2 Chronicles 18:31 Meaning and Explanation
“And it came to pass, when the captains of the chariots saw Jehoshaphat, that they said, It is the king of Israel. Therefore they compassed about him to fight: but Jehoshaphat cried out, and the LORD helped him; and God moved them to depart from him.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Syrian captains mistake Jehoshaphat for Ahab, but the LORD intervenes to protect Jehoshaphat when he calls out.
The Context of 2 Chronicles 18:31
The Syrians target Jehoshaphat but the LORD protects him.
What Does 2 Chronicles 18:31 Mean?
When the Syrian chariot captains spotted Jehoshaphat in his royal robes, they believed they had found their target—the king of Israel. They surrounded him with intent to kill, fulfilling Ahab's fear that Jehoshaphat would be endangered. However, when Jehoshaphat cried out to God for help, the LORD intervened directly to save him.
The narrative shows that despite Jehoshaphat's entanglement with Ahab, he retained his faith and was willing to call upon God in extremity. His cry was answered: God moved the Syrian captains to depart from him, preserving his life. This intervention also underscores that God's judgment was specifically against Ahab, not against Jehoshaphat, despite his foolish alliance.
2 Chronicles 18:31 in the Original Language
moved (הָסַר), 'moved' — to turn aside, cause to depart, remove from.
Frequently Asked Questions About 2 Chronicles 18:31
What does 2 Chronicles 18:31 mean?
Syrian captains mistake Jehoshaphat for Ahab, but the LORD intervenes to protect Jehoshaphat when he calls out.
What is the context of 2 Chronicles 18:31?
The Syrians target Jehoshaphat but the LORD protects him.