King James Version
What Does 2 Kings 10:36 Mean?
“And the time that Jehu reigned over Israel in Samaria was twenty and eight years. the time: Heb. the days were”
2 Kings 10:36 · KJV
Context
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 CommentaryAnd the time that Jehu reigned over Israel in Samaria was twenty and eight years.
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.
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.
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 · 10 wordsוְהַיָּמִ֗ים1 of 10
“And the time”
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
אֲשֶׁ֨ר2 of 10
H834who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
עַל5 of 10
H5921above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל6 of 10
“over Israel”
H3478he will rule as god; jisral, a symbolical name of jacob; also (typically) of his posterity
וּשְׁמֹנֶ֥ה8 of 10
“and eight”
H8083a cardinal number, eight (as if a surplus above the 'perfect' seven); also (as ordinal) eighth
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 10:36 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.