2 Kings 15:26 (KJV)

What does 2 Kings 15:26 mean?

2 Kings 15:26 states that the rest of the deeds of Pekahiah, king of Israel, are recorded in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Israel. This verse signals to the reader that more details about Pekahiah’s reign exist elsewhere, but are not included in this account.

This verse is part of a summary statement often found in the books of Kings, wrapping up the story of a particular king. The writer is addressing the reader, noting that while only a brief account is given here, a more complete record was kept in another official document. This helps set the pattern for how the history of Israel’s kings is presented throughout these books.

The Hebrew behind 2 Kings 15:26

• "rest" (יֶתֶר, yether): This word means "the remainder" or "what is left." Here, it refers to everything about Pekahiah’s reign that was not included in the brief biblical account.
• "acts" (דָּבָר, davar): While often translated as "acts" or "deeds," this word can also mean "words" or "matters." It suggests that both actions and possibly significant events or pronouncements of Pekahiah are meant.
• "book" (סֵפֶר, sefer): This is the general Hebrew word for "book" or "scroll." The mention of a written record points to an official archive or historical record kept by the kingdom.
• "chronicles" (דָּבָר, davar; יָמִים, yamim): The phrase "book of the chronicles" uses these words, meaning "book of the matters (or events) of the days." It refers to an official record or annals, not the biblical book of Chronicles.

Why 2 Kings 15:26 matters

• This verse clarifies that the biblical account is selective, not exhaustive, and that the writers relied on other historical sources for fuller details.
• The mention of the "book of the chronicles of the kings of Israel" shows that Israel kept official records, emphasizing the historical nature of these accounts.
• By following a repeated pattern for each king, this verse helps the reader see the structure and purpose of the narrative in 1–2 Kings, which often focuses on spiritual evaluation rather than detailed political history.