King James Version
What Does 2 Chronicles 20:4 Mean?
“And Judah gathered themselves together, to ask help of the LORD: even out of all the cities of Judah they came to seek the LORD.”
Context
2
Then there came some that told Jehoshaphat, saying, There cometh a great multitude against thee from beyond the sea on this side Syria; and, behold, they be in Hazazontamar, which is Engedi.
3
And Jehoshaphat feared, and set himself to seek the LORD, and proclaimed a fast throughout all Judah. himself: Heb. his face
4
And Judah gathered themselves together, to ask help of the LORD: even out of all the cities of Judah they came to seek the LORD.
5
And Jehoshaphat stood in the congregation of Judah and Jerusalem, in the house of the LORD, before the new court,
6
And said, O LORD God of our fathers, art not thou God in heaven? and rulest not thou over all the kingdoms of the heathen? and in thine hand is there not power and might, so that none is able to withstand thee?
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(4) **To ask.**—Literally, *to seek* (*baqqēsh,* a synonym of *dārash.* 2Chronicles 20:2) *from Jehovah;* scil., *help,* which Authorised Version rightly supplies.
**Even out of all the cities of Judah.**—Emphasising the fact that the gathering in the Temple represented the whole nation. Syriac and Arabic, “and even from the distant cities.”
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 20:4 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 20:4
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge