2 Kings Chapter 12 · Verse 1
In the seventh year of Jehu Jehoash began to reign; and forty years reigned he in Jerusalem. And his mother's name was Zibiah of Beer-sheba.
Original Language Analysis
שֶׁ֤בַע
In the seventh
H7651
שֶׁ֤בַע
In the seventh
Strong's:
H7651
Word #:
2 of 14
seven (as the sacred full one); also (adverbially) seven times; by implication, a week; by extension, an indefinite number
מָלַ֖ךְ
began to reign
H4427
מָלַ֖ךְ
began to reign
Strong's:
H4427
Word #:
4 of 14
to reign; hence (by implication) to take counsel
מָלַ֖ךְ
began to reign
H4427
מָלַ֖ךְ
began to reign
Strong's:
H4427
Word #:
8 of 14
to reign; hence (by implication) to take counsel
בִּירֽוּשָׁלִָ֑ם
he in Jerusalem
H3389
בִּירֽוּשָׁלִָ֑ם
he in Jerusalem
Strong's:
H3389
Word #:
9 of 14
jerushalaim or jerushalem, the capital city of palestine
וְשֵׁ֣ם
name
H8034
וְשֵׁ֣ם
name
Strong's:
H8034
Word #:
10 of 14
an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality; by implication honor, authority, character
אִמּ֔וֹ
And his mother's
H517
אִמּ֔וֹ
And his mother's
Strong's:
H517
Word #:
11 of 14
a mother (as the bond of the family); in a wide sense (both literally and figuratively [like father])
Historical Context
Historical Setting: 2 Kings 12 takes place during the declining years of the northern kingdom, 8th century BCE, culminating in exile in 722 BCE. The chapter's theme (Joash Repairs the Temple) 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 12 regarding religious reform and temple restoration?
- 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
In the seventh year of Jehu Jehoash began to reign; and forty years reigned he in Jerusalem. And his mother's name was Zibiah of Beer-sheba.
This verse contributes to the overall theme of chapter 12: Religious reform and temple restoration. 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.