2 Chronicles

Solomon Asks For Wisdom - Chapter 1

Solomon, David's son, secured his kingdom, blessed by the presence of the LORD. Addressing all of Israel's leaders, Solomon and the assembly gathered at Gibeon which was home to the tent of meeting built by Moses. Although the ark resided in Jerusalem, Solomon approached the bronze altar in Gibeon for guidance. Solomon offered a sacrifice and that night, God appeared, granting Solomon a wish. Solomon sought wisdom to lead God's vast people. Pleased, God not only promised wisdom but also unparalleled wealth and honor. Solomon reigned from Jerusalem, amassing chariots, horses, silver, gold, and cedar, extending his influence to Egypt, Kue, and neighboring kingdoms.

Preparations For Building The Temple - Chapter 2

Solomon ordered the construction of a temple for the Lord and a royal palace. Solomon enlisted 70,000 as carriers, 80,000 as stonecutters, and 3,600 as foremen. Seeking cedar logs, Solomon wrote to Tyre's King Hiram and explained the temple's purpose for worship. He requested skilled artisans and materials and offered generous compensation. Hiram praised God, acknowledged Solomon's wisdom, and sent Huram-Abi, an accomplished artisan. Solomon organized labor, employing 153,600 foreigners, with 70,000 as carriers, 80,000 as stonecutters, and 3,600 as foremen.

Solomon Builds The Temple - Chapter 3

Solomon initiated the construction of the temple in Jerusalem on Mount Moriah, starting on the second day of the second month in the fourth year of his reign. The temple's foundation measured sixty cubits by twenty cubits. The front portico was adorned with gold and decorative designs. The main hall featured juniper paneling, gold overlay, and precious stones. The Most Holy Place, twenty cubits in length and width, displayed sculptured cherubim overlaid with gold. The curtain, interwoven chains, pillars named Jakin and Boaz, and pomegranates adorned the temple.

The Temple's Furnishings - Chapter 4

Solomon crafted a bronze altar measuring twenty cubits by twenty cubits by ten cubits and the Sea, a large circular basin supported by twelve bulls. Ten basins for washing, ten gold lampstands, ten tables, and a hundred gold sprinkling bowls adorned the temple. Solomon also constructed the courtyard of the priests and the large court, overlaying the doors with bronze. The detailed work included the pots, shovels, and sprinkling bowls. Huram-Abi completed the assigned tasks, creating polished bronze objects cast in clay molds. Solomon's temple featured various furnishings, including the golden altar, tables with the bread of the Presence, lampstands, and intricately designed gold accessories and doors.

The Dedication Of The Temple - Chapter 7

After Solomon's prayer, fire descended from heaven, consuming sacrifices and filling the temple with the glory of the LORD. The priests couldn't enter due to the overwhelming divine presence. Witnessing this, the Israelites fell to the ground, worshipping and giving thanks, proclaiming the enduring goodness and love of the LORD. King Solomon and the people offered abundant sacrifices and dedicated the temple. The priests, Levites, and musicians performed, and trumpets sounded. Solomon consecrated the courtyard for offerings. The festive celebration continued for seven days, with an additional assembly on the eighth day. The people departed, joyful for the LORD's blessings on David, Solomon, and Israel.

The LORD Appears To Solomon

Upon completing the temple and palace, the LORD appeared to Solomon and affirmed the consecration of the temple as a place for sacrifices. God pledged to hear prayers, forgive sins, and heal the land if His people, called by His name, humbly prayed and turned from wickedness. The LORD emphasized His perpetual presence in the temple. However, disobedience would lead to calamity. If Solomon and the people followed God faithfully, the royal throne would endure. Yet, turning to other gods would result in Israel's expulsion, the rejection of the temple, and its transformation into a ruin, a testament to forsaking the LORD's commands.

Solomon's Other Activities - Chapter 8

After completing the temple and palace in twenty years, Solomon fortified cities, including Tadmor and Upper and Lower Beth Horon. Solomon reconstructed Baalath and expanded his territory. Though some non-Israelite inhabitants remained, Solomon conscripted them for slave labor, exempting the Israelites who served as fighting men and officials. Solomon relocated Pharaoh's daughter to a new palace, deeming the previous one holy due to the ark's presence. He faithfully offered burnt offerings and adhered to Moses' command for sacrifices. Solomon organized priests, Levites, and gatekeepers as David had ordained. The temple's construction, initiated with its foundation, concluded. Solomon, aided by Hiram's ships, obtained gold from Ophir, amassing 450 talents.

