2 Chronicles 28:22 (KJV)

What does 2 Chronicles 28:22 mean?

2 Chronicles 28:22 says that during King Ahaz’s time of trouble, instead of turning to God, he sinned even more against the LORD. The verse highlights that Ahaz’s response to hardship was not repentance, but a deepening of his unfaithfulness.

The Chronicler is describing King Ahaz of Judah, who ruled during a period of national crisis. Rather than seeking help from the LORD (H3068), Ahaz increased his wrongdoing (the word for “trespass” is often used for serious acts of disloyalty) when he was distressed. This verse sets up a contrast between what might be expected—turning to God in difficulty—and what Ahaz actually did.

The Hebrew behind 2 Chronicles 28:22

• "Distress" (צָרָה, tsarah, H6887) refers to a time of great trouble or pressure. The word emphasizes that Ahaz was under intense hardship, not just minor difficulties.
• "Trespass" (מָעַל, maal, H4603) means to act unfaithfully or betray a trust, especially in a relationship with God. This is stronger than just making a mistake; it suggests a deliberate turning away.
• "More" (יָסַף, yasaf, H3254) means to add or increase. The verse stresses that Ahaz’s wrongdoing didn’t just continue—it actually grew worse during his crisis.
• "LORD" (יְהוָה, YHWH, H3068) is the personal name of Israel’s God, making it clear that Ahaz’s actions were specifically against the God of his people.

Why 2 Chronicles 28:22 matters

• This verse corrects the idea that hardship always leads people to seek God; in Ahaz’s case, trouble led to even greater rebellion.
• The verse highlights a key theme in Chronicles: the importance of faithfulness to the LORD, especially in difficult times.
• By naming Ahaz directly, the writer draws attention to his personal responsibility for Judah’s spiritual decline, setting up a contrast with other kings who responded differently to crisis.