Old Testament
2 Chronicles 21:19
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
This passage describes the painful end of a king who faced a terrible illness for two years.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Ezra
- Written
- Around 430 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Post-exilic Jews
As time went on, after about 2 years, his bowels came out because of the disease, and he died in terrible agony. His people didn't make a ceremonial fire in his honor the way they had done for his ancestors.
And it came to pass, that in process of time, after the end of two years, his bowels fell out by reason of his sickness: so he died of sore diseases. And his people made no burning for him, like the burning of his fathers.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
This passage describes the painful end of a king who faced a terrible illness for two years. His suffering was intense, and ultimately, he died in agony. Unlike the customary honors given to past kings, his people did not mourn him with a ceremonial fire. This lack of tribute signifies their disdain or disappointment in his reign. It highlights how one's legacy can be affected by their actions and choices during life. The absence of a ceremonial fire suggests that he was not respected or remembered fondly. This moment serves as a reminder that how we live our lives can impact how we are remembered after we are gone. It encourages us to consider the kind of legacy we want to leave behind, as it can shape the memories others hold of us. Ultimately, it’s a call to live with purpose and integrity, ensuring that our actions resonate positively with those we leave behind. Our choices today can influence the stories told about us tomorrow, making it essential to reflect on our values and behaviors.
Related Bible verses
How to apply 2 Chronicles 21:19 to your life
Reflect on your life and the legacy you want to leave. Consider how your actions today will be remembered by others. Strive to live with integrity and purpose, ensuring that your choices positively impact those around you. Remember, how you treat others shapes their memories of you. Make each moment count for good, creating a lasting impression of kindness and respect. “Be the person you want to be remembered as.” “Live with intention.”
Curated for this public verse page. 2 Chronicles Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 2 Chronicles 21:19 teach about legacy?
This verse illustrates how a person's legacy is shaped by their actions during their life. The king's painful death and the absence of a ceremonial fire from his people indicate that he was not respected or honored, contrasting with the traditions for past kings. It serves as a reminder that our choices and behaviors can significantly influence how we are remembered after we are gone.
Why did the people not honor the king with a ceremonial fire?
The lack of a ceremonial fire for the king suggests that his reign was viewed negatively by his people. This absence of tribute reflects their disappointment or disdain for his leadership, highlighting that respect and honor are often earned through one's actions and decisions while in power.
What can we learn about suffering from this verse?
The verse depicts the intense suffering of the king over two years, emphasizing that physical pain can be a part of life. It reminds us that suffering can have profound effects not only on the individual but also on their legacy. This encourages us to approach our own struggles with resilience and to consider how we respond to adversity.
How does this verse relate to living with integrity?
2 Chronicles 21:19 underscores the importance of living with integrity, as the king's poor choices led to a lack of respect from his people. It serves as a call to reflect on our actions and their long-term impact on our legacy. Living with purpose and integrity ensures that we leave behind a positive memory for others.
The Book of 2 Chronicles
2 Chronicles 1: Solomon's Wisdom and Wealth
Solomon, the son of David, is now firmly established in his kingdom, and the Lord his God is with him, magnifying him exceedingly. Solomon speaks to all Israel—the commanders, judges, and leaders—and the entire assembly goes with him to the high place at Gibeon, where the Tabernacle of the Lord that Moses had made in the wilderness is located. The Ark of God, however, is in Jerusalem, in the tent that David had pitched for it. At Gibeon, Solomon goes up to the bronze altar before the Lord and offers a thousand burnt offerings upon it.
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