King James Version

What Does 2 Kings 11:21 Mean?

2 Kings 11:21 in the King James Version says “Seven years old was Jehoash when he began to reign.” — study this verse from 2 Kings chapter 11 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“Seven years old was Jehoash when he began to reign.”

2 Kings 11:21 · KJV

Context

19

And he took the rulers over hundreds, and the captains, and the guard, and all the people of the land; and they brought down the king from the house of the LORD, and came by the way of the gate of the guard to the king's house. And he sat on the throne of the kings.

20

And all the people of the land rejoiced, and the city was in quiet: and they slew Athaliah with the sword beside the king's house.

21

Seven years old was Jehoash when he began to reign.

Read 2 Kings 11 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Seven years old was Jehoash when he began to reign.

This verse contributes to the overall theme of chapter 11: Preservation of Davidic line and covenant faithfulness. This passage occurs during the decline toward Israel's exile, demonstrating how persistent covenant unfaithfulness leads to national disaster.

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 11 takes place during the declining years of the northern kingdom, 8th century BCE, culminating in exile in 722 BCE. The chapter's theme (Athaliah's Usurpation and Downfall) reflects the historical reality of progressive political instability and external threats, particularly from Aram (Syria) and later Assyria. 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 11 regarding preservation of davidic line and covenant faithfulness?
  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
בֶּן1 of 5

“old”

H1121

a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or

שֶׁ֥בַע2 of 5

“Seven”

H7651

seven (as the sacred full one); also (adverbially) seven times; by implication, a week; by extension, an indefinite number

שָׁנִ֖ים3 of 5

“years”

H8141

a year (as a revolution of time)

יְהוֹאָ֥שׁ4 of 5

“was Jehoash”

H3060

jehoash, the name of two israelite kings

בְּמָלְכֽוֹ׃5 of 5

“when he began to reign”

H4427

to reign; hence (by implication) to take counsel

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 11:21 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to 2 Kings 11:21 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

2 Chronicles 24:1-142 Kings 11:42 Kings 22:1

Test Your Knowledge

2 Kings 11 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapter2 Kings Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

Continue Your Study

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