King James Version

What Does 2 Kings 21:20 Mean?

2 Kings 21:20 in the King James Version says “And he did that which was evil in the sight of the LORD, as his father Manasseh did.” — study this verse from 2 Kings chapter 21 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“And he did that which was evil in the sight of the LORD, as his father Manasseh did.”

2 Kings 21:20 · KJV

Context

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:

22

And he forsook the LORD God of his fathers, and walked not in the way of the LORD.

Read 2 Kings 21 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
And he did that which was evil in the sight of the LORD, as his father Manasseh did.

This verse contributes to the overall theme of chapter 21: Unprecedented wickedness brings irreversible judgment. The divine name emphasizes Yahweh's covenant relationship with Israel and His sovereign control over historical events. 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.

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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

  1. How does this verse contribute to understanding the theological message of 2 Kings 21 regarding unprecedented wickedness brings irreversible judgment?
  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
עָשָׂ֖ה1 of 8

“And he did”

H6213

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

הָרַ֖ע2 of 8

“that which was evil”

H7451

bad or (as noun) evil (natural or moral)

בְּעֵינֵ֣י3 of 8

“in the sight”

H5869

an eye (literally or figuratively); by analogy, a fountain (as the eye of the landscape)

יְהוָ֑ה4 of 8

“of the LORD”

H3068

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

כַּֽאֲשֶׁ֥ר5 of 8
H834

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

עָשָׂ֖ה6 of 8

“And he did”

H6213

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

מְנַשֶּׁ֥ה7 of 8

“Manasseh”

H4519

menashsheh, a grandson of jacob, also the tribe descended from him, and its territory

אָבִֽיו׃8 of 8

“as his father”

H1

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

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 21:20 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 21:20 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

2 Kings 21:2-72 Chronicles 33:22-23Acts 7:51Matthew 23:322 Kings 21:11Numbers 32:14

Test Your Knowledge

2 Kings 21 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapter2 Kings Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

Continue Your Study

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