2 Kings 21:4 (KJV)

What does 2 Kings 21:4 mean?

2 Kings 21:4 describes how King Manasseh built altars for other gods inside the temple of the LORD in Jerusalem, even though God had said that His name would be placed there. This act shows a direct violation of God’s command and a serious act of disrespect toward the place God had chosen as special.

The verse is part of a passage about Manasseh, king of Judah, who is known for leading the people into idolatry. The "house of the LORD" refers to the temple in Jerusalem, which God had declared as the place for His presence and worship. By building altars to other gods there, Manasseh was not just breaking religious rules but was also undermining the unique relationship between God and His people.

The Hebrew behind 2 Kings 21:4

• "house" (בַּיִת, bayit): This word means "house" or "temple." Here, it refers specifically to the temple in Jerusalem, which was meant to be the exclusive place for worshiping the LORD.
• "LORD" (יְהוָה, YHWH): This is the personal name of Israel’s God, emphasizing that the temple was dedicated to Him alone.
• "put" (שִׂים, sim): This word means "to place" or "to set." God’s statement about putting His name in Jerusalem highlights the idea that the temple was chosen as the unique location for His presence and worship.
• "name" (שֵׁם, shem): In this context, "name" refers to God’s reputation, authority, and presence. Saying God would put His name in Jerusalem means He chose that city and temple as the center of worship.

Why 2 Kings 21:4 matters

• This verse highlights how serious Manasseh’s actions were, because he did not just worship other gods, but did so in the very place God had set apart for Himself.
• It clarifies that the temple was not just any building, but the unique place where God’s presence was meant to dwell among His people.
• The verse connects to the larger theme in Kings about faithfulness to God’s commands and the consequences when leaders and people turn away from them.