2 Kings Chapter 14 · Verse 19
Now they made a conspiracy against him in Jerusalem: and he fled to Lachish; but they sent after him to Lachish, and slew him there.
Original Language Analysis
וַיִּקְשְׁר֨וּ
Now they made
H7194
וַיִּקְשְׁר֨וּ
Now they made
Strong's:
H7194
Word #:
1 of 11
to tie, physically (gird, confine, compact) or mentally (in love, league)
עָלָ֥יו
H5921
עָלָ֥יו
Strong's:
H5921
Word #:
2 of 11
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
בִּירֽוּשָׁלִַ֖ם
against him in Jerusalem
H3389
בִּירֽוּשָׁלִַ֖ם
against him in Jerusalem
Strong's:
H3389
Word #:
4 of 11
jerushalaim or jerushalem, the capital city of palestine
וַיָּ֣נָס
and he fled
H5127
וַיָּ֣נָס
and he fled
Strong's:
H5127
Word #:
5 of 11
to flit, i.e., vanish away (subside, escape; causatively, chase, impel, deliver)
וַיִּשְׁלְח֤וּ
but they sent
H7971
וַיִּשְׁלְח֤וּ
but they sent
Strong's:
H7971
Word #:
7 of 11
to send away, for, or out (in a great variety of applications)
אַֽחֲרָיו֙
after
H310
אַֽחֲרָיו֙
after
Strong's:
H310
Word #:
8 of 11
properly, the hind part; generally used as an adverb or conjunction, after (in various senses)
Historical Context
Historical Setting: 2 Kings 14 takes place during the declining years of the northern kingdom, 8th century BCE, culminating in exile in 722 BCE. The chapter's theme (Amaziah of Judah and Jeroboam II) 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 14 regarding pride leads to downfall; god's mercy continues?
- 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
Now they made a conspiracy against him in Jerusalem: and he fled to Lachish; but they sent after him to Lachish, and slew him there.
This verse contributes to the overall theme of chapter 14: Pride leads to downfall; God's mercy continues. 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.