697
Word #:
2 of 14
a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause
אֲשֶׁ֣ר
H834
אֲשֶׁ֣ר
Strong's:
H834
Word #:
4 of 14
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
עָשָׂ֑ה
which he did
H6213
עָשָׂ֑ה
which he did
Strong's:
H6213
Word #:
5 of 14
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
הֲלֹא
H3808
הֲלֹא
Strong's:
H3808
Word #:
6 of 14
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
כְּתוּבִ֗ים
are they not written
H3789
כְּתוּבִ֗ים
are they not written
Strong's:
H3789
Word #:
8 of 14
to grave, by implication, to write (describe, inscribe, prescribe, subscribe)
עַל
H5921
עַל
Strong's:
H5921
Word #:
9 of 14
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
סֵ֛פֶר
in the book
H5612
סֵ֛פֶר
in the book
Strong's:
H5612
Word #:
10 of 14
properly, writing (the art or a document); by implication, a book
דִּבְרֵ֥י
of the acts
H1697
דִּבְרֵ֥י
of the acts
Strong's:
H1697
Word #:
11 of 14
a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause
Historical Context
Historical Setting: 2 Kings 16 takes place during the declining years of the northern kingdom, 8th century BCE, culminating in exile in 722 BCE. The chapter's theme (Ahaz's Apostasy) reflects the historical reality of desperate political alliances and religious syncretism as Judah faced external threats. 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 16 regarding desperate alliances and religious compromise?
- 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
Now the rest of the acts of Ahaz which he did, are they not written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Judah?
This verse contributes to the overall theme of chapter 16: Desperate alliances and religious compromise. 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.