King James Version

What Does 2 Kings 10:28 Mean?

Thus Jehu destroyed Baal out of Israel.

2 Kings 10:28 · KJV


Context

26

And they brought forth the images out of the house of Baal, and burned them. images: Heb. statues

27

And they brake down the image of Baal, and brake down the house of Baal, and made it a draught house unto this day.

28

Thus Jehu destroyed Baal out of Israel.

29

Howbeit from the sins of Jeroboam the son of Nebat, who made Israel to sin, Jehu departed not from after them, to wit, the golden calves that were in Bethel, and that were in Dan.

30

And the LORD said unto Jehu, Because thou hast done well in executing that which is right in mine eyes, and hast done unto the house of Ahab according to all that was in mine heart, thy children of the fourth generation shall sit on the throne of Israel.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Thus Jehu destroyed Baal out of Israel.

This verse contributes to the overall theme of chapter 10: Zeal for God without heart transformation. During this period, Israel and Judah struggled with persistent idolatry, particularly Baal worship introduced under Ahab and Jezebel.

The narrative demonstrates God's justice in judging covenant unfaithfulness while maintaining His ultimate purposes for redemption.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Historical Setting: 2 Kings 10 takes place during Jehu's dynasty and the violent purge of Baal worship, around 841 BCE. The chapter's theme (Jehu's Purge Continues) reflects the historical reality of violent political revolution motivated by zeal for Yahweh but lacking genuine heart transformation. Archaeological evidence from this period includes royal inscriptions, administrative documents, and material culture that corroborate the biblical account while providing additional context for understanding the political and social dynamics at work.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does this verse contribute to understanding the theological message of 2 Kings 10 regarding zeal for god without heart transformation?
  2. What does this passage reveal about God's character, particularly His justice, mercy, and faithfulness to covenant promises?
  3. In what practical ways should this text shape contemporary Christian thinking about faithfulness, worship, and obedience to God?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 5 words
וַיַּשְׁמֵ֥ד1 of 5

destroyed

H8045

to desolate

יֵה֛וּא2 of 5

Thus Jehu

H3058

jehu, the name of five israelites

אֶת3 of 5
H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

הַבַּ֖עַל4 of 5

Baal

H1168

baal, a phoenician deity

מִיִּשְׂרָאֵֽל׃5 of 5

out of Israel

H3478

he will rule as god; jisral, a symbolical name of jacob; also (typically) of his posterity


Study Guide

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 10:28 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

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