King James Version

What Does 2 Kings 12:6 Mean?

“But it was so, that in the three and twentieth year of king Jehoash the priests had not repaired the breaches of the house. three: Heb. twentieth year and third year”

Context

And Jehoash said to the priests, All the money of the dedicated things that is brought into the house of the LORD, even the money of every one that passeth the account, the money that every man is set at, and all the money that cometh into any man's heart to bring into the house of the LORD, dedicated things: or, holy things: Heb. holinesses that every: Heb. of the souls of his estimation cometh: Heb. ascendeth upon the heart of a man

Let the priests take it to them, every man of his acquaintance: and let them repair the breaches of the house, wheresoever any breach shall be found.

But it was so, that in the three and twentieth year of king Jehoash the priests had not repaired the breaches of the house. three: Heb. twentieth year and third year

Then king Jehoash called for Jehoiada the priest, and the other priests, and said unto them, Why repair ye not the breaches of the house? now therefore receive no more money of your acquaintance, but deliver it for the breaches of the house.

And the priests consented to receive no more money of the people, neither to repair the breaches of the house.

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(6) **In the three and twentieth year.**—Jenoash may have ordered the restoration in his twentieth year, when he came of age. It is noticeable that he and not Jehoiada takes the initiative in the matter. The chronicler states that the king had ordered the priests *and the Levites* “to hasten the matter,” but that “the Levites hastened it not.”

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 12:6 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.