The Queen Of Sheba Visits Solomon - Chapter 9

Impressed by Solomon's wisdom and accomplishments, the queen of Sheba tested him with challenging questions. She marveled at his answers, the grandeur of his palace, the elaborate meals, and the orderliness of his court. Acknowledging the LORD's role in Solomon's reign, she praised God for appointing him as a just and righteous king over Israel. In admiration, she presented Solomon with 120 talents of gold, spices, and precious stones, surpassing any previous gifts. Additionally, the servants of Hiram and Solomon brought valuable resources from Ophir for construction purposes, and Solomon generously granted the queen's requests, exceeding her expectations. She then returned to her country with her retinue (advisors/assistants).

Solomon's Splendor

Each year, Solomon received 666 talents of gold, excluding revenues from merchants. Kings of Arabia and regional governors also presented gold and silver to him. Solomon crafted 200 large shields and 300 small shields of hammered gold, along with a grand throne adorned with ivory and pure gold. Twelve lions adorned the throne's steps. All the goblets and household items in the Palace of the Forest of Lebanon were made of gold. Solomon's trading fleet, manned by Hiram's servants, brought wealth every three years. Solomon's unparalleled wealth and wisdom drew kings from all over to offer gifts. Solomon ruled the territory from the Euphrates to the Philistine border and made silver abundant in Jerusalem. Solomon possessed 4,000 horse stalls and 12,000 horses, ruling as the wealthiest and wisest king on earth.

Solomon's Death

The remaining details of Solomon's reign, from start to finish, are recorded in the writings of Nathan the prophet, Ahijah the Shilonite's prophecy, and Iddo the seer's visions concerning Jeroboam. Solomon ruled over all of Israel for forty years in Jerusalem. After his death, he was buried in his father David's city. His son Rehoboam succeeded him as king.

The Ark Brought To The Temple - Chapter 5

Solomon completed the construction of the temple, placing the dedicated offerings of silver, gold, and furnishings in God's temple treasuries. Summoning the elders and chiefs of Israel, Solomon orchestrated the grand procession to bring the Ark of the LORD's covenant from the City of David to Jerusalem during a festive month. Sacrificing numerous sheep and cattle, the assembly, including King Solomon, surrounded the Ark. The priests positioned the Ark in the Most Holy Place beneath the cherubim's wings, and the musicians, adorned in fine linen, praised the LORD with cymbals, harps, lyres, and trumpets, joyfully declaring, "He is good; his love endures forever." The temple of the LORD was filled with the cloud, showing that the glory of the LORD filled the temple.

The Ark Brought To The Temple (cont.) - Chapter 6

Solomon praised the LORD for fulfilling the promise made to his father David. Solomon acknowledged that while David desired to build the temple, it was appointed for Solomon to carry out the task. Solomon emphasized that Jerusalem was chosen for the dwelling of the LORD's Name, and he celebrated the completion of the temple where the Ark now housed the covenant. Turning to bless the assembly, Solomon affirmed the LORD's faithfulness in establishing him on the throne and fulfilling the commitment to build the temple in the Name of the LORD.

Solomon's Prayer Of Dedication

Solomon, standing before the assembly, prayed before the altar of the LORD. Solomon acknowledged God's unmatched greatness, faithfulness, and the fulfillment of promises made to David. Solomon appealed for the continued realization of God's pledges and beseeched forgiveness for the people's transgressions. Solomon asked God to hear prayers directed toward the temple and to grant mercy. Solomon asked for divine intervention in various circumstances, including disputes, defeats, droughts, and repentance. He pleaded for God's attention to the pleas of foreigners praying in the temple, emphasizing the universality of God's mercy. Solomon concluded by invoking God's presence and blessing on the temple, priests, and the faithful, urging God not to reject His anointed one and to remember the promised love to David.

Israel Rebels Against Rehoboam - Chapter 10

Rehoboam went to Shechem, where all Israel gathered to make him king. Hearing this, Jeroboam, who had fled Solomon and was in Egypt, returned. The people, burdened by Solomon's yoke (likely taxation and labor), asked Rehoboam for relief. Seeking advice, Rehoboam consulted the elders, who suggested kindness. Disregarding them and following the counsel of his young associates, proclaimed a harsher rule. This sparked a rebellion, fulfilling a prophecy (1 Kings 11:29-39). When Rehoboam sent Adoniram to enforce labor, the Israelites stoned him. Rehoboam fled to Jerusalem, and Israel remained in rebellion against David's house.

Israel Rebels Against Rehoboam (cont.) - Chapter 11

After Rehoboam became king, he assembled 180,000 soldiers from Judah and Benjamin to fight against the northern kingdom of Israel, led by Jeroboam. Before the battle began, the prophet Shemaiah delivered a message from the LORD to Rehoboam and instructed him not to fight against his fellow Israelites. God commanded them to return home, and Rehoboam and his troops obeyed, refraining from marching against Jeroboam. Despite this initial obedience, Rehoboam and the people of Judah later turned away from God, leading to consequences for the kingdom.

Rehoboam Fortifies Judah

Rehoboam fortified various cities in Judah, including Bethlehem, Etam, Tekoa, Beth Zur, Soko, Adullam, Gath, Mareshah, Ziph, Adoraim, Lachish, Azekah, Zorah, Aijalon, and Hebron. These became strongholds with commanders, provisions, shields, and spears. The priests and Levites from all Israel joined Rehoboam, as Jeroboam had rejected them. People from every tribe, devoted to seeking the LORD, followed the Levites to Jerusalem for sacrifices, which strengthened the kingdom of Judah and supported Rehoboam for three years in the ways of David and Solomon.

Rehoboam's Family

Rehoboam married Mahalath, daughter of Jerimoth and Abihail, bearing him Jeush, Shemariah, and Zaham. Rehoboam also married Maakah, Absalom's daughter, who gave birth to Abijah, Attai, Ziza, and Shelomith. Rehoboam favored Maakah above his other wives, having eighteen wives, sixty concubines, twenty-eight sons, and sixty daughters. He appointed Abijah as crown prince and acted wisely, providing for his sons throughout Judah and Benjamin, granting them provisions and multiple wives.

Shishak Attacks Jerusalem - Chapter 12

After Rehoboam's reign was established, he and all of Israel turned away from the LORD. In the fifth year of Rehoboam's rule, Shishak, the king of Egypt, attacked Jerusalem and captured Judah's fortified cities. The prophet Shemaiah conveyed God's message, blaming their abandonment of the LORD for the invasion. When the leaders and king humbled themselves, God relented to spare them from destruction. Despite this, Shishak plundered the temple and royal treasures. Rehoboam, realizing his error, replaced the stolen gold shields with bronze ones. Rehoboam ruled for 17 years, facing continual warfare with Jeroboam, and after his death, Abijah succeeded him as king.

Abijah King Of Judah - Chapter 13

In the eighteenth year of Jeroboam's reign, Abijah became king of Judah and ruled for three years. War began between Abijah and Jeroboam. Abijah, with 400,000 men, confronted Jeroboam and his 800,000 troops. Abijah accused Jeroboam of rebellion against God by reminding him of David's covenant as God's chosen king. Despite being ambushed, Judah cried out to the LORD who delivered a decisive victory. Abijah pursued Jeroboam, capturing key towns. Jeroboam, defeated, didn't regain power and died. Abijah strengthened and had numerous wives and children. Additional details of Abijah's reign are recorded in the prophet Iddo's annotations. Abijah was buried in the City of David and his son succeeded him as king.

Asa King Of Judah - Chapter 14

Asa, the new king of Judah, did right in the eyes of the LORD and removed foreign altars, high places, and idols. Asa urged Judah to seek the LORD. Under his rule, peace prevailed, fortified cities were built, and the kingdom prospered. Facing an immense army led by Zerah the Cushite, Asa relied on God by praying for help. In response, the LORD granted victory, causing the Cushites to flee. Pursuing them to Gerar, the men of Judah seized a large amount of plunder, which demonstrated the power of relying on the LORD.

