2 Kings 15:38 (KJV)

What does 2 Kings 15:38 mean?

2 Kings 15:38 records that Jotham died, was buried with his ancestors in the city of David, and his son Ahaz became king after him. This verse marks the end of Jotham’s reign and the beginning of Ahaz’s rule over Judah.

The verse is part of a historical account written to document the succession of kings in Judah. It uses the phrase “slept with his fathers” to describe Jotham’s death, a common way the Hebrew Bible refers to the passing of a king. The mention of burial in the city of David highlights the royal family’s connection to King David, and the transition to Ahaz sets the stage for the next section of the narrative.

The Hebrew behind 2 Kings 15:38

• The word “slept” (שָׁכַב, shakav) is often used in the Hebrew Bible to mean “died,” especially for kings, and carries the idea of joining one’s ancestors in death.
• “Fathers” (אָב, av) appears twice, emphasizing both Jotham’s lineage and the tradition of burial with previous generations.
• “Buried” (קָבַר, qavar) is used here to show that Jotham received an honorable burial, reinforcing his place in the royal line.
• “Reigned” (מָלַךְ, malakh) signals the official transfer of authority from Jotham to Ahaz, marking a new chapter in Judah’s history.

Why 2 Kings 15:38 matters

• The verse clarifies the orderly transition of kingship in Judah, showing continuity in the royal line from David through Jotham to Ahaz.
• By noting Jotham’s burial in the city of David, the verse connects him to the legacy and promises associated with David’s dynasty.
• The verse sets up the narrative for Ahaz’s reign, which will be significant in the following chapters, especially as the political and spiritual situation in Judah changes.