King James Version
What Does 2 Chronicles 12:8 Mean?
“Nevertheless they shall be his servants; that they may know my service, and the service of the kingdoms of the countries.”
Context
6
Whereupon the princes of Israel and the king humbled themselves; and they said, The LORD is righteous.
7
And when the LORD saw that they humbled themselves, the word of the LORD came to Shemaiah, saying, They have humbled themselves; therefore I will not destroy them, but I will grant them some deliverance; and my wrath shall not be poured out upon Jerusalem by the hand of Shishak. some: or, a little while
8
Nevertheless they shall be his servants; that they may know my service, and the service of the kingdoms of the countries.
9
So Shishak king of Egypt came up against Jerusalem, and took away the treasures of the house of the LORD, and the treasures of the king's house; he took all: he carried away also the shields of gold which Solomon had made.
10
Instead of which king Rehoboam made shields of brass, and committed them to the hands of the chief of the guard, that kept the entrance of the king's house.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(8) **Nevertheless they shall be*.****—For they shall become servants *(*i.e.,* tributaries) *to him;* scil., for a while.
**That they may know** (or, *discern*) **my service, and the service of the kingdoms.**—That they may learn by experience the difference between the easy yoke of their God, and the heavy burden of foreign tyranny, which was entailed upon them by deserting Him.
**Kingdoms of the countries.**—See 1Chronicles 29:30.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of 2 Chronicles. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
2 Chronicles 12:8 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 2 Chronicles 12:8
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge