2 Kings 24:6 (KJV)

What does 2 Kings 24:6 mean?

2 Kings 24:6 records that Jehoiakim, the king of Judah, died (“slept with his fathers”), and his son Jehoiachin became king after him. The verse marks a transition of royal power from father to son during a troubled period in Judah’s history.

This verse is part of a historical account written by the author of 2 Kings, describing the line of kings in Judah. The phrase “slept with his fathers” is a common way in the Hebrew Bible to say that someone died and was buried with their ancestors. The verse sets up the next stage of the story, as Jehoiachin’s reign will soon lead to major events for the nation.

The Hebrew behind 2 Kings 24:6

• "slept" (שָׁכַב, shakav): This word is often used in the Hebrew Bible as a respectful or gentle way to say someone has died, especially kings or important figures. It suggests being gathered to one’s ancestors.
• "fathers" (אָב, av): In this context, “fathers” means ancestors, not just a person’s immediate father. It reflects the tradition of family burial and continuity.
• "reigned" (מָלַךְ, malakh): This verb means to become king or rule. The verse uses it to show the formal transfer of kingship from Jehoiakim to Jehoiachin.

Why 2 Kings 24:6 matters

• The verse clarifies the succession of Judah’s kings, which is crucial for understanding the timeline leading up to the Babylonian exile.
• The use of “slept with his fathers” emphasizes the continuity of royal lineage and the tradition of burial with ancestors, rather than focusing on the details of Jehoiakim’s death.
• By introducing Jehoiachin, the verse prepares the reader for the dramatic events that follow, including the fall of Jerusalem and the exile.