King James Version
What Does 2 Kings 10:22 Mean?
“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.”
Context
20
And Jehu said, Proclaim a solemn assembly for Baal. And they proclaimed it. Proclaim: Heb. Sanctify
21
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
22
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.
23
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.
24
And when they went in to offer sacrifices and burnt offerings, Jehu appointed fourscore men without, and said, If any of the men whom I have brought into your hands escape, he that letteth him go, his life shall be for the life of him.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(22) **The vestry.**—The word (*meltāhāh*) occurs here only. The Targum has chests (*qumtrayy*â*—i.e*., κάμπτραι, “caskets”; comp. Latin, *capsa*). The LXX. does not translate the word.
The Syriac has, “And he said to the treasurer” (*gizbârâ*). The Vulg., “And he said to those who were over the vestments.” Thenius thinks the word merely means “cell” or “storechamber,” like *lishkāh*, the root of which may be cognate (1Chronicles 28:12). It is said that there is an Ethiopie word, meaning “linen robe,” which is connected with this curious term. Thus it would be literally “vestry.”
**Brought them forth vestments.**—Literally, *the vestments*—viz., those which were customary on such occasions. Thenius supposes that festival attire from Jehu’s palace is meant, rather than from the wardrobe of the Baal temple. But it seems more natural to understand that Jehu simply gives directions that all the priests and prophets should be careful to wear their distinctive dress at the festival, which was to be a specially great one. (Comp. Herod. v. 5; Sil. Ital. iii. 24 *seq.*)
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 10:22 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 Kings 10:22
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge