2 Kings Chapter 18 · Verse 3
And he did that which was right in the sight of the LORD, according to all that David his father did.
Original Language Analysis
עָשָׂ֖ה
And he did
H6213
עָשָׂ֖ה
And he did
Strong's:
H6213
Word #:
1 of 9
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
בְּעֵינֵ֣י
in the sight
H5869
בְּעֵינֵ֣י
in the sight
Strong's:
H5869
Word #:
3 of 9
an eye (literally or figuratively); by analogy, a fountain (as the eye of the landscape)
יְהוָ֑ה
of the LORD
H3068
יְהוָ֑ה
of the LORD
Strong's:
H3068
Word #:
4 of 9
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
כְּכֹ֥ל
H3605
כְּכֹ֥ל
Strong's:
H3605
Word #:
5 of 9
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
אֲשֶׁר
H834
אֲשֶׁר
Strong's:
H834
Word #:
6 of 9
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
עָשָׂ֖ה
And he did
H6213
עָשָׂ֖ה
And he did
Strong's:
H6213
Word #:
7 of 9
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
Historical Context
Historical Setting: 2 Kings 18 takes place during Hezekiah's reign in Judah, late 8th century BCE, around 715-686 BCE. The chapter's theme (Hezekiah's Reforms and Assyrian Threat) reflects the historical reality of genuine religious reform under Hezekiah, including trust in God that resulted in miraculous deliverance from 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 18 regarding faithful reformation faces external pressure?
- 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 he did that which was right in the sight of the LORD, according to all that David his father did.
This verse contributes to the overall theme of chapter 18: Faithful reformation faces external pressure. The divine name emphasizes Yahweh's covenant relationship with Israel and His sovereign control over historical events. In Judah's later history, we see both genuine reforms and deep-rooted corruption, revealing that external religious activity cannot substitute for heart transformation.
The narrative demonstrates God's justice in judging covenant unfaithfulness while maintaining His ultimate purposes for redemption.