King James Version

What Does 2 Kings 17:12 Mean?

2 Kings 17:12 in the King James Version says “For they served idols, whereof the LORD had said unto them, Ye shall not do this thing.” — study this verse from 2 Kings chapter 17 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“For they served idols, whereof the LORD had said unto them, Ye shall not do this thing.”

2 Kings 17:12 · KJV

Context

10

And they set them up images and groves in every high hill, and under every green tree: images: Heb. statues

11

And there they burnt incense in all the high places, as did the heathen whom the LORD carried away before them; and wrought wicked things to provoke the LORD to anger:

12

For they served idols, whereof the LORD had said unto them, Ye shall not do this thing.

13

Yet the LORD testified against Israel, and against Judah, by all the prophets, and by all the seers, saying, Turn ye from your evil ways, and keep my commandments and my statutes, according to all the law which I commanded your fathers, and which I sent to you by my servants the prophets. by: Heb. by the hand of

14

Notwithstanding they would not hear, but hardened their necks, like to the neck of their fathers, that did not believe in the LORD their God.

Read 2 Kings 17 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
For they served idols, whereof the LORD had said unto them, Ye shall not do this thing.

This verse contributes to the overall theme of chapter 17: Covenant judgment and exile. The divine name emphasizes Yahweh's covenant relationship with Israel and His sovereign control over historical events. 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.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Historical Setting: 2 Kings 17 takes place during the declining years of the northern kingdom, 8th century BCE, culminating in exile in 722 BCE. The chapter's theme (Fall of the Northern Kingdom) reflects the historical reality of the fulfillment of prophetic warnings as the northern kingdom fell to Assyria due to persistent covenant unfaithfulness. 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 17 regarding covenant judgment and exile?
  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 · 11 words
וַיַּֽעַבְד֖וּ1 of 11

“For they served”

H5647

to work (in any sense); by implication, to serve, till, (causatively) enslave, etc

הַגִּלֻּלִ֑ים2 of 11

“idols”

H1544

properly, a log (as round); by implication, an idol

אֲשֶׁ֨ר3 of 11
H834

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

אָמַ֤ר4 of 11

“had said”

H559

to say (used with great latitude)

יְהוָה֙5 of 11

“whereof the LORD”

H3068

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

לָהֶ֔ם6 of 11
H0
לֹ֥א7 of 11
H3808

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

תַֽעֲשׂ֖וּ8 of 11

“unto them Ye shall not do”

H6213

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

אֶת9 of 11
H853

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

הַדָּבָ֥ר10 of 11

“this thing”

H1697

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

הַזֶּֽה׃11 of 11
H2088

the masculine demonstrative pronoun, this or that

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 17:12 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 17:12 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Deuteronomy 5:7-9Deuteronomy 12:4Deuteronomy 4:23-25Exodus 34:14Leviticus 26:1Exodus 20:3-5

Test Your Knowledge

2 Kings 17 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapter2 Kings Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

Continue Your Study

Read 2 Kings 17 with CommentaryAll 2 Kings ChaptersComplete 2 Kings QuizBible CharactersNave's Topical BibleAll Bible Quizzes