2 Kings Chapter 15 · Verse 1
In the twenty and seventh year of Jeroboam king of Israel began Azariah son of Amaziah king of Judah to reign.
Original Language Analysis
וָשֶׁ֙בַע֙
and seventh
H7651
וָשֶׁ֙בַע֙
and seventh
Strong's:
H7651
Word #:
3 of 13
seven (as the sacred full one); also (adverbially) seven times; by implication, a week; by extension, an indefinite number
יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל
of Israel
H3478
יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל
of Israel
Strong's:
H3478
Word #:
7 of 13
he will rule as god; jisral, a symbolical name of jacob; also (typically) of his posterity
בֶן
son
H1121
בֶן
son
Strong's:
H1121
Word #:
10 of 13
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
Cross References
2 Kings 15:13Shallum the son of Jabesh began to reign in the nine and thirtieth year of Uzziah king of Judah; and he reigned a full month in Samaria.2 Kings 14:21And all the people of Judah took Azariah, which was sixteen years old, and made him king instead of his father Amaziah.2 Chronicles 26:1Then all the people of Judah took Uzziah, who was sixteen years old, and made him king in the room of his father Amaziah.
Historical Context
Historical Setting: 2 Kings 15 takes place during the declining years of the northern kingdom, 8th century BCE, culminating in exile in 722 BCE. The chapter's theme (Rapid Succession and Instability) 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 15 regarding political chaos reveals spiritual bankruptcy?
- 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 twenty and seventh year of Jeroboam king of Israel began Azariah son of Amaziah king of Judah to reign.
This verse contributes to the overall theme of chapter 15: Political chaos reveals spiritual bankruptcy. 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.