King James Version
What Does 2 Kings 21:19 Mean?
“Amon was twenty and two years old when he began to reign, and he reigned two years in Jerusalem. And his mother's name was Meshullemeth, the daughter of Haruz of Jotbah.”
2 Kings 21:19 · KJV
Context
17
Now the rest of the acts of Manasseh, and all that he did, and his sin that he sinned, are they not written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Judah?
18
And Manasseh slept with his fathers, and was buried in the garden of his own house, in the garden of Uzza: and Amon his son reigned in his stead.
19
Amon was twenty and two years old when he began to reign, and he reigned two years in Jerusalem. And his mother's name was Meshullemeth, the daughter of Haruz of Jotbah.
20
And he did that which was evil in the sight of the LORD, as his father Manasseh did.
21
And he walked in all the way that his father walked in, and served the idols that his father served, and worshipped them:
Commentary
KJV Study CommentaryAmon was twenty and two years old when he began to reign, and he reigned two years in Jerusalem. And his mother's name was Meshullemeth, the daughter of Haruz of Jotbah.
This verse contributes to the overall theme of chapter 21: Unprecedented wickedness brings irreversible judgment. In Judah's later history, we see both genuine reforms and deep-rooted corruption, revealing that external religious activity cannot substitute for heart transformation.
The narrative demonstrates God's justice in judging covenant unfaithfulness while maintaining His ultimate purposes for redemption.
This verse contributes to the overall theme of chapter 21: Unprecedented wickedness brings irreversible judgment. In Judah's later history, we see both genuine reforms and deep-rooted corruption, revealing that external religious activity cannot substitute for heart transformation.
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 21 takes place during the final century of Judah's existence, 7th century BCE, including Manasseh and Josiah's reigns. The chapter's theme (Manasseh and Amon's Evil Reigns) reflects the historical reality of the worst apostasy under Manasseh followed by the most thorough reforms under Josiah, demonstrating that external righteousness cannot reverse God's determined judgment. 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
- How does this verse contribute to understanding the theological message of 2 Kings 21 regarding unprecedented wickedness brings irreversible judgment?
- What does this passage reveal about God's character, particularly His justice, mercy, and faithfulness to covenant promises?
- In what practical ways should this text shape contemporary Christian thinking about faithfulness, worship, and obedience to God?
Original Language Analysis
Hebrew · 17 wordsבֶּן1 of 17
“old”
H1121a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
וְשֵׁ֣ם11 of 17
“name”
H8034an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality; by implication honor, authority, character
אִמּ֔וֹ12 of 17
“And his mother's”
H517a mother (as the bond of the family); in a wide sense (both literally and figuratively [like father])
בַּת14 of 17
“the daughter”
H1323a daughter (used in the same wide sense as other terms of relationship, literally and figuratively)
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 21:19 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 21:19 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge