Go, enquire of the LORD for me, and for them that are left in Israel and in Judah, concerning the words of the book that is found: for great is the wrath of the LORD that is poured out upon us, because our fathers have not kept the word of the LORD, to do after all that is written in this book.

2 CHRONICLES 34:21KJV
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2 Chronicles 34:21 (KJV)

What does 2 Chronicles 34:21 mean?

2 Chronicles 34:21 records King Josiah commanding his officials to seek guidance from the LORD about the words found in a newly discovered book, because he fears God's anger is upon them for not following what is written there. Josiah recognizes that their ancestors failed to obey God's commands, and he is deeply concerned about the consequences.

King Josiah is speaking to his advisors after the high priest finds the Book of the Law during temple repairs. Josiah realizes that Israel and Judah have not been living according to God's instructions in this book, and he wants to know what they should do next. This verse shows Josiah's humility and urgency in responding to God's word, as well as his awareness of the seriousness of disobedience.

The Hebrew behind 2 Chronicles 34:21

  • "Enquire" (דָּרַשׁ, darash) means to seek or investigate diligently. Josiah is not asking for a casual opinion but wants a thorough understanding of what God requires.
  • "Wrath" (חֵמָה, chemah) refers to intense anger or fury. The word stresses the seriousness of the consequences Josiah fears because of past disobedience.
  • "Kept" (שָׁמַר, shamar) means to guard, observe, or keep watch over. The verse highlights that the ancestors did not just forget but failed to actively guard and obey God's word.

Why 2 Chronicles 34:21 matters

  • This verse clarifies that Josiah’s concern is not just personal but for all who remain in Israel and Judah, showing his role as a responsible and caring leader.
  • The verse emphasizes the importance of responding to God’s word with urgency and humility, especially when confronted with past failures.
  • It connects to the wider story of spiritual renewal in Josiah’s reign, showing how rediscovering God’s word can lead to repentance and change.