2 Kings 10:13 (KJV)

What does 2 Kings 10:13 mean?

2 Kings 10:13 describes how Jehu, while carrying out his campaign against the royal families, encounters a group of men who identify themselves as relatives of Ahaziah, the king of Judah. These men explain that they are on their way to greet the king’s children and the queen’s children, not knowing the danger they are in.

In this verse, Jehu is speaking directly to these travelers, asking who they are. The men respond that they are the "brethren" (relatives or kinsmen) of Ahaziah, and they are traveling to pay respects to members of the royal family. This meeting happens as Jehu is in the midst of eliminating the house of Ahab and those connected to it, which puts these men at risk.

The Hebrew behind 2 Kings 10:13

• אַחִים (’aḥîm, transliterated "brethren"): This word can mean brothers, but often refers to relatives or kinsmen more broadly. Here, it suggests these men are extended family of Ahaziah, not necessarily his literal brothers.
• שָׁלוֹם (shalom, transliterated "salute"): The word used for "salute" is the common Hebrew word for peace or well-being. The men are going to "seek the peace" or well-being of the royal children, showing their loyalty or respect.
• בֵּן (ben, transliterated "children"): This word means "son" or "child." The repetition in "children of the king" and "children of the queen" emphasizes their connection to both the king and queen, highlighting the royal lineage at risk.

Why 2 Kings 10:13 matters

• This verse shows how unaware the relatives of Ahaziah are about the political upheaval and danger that Jehu’s actions have created, which sets up the tragedy that follows.
• The mention of both the king’s and queen’s children underlines the thoroughness of Jehu’s purge, as he targets anyone connected to the previous royal families.
• The encounter highlights the broader impact of Jehu’s revolution, affecting not just kings but their extended families and loyal followers.