Jehoshaphat Appoints Judges - Chapter 19

Jehoshaphat worked to bring the people back to the LORD by appointing judges and warning against injustice. Jehoshaphat emphasized the fear of the LORD, instructing the judges to serve faithfully. In Jerusalem, he appointed Levites, priests, and heads of Israelite families to administer God's law and settle disputes. Orders were given to warn people against sin. Amariah and Zebadiah were appointed over matters concerning the LORD and the king. Jehoshaphat encouraged courage and God's presence for those who acted well.

Micaiah Prophesies Against Ahab - Chapter 18

Jehoshaphat allied with Ahab through marriage. Ahab sought Jehoshaphat's support in attacking Ramoth Gilead. Jehoshaphat agreed but insisted on seeking the counsel of the LORD. Four hundred prophets advised victory, but Jehoshaphat inquired for a prophet of the LORD. Micaiah was summoned and predicted disaster. Ahab was upset with Micaiah's prophecy so he imprisoned Micaiah. Before battle, Zedekiah claimed victory, but Micaiah revealed a deceiving spirit influencing the prophets. Ahab dismissed the prophecy, which led to disaster. Zedekiah struck Micaiah, who foresaw Ahab's demise. Jehoshaphat survived, affirming Micaiah's authenticity.

Ahab Killed At Ramoth Gilead

The kings of Israel and Judah went to battle at Ramoth Gilead. Ahab disguised himself, while Jehoshaphat wore royal robes. The king of Aram instructed his commanders to target the king of Israel. Mistakenly, they attacked Jehoshaphat, but he cried out, and the LORD helped him. A random arrow struck Ahab, leading to his death. Jehoshaphat returned safely, and Jehu the seer rebuked him for aiding the wicked. Despite his faults, Jehoshaphat's removal of idolatry showed some goodness, and he sought God.

Jehoshaphat Defeats Moab And Ammon - Chapter 20

When a coalition of Moabites, Ammonites, and Meunites threatened Judah, Jehoshaphat sought the Lord, proclaiming a fast. Standing before the assembly, he prayed, acknowledging God's power over all nations and reminding Him of His promise to Abraham. The Spirit of the Lord spoke through Jahaziel, assuring them that the battle belonged to God. They were instructed to march out, and God would deliver them. Jehoshaphat and the people bowed in worship. Early in the morning, they praised God and set out to face the enemy. The Lord caused confusion among the invaders, leading to their self-destruction. Judah witnessed a miraculous victory, with immense plunder. Jehoshaphat's reign then enjoyed peace and prosperity, with surrounding nations fearing the God of Israel.

The End Of Jehoshaphat's Reign

Jehoshaphat, ascending to Judah's throne at age 35, reigned in Jerusalem for 25 years. Jehoshaphat followed the righteous ways of his father Asa. Although he removed high places, some persisted, and the people weren't fully devoted to God. His alliance with the wicked King Ahaziah led to a failed fleet project, fulfilling the prophecy of Eliezer. Further details of Jehoshaphat's reign are recorded in the annals of Jehu.

The End Of Jehoshaphat's Reign (cont.) - Chapter 21

After Jehoshaphat's death, he was buried in the City of David. His son Jehoram succeeded him as king. Jehoram's brothers received gifts from their father, including silver, gold, and valuable items. Jehoshaphat had fortified cities in Judah, but the kingdom was given to Jehoram, the firstborn son.

Jehoram King Of Judah

After establishing himself as king, Jehoram killed his brothers and married a daughter of Ahab, following the evil ways of the kings of Israel. Edom rebelled, and Jehoram, forsaking the LORD, faced opposition. Jehoram received a letter from Elijah that prophesied punishment for his sins. The LORD stirred up hostility, and invaders plundered Judah, taking Jehoram's family, leaving only Ahaziah. Afflicted with an incurable disease, Jehoram died in pain without honor. Jehoram was buried in the City of David, but not in the tombs of the kings, and passed away with no one mourning his death.

Ahaziah King Of Judah - Chapter 22

The people of Jerusalem made Ahaziah king after raiders killed his older brothers. Reigning for one year, Ahaziah, influenced by the house of Ahab, did evil in the eyes of the LORD. His mother, Athaliah, encouraged his wickedness. Advised by Ahab's counselors, Ahaziah joined Joram in a war against Hazael. The Arameans wounded Joram, and Ahaziah went to visit him. Through this visit, God orchestrated Ahaziah's downfall. Jehu, anointed by the LORD to destroy Ahab's house, executed judgment. Finding Ahaziah's relatives, Jehu killed them, captured Ahaziah, and put him to death, ending the lineage's rule.

Athaliah And Joash

Athaliah, upon learning of her son Ahaziah's death, sought to eliminate the entire royal family. However, Jehosheba, Ahaziah's sister, rescued Joash, Ahaziah's son, and concealed him in the temple with the help of her husband, the priest Jehoiada. Joash remained hidden for six years while Athaliah ruled the land, ensuring his safety and protection from Athaliah's murderous intent.

Athaliah And Joash (cont.) - Chapter 23

In the seventh year, Jehoiada, the priest, orchestrated a plan to enthrone Joash, the rightful heir, as king. Jehoiada formed a covenant with the commanders and Levites, stationing guards at strategic locations. They brought Joash to the temple, crowned him, anointed him, and proclaimed him king. Athaliah, upon witnessing the coronation, cried treason. Jehoiada ordered her capture, ensuring she was not executed in the temple. The people then made a covenant with the LORD, dismantled the temple of Baal, and entrusted the oversight of the LORD's temple to the Levitical priests. Joash was brought to the palace, and the city rejoiced, as Athaliah was defeated.

Joash Repairs The Temple - Chapter 24

Joash became king at seven and reigned for forty years. During Jehoiada's priesthood, Joash followed the LORD. Jehoiada arranged marriages for Joash, and they had children. Joash decided to restore the temple and instructed the priests to collect funds. However, when the Levites delayed, Joash confronted Jehoiada. Joash then ordered a chest to be placed at the temple gate to collect offerings. When full, funds were used to pay for workers to repair the temple. The workers diligently rebuilt it, adhering to the original design. Surplus money was used to craft temple articles. After Jehoiada's death at 130, he was buried in the City of David.

The Wickedness Of Joash

Following Jehoiada's death, Judah's officials influenced Joash, leading to the abandonment of the LORD's temple. They turned to idolatry, provoking God's anger. Despite God sending prophets to call them back, they refused to listen. The Spirit of God came upon Zechariah, Jehoiada's son, who warned of consequences for disobedience. In response, they conspired and stoned Zechariah in the temple courtyard. When Aram attacked, Joash was defeated, and he faced a gruesome death at the hands of his officials. The account, prophecies, and temple restoration details are documented, and Joash's son, Amaziah, succeeded him as king.

Amaziah King Of Judah - Chapter 25

Amaziah ascended the throne at 25 and ruled for 29 years. Amaziah initially did right in the LORD's eyes but not wholeheartedly. After securing control, he executed his father's murderers but not the other family members, adhering to Moses' law. Amaziah gathered an army, including 100,000 Israelite mercenaries, for a campaign. A prophet warned against involving mercenaries, but Amaziah questioned the prophecy since he had already paid the mercenaries. The prophet assured Amaziah that God could provide more than any army. Amaziah dismissed the Israelites, which made them angry. Amaziah won a battle against Edom but brought their idols home. The LORD's anger stirred, and a prophet rebuked Amaziah. Arrogant, Amaziah challenged Jehoash of Israel, leading to Judah's defeat, Jerusalem's wall destruction, and treasures plundered. Amaziah lived 15 more years, but conspirators killed him for turning from the LORD.

Uzziah King Of Judah - Chapter 26

Uzziah became king at sixteen, ruling for 52 years. Initially righteous, Uzziah prospered as long as he sought the LORD. Successful in wars and construction, Uzziah's fame spread, and he became powerful. Pride eventually led to his downfall. Uzziah entered the temple to burn incense, which violated the priestly role. Priest Azariah and others confronted him, resulting in Uzziah's anger and a sudden outbreak of leprosy on his forehead. Leprous until death, he lived secluded, with his son Jotham overseeing the kingdom. Isaiah chronicled Uzziah's reign, emphasizing his leprosy and Jotham's succession after his death.

