Now the rest of the acts of Josiah, and his goodness, according to that which was written in the law of the LORD,

2 CHRONICLES 35:26KJV
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2 Chronicles 35:26 (KJV)

What does 2 Chronicles 35:26 mean?

2 Chronicles 35:26 says that the rest of King Josiah’s deeds, especially his acts of goodness, were recorded according to what was written in the law of the LORD. This verse points out that there is more to Josiah’s story than what is told here, and that his actions were measured by the standards found in God’s law.

The Chronicler is wrapping up the story of Josiah, a king of Judah, by noting that Josiah’s legacy was marked by his faithfulness and kindness, and that these qualities were in line with the teachings of the law (the Torah). The verse also hints that other records exist which give more details about Josiah’s reign and character.

The Hebrew behind 2 Chronicles 35:26

  • "rest" (יֶתֶר, yether): This word means “the remainder” or “what is left.” Here, it signals that not everything about Josiah’s life is included in this account.
  • "goodness" (חֶסֶד, chesed): Often translated as “steadfast love,” “kindness,” or “faithfulness.” This word highlights Josiah’s loyal and covenant-keeping character, not just general goodness.
  • "law" (תּוֹרָה, torah): Refers specifically to the teachings or instructions of the LORD, often meaning the first five books of the Bible. The verse emphasizes that Josiah’s actions were evaluated by this divine standard.

Why 2 Chronicles 35:26 matters

  • This verse clarifies that Josiah’s reign was not only about reforms or outward actions, but also about his deep loyalty and kindness, as understood in the context of God’s covenant.
  • By mentioning the law (torah), the Chronicler connects Josiah’s life to the larger biblical story, showing that his legacy is measured by God’s standards, not just human achievement.
  • The verse points readers to other sources for more information, reminding us that the biblical account is selective and focused on spiritual significance rather than exhaustive detail.

Where else these words appear

“Josiah” Hebrew H2977 · used in 48 verses

  • 1 Kings 13:2 And he cried against the altar in the word of the LORD, and said, O altar, altar, thus saith the LORD; Behold, a child shall be born unto the house of David, Josiah by name; and upon thee shall he offer the priests of the high places that burn incense upon thee, and men's bones shall be burnt upon thee.
  • 2 Chronicles 33:25 But the people of the land slew all them that had conspired against king Amon; and the people of the land made Josiah his son king in his stead.
  • Jeremiah 3:6 The LORD said also unto me in the days of Josiah the king, Hast thou seen that which backsliding Israel hath done? she is gone up upon every high mountain and under every green tree, and there hath played the harlot.

“rest” Hebrew H3499 · used in 95 verses

  • Genesis 49:3 Reuben, thou art my firstborn, my might, and the beginning of my strength, the excellency of dignity, and the excellency of power:
  • 1 Kings 22:39 Now the rest of the acts of Ahab, and all that he did, and the ivory house which he made, and all the cities that he built, are they not written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Israel?
  • 2 Chronicles 27:7 Now the rest of the acts of Jotham, and all his wars, and his ways, lo, they are written in the book of the kings of Israel and Judah.