Question 1

What does 2 Kings 15:30 mean?

Accepted Answer

2 Kings 15:30 reports that Hoshea, the son of Elah, plotted against King Pekah of Israel, killed him, and took his place as king. This happened during the twentieth year of Jotham, who was the son of Uzziah and king of Judah at the time. This verse describes a violent change in leadership in the northern kingdom of Israel. The writer is giving a historical account of how Hoshea (H1954) became king by assassinating Pekah (H6492), showing the instability and frequent power struggles in Israel during this period. The mention of Jotham (H3147) and Uzziah (H5818) helps the reader place these events within the broader timeline of both Israel and Judah.

Question 2

The Hebrew behind 2 Kings 15:30

Accepted Answer

The word for "conspiracy" is קֶשֶׁר (qesher, H7195), which means a secret plot or treason. This highlights that Hoshea's rise to power was not through normal succession but through a planned overthrow. The verb "smote" is נָכָה (nakah, H5221), often used for striking down or defeating someone, emphasizing the violent nature of Pekah's death. The verb "reigned" is מָלַךְ (malak, H4427), meaning to become king or rule, showing that Hoshea took over the kingship directly after killing Pekah.

Question 3

Why 2 Kings 15:30 matters

Accepted Answer

This verse helps clarify the chaotic and often violent transitions of power in the northern kingdom of Israel, contrasting with the more stable succession in Judah. It sets the stage for the final years of the kingdom of Israel, as Hoshea would become the last king before the Assyrian conquest. The mention of Jotham and Uzziah anchors the event in a specific historical context, helping readers connect the events in Israel and Judah.

2 Kings 15:30 (KJV)