King James Version
What Does 2 Kings 10:34 Mean?
“Now the rest of the acts of Jehu, and all that he did, and all his might, are they not written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Israel?”
2 Kings 10:34 · KJV
Context
32
In those days the LORD began to cut Israel short: and Hazael smote them in all the coasts of Israel; to cut: Heb. to cut off the ends
33
From Jordan eastward , all the land of Gilead, the Gadites, and the Reubenites, and the Manassites, from Aroer, which is by the river Arnon, even Gilead and Bashan. eastward: Heb. toward the rising of the sun even: or, even to Gilead and Bashan
34
Now the rest of the acts of Jehu, and all that he did, and all his might, are they not written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Israel?
35
And Jehu slept with his fathers: and they buried him in Samaria. And Jehoahaz his son reigned in his stead.
36
And the time that Jehu reigned over Israel in Samaria was twenty and eight years. the time: Heb. the days were
Commentary
KJV Study CommentaryNow the rest of the acts of Jehu, and all that he did, and all his might, are they not written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Israel?
This verse contributes to the overall theme of chapter 10: Zeal for God without heart transformation. The reference to kingship reminds readers that all human authority is subordinate to God's ultimate kingship. 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.
This verse contributes to the overall theme of chapter 10: Zeal for God without heart transformation. The reference to kingship reminds readers that all human authority is subordinate to God's ultimate kingship. 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.
KJV Study — Public Domain
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
- How does this verse contribute to understanding the theological message of 2 Kings 10 regarding zeal for god without heart transformation?
- What does this passage reveal about God's character, particularly His justice, mercy, and faithfulness to covenant promises?
- In what practical ways should this text shape contemporary Christian thinking about faithfulness, worship, and obedience to God?
Original Language Analysis
Hebrew · 17 wordsוְיֶ֨תֶר1 of 17
“Now the rest”
H3499properly, an overhanging, i.e., (by implication) a small rope (as hanging free)
דִּבְרֵ֥י2 of 17
“of the acts”
H1697a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause
וְכָל4 of 17
H3605properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
אֲשֶׁ֥ר5 of 17
H834who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
וְכָל7 of 17
H3605properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
גְּבֽוּרָת֑וֹ8 of 17
“and all his might”
H1369force (literally or figuratively); by implication, valor, victory
הֲלוֹא9 of 17
H3808not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
כְּתוּבִ֗ים11 of 17
“are they not written”
H3789to grave, by implication, to write (describe, inscribe, prescribe, subscribe)
עַל12 of 17
H5921above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
דִּבְרֵ֥י14 of 17
“of the acts”
H1697a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause
הַיָּמִ֖ים15 of 17
H3117a day (as the warm hours), whether literal (from sunrise to sunset, or from one sunset to the next), or figurative (a space of time defined by an asso
יִשְׂרָאֵֽל׃17 of 17
“of Israel”
H3478he 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 10:34 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 10:34 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge