King James Version

What Does 2 Kings 14:18 Mean?

2 Kings 14:18 in the King James Version says “And the rest of the acts of Amaziah, are they not written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Judah? — study this verse from 2 Kings chapter 14 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

And the rest of the acts of Amaziah, are they not written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Judah?

2 Kings 14:18 · KJV


Context

16

And Jehoash slept with his fathers, and was buried in Samaria with the kings of Israel; and Jeroboam his son reigned in his stead.

17

And Amaziah the son of Joash king of Judah lived after the death of Jehoash son of Jehoahaz king of Israel fifteen years.

18

And the rest of the acts of Amaziah, are they not written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Judah?

19

Now they made a conspiracy against him in Jerusalem: and he fled to Lachish; but they sent after him to Lachish, and slew him there.

20

And they brought him on horses: and he was buried at Jerusalem with his fathers in the city of David.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
And the rest of the acts of Amaziah, are they not written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Judah?

This verse contributes to the overall theme of chapter 14: Pride leads to downfall; God's mercy continues. 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 14 takes place during the declining years of the northern kingdom, 8th century BCE, culminating in exile in 722 BCE. The chapter's theme (Amaziah of Judah and Jeroboam II) 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 14 regarding pride leads to downfall; god's mercy continues?
  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 · 12 words
וְיֶ֖תֶר1 of 12

And the rest

H3499

properly, an overhanging, i.e., (by implication) a small rope (as hanging free)

דִּבְרֵ֥י2 of 12

of the acts

H1697

a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause

אֲמַצְיָ֑הוּ3 of 12

of Amaziah

H558

amatsjah, the name of four israelites

הֲלֹא4 of 12
H3808

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

הֵ֣ם5 of 12
H1992

they (only used when emphatic)

כְּתֻבִ֗ים6 of 12

are they not written

H3789

to grave, by implication, to write (describe, inscribe, prescribe, subscribe)

עַל7 of 12
H5921

above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications

סֵ֛פֶר8 of 12

in the book

H5612

properly, writing (the art or a document); by implication, a book

דִּבְרֵ֥י9 of 12

of the acts

H1697

a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause

הַיָּמִ֖ים10 of 12
H3117

a 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

לְמַלְכֵ֥י11 of 12

of the kings

H4428

a king

יְהוּדָֽה׃12 of 12

of Judah

H3063

jehudah (or judah), the name of five israelites; also of the tribe descended from the first, and of its territory


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 14:18 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 14:18 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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