King James Version

What Does 1 Kings 22:35 Mean?

1 Kings 22:35 in the King James Version says “And the battle increased that day: and the king was stayed up in his chariot against the Syrians, and died at even: and ...” — study this verse from 1 Kings chapter 22 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“And the battle increased that day: and the king was stayed up in his chariot against the Syrians, and died at even: and the blood ran out of the wound into the midst of the chariot. increased: Heb. ascended midst: Heb. bosom”

1 Kings 22:35 · KJV

Context

33

And it came to pass, when the captains of the chariots perceived that it was not the king of Israel, that they turned back from pursuing him.

34

And a certain man drew a bow at a venture, and smote the king of Israel between the joints of the harness: wherefore he said unto the driver of his chariot, Turn thine hand, and carry me out of the host; for I am wounded. at a: Heb. in his simplicity joints: Heb. joints and the breastplate wounded: Heb. made sick

35

And the battle increased that day: and the king was stayed up in his chariot against the Syrians, and died at even: and the blood ran out of the wound into the midst of the chariot. increased: Heb. ascended midst: Heb. bosom

36

And there went a proclamation throughout the host about the going down of the sun, saying, Every man to his city, and every man to his own country.

37

So the king died, and was brought to Samaria; and they buried the king in Samaria. was brought: Heb. came

Read 1 Kings 22 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
And the battle increased that day: and the king was stayed up in his chariot against the Syrians, and died at even: and the blood ran out of the wound into the midst of the chariot.

This verse contributes to the broader narrative of ahab's death and jehoshaphat's alliance, within the book's focus on prophetic ministry of Elijah confronting Baalism.

The Hebrew text reveals nuances important for understanding this passage's contribution to 1 Kings' theological message about kingship, covenant, and faithfulness to Yahweh. This verse demonstrates the consequences when God's people—especially their leaders—either follow or forsake the covenant established at Sinai.

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Historical & Cultural Context

First Kings was written during or after the Babylonian exile (6th century BCE), reflecting on the monarchy period (10th-9th centuries BCE) to explain why the kingdoms fell. Elijah's ministry (c. 860-850 BCE) occurred during Ahab's reign, a time of intense spiritual crisis in Israel.

Ancient Near Eastern kingship ideology viewed kings as divine representatives responsible for maintaining cosmic order through right worship. Archaeological discoveries from sites like Megiddo, Hazor, and Samaria confirm the historical reliability of 1 Kings' descriptions of building projects and administrative structures.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does this passage illustrate the importance of complete obedience to God's word without compromise?
  2. What does Elijah's ministry reveal about God's character and His commitment to His covenant people?
  3. How does this verse point toward or prepare for the coming of Christ and His eternal kingdom?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 8 words
וַתַּעֲלֶה1 of 8

“And intensified”

wat·ta·'ă·leh

H5927
הַמִּלְחָמָה2 of 8

“the battle”

ham·mil·ḥā·māh

H4421
בַּיּוֹם3 of 8

“day”

bay·yō·wm

H3117
הַהוּא4 of 8

“that”

ha·hū

H1931
וְהַמֶּלֶךְ5 of 8

“and the king”

wə·ham·me·leḵ

H4428
הָיָה6 of 8

“was”

hā·yāh

H1961
מָעֳמָד7 of 8

“propped up”

mā·'o·māḏ

H5975
בַּמֶּרְכָּבָה8 of 8

“in his chariot”

bam·mer·kā·ḇāh

H4818

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of 1 Kings. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

1 Kings 22:35 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to 1 Kings 22:35 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

1 Kings 22:281 Kings 20:42

Places in This Verse

Syria 1Region · Modern: Damascus · 33.51°N, 36.31°E89 verses across 10 books
View all places in 1 Kings 22 →

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