2 Kings 12:18 Meaning and Explanation
“And Jehoash king of Judah took all the hallowed things that Jehoshaphat, and Jehoram, and Ahaziah, his fathers, kings of Judah, had dedicated, and his own hallowed things, and all the gold that was found in the treasures of the house of the LORD, and in the king's house, and sent it to Hazael king of Syria: and he went away from Jerusalem.”
King James Version (KJV)
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Read Full Chapter →Joash strips the temple and palace treasuries to buy off Hazael, who then withdraws.
What Does 2 Kings 12:18 Mean?
To turn Hazael away, Joash gathers the sacred treasures dedicated by earlier kings of Judah, along with his own and the gold from the temple and palace, and sends it all to the Syrian king. Hazael accepts the tribute and departs from Jerusalem. The threat is averted at a heavy cost.
Here is a sobering turn for a king who had repaired the temple now emptied to ransom the city. Fear can drive even the faithful to lean on treasure rather than on the LORD who had so often delivered His people. The episode invites reflection: where do we turn when danger comes? God remains the true defender of His people, mightier than any tribute, worthy of our trust above silver and gold.
Frequently Asked Questions About 2 Kings 12:18
What does 2 Kings 12:18 mean?
Joash strips the temple and palace treasuries to buy off Hazael, who then withdraws.