King James Version

What Does 2 Kings 15:22 Mean?

2 Kings 15:22 in the King James Version says “And Menahem slept with his fathers; and Pekahiah his son reigned in his stead.” — study this verse from 2 Kings chapter 15 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“And Menahem slept with his fathers; and Pekahiah his son reigned in his stead.”

2 Kings 15:22 · KJV

Context

20

And Menahem exacted the money of Israel, even of all the mighty men of wealth, of each man fifty shekels of silver, to give to the king of Assyria. So the king of Assyria turned back, and stayed not there in the land. exacted: Heb. caused to come forth

21

And the rest of the acts of Menahem, and all that he did, are they not written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Israel?

22

And Menahem slept with his fathers; and Pekahiah his son reigned in his stead.

23

In the fiftieth year of Azariah king of Judah Pekahiah the son of Menahem began to reign over Israel in Samaria, and reigned two years.

24

And he did that which was evil in the sight of the LORD: he departed not from the sins of Jeroboam the son of Nebat, who made Israel to sin.

Read 2 Kings 15 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
And Menahem slept with his fathers; and Pekahiah his son reigned in his stead.

This verse contributes to the overall theme of chapter 15: Political chaos reveals spiritual bankruptcy. 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 15 takes place during the declining years of the northern kingdom, 8th century BCE, culminating in exile in 722 BCE. The chapter's theme (Rapid Succession and Instability) 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 15 regarding political chaos reveals spiritual bankruptcy?
  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 · 8 words
וַיִּשְׁכַּ֥ב1 of 8

“slept”

H7901

to lie down (for rest, sexual connection, decease or any other purpose)

מְנַחֵ֖ם2 of 8

“And Menahem”

H4505

menachem, an israelite

עִם3 of 8
H5973

adverb or preposition, with (i.e., in conjunction with), in varied applications; specifically, equally with; often with prepositional prefix (and then

אֲבֹתָ֑יו4 of 8

“with his fathers”

H1

father, in a literal and immediate, or figurative and remote application

וַיִּמְלֹ֛ךְ5 of 8

“reigned”

H4427

to reign; hence (by implication) to take counsel

פְּקַחְיָ֥ה6 of 8

“and Pekahiah”

H6494

pekachjah, an israelite king

בְנ֖וֹ7 of 8

“his son”

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

תַּחְתָּֽיו׃8 of 8
H8478

the bottom (as depressed); only adverbially, below (often with prepositional prefix underneath), in lieu of, 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 15:22 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

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