2 Chronicles 22:6 (KJV)

What does 2 Chronicles 22:6 mean?

2 Chronicles 22:6 describes how King Jehoram of Israel returned to Jezreel to recover from wounds he received in battle against Hazael, king of Syria, at Ramah. During this time, Azariah, the king of Judah, went to visit Jehoram in Jezreel because Jehoram was sick from his injuries.

This verse is set during a period of conflict between Israel and Syria. Jehoram, the king of Israel, was injured in battle and went to Jezreel, a city in northern Israel, to heal. Azariah (also called Ahaziah), the king of Judah and Jehoram’s relative, traveled to see him while he was recovering, which sets up events that follow in the next verses.

The Hebrew behind 2 Chronicles 22:6

• "returned" (שׁוּב, shuv): This word means to turn back or return. Here, it highlights that Jehoram left the battlefield and went back to Jezreel, not just for a visit but specifically to recover.
• "healed" (רָפָא, rapha): This word means to be healed or to recover. The verse emphasizes Jehoram’s need for physical recovery, not just rest.
• "wounds" (מַכָּה, makkah): This word refers to a blow or wound, often from battle. The use of this word shows that Jehoram’s condition was serious and directly related to the fighting.
• "see" (רָאָה, ra’ah): This word means to see or visit. Azariah’s visit was intentional, showing a relationship or alliance between the two kings.

Why 2 Chronicles 22:6 matters

• This verse clarifies the connection between the kings of Israel and Judah at this time, showing that their families and political interests were closely linked.
• The detail about Jehoram’s wounds and Azariah’s visit sets up the events that follow, including the downfall of both kings, which is a key theme in this part of Chronicles.
• Understanding the location names and the reason for Jehoram’s presence in Jezreel helps make sense of the historical and geographical context of the story.