King James Version

What Does 2 Kings 21:22 Mean?

2 Kings 21:22 in the King James Version says “And he forsook the LORD God of his fathers, and walked not in the way of the LORD.” — study this verse from 2 Kings chapter 21 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

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

2 Kings 21:22 · KJV

Context

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.

23

And the servants of Amon conspired against him, and slew the king in his own house.

24

And the people of the land slew all them that had conspired against king Amon; and the people of the land made Josiah his son king in his stead.

Read 2 Kings 21 full chapter

Commentary

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

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 · 9 words
וַיַּֽעֲזֹ֕ב1 of 9

“And he forsook”

H5800

to loosen, i.e., relinquish, permit, etc

אֶת2 of 9
H853

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

יְהוָֽה׃3 of 9

“of the LORD”

H3068

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

אֱלֹהֵ֣י4 of 9

“God”

H430

gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of

אֲבֹתָ֑יו5 of 9

“of his fathers”

H1

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

וְלֹ֥א6 of 9
H3808

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

הָלַ֖ךְ7 of 9

“and walked”

H1980

to walk (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)

בְּדֶ֥רֶךְ8 of 9

“not in the way”

H1870

a road (as trodden); figuratively, a course of life or mode of action, often adverb

יְהוָֽה׃9 of 9

“of the LORD”

H3068

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

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 21:22 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to 2 Kings 21:22 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

1 Kings 11:332 Kings 22:171 Chronicles 28:9Deuteronomy 32:15Jeremiah 2:13Jonah 2:8

Test Your Knowledge

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

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