King James Version
What Does 2 Chronicles 20:5 Mean?
“And Jehoshaphat stood in the congregation of Judah and Jerusalem, in the house of the LORD, before the new court,”
Context
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?
7
Art not thou our God, who didst drive out the inhabitants of this land before thy people Israel, and gavest it to the seed of Abraham thy friend for ever? who: Heb. thou
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(5) **And Jehoshaphat stood.**—Comp. 2Chronicles 6:12-13.
**Judah and Jerusalem.**—So 2Chronicles 20:27. Jerusalem is thus mentioned side by side with the country, as being by far the most important part of it. (See also the headings of Isaiah 1, 2)
**Before the new court.**—This name, “the New Court,” only occurs here. It probably designates the “Great” (2Chronicles 4:9) or outer court of the Temple, in which the people assembled. Jehoshaphat stood facing the people, in front of the entrance to the Court of the Priests. Perhaps the court was called *New,* as having been recently repaired or enlarged. Syr. and Arab., “before the new gate.”
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 20:5 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 20:5
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge