2 Kings Chapter 17 · Verse 12
For they served idols, whereof the LORD had said unto them, Ye shall not do this thing.
Original Language Analysis
וַיַּֽעַבְד֖וּ
For they served
H5647
וַיַּֽעַבְד֖וּ
For they served
Strong's:
H5647
Word #:
1 of 11
to work (in any sense); by implication, to serve, till, (causatively) enslave, etc
הַגִּלֻּלִ֑ים
idols
H1544
הַגִּלֻּלִ֑ים
idols
Strong's:
H1544
Word #:
2 of 11
properly, a log (as round); by implication, an idol
אֲשֶׁ֨ר
H834
אֲשֶׁ֨ר
Strong's:
H834
Word #:
3 of 11
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
יְהוָה֙
whereof the LORD
H3068
יְהוָה֙
whereof the LORD
Strong's:
H3068
Word #:
5 of 11
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
לֹ֥א
H3808
לֹ֥א
Strong's:
H3808
Word #:
7 of 11
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
תַֽעֲשׂ֖וּ
unto them Ye shall not do
H6213
תַֽעֲשׂ֖וּ
unto them Ye shall not do
Strong's:
H6213
Word #:
8 of 11
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
אֶת
H853
אֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
9 of 11
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
Historical Context
Historical Setting: 2 Kings 17 takes place during the declining years of the northern kingdom, 8th century BCE, culminating in exile in 722 BCE. The chapter's theme (Fall of the Northern Kingdom) reflects the historical reality of the fulfillment of prophetic warnings as the northern kingdom fell to Assyria due to persistent covenant unfaithfulness. 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 17 regarding covenant judgment and exile?
- 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
For they served idols, whereof the LORD had said unto them, Ye shall not do this thing.
This verse contributes to the overall theme of chapter 17: Covenant judgment and exile. The divine name emphasizes Yahweh's covenant relationship with Israel and His sovereign control over historical events. 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.