King James Version

What Does 2 Kings 24:6 Mean?

2 Kings 24:6 in the King James Version says “So Jehoiakim slept with his fathers: and Jehoiachin his son reigned in his stead.” — study this verse from 2 Kings chapter 24 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“So Jehoiakim slept with his fathers: and Jehoiachin his son reigned in his stead.”

2 Kings 24:6 · KJV

Context

4

And also for the innocent blood that he shed: for he filled Jerusalem with innocent blood; which the LORD would not pardon.

5

Now the rest of the acts of Jehoiakim, and all that he did, are they not written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Judah?

6

So Jehoiakim slept with his fathers: and Jehoiachin his son reigned in his stead.

7

And the king of Egypt came not again any more out of his land: for the king of Babylon had taken from the river of Egypt unto the river Euphrates all that pertained to the king of Egypt.

8

Jehoiachin was eighteen years old when he began to reign, and he reigned in Jerusalem three months. And his mother's name was Nehushta, the daughter of Elnathan of Jerusalem.

Read 2 Kings 24 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
So Jehoiakim slept with his fathers: and Jehoiachin his son reigned in his stead.

This verse contributes to the overall theme of chapter 24: Judgment unfolds progressively. As Judah approaches exile, these events fulfill prophetic warnings and demonstrate that God's patience with covenant violation is not infinite.

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 24 takes place during the final collapse of Judah and Babylonian exile, early 6th century BCE, 605-586 BCE. The chapter's theme (Beginning of Babylonian Captivity) reflects the historical reality of the final collapse of Judah, destruction of Jerusalem and the temple, and exile to Babylon as covenant curses are fully realized. 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 24 regarding judgment unfolds progressively?
  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
וַיִּשְׁכַּ֥ב1 of 8

“slept”

H7901

to lie down (for rest, sexual connection, decease or any other purpose)

יְהֽוֹיָקִ֖ים2 of 8

“So Jehoiakim”

H3079

jehojakim, a jewish king

עִם3 of 8
H5973

adverb or preposition, with (i.e., in conjunction with), in varied applications; specifically, equally with; often with prepositional prefix (and then

אֲבֹתָ֑יו4 of 8

“with his fathers”

H1

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

וַיִּמְלֹ֛ךְ5 of 8

“reigned”

H4427

to reign; hence (by implication) to take counsel

יְהֽוֹיָכִ֥ין6 of 8

“and Jehoiachin”

H3078

jehojakin, a jewish king

בְּנ֖וֹ7 of 8

“his son”

H1121

a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or

תַּחְתָּֽיו׃8 of 8
H8478

the 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 24:6 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to 2 Kings 24:6 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Jeremiah 22:18-192 Chronicles 36:6Jeremiah 36:302 Chronicles 36:8

Test Your Knowledge

2 Kings 24 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapter2 Kings Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

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