2 Chronicles 35:23 (KJV)

What does 2 Chronicles 35:23 mean?

2 Chronicles 35:23 describes how King Josiah was struck by arrows from enemy archers during a battle, leading him to tell his servants to take him away because he was badly wounded. The verse shows the moment Josiah realizes the seriousness of his injury and seeks help from those around him.

In this scene, King Josiah is fighting against Pharaoh Necho’s army at Megiddo. The “archers” are enemy soldiers using bows, and their attack leaves Josiah severely hurt. Josiah’s words to his servants reveal both the urgency of his wound and his reliance on those close to him in his final moments.

The Hebrew behind 2 Chronicles 35:23

• The word for “archers” is יָרָה (yarah), which often means “to shoot” or “to throw.” Here, it refers to those who shoot arrows, emphasizing the weapon and method of Josiah’s injury.
• The word for “wounded” is חָלָה (chalah), which means “to be weak, sick, or wounded.” The use of this word highlights that Josiah’s injury was not just a minor wound, but something that left him gravely weakened.

Why 2 Chronicles 35:23 matters

• This verse clarifies that Josiah’s death was not immediate but came after he was seriously wounded and removed from the battlefield, showing his humanity and vulnerability.
• The detail about Josiah asking his servants for help highlights the loyalty of those around him and the king’s dependence on others in his final moments.
• The verse connects to the wider narrative by marking the end of Josiah’s reign, a significant turning point in the history of Judah, and setting the stage for the nation’s coming troubles.