King James Version
What Does 2 Kings 3:8 Mean?
“And he said, Which way shall we go up? And he answered, The way through the wilderness of Edom.”
Context
6
And king Jehoram went out of Samaria the same time, and numbered all Israel.
7
And he went and sent to Jehoshaphat the king of Judah, saying, The king of Moab hath rebelled against me: wilt thou go with me against Moab to battle? And he said, I will go up: I am as thou art, my people as thy people, and my horses as thy horses.
8
And he said, Which way shall we go up? And he answered, The way through the wilderness of Edom.
9
So the king of Israel went, and the king of Judah, and the king of Edom: and they fetched a compass of seven days' journey: and there was no water for the host, and for the cattle that followed them. that: Heb. at their feet
10
And the king of Israel said, Alas! that the LORD hath called these three kings together, to deliver them into the hand of Moab!
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(8) **And he said**—*i.e.*, Jehoram said.
**Which way.**—They might cross the Jordan, and attack the northern frontier of Moab, or they might round the southern end of the Dead Sea, and invade Moab from the side of Edom. The former was the shortest route for both kings. But Moab’s strongest defences were on the north frontier, and the allies would be liable to attacks from the Syrians in Ramoth-gilead (2Kings 8:28). The longer and more difficult southern road may have been chosen partly on these grounds, and partly because Jehoshaphat wished to march as far as might be within his own territory, and to get a contingent from Edom, which was at this time subject to him (1Kings 22:48), and perhaps to hold it in check. Moreover, the Moabites were less likely to be on their guard on the southern border, which was more difficult of access.
**And he answered.**—*Said*—*i.e.*, Jehoshaphat.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
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 3:8 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 3:8
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge