Twenty years old was Ahaz when he began to reign, and reigned sixteen years in Jerusalem, and did not that which was right in the sight of the LORD his God, like David his father.

2 KINGS 16:2KJV
Know the Bible

2 Kings 16:2 (KJV)

What does 2 Kings 16:2 mean?

2 Kings 16:2 explains that Ahaz became king of Judah at age twenty and ruled in Jerusalem for sixteen years, but he did not do what was right in the eyes of the LORD, unlike his ancestor David. The verse highlights that Ahaz’s reign was marked by choices that did not align with God’s standards.

This verse is part of a historical account written by the author of Kings, describing the kings of Judah and Israel. The statement compares Ahaz to David, who is often seen as the ideal king, and points out that Ahaz’s actions fell short of that example. The verse sets the tone for the story of Ahaz’s reign, which is known for turning away from the ways God approved.

The Hebrew behind 2 Kings 16:2

  • "Right" (יָשָׁר, yashar): This word means "straight" or "upright." In this context, it refers to doing what is morally or spiritually correct in God’s view, not just what seems good by human standards.
  • "Sight" (עַיִן, ayin): Literally meaning "eye," this word is used here to mean "in the presence of" or "as seen by" the LORD, emphasizing that God’s perspective is what matters in evaluating a king’s actions.
  • "LORD" (יְהוָה, YHWH): This is the personal name for the God of Israel, reminding the reader that the standard being referred to is not just any god, but the specific God who made a covenant with David and his descendants.

Why 2 Kings 16:2 matters

  • The verse makes it clear that not all kings of Judah followed David’s example, even though they ruled from Jerusalem and were part of his family line.
  • By measuring Ahaz against David, the verse sets up a contrast that helps readers understand why Ahaz’s reign is viewed negatively in the Bible.
  • This verse prepares the reader for the details that follow about Ahaz’s actions, showing from the start that his choices were out of step with what God wanted for his people.

Where else these words appear

“Ahaz” Hebrew H271 · used in 39 verses

  • 2 Kings 15:38 And Jotham slept with his fathers, and was buried with his fathers in the city of David his father: and Ahaz his son reigned in his stead.
  • 2 Kings 17:1 In the twelfth year of Ahaz king of Judah began Hoshea the son of Elah to reign in Samaria over Israel nine years.
  • 2 Chronicles 28:22 And in the time of his distress did he trespass yet more against the LORD: this is that king Ahaz.

“right” Hebrew H3477 · used in 119 verses

  • Exodus 15:26 And said, If thou wilt diligently hearken to the voice of the LORD thy God, and wilt do that which is right in his sight, and wilt give ear to his commandments, and keep all his statutes, I will put none of these diseases upon thee, which I have brought upon the Egyptians: for I am the LORD that healeth thee.
  • 2 Chronicles 29:2 And he did that which was right in the sight of the LORD, according to all that David his father had done.
  • Proverbs 2:7 He layeth up sound wisdom for the righteous: he is a buckler to them that walk uprightly.