2 Kings 13:8 (KJV)

What does 2 Kings 13:8 mean?

2 Kings 13:8 says that the rest of King Jehoahaz’s actions, including his achievements and strength, are recorded in another historical book called the chronicles of the kings of Israel. This verse points readers to another source for more details about his reign.

The verse is part of a summary statement often used in the books of Kings when closing the account of a king’s life. The writer is telling the reader that only a brief account is given here, but a fuller record exists elsewhere. The “book of the chronicles of the kings of Israel” was a historical record kept during the time, though it is not part of the Bible we have today.

The Hebrew behind 2 Kings 13:8

• “rest” (יֶתֶר, yether): This word means “the remainder” or “what is left.” It signals that the story told here is not complete and more information exists elsewhere.
• “acts” (דָּבָר, davar): While often translated “acts” or “deeds,” this word can also mean “words” or “matters.” Here, it refers to the events and actions of Jehoahaz’s reign.
• “might” (גְּבוּרָה, gevurah): This word means “strength” or “power.” The verse highlights not just what Jehoahaz did, but also his notable strength or military accomplishments.
• “book” (סֵפֶר, sefer) and “chronicles” (דָּבָר, davar; יָמִים, yamim): “Sefer” means a written record or scroll, and “yamim” means “days,” so “book of the chronicles” refers to an official record of the events (“days”) of the kings.

Why 2 Kings 13:8 matters

• This verse clarifies that the biblical account is selective and not exhaustive, pointing readers to other historical records for a fuller picture.
• The mention of Jehoahaz’s “might” suggests he had notable achievements, even if they are not detailed in this biblical summary.
• By referencing the “book of the chronicles of the kings of Israel,” the verse connects the Bible’s narrative to a broader tradition of royal record-keeping in ancient Israel.