King James Version
What Does 2 Kings 21:26 Mean?
“And he was buried in his sepulchre in the garden of Uzza: and Josiah his son reigned in his stead. Josiah: Gr. Josias”
2 Kings 21:26 · KJV
Context
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.
25
Now the rest of the acts of Amon which he did, are they not written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Judah?
26
And he was buried in his sepulchre in the garden of Uzza: and Josiah his son reigned in his stead. Josiah: Gr. Josias
Commentary
KJV Study CommentaryAnd he was buried in his sepulchre in the garden of Uzza: and Josiah his son reigned in his stead.
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 · 9 wordsאֹת֛וֹ2 of 9
H853properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
בְנ֖וֹ8 of 9
“his son”
H1121a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
תַּחְתָּֽיו׃9 of 9
H8478the bottom (as depressed); only adverbially, below (often with prepositional prefix underneath), in lieu of, etc
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 21:26 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 21:26 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge