2 Chronicles 32:25 (KJV)

What does 2 Chronicles 32:25 mean?

2 Chronicles 32:25 describes how King Hezekiah did not respond with gratitude or humility after receiving great help and blessing; instead, his pride led to trouble for himself and for the people of Judah and Jerusalem. The verse points out that Hezekiah’s heart became proud, and as a result, God’s anger came upon him and his kingdom.

This verse is part of a historical account where Hezekiah, king of Judah, had experienced deliverance from enemies and healing from illness, but failed to give proper thanks or recognition to God. The chronicler is explaining that Hezekiah’s pride ("his heart was lifted up") was the reason for the coming of divine wrath, affecting not just Hezekiah but also the entire nation under his rule.

The Hebrew behind 2 Chronicles 32:25

• "benefit" (תּוֹבָה, tovah): This word means "goodness" or "kindness." The verse highlights that Hezekiah did not repay or acknowledge the goodness shown to him, emphasizing a lack of gratitude.
• "heart" (לֵב, lev): In Hebrew thought, the "heart" refers to the inner self, including thoughts, will, and emotions. The phrase "his heart was lifted up" points to pride or arrogance, not just a fleeting feeling but a deep attitude.
• "up" (גָּבַהּ, gavah): This word means "to be high" or "exalted." Here, it describes Hezekiah’s heart being "lifted up," which is a Hebrew way of saying he became proud.
• "wrath" (קֶצֶף, qetsef): This word means "anger" or "wrath," often used for divine anger. The verse stresses that God’s displeasure was a direct result of Hezekiah’s prideful response.

Why 2 Chronicles 32:25 matters

• This verse clarifies that even a good and faithful leader like Hezekiah was not immune to pride, and that spiritual failure can have consequences for a whole community, not just an individual.
• The verse connects to the wider story by showing a turning point: after great deliverance and blessing, Hezekiah’s pride led to a period of danger, underscoring the importance of humility after success.
• The mention of God’s wrath on both Hezekiah and his people highlights the responsibility of leaders and how their actions can affect those they lead.