Question 1

What does 2 Kings 14:16 mean?

Accepted Answer

2 Kings 14:16 records the death of Jehoash, king of Israel, noting that he was buried in Samaria with the other kings of Israel, and that his son Jeroboam became king after him. This verse marks a transition of power from Jehoash to his son Jeroboam. The verse is part of a historical account, likely written by a later compiler, summarizing the end of Jehoash’s reign. It follows the common biblical pattern of describing a king’s death, burial location, and succession. The mention of Samaria as the burial place highlights its role as the capital of the northern kingdom of Israel.

Question 2

The Hebrew behind 2 Kings 14:16

Accepted Answer

"slept" (שָׁכַב, shakav): This word is often used in the Hebrew Bible as a respectful way to say someone died, especially kings, connecting death with joining ancestors. "fathers" (אָב, av): Refers to ancestors, not just immediate parents, emphasizing Jehoash’s place in the ongoing story of Israel’s kings. "buried" (קָבַר, qavar): The act of burial in Samaria shows Jehoash’s status and the tradition of royal burials in the capital city. "reigned" (מָלַךְ, malakh): Indicates Jeroboam took over as king, marking a new phase in Israel’s history.

Question 3

Why 2 Kings 14:16 matters

Accepted Answer

This verse clarifies the line of succession in Israel’s monarchy, showing that Jeroboam became king after Jehoash’s death. The burial in Samaria underlines the city’s importance as the political and spiritual center for the northern kingdom. It connects to the broader narrative by setting up the reign of Jeroboam II, who would become one of Israel’s most significant kings.

2 Kings 14:16 (KJV)