2 Kings 17:14

Authorized King James Version

Notwithstanding they would not hear, but hardened their necks, like to the neck of their fathers, that did not believe in the LORD their God.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וְלֹ֖א

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

שָׁמֵ֑עוּ

H8085

Notwithstanding they would not hear

to hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.; causatively, to tell, etc.)

וַיַּקְשׁ֤וּ

H7185

but hardened

properly, to be dense, i.e., tough or severe (in various applications)

אֶת

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

כְּעֹ֣רֶף

H6203

like to the neck

the nape or back of the neck (as declining); hence, the back generally (whether literal or figurative)

כְּעֹ֣רֶף

H6203

like to the neck

the nape or back of the neck (as declining); hence, the back generally (whether literal or figurative)

אֲבוֹתָ֔ם

of their fathers

father, in a literal and immediate, or figurative and remote application

אֲשֶׁר֙

H834

who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc

לֹ֣א

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

#10

הֶֽאֱמִ֔ינוּ

H539

that did not believe

properly, to build up or support; to foster as a parent or nurse; figuratively to render (or be) firm or faithful, to trust or believe, to be permanen

#11

בַּֽיהוָ֖ה

H3068

in the LORD

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

#12

אֱלֹֽהֵיהֶֽם׃

H430

their God

gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of

Analysis

Within the broader context of 2 Kings, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of 2 Kings.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of 2 Kings Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine sovereignty in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
How might the original audience's understanding of divine sovereignty differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
In what ways does understanding divine sovereignty in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?

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