Question 1

What does 2 Chronicles 16:4 mean?

Accepted Answer

2 Chronicles 16:4 describes how Benhadad, the king of Aram (Syria), agreed to help King Asa of Judah by attacking several cities in Israel. Benhadad sent his army commanders to strike the towns of Ijon, Dan, Abelmaim, and the store cities in the territory of Naphtali, weakening Israel’s defenses. In this situation, King Asa of Judah was facing pressure from King Baasha of Israel, so Asa made an alliance with Benhadad by sending him treasures. Benhadad responded by launching attacks on Israel’s northern cities, forcing Baasha to stop his own aggression against Judah. The verse highlights a moment of political maneuvering and military action between neighboring kingdoms.

Question 2

The Hebrew behind 2 Chronicles 16:4

Accepted Answer

"Hearkened" (שָׁמַע, shama‘): This word means to listen or obey. Here, it shows that Benhadad not only listened to Asa’s request but acted on it. "Sent" (שָׁלַח, shalach): This verb means to send out or dispatch. The verse uses it to describe Benhadad’s decisive action in sending his military leaders. "Captains" (שַׂר, sar): This word refers to commanders or chiefs, indicating that Benhadad sent high-ranking officers, not just ordinary soldiers. "Store cities" (מִּכְלוֹן, miklon): These were towns used for storing supplies and provisions, showing that the attack targeted both strategic and resource-rich locations.

Question 3

Why 2 Chronicles 16:4 matters

Accepted Answer

The verse clarifies that Asa’s alliance with Benhadad led to immediate and significant military consequences for Israel, not just a diplomatic agreement. By naming specific cities and "store cities," the verse emphasizes the strategic and economic impact of the attacks on Israel’s territory. This event sets up the turning point in the chapter, showing how Asa’s reliance on a foreign king changed the balance of power and influenced the ongoing conflict between Judah and Israel.

2 Chronicles 16:4 (KJV)