2 Kings 14:29 (KJV)

What does 2 Kings 14:29 mean?

2 Kings 14:29 records the death of Jeroboam, king of Israel, and states that his son Zachariah became king after him. This verse marks the end of Jeroboam’s reign and the beginning of Zachariah’s, continuing the line of kings over Israel.

The verse is part of a historical account in the book of 2 Kings, which traces the succession of Israel’s rulers. The phrase "slept with his fathers" is a common way in the Hebrew Bible to describe a king’s death, emphasizing continuity and the passing of leadership from one generation to the next. The focus here is on the transition of power within the royal family.

The Hebrew behind 2 Kings 14:29

• "slept" (שָׁכַב, shakav): This word is often used in the Hebrew Bible to refer to death, especially of kings, and carries the sense of resting with ancestors. It is a respectful way to note a ruler’s passing.
• "fathers" (אָב, av): This word means "ancestors" or "forefathers." In this context, it refers to previous kings of Israel, highlighting Jeroboam’s place in the royal lineage.
• "reigned" (מָלַךְ, malakh): This verb means "to become king" or "to rule." Its use here underscores the official transfer of authority to Zachariah.

Why 2 Kings 14:29 matters

• The verse clarifies the line of succession in Israel’s monarchy, showing that Zachariah was Jeroboam’s direct heir.
• It uses traditional language to connect Jeroboam’s death with those of earlier kings, reinforcing the idea of dynastic continuity.
• This transition sets up the events that follow in 2 Kings, where the stability and future of Israel’s leadership become central themes.