Now the rest of the acts of Amaziah, first and last, behold, are they not written in the book of the kings of Judah and Israel?
2 CHRONICLES 25:26KJVWhat does 2 Chronicles 25:26 mean?
2 Chronicles 25:26 states that the rest of King Amaziah’s deeds, from the beginning to the end of his reign, are recorded in another historical source called the “book of the kings of Judah and Israel.” This verse signals to the reader that more details about Amaziah’s life and actions can be found in that record.
This statement comes near the end of Amaziah’s story in the book of 2 Chronicles. The writer is wrapping up the account of Amaziah, the king of Judah, by pointing readers to another source for further information. This was a common way for biblical writers to close a king’s biography, showing that their account is a summary and that fuller records existed at the time.
The Hebrew behind 2 Chronicles 25:26
- “rest” (יֶתֶר, yether): This word often means “the remainder” or “what is left.” Here, it refers to all the other events and deeds of Amaziah not detailed in this book.
- “acts” (דָּבָר, davar): While often translated as “acts” or “deeds,” this word can also mean “words” or “matters.” It covers everything significant about Amaziah’s reign, not just his actions.
- “written” (כָּתַב, kathav): This verb means “to write.” The verse emphasizes that these records were formally documented, not just passed down orally.
- “book” (סֵפֶר, sefer): This refers to a written scroll or record, highlighting that there were official archives or histories kept for the kings of Judah and Israel.
Why 2 Chronicles 25:26 matters
- This verse clarifies that the biblical account is selective and not exhaustive, pointing readers to other historical records for more information about Amaziah.
- It shows that the chronicler valued historical sources and wanted readers to know that the events of the kings were carefully documented.
- By mentioning both Judah and Israel, the verse connects Amaziah’s story to the broader history of both kingdoms, emphasizing the shared and recorded legacy of the people.