2 Kings 14:10 Meaning and Explanation
“Thou hast indeed smitten Edom, and thine heart hath lifted thee up: glory of this, and tarry at home: for why shouldest thou meddle to thy hurt, that thou shouldest fall, even thou, and Judah with thee?”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Jehoash urges Amaziah to rest on his victory over Edom and withdraw, warning that interference will bring destruction to Judah.
The Context of 2 Kings 14:10
A direct appeal to reason; Jehoash gives Amaziah a final chance to avoid catastrophe.
What Does 2 Kings 14:10 Mean?
Now Jehoash speaks plainly. 'Thou hast indeed smitten Edom, and thine heart hath lifted thee up.' There is no contempt in these words, only clarity. Amaziah has won a great victory—no one disputes that. But 'glory of this,' Jehoash says, 'and tarry at home.' Take the prize. Enjoy it. Rest in it. There is no shame in that. But do not let the high of victory drive you toward a conflict you cannot win. 'Why shouldest thou meddle to thy hurt, that thou shouldest fall, even thou, and Judah with thee?' The threat of personal fall is enough; but Jehoash goes further. Amaziah's folly will drag his entire nation down.
This is the language of a mature warrior who has seen many battles. Jehoash has nothing to prove. He would prefer not to fight. But if he must, he will. He is trying, one last time, to save Amaziah from himself. The warning is clear: pride will cost you everything—not just your own life, but your kingdom's future.
Where 2 Kings 14:10 Echoes in Scripture
The pattern of warning before judgment appears throughout the prophetic books (Jeremiah, Hosea); God, like Jehoash here, offers chances to repent before consequences fall.
How to Apply 2 Kings 14:10 Today
When someone wiser, older, or more experienced warns us, we should listen carefully, especially if their concern is for our welfare, not their own ego. Pride makes us deaf to such voices.