2 Chronicles 20:34 (KJV)

What does 2 Chronicles 20:34 mean?

2 Chronicles 20:34 says that the rest of King Jehoshaphat’s actions, both early and late in his reign, are recorded in another historical source called the book of Jehu son of Hanani, which itself is referenced in the book of the kings of Israel. This verse points readers to other records for more details about Jehoshaphat’s life and reign beyond what is included in Chronicles.

The verse is part of a summary at the end of Jehoshaphat’s story, written by the Chronicler for the people of Judah. It shows that the biblical account does not include every detail about Jehoshaphat, but that other writings from prophets and historians of the time—like Jehu son of Hanani—also documented the king’s deeds. This helps the reader understand that the Bible sometimes refers to other sources for a fuller historical picture.

The Hebrew behind 2 Chronicles 20:34

• "rest" (יֶתֶר, yether): This word means "remainder" or "what is left." Here, it refers to the additional acts of Jehoshaphat not detailed in this book.
• "written" (כָּתוּב, kathuv): This word means "recorded" or "inscribed." The Chronicler uses it to show that Jehoshaphat’s deeds were carefully documented elsewhere.
• "book" (סֵפֶר, sefer): This is the common Hebrew word for "book" or "scroll." Mentioning a specific book by Jehu son of Hanani highlights that there were recognized historical records outside the biblical text.
• "mentioned" (עָלָה, ‘alah): This word often means "to go up" or "to ascend," but here it is used in the sense of "being referenced" or "appearing" in another book, showing a connection between historical records.

Why 2 Chronicles 20:34 matters

• This verse clarifies that the biblical account is selective and that there were other respected records about Israel’s and Judah’s history, some of which are now lost.
• It highlights the role of prophets like Jehu son of Hanani not just as spiritual leaders but also as historians who kept official records.
• By pointing to other sources, the Chronicler encourages readers to see the biblical narrative as part of a larger historical tradition, not an isolated story.