And Jehu slept with his fathers: and they buried him in Samaria. And Jehoahaz his son reigned in his stead.
2 KINGS 10:35KJVWhat does 2 Kings 10:35 mean?
2 Kings 10:35 states that Jehu died, was buried in Samaria, and his son Jehoahaz became king after him. This verse marks the end of Jehu’s reign and the beginning of Jehoahaz’s rule over Israel.
The verse is part of a historical account in the book of 2 Kings, which records the succession of Israel’s kings. Jehu had been a powerful and controversial ruler, known for his violent reforms. The phrase “slept with his fathers” is a common biblical way of saying he died, and the mention of burial in Samaria shows where Israel’s kings were laid to rest. The transition to Jehoahaz signals a new chapter in the nation’s leadership.
The Hebrew behind 2 Kings 10:35
- “Slept” (שָׁכַב, shakav): This word is often used in the Hebrew Bible as a respectful way to say someone died, especially rulers. It connects Jehu’s death to the tradition of his ancestors.
- “Fathers” (אָב, av): Refers to ancestors or forefathers. Saying Jehu “slept with his fathers” places him in the line of those who ruled before him.
- “Buried” (קָבַר, qavar): This word highlights that Jehu received a proper burial, which was significant for a king’s honor and legacy.
- “Samaria” (שֹׁמְרוֹן, Shomron): Naming Samaria as the burial place emphasizes its role as Israel’s capital and royal burial site.
Why 2 Kings 10:35 matters
- This verse clarifies the orderly succession of kings in Israel, showing that Jehu’s dynasty continued through his son Jehoahaz.
- The mention of burial in Samaria links Jehu to the royal tradition and the significance of the city as a center of power.
- By using traditional language for death and succession, the verse connects Jehu’s story to the broader narrative of Israel’s kings, highlighting both continuity and change in leadership.