2 Kings Chapter 14 · Verse 29
And Jeroboam slept with his fathers, even with the kings of Israel; and Zachariah his son reigned in his stead.
Original Language Analysis
וַיִּשְׁכַּ֤ב
slept
H7901
וַיִּשְׁכַּ֤ב
slept
Strong's:
H7901
Word #:
1 of 11
to lie down (for rest, sexual connection, decease or any other purpose)
עִם
H5973
עִם
Strong's:
H5973
Word #:
3 of 11
adverb or preposition, with (i.e., in conjunction with), in varied applications; specifically, equally with; often with prepositional prefix (and then
אֲבֹתָ֔יו
with his fathers
H1
אֲבֹתָ֔יו
with his fathers
Strong's:
H1
Word #:
4 of 11
father, in a literal and immediate, or figurative and remote application
עִ֖ם
H5973
עִ֖ם
Strong's:
H5973
Word #:
5 of 11
adverb or preposition, with (i.e., in conjunction with), in varied applications; specifically, equally with; often with prepositional prefix (and then
יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל
of Israel
H3478
יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל
of Israel
Strong's:
H3478
Word #:
7 of 11
he will rule as god; jisral, a symbolical name of jacob; also (typically) of his posterity
וַיִּמְלֹ֛ךְ
reigned
H4427
וַיִּמְלֹ֛ךְ
reigned
Strong's:
H4427
Word #:
8 of 11
to reign; hence (by implication) to take counsel
זְכַרְיָ֥ה
and Zachariah
H2148
זְכַרְיָ֥ה
and Zachariah
Strong's:
H2148
Word #:
9 of 11
zecarjah, the name of twenty-nine israelites
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
And Jeroboam slept with his fathers, even with the kings of Israel; and Zachariah his son reigned in his stead.
This verse contributes to the overall theme of chapter 14: Pride leads to downfall; God's mercy continues. The reference to kingship reminds readers that all human authority is subordinate to God's ultimate kingship. 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.