2 Kings Chapter 12 · Verse 8
And the priests consented to receive no more money of the people, neither to repair the breaches of the house.
Original Language Analysis
הַכֹּֽהֲנִ֑ים
And the priests
H3548
הַכֹּֽהֲנִ֑ים
And the priests
Strong's:
H3548
Word #:
2 of 12
literally one officiating, a priest; also (by courtesy) an acting priest (although a layman)
וּלְבִלְתִּ֥י
neither
H1115
וּלְבִלְתִּ֥י
neither
Strong's:
H1115
Word #:
3 of 12
properly, a failure of, i.e., (used only as a negative particle, usually with a prepositional prefix) not, except, without, unless, besides, because n
כֶּ֙סֶף֙
more money
H3701
כֶּ֙סֶף֙
more money
Strong's:
H3701
Word #:
5 of 12
silver (from its pale color); by implication, money
מֵאֵ֣ת
H853
מֵאֵ֣ת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
6 of 12
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
הָעָ֔ם
of the people
H5971
הָעָ֔ם
of the people
Strong's:
H5971
Word #:
7 of 12
a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock
וּלְבִלְתִּ֥י
neither
H1115
וּלְבִלְתִּ֥י
neither
Strong's:
H1115
Word #:
8 of 12
properly, a failure of, i.e., (used only as a negative particle, usually with a prepositional prefix) not, except, without, unless, besides, because n
חַזֵּ֖ק
to repair
H2388
חַזֵּ֖ק
to repair
Strong's:
H2388
Word #:
9 of 12
to fasten upon; hence, to seize, be strong (figuratively, courageous, causatively strengthen, cure, help, repair, fortify), obstinate; to bind, restra
אֶת
H853
אֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
10 of 12
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 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
And the priests consented to receive no more money of the people, neither to repair the breaches of the house.
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.