King James Version

What Does 2 Kings 15:36 Mean?

2 Kings 15:36 in the King James Version says “Now the rest of the acts of Jotham, and all that he did, are they not written in the book of the chronicles of the kings... — study this verse from 2 Kings chapter 15 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

Now the rest of the acts of Jotham, and all that he did, are they not written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Judah?

2 Kings 15:36 · KJV


Context

34

And he did that which was right in the sight of the LORD: he did according to all that his father Uzziah had done.

35

Howbeit the high places were not removed: the people sacrificed and burned incense still in the high places. He built the higher gate of the house of the LORD.

36

Now the rest of the acts of Jotham, and all that he did, are they not written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Judah?

37

In those days the LORD began to send against Judah Rezin the king of Syria, and Pekah the son of Remaliah.

38

And Jotham slept with his fathers, and was buried with his fathers in the city of David his father: and Ahaz his son reigned in his stead.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Now the rest of the acts of Jotham, and all that he did, are they not written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Judah?

This verse contributes to the overall theme of chapter 15: Political chaos reveals spiritual bankruptcy. 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 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 · 14 words
וְיֶ֛תֶר1 of 14

Now the rest

H3499

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

דִּבְרֵ֥י2 of 14

of the acts

H1697

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

יוֹתָ֖ם3 of 14

of Jotham

H3147

jotham, the name of three israelites

אֲשֶׁ֣ר4 of 14
H834

who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc

עָשָׂ֑ה5 of 14

and all that he did

H6213

to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application

הֲלֹא6 of 14
H3808

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

הֵ֣ם7 of 14
H1992

they (only used when emphatic)

כְּתוּבִ֗ים8 of 14

are they not written

H3789

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

עַל9 of 14
H5921

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

סֵ֛פֶר10 of 14

in the book

H5612

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

דִּבְרֵ֥י11 of 14

of the acts

H1697

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

הַיָּמִ֖ים12 of 14
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

לְמַלְכֵ֥י13 of 14

of the kings

H4428

a king

יְהוּדָֽה׃14 of 14

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 15:36 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 15:36 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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