Jotham King Of Judah - Chapter 27

Jotham, reigning for 16 years from the age of 25, followed his father's righteousness but also avoided the temple. Although the people persisted in corruption, Jotham undertook significant construction projects, fortifying Jerusalem and engaging in successful warfare against the Ammonites. Jotham received tribute from them for three consecutive years. Jotham's reign, wars, and deeds are documented in the book of the kings of Israel and Judah. Jotham died, resting with his ancestors, and was buried in the City of David, succeeded by his son Ahaz.

Hezekiah Celebrates The Passover - Chapter 30

Hezekiah invited all of Israel and Judah, even writing to Ephraim and Manasseh, urging them to celebrate the Passover in Jerusalem. Due to insufficient consecration and assembly, they chose to celebrate in the second month. Hezekiah sent couriers throughout Israel with a message of repentance, but many scorned them. Still, some from Asher, Manasseh, and Zebulun humbled themselves and went to Jerusalem. A large crowd gathered, removed altars, and celebrated the Festival of Unleavened Bread. Although not everyone was ceremonially clean, they ate the Passover. Hezekiah prayed for forgiveness, and the LORD healed the people. They celebrated with joy for seven days, and Hezekiah extended it for another seven. The assembly rejoiced, and Hezekiah provided abundant sacrifices. There was great joy in Jerusalem, unmatched since Solomon's time. The priests and Levites blessed the people, and God heard their prayers. After destroying sacred stones and Asherah poles, the Israelites returned to their own towns.

Contributions For Worship - Chapter 31

Hezekiah organized the priests and Levites into divisions, assigning them duties to offer sacrifices, minister, and give thanks at the LORD's dwelling. The king contributed from his possessions for daily, Sabbath, New Moon, and festival burnt offerings. Hezekiah commanded the people to support the priests and Levites. The Israelites responded generously, giving a tithe of their produce, herds, and flocks. They piled the offerings in heaps from the third to the seventh month. Hezekiah and his officials praised the LORD upon seeing the abundance. Hezekiah inquired, and the chief priest Azariah explained the surplus. Hezekiah then prepared storerooms and appointed overseers. The distribution included priests, Levites, and the whole community.

Sennacherib Threatens Jerusalem - Chapter 32

After Hezekiah faithfully served God, King Sennacherib of Assyria invaded Judah, besieging fortified cities. Hezekiah consulted his advisors and military staff about blocking water sources, repairing walls, building towers, and producing weapons. Encouraging his people, Hezekiah emphasized trust in God's superior power. Sennacherib's officers mocked Hezekiah and God, questioning their reliance. Sennacherib wrote letters ridiculing God. Hezekiah and prophet Isaiah prayed. The LORD sent an angel, decimating the Assyrian camp, which forced Sennacherib to retreat. In his own land, Sennacherib was killed by his sons. God saved Hezekiah and Jerusalem, and nations honored Hezekiah with offerings.

Hezekiah's Pride, Success And Death

Hezekiah fell ill and prayed to the LORD, who granted a miraculous sign. However, pride crept into Hezekiah's heart. Despite God's kindness, divine wrath loomed over Judah. Hezekiah and the people repented, averting disaster. Accumulating great wealth and honor, Hezekiah stored treasures, built structures, and prospered. Hezekiah redirected the Gihon spring. Babylonian envoys, inquiring about a miracle, led God to test Hezekiah, revealing his heart. Hezekiah, revered at his death, was buried on David's descendants' hill. His son Manasseh succeeded him. The prophet Isaiah documented Hezekiah's story.

Manasseh King Of Judah - Chapter 33

Manasseh ascended to the throne at twelve and ruled for fifty-five years, but his reign marked a departure from righteousness. He embraced detestable practices, restoring demolished high places, erecting altars to Baals, and sacrificing his children in the Valley of Ben Hinnom. Manasseh's defiance aroused divine anger, and despite divine warnings, he persisted. Assyrian commanders took him captive, but in distress, he humbled himself before God, who mercifully restored him to Jerusalem. Manasseh then dismantled idols, restored the Lord's altar, and urged Judah to serve God. Despite lingering high-place sacrifices, Manasseh's later years showed repentance. The details of his reign, prayers, and transformation are chronicled in the annals of the kings of Israel. Manasseh was buried, and his son Amon succeeded him as king.

