Old Testament
2 Chronicles 13:21
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Meanwhile, Abijah grew powerful. He married 14 wives and fathered 22 sons and 16 daughters.
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But Abijah waxed mighty, and married fourteen wives, and begat twenty and two sons, and sixteen daughters.
What 2 Chronicles 13:21 means
Plain-English insight for readers
Abijah, the king of Judah, became increasingly strong and influential during his reign. He took on 14 wives, which was common for kings of that time, and had a large family with 22 sons and 16 daughters. This expansion of his household reflects both his power and the social norms of his era. Having many children was often seen as a sign of blessing and prosperity. Abijah's actions also highlight the importance of lineage and legacy in ancient cultures. His numerous offspring would play a role in the continuation of his family's influence and the kingdom's future. This passage illustrates how personal choices, like marriage and family, can impact a leader's legacy and the history of a nation. It reminds us that our decisions can have lasting effects on those who come after us, shaping their lives and opportunities. Abijah's story encourages us to consider the weight of our choices and their potential to create a lasting impact on our families and communities, both positively and negatively.
How to apply 2 Chronicles 13:21 to your life
Consider how your personal choices affect your family and community. Just as Abijah's decisions shaped his legacy, your actions can influence those around you. Strive to make choices that foster positive relationships and create a lasting impact for future generations. Reflect on the importance of family and the values you wish to pass on to others. Your legacy starts today, so make it count!
Curated for this public verse page. 2 Chronicles Summary
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Keep studying 2 Chronicles 13:21
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At a Glance — the Book of 2 Chronicles
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Ezra
- Written
- Around 430 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Post-exilic Jews
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 2 Chronicles 13:21 mean?
2 Chronicles 13:21 describes King Abijah of Judah becoming powerful during his reign. It highlights his marriages and large family, which were common among kings and reflect his strength and the social norms of his time.
What is the significance of Abijah's 14 wives in 2 Chronicles 13:21?
Abijah's 14 wives signify his wealth and status as a king, as having multiple wives was a common practice for rulers in ancient times. This also illustrates the importance of family and lineage in establishing a king's legacy.
How does 2 Chronicles 13:21 relate to family legacy?
This verse emphasizes the idea that Abijah's large family, with 22 sons and 16 daughters, plays a crucial role in his legacy. It shows how personal choices in marriage and family can impact future generations and the continuation of a family's influence.
What themes are present in 2 Chronicles 13:21?
Key themes in 2 Chronicles 13:21 include power, family, legacy, and the impact of personal choices. The verse illustrates how a leader's decisions can shape their legacy and affect the lives of those who come after them.
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