For, lo, our fathers have fallen by the sword, and our sons and our daughters and our wives are in captivity for this.

2 CHRONICLES 29:9KJV
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2 Chronicles 29:9 (KJV)

What does 2 Chronicles 29:9 mean?

2 Chronicles 29:9 describes how the previous generation’s unfaithfulness led to disaster: their fathers died in battle, and their sons, daughters, and wives were taken away as captives. The verse is a confession of the consequences that have come upon the people because of their actions.

In this verse, King Hezekiah is speaking to the people of Judah as he begins to restore proper worship in the temple. Hezekiah is explaining that the suffering and loss they have experienced—family members killed by the sword and others taken into captivity—are direct results of turning away from God. This statement sets the stage for his call to repentance and renewal.

The Hebrew behind 2 Chronicles 29:9

  • "fathers" (אָבוֹת, avot): This word refers to the previous generations, emphasizing a shared responsibility and history. Hezekiah points to the collective past, not just individual mistakes.
  • "fallen" (נָפַל, nafal): This word often means to fall in battle or to be struck down. It highlights the violence and tragedy that befell their ancestors.
  • "captivity" (שְׁבִי, shevi): This word means being taken as prisoners or exiles. It underscores the loss of freedom and the humiliation experienced by the people’s families.

Why 2 Chronicles 29:9 matters

  • This verse clarifies that the nation’s suffering was not random but seen as a direct result of their unfaithfulness, which is a key theme in the surrounding chapters.
  • Hezekiah’s words set a tone of honesty and humility, showing that real change begins with admitting past failures.
  • The verse connects personal and national consequences, helping readers see the link between choices, community, and the events that shape history in the biblical narrative.

Where else these words appear

“captivity” Hebrew H7628 · used in 47 verses

  • Exodus 12:29 And it came to pass, that at midnight the LORD smote all the firstborn in the land of Egypt, from the firstborn of Pharaoh that sat on his throne unto the firstborn of the captive that was in the dungeon; and all the firstborn of cattle.
  • Ezra 9:7 Since the days of our fathers have we been in a great trespass unto this day; and for our iniquities have we, our kings, and our priests, been delivered into the hand of the kings of the lands, to the sword, to captivity, and to a spoil, and to confusion of face, as it is this day.
  • Jeremiah 30:10 Therefore fear thou not, O my servant Jacob, saith the LORD; neither be dismayed, O Israel: for, lo, I will save thee from afar, and thy seed from the land of their captivity; and Jacob shall return, and shall be in rest, and be quiet, and none shall make him afraid.