Amon King Of Judah

Amon, at twenty-two, ruled for two years, mirroring his father Manasseh's evil. He worshipped idols and neglected repentance. Amon's officials plotted and assassinated him, but the people retaliated, killing the conspirators. Josiah, Amon's son, succeeded him as king.

Josiah's Reforms - Chapter 34

Josiah became king at eight and reigned for thirty-one years, doing what was right in the LORD's eyes. In his twelfth year, he sought God and began purging Judah and Jerusalem of idols, destroying altars and idols throughout Israel. In his eighteenth year, Josiah sent officials to repair the temple, providing funds collected from various regions. The workers, supervised by Levites, diligently restored the temple. Levites skilled in music supervised laborers, including secretaries, scribes, and gatekeepers.

The Book Of The Law Found

As money was brought out of the temple, Hilkiah the priest found the Book of the Law. Shaphan read it toking Josiah, who, upon hearing its words, tore his robes. Josiah sought guidance from the prophetess Huldah, who conveyed God's anger and impending disaster. Josiah gathered the people, read the Book of the Covenant, and renewed the covenant with God. Josiah pledged to follow God wholeheartedly and removed detestable idols. Throughout Josiah's reign, the people faithfully served the LORD, adhering to the covenant. The discovery of the Book of the Law prompted a spiritual revival under Josiah's leadership.

Josiah Celebrates The Passover - Chapter 35

Josiah celebrated a remarkable Passover, slaughtering lambs and providing offerings generously. Josiah directed the priests and Levites in their duties, emphasizing adherence to Moses' instructions. The musicians, gatekeepers, and Levites carried out their roles. This celebration, organized by Josiah, surpassed any in Israel since Samuel's time. The festive occasion occurred in the eighteenth year of Josiah's reign, symbolizing a revival of devotion and observance of sacred traditions among the people of Judah and Israel.

The Death Of Josiah

Josiah, despite warnings, fought against Necho, king of Egypt, at Carchemish. Disguised, Josiah refused to heed Necho's message from God and was fatally wounded in battle. Josiah was mourned, and Jeremiah composed laments for him. All singers commemorated Josiah's death, creating a lasting tradition in Israel. The events of Josiah's reign, aligned with the Law of the Lord, are recorded in the book of the kings of Israel and Judah. Jehoahaz, son of Josiah, became king.

Jehoahaz King Of Judah - Chapter 36

Jehoahaz reigned for three months and was dethroned by the king of Egypt, who imposed a heavy tribute on Judah. Eliakim, Jehoahaz's brother, became king, renamed Jehoiakim. Jehoahaz was taken to Egypt.

Jehoiakim King Of Judah

Jehoiakim reigned for eleven years and committed evil in the eyes of the LORD. Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon attacked, taking him captive along with temple articles. Details of Jehoiakim's reign are in the book of the kings. His son Jehoiachin succeeded him.

Jehoiachin King Of Judah

Jehoiachin, at eighteen, reigned for three months, doing evil in the eyes of the LORD. Nebuchadnezzar took him to Babylon in spring with valuable temple items. Zedekiah, Jehoiachin's uncle, was made king over Judah and Jerusalem.

Zedekiah King Of Judah

Zedekiah, at twenty-one, reigned for eleven years, doing evil in the eyes of the LORD. Zedekiah resisted the word of the LORD through Jeremiah, rebelled against Nebuchadnezzar, and led the people in unfaithfulness and detestable practices, defiling the consecrated temple in Jerusalem.

The Fall Of Jerusalem

Despite God's warnings through messengers, the people mocked and rejected His words, leading to the Babylonian invasion. Nebuchadnezzar ravaged Jerusalem, plundered the temple, and took captives to Babylon. The city was set ablaze, and the people served Babylon until Persia's reign. After seventy years, in Cyrus's first year, he proclaimed God's directive to rebuild the Jerusalem temple, fulfilling Jeremiah's prophecy. Cyrus acknowledged the LORD's authority and allowed the people to return and rebuild, emphasizing God's sovereignty over earthly kingdoms.

