Moreover the LORD stirred up against Jehoram the spirit of the Philistines, and of the Arabians, that were near the Ethiopians:

2 CHRONICLES 21:16KJV
Know the Bible

2 Chronicles 21:16 (KJV)

What does 2 Chronicles 21:16 mean?

2 Chronicles 21:16 says that the LORD caused the Philistines and the Arabians, who lived near the Ethiopians, to become hostile toward King Jehoram of Judah. This verse shows that God actively stirred up these neighboring peoples to come against Jehoram as part of the consequences for his actions.

In the story, Jehoram is the king of Judah, and this verse describes a turning point where outside nations become a threat to his rule. The Chronicler is explaining that these attacks were not random, but were stirred up by the LORD as a response to Jehoram’s earlier choices and behavior. The verse sets the stage for the troubles that will soon come upon Jehoram and his kingdom.

The Hebrew behind 2 Chronicles 21:16

  • LORD (יְהוָה, YHWH): This is the personal name for the God of Israel, emphasizing that it is God Himself who is acting in this situation, not just fate or chance.
  • up (עָר, `ur): This word means to stir up, awaken, or incite. It highlights that God is actively causing these nations to move against Jehoram, not simply allowing it to happen.
  • spirit (רוּחַ, ruach): Often means "spirit," "wind," or "breath." Here, it refers to the inner drive or motivation of the Philistines and Arabians, suggesting God influenced their intentions or attitudes.
  • near (עַל, `al and יָד, yad): These words together indicate proximity, clarifying that the Arabians mentioned are those living close to the Ethiopians, which helps identify which group is meant.

Why 2 Chronicles 21:16 matters

  • This verse clarifies that the troubles facing Jehoram were not just political accidents but were understood as direct consequences of his actions, with God taking an active role.
  • The mention of specific groups (Philistines and Arabians near the Ethiopians) helps the reader see the geographical and historical context, showing the real and immediate threats surrounding Judah.
  • The verse connects to the wider passage by showing a pattern: when Judah’s leaders turn away from God, outside nations become instruments of discipline or judgment. This theme runs throughout Chronicles and helps explain the ups and downs of Judah’s history.

Where else these words appear

“Arabians” Hebrew H6163 · used in 9 verses

  • 2 Chronicles 17:11 Also some of the Philistines brought Jehoshaphat presents, and tribute silver; and the Arabians brought him flocks, seven thousand and seven hundred rams, and seven thousand and seven hundred he goats.
  • 2 Chronicles 26:7 And God helped him against the Philistines, and against the Arabians that dwelt in Gurbaal, and the Mehunims.
  • Nehemiah 6:1 Now it came to pass, when Sanballat, and Tobiah, and Geshem the Arabian, and the rest of our enemies, heard that I had builded the wall, and that there was no breach left therein;(though at that time I had not set up the doors upon the gates;)

“Ethiopians” Hebrew H3569 · used in 19 verses

  • 2 Samuel 18:21 Then said Joab to Cushi, Go tell the king what thou hast seen. And Cushi bowed himself unto Joab, and ran.
  • 2 Chronicles 14:9 And there came out against them Zerah the Ethiopian with an host of a thousand thousand, and three hundred chariots; and came unto Mareshah.
  • Jeremiah 38:10 Then the king commanded Ebedmelech the Ethiopian, saying, Take from hence thirty men with thee, and take up Jeremiah the prophet out of the dungeon, before he die.

“Jehoram” Hebrew H3088 · used in 26 verses

  • 1 Kings 22:50 And Jehoshaphat slept with his fathers, and was buried with his fathers in the city of David his father: and Jehoram his son reigned in his stead.
  • 2 Kings 9:17 And there stood a watchman on the tower in Jezreel, and he spied the company of Jehu as he came, and said, I see a company. And Joram said, Take an horseman, and send to meet them, and let him say, Is it peace?
  • 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.

“near” Hebrew H5921 · used in 48 verses

  • Genesis 1:2 And the earth was without form, and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters.
  • Genesis 31:50 If thou shalt afflict my daughters, or if thou shalt take other wives beside my daughters, no man is with us; see, God is witness betwixt me and thee.
  • 1 Kings 18:21 And Elijah came unto all the people, and said, How long halt ye between two opinions? if the LORD be God, follow him: but if Baal, then follow him. And the people answered him not a word.