King James Version

What Does 2 Kings 22:6 Mean?

2 Kings 22:6 in the King James Version says “Unto carpenters, and builders, and masons, and to buy timber and hewn stone to repair the house.” — study this verse from 2 Kings chapter 22 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“Unto carpenters, and builders, and masons, and to buy timber and hewn stone to repair the house.”

2 Kings 22:6 · KJV

Context

4

Go up to Hilkiah the high priest, that he may sum the silver which is brought into the house of the LORD, which the keepers of the door have gathered of the people: door: Heb. threshold

5

And let them deliver it into the hand of the doers of the work, that have the oversight of the house of the LORD: and let them give it to the doers of the work which is in the house of the LORD, to repair the breaches of the house,

6

Unto carpenters, and builders, and masons, and to buy timber and hewn stone to repair the house.

7

Howbeit there was no reckoning made with them of the money that was delivered into their hand, because they dealt faithfully.

8

And Hilkiah the high priest said unto Shaphan the scribe, I have found the book of the law in the house of the LORD. And Hilkiah gave the book to Shaphan, and he read it.

Read 2 Kings 22 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Unto carpenters, and builders, and masons, and to buy timber and hewn stone to repair the house.

This verse contributes to the overall theme of chapter 22: Rediscovery of God's word brings renewal. 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 22 takes place during the final century of Judah's existence, 7th century BCE, including Manasseh and Josiah's reigns. The chapter's theme (Josiah's Reform Begins) 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 22 regarding rediscovery of god's word brings renewal?
  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 · 10 words
לֶחָ֣רָשִׁ֔ים1 of 10

“Unto carpenters”

H2796

a fabricator or any material

וְלַבֹּנִ֖ים2 of 10

“and builders”

H1129

to build (literally and figuratively)

וְלַגֹּֽדְרִ֑ים3 of 10

“and masons”

H1443

to wall in or around

וְלִקְנ֤וֹת4 of 10

“and to buy”

H7069

to erect, i.e., create; by extension, to procure, especially by purchase (causatively, sell); by implication to own

עֵצִים֙5 of 10

“timber”

H6086

a tree (from its firmness); hence, wood (plural sticks)

וְאַבְנֵ֣י6 of 10

“stone”

H68

a stone

מַחְצֵ֔ב7 of 10

“and hewn”

H4274

properly, a hewing; concretely, a quarry

לְחַזֵּ֖ק8 of 10

“to repair”

H2388

to fasten upon; hence, to seize, be strong (figuratively, courageous, causatively strengthen, cure, help, repair, fortify), obstinate; to bind, restra

אֶת9 of 10
H853

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

הַבָּֽיִת׃10 of 10

“the house”

H1004

a house (in the greatest variation of applications, especially family, 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 22:6 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Test Your Knowledge

2 Kings 22 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapter2 Kings Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

Continue Your Study

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