Asa's Reform - Chapter 15

The Spirit of God moved Azariah to counsel King Asa and urged him to be faithful to God. Asa heeded the advice, removing detestable idols and repairing the LORD's altar. Asa gathered Judah, Benjamin, and those from Israel. In a grand assembly, they sacrificed, entered a covenant to seek the LORD, and pledged death to those who wouldn't. Asa deposed his grandmother for idolatry, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to God. Despite leaving high places in Israel, Asa's heart remained devoted. Abundant treasures filled the temple, and peace endured until the thirty-fifth year of Asa's reign.

Asa's Last Years - Chapter 16

In Asa's thirty-sixth year of reign, Baasha of Israel besieged Judah's Ramah. Asa sought help from Aram, breaking his covenant with Baasha. Ben-Hadad attacked Baasha's cities, prompting him to abandon Ramah. Asa used its resources to fortify Geba and Mizpah. Hanani the seer rebuked Asa for relying on Aram instead of God and predicted ongoing conflict. Angry, Asa imprisoned Hanani and oppressed his people. Asa became ill in his thirty-ninth year and sought help from physicians instead of the LORD. In the forty-first year, Asa died and was buried in the City of David. His reign is chronicled in the kings' records.

Jehoshaphat King Of Judah - Chapter 17

Jehoshaphat, succeeding his father Asa, fortified Judah, stationed troops, and removed idolatrous practices. Devoted to God's ways, he was blessed with wealth and honor. In his third year, Jehoshaphat dispatched officials and Levites to teach God's Law throughout Judah. The fear of the LORD deterred surrounding nations from attacking Jehoshaphat. Philistines and Arabs paid tribute to Jehoshaphat. Jehoshaphat strengthened Judah's defenses, amassed supplies, and organized a well-equipped army. Commanders Adnah, Jehohanan, and Amasiah led from Judah, while Eliada and Jehozabad led from Benjamin. These valiant forces served the king, securing Judah's peace and prosperity.

Ahaz King Of Judah - Chapter 28

Ahaz became king at twenty and ruled for sixteen years in Jerusalem. Ahaz followed the sinful ways of Israel's kings, crafting idols and sacrificing his children. The LORD delivered him into the hands of Aram and Israel, inflicting heavy casualties on Judah for forsaking Him. Pekah killed a hundred and twenty thousand soldiers, and Israel took captives and plunder from Judah. A prophet, Oded, rebuked them, leading Ephraim's leaders to return the prisoners and provide for their needs. In distress, Ahaz sought Assyria's help but faced trouble. Ahaz persisted in unfaithfulness, offering sacrifices to foreign gods, leading to his downfall. Ahaz died and was buried in Jerusalem, succeeded by his son Hezekiah.

Hezekiah Purifies The Temple - Chapter 29

Hezekiah became king at twenty-five and reigned for twenty-nine years in Jerusalem. Hezekiah did what was right in the eyes of the LORD and he initiated temple restoration in his first month. Gathering the Levites, Hezekiah emphasized their consecration and the need to purify the temple. The purification took eight days, and afterward, the king presented sacrifices to atone for the kingdom and Judah. Hezekiah organized worship with David's instruments, and the assembly praised the LORD. Seventy bulls, a hundred rams, and two hundred lambs were offered. The people dedicated themselves, bringing sacrifices and thank offerings. Despite insufficient priests, the Levites assisted, and the service of the temple was reestablished. Hezekiah and the people rejoiced at the swift restoration God had brought.

The book of 2 Chronicles was written by Ezra to the people of Israel and paralleled 1 and 2 Kings. 2 Chronicles was written around 430 BC. This book details the reigns of various kings, concentrating on the religious aspects of their rule. Genealogies persist as a vital element, tracing the lineage of Davidic monarchs. Ezra underscores the significance of worship, portraying the construction of the temple initiated by Solomon and its subsequent role in Israel's spiritual life. Ezra also emphasizes obedience to God's commands, commemorates pivotal moments in the nation's history, and reaffirms the divine promise of an enduring throne for the descendants of David.