And he built fenced cities in Judah: for the land had rest, and he had no war in those years; because the LORD had given him rest.

2 CHRONICLES 14:6KJV
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2 Chronicles 14:6 (KJV)

What does 2 Chronicles 14:6 mean?

2 Chronicles 14:6 describes how King Asa built fortified cities in Judah because the land was at peace, and there were no wars during those years; this peace was understood as a gift from the LORD. The verse highlights that Asa used this time of rest to strengthen and protect his kingdom.

In this passage, the Chronicler is recounting the reign of Asa, king of Judah, to the readers. The situation is that Judah is experiencing a period without conflict, which is attributed to the LORD’s intervention. Asa takes advantage of this peaceful period to build up defenses, showing practical leadership and preparation during a time of God-given rest.

The Hebrew behind 2 Chronicles 14:6

  • "built" (בָּנָה, banah): This word means to construct or establish. It emphasizes Asa’s active role in strengthening Judah, not just enjoying peace but using it to prepare for the future.
  • "fenced" (מִבְצָר, mivtzar): This word refers to something fortified or protected, like a stronghold. The cities Asa built were not just ordinary towns but had defenses, showing foresight and care for security.
  • "rest" (שָׁקֵט, shaqet) and "rest" (נוּחַ, nuach): Two different Hebrew words for "rest" appear here. שָׁקֵט (shaqet) often means quietness or tranquility, while נוּחַ (nuach) means to settle down or be at ease. The use of both words stresses the completeness of the peace Judah experienced—both outward calm and inner security.

Why 2 Chronicles 14:6 matters

  • This verse clarifies that times of peace in the Bible are not just for relaxation but can be opportunities for wise planning and strengthening a community.
  • The emphasis on the LORD (יְהוָה, YHWH) as the one who gives rest highlights the belief that peace is ultimately a gift from God, not just the result of human effort.
  • In the context of Asa’s reign, this verse sets up a contrast with later challenges, showing that his early years were marked by both divine favor and responsible leadership.

Where else these words appear

“fenced” Hebrew H4694 · used in 8 verses

  • 2 Chronicles 11:10 And Zorah, and Aijalon, and Hebron, which are in Judah and in Benjamin fenced cities.
  • 2 Chronicles 11:23 And he dealt wisely, and dispersed of all his children throughout all the countries of Judah and Benjamin, unto every fenced city: and he gave them victual in abundance. And he desired many wives.
  • 2 Chronicles 21:3 And their father gave them great gifts of silver, and of gold, and of precious things, with fenced cities in Judah: but the kingdom gave he to Jehoram; because he was the firstborn.

“rest” Hebrew H8252 · used in 41 verses

  • Joshua 11:23 So Joshua took the whole land, according to all that the LORD said unto Moses; and Joshua gave it for an inheritance unto Israel according to their divisions by their tribes. And the land rested from war.
  • 2 Chronicles 20:30 So the realm of Jehoshaphat was quiet: for his God gave him rest round about.
  • Isaiah 30:15 For thus saith the Lord GOD, the Holy One of Israel; In returning and rest shall ye be saved; in quietness and in confidence shall be your strength: and ye would not.

“rest” Hebrew H5117 · used in 64 verses

  • Genesis 8:4 And the ark rested in the seventh month, on the seventeenth day of the month, upon the mountains of Ararat.
  • 2 Samuel 7:11 And as since the time that I commanded judges to be over my people Israel, and have caused thee to rest from all thine enemies. Also the LORD telleth thee that he will make thee an house.
  • Isaiah 7:19 And they shall come, and shall rest all of them in the desolate valleys, and in the holes of the rocks, and upon all thorns, and upon all bushes.