King James Version

What Does 2 Kings 12:6 Mean?

2 Kings 12:6 in the King James Version says “But it was so, that in the three and twentieth year of king Jehoash the priests had not repaired the breaches of the hou...” — study this verse from 2 Kings chapter 12 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“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”

2 Kings 12:6 · KJV

Context

4

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

5

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.

6

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

7

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.

8

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

Read 2 Kings 12 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
But it was so, that in the three and twentieth year of king Jehoash the priests had not repaired the breaches of the house.

This verse contributes to the overall theme of chapter 12: Religious reform and temple restoration. The reference to kingship reminds readers that all human authority is subordinate to God's ultimate kingship. 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 12 takes place during the declining years of the northern kingdom, 8th century BCE, culminating in exile in 722 BCE. The chapter's theme (Joash Repairs the Temple) 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 12 regarding religious reform and temple restoration?
  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 · 13 words
וַיְהִ֗י1 of 13
H1961

to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)

שָׁנָ֖ה2 of 13

“year”

H8141

a year (as a revolution of time)

עֶשְׂרִ֧ים3 of 13

“and twentieth”

H6242

twenty; also (ordinal) twentieth

וְשָׁלֹ֛שׁ4 of 13

“But it was so that in the three”

H7969

three; occasionally (ordinal) third, or (multiple) thrice

שָׁנָ֖ה5 of 13

“year”

H8141

a year (as a revolution of time)

לַמֶּ֣לֶךְ6 of 13

“of king”

H4428

a king

יְהוֹאָ֑שׁ7 of 13

“Jehoash”

H3060

jehoash, the name of two israelite kings

לֹֽא8 of 13
H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

חִזְּק֥וּ9 of 13

“had not repaired”

H2388

to fasten upon; hence, to seize, be strong (figuratively, courageous, causatively strengthen, cure, help, repair, fortify), obstinate; to bind, restra

הַכֹּֽהֲנִ֖ים10 of 13

“the priests”

H3548

literally one officiating, a priest; also (by courtesy) an acting priest (although a layman)

אֶת11 of 13
H853

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

בֶּ֥דֶק12 of 13

“the breaches”

H919

a gap or leak (in a building or a ship)

הַבָּֽיִת׃13 of 13

“of the house”

H1004

a house (in the greatest variation of applications, especially family, etc.)

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 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.

Cross-References

Verses related to 2 Kings 12:6 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

2 Chronicles 29:34Philippians 2:21Malachi 1:101 Samuel 2:29-30Isaiah 56:10-121 Peter 5:2

Test Your Knowledge

2 Kings 12 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapter2 Kings Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

Continue Your Study

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