King James Version

What Does 2 Kings 10:21 Mean?

“And Jehu sent through all Israel: and all the worshippers of Baal came, so that there was not a man left that came not. And they came into the house of Baal; and the house of Baal was full from one end to another. full: or, so full that they stood mouth to mouth”

Context

Now therefore call unto me all the prophets of Baal, all his servants, and all his priests; let none be wanting: for I have a great sacrifice to do to Baal; whosoever shall be wanting, he shall not live. But Jehu did it in subtilty, to the intent that he might destroy the worshippers of Baal.

And Jehu said, Proclaim a solemn assembly for Baal. And they proclaimed it. Proclaim: Heb. Sanctify

And Jehu sent through all Israel: and all the worshippers of Baal came, so that there was not a man left that came not. And they came into the house of Baal; and the house of Baal was full from one end to another. full: or, so full that they stood mouth to mouth

And he said unto him that was over the vestry, Bring forth vestments for all the worshippers of Baal. And he brought them forth vestments.

And Jehu went, and Jehonadab the son of Rechab, into the house of Baal, and said unto the worshippers of Baal, Search, and look that there be here with you none of the servants of the LORD, but the worshippers of Baal only.

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(21) **Sent through all Israel.**—The Vatican LXX. *adds*, “saying: And now all his servants, and all his priests, and all his prophets, let none be wanting; because I make a great sacrifice. Whoever shall be wanting he shall not live.” This is another instance (comp. 2Kings 9:16) of the insertion in the text of a marginal note belonging to another place. The note preserves the reading of the first half of 2Kings 10:19 according to another MS. (See Thenius *ad loc*.) **Was full from one end to another.**—Right as to the sense. The figure is taken from a full vessel; as if we were to say, “The house was brimful.” The rim of a vessel was its *mouth*. The rim of the contents reached the rim of the vessel. Schulz explains “head to head” (comp. the margin); Gesenius, “from corner to corner” (comp. 2Kings 21:16); LXX. literally, στόμα εἰς στόμα “mouth to mouth.”

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of 2 Kings. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

2 Kings 10:21 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.