2 Kings 16:20 (KJV)

What does 2 Kings 16:20 mean?

2 Kings 16:20 records the death of King Ahaz, stating that he died ("slept with his fathers") and was buried in the city of David, and that his son Hezekiah became king after him. This verse marks the end of Ahaz’s reign and the beginning of Hezekiah’s rule over Judah.

This verse is a historical note, summarizing a transition of power in the kingdom of Judah. The phrase "slept with his fathers" is a common way in the Old Testament to describe a king’s death, and being buried "in the city of David" connects Ahaz to his royal lineage. The mention of Hezekiah as his successor sets the stage for the next section of the narrative, which will focus on Hezekiah’s reign.

The Hebrew behind 2 Kings 16:20

• "slept" (שָׁכַב, shakav): This word is often used in the Hebrew Bible to describe death, especially for kings, and carries the sense of joining one’s ancestors in death rather than simply ceasing to live.
• "fathers" (אָב, av): Used twice here, this word refers to ancestors or forefathers, emphasizing Ahaz’s place in the ongoing royal family line.
• "buried" (קָבַר, qavar): This word highlights the act of burial, which in this context underscores Ahaz’s status by noting his burial in the city of David, the traditional burial place for kings of Judah.
• "city" (עִיר, ir) and "David" (דָּוִד, David): Together, these words specify Jerusalem, reinforcing the connection to King David and the legitimacy of the royal line.

Why 2 Kings 16:20 matters

• This verse clarifies the orderly succession of kings in Judah, showing that Hezekiah’s rise to the throne followed the established pattern of royal inheritance.
• The mention of burial in the city of David highlights the importance of Jerusalem as the center of Judah’s kingship and the continuity of David’s dynasty.
• By introducing Hezekiah, the verse prepares the reader for significant changes and reforms that will come during his reign, which are a major focus in the following chapters.