2 Chronicles 20:7 Meaning and Explanation
“Art not thou our God, who didst drive out the inhabitants of this land before thy people Israel, and gavest it to the seed of Abraham thy friend for ever?”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Jehoshaphat reminds God of His past faithfulness: He gave Canaan to Abraham's descendants by driving out earlier inhabitants.
The Context of 2 Chronicles 20:7
Jehoshaphat's historical memory strengthens his faith and his intercession.
What Does 2 Chronicles 20:7 Mean?
The prayer appeals to God's historical acts. Jehoshaphat grounds his present petition in God's demonstrated character—He has already conquered enemies on behalf of Israel and fulfilled promises to Abraham. This recollection of past deliverance is a form of intercession: if God has acted this way before, He can and should do it again.
The phrase 'to the seed of Abraham thy friend' invokes the covenant relationship. Abraham was called God's friend (Isa. 41:8; James 2:23), establishing that those in covenant with God receive His active protection and blessing. The gift of the land 'for ever' implies a permanent commitment.
2 Chronicles 20:7 in the Original Language
'Seed of Abraham' (zera; זֶרַע) refers to descendants; Jehoshaphat is reminding God of the Abrahamic covenant.
Frequently Asked Questions About 2 Chronicles 20:7
What does 2 Chronicles 20:7 mean?
Jehoshaphat reminds God of His past faithfulness: He gave Canaan to Abraham's descendants by driving out earlier inhabitants.
What is the context of 2 Chronicles 20:7?
Jehoshaphat's historical memory strengthens his faith and his intercession.