Old Testament
2 Chronicles 18:2
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
After a few years, Jehoshaphat traveled down to visit Ahab in Samaria. Ahab slaughtered large numbers of sheep and cattle for Jehoshaphat and everyone who came with him, and he persuaded Jehoshaphat to go with him to Ramoth Gilead.
Compare translations
And after certain years he went down to Ahab to Samaria. And Ahab killed sheep and oxen for him in abundance, and for the people that he had with him, and persuaded him to go up with him to Ramothgilead.
What 2 Chronicles 18:2 means
Plain-English insight for readers
After some time, Jehoshaphat, the king of Judah, decided to visit Ahab, the king of Israel, in his capital, Samaria. Ahab welcomed him with a grand feast, preparing a large number of sheep and cattle for the occasion. This gesture was meant to honor Jehoshaphat and his entourage, showcasing Ahab's hospitality. During the visit, Ahab tried to convince Jehoshaphat to join him in a military campaign against Ramoth Gilead. This moment highlights the political alliances and relationships between the two kings. Jehoshaphat's willingness to visit Ahab indicates a desire for unity, but it also raises questions about the wisdom of aligning with Ahab, who had a reputation for idolatry. The story serves as a reminder of the importance of choosing our alliances carefully, as they can lead us into situations that may not align with our values or beliefs. Jehoshaphat's experience teaches us to be discerning in our relationships and decisions, especially when they involve significant commitments.
How to apply 2 Chronicles 18:2 to your life
Consider the relationships you are forming in your life. Are they leading you toward your values or away from them? Like Jehoshaphat, be mindful of the influences around you. Choose your alliances wisely, ensuring they align with your beliefs and goals. Reflect on how these connections shape your path forward in life.
Curated for this public verse page. 2 Chronicles Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Esther's story: Esther Becomes Queen (Esther 2:1–18)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Esther
Photo: Deror Avi, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 4.0. Source. Location: Tel Shiloh archaeological site, West Bank. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Shiloh
Where Israel set up the tabernacle, and where God called the boy Samuel.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about 2 Chronicles 18:2
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying 2 Chronicles 18:2
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
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 18:2 mean?
2 Chronicles 18:2 describes King Jehoshaphat's visit to King Ahab in Samaria, highlighting Ahab's hospitality through a grand feast. The verse sets the stage for Ahab's attempt to persuade Jehoshaphat to join him in a military campaign, illustrating the political dynamics between the two kings.
What is the significance of Ahab's hospitality in 2 Chronicles 18:2?
Ahab's hospitality, shown by slaughtering sheep and cattle for Jehoshaphat, signifies the importance of alliances and relationships in ancient politics. It reflects Ahab's desire to strengthen ties with Jehoshaphat, despite Ahab's controversial reputation.
How does 2 Chronicles 18:2 relate to the theme of discernment?
The verse illustrates the need for discernment in relationships, as Jehoshaphat's visit to Ahab could lead him into questionable alliances. It serves as a reminder to carefully consider the influences and commitments we make in our lives.
What can we learn from Jehoshaphat's actions in 2 Chronicles 18:2?
Jehoshaphat's willingness to visit Ahab teaches us about the importance of evaluating our relationships and alliances. It encourages us to reflect on whether our connections align with our values and to be cautious about the influences we allow into our lives.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.