Old Testament
2 Chronicles 24:17
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
After Jehoiada died, the officials of Judah came and bowed before King Joash, and the king began listening to their advice.
Compare translations
Now after the death of Jehoiada came the princes of Judah, and made obeisance to the king. Then the king hearkened unto them.
What 2 Chronicles 24:17 means
Plain-English insight for readers
After the death of Jehoiada, a respected priest and advisor, the leaders of Judah approached King Joash. They showed him respect and allegiance, which indicates a shift in power dynamics. Joash, who had relied on Jehoiada's guidance, began to listen to their counsel. This moment highlights how the absence of a strong mentor can lead to vulnerability. The officials likely had their own agendas, and Joash's willingness to heed their advice could lead to significant changes in his reign. It serves as a reminder of the importance of wise counsel and the potential consequences of following the wrong advice. Leaders must be cautious about who they listen to, especially when they lose trusted advisors. Joash's story illustrates the need for discernment in leadership and the impact of external influences on decision-making. It’s a powerful lesson about the importance of surrounding ourselves with wise and trustworthy people who can guide us in the right direction, especially during times of transition.
How to apply 2 Chronicles 24:17 to your life
Consider who you turn to for advice in your life. Are they wise and trustworthy? Surround yourself with people who have your best interests at heart, especially during times of change. Their guidance can help you make better decisions and avoid pitfalls. Reflect on the importance of mentorship and wise counsel in your journey forward. Choose your advisors carefully to ensure you stay on the right path.
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 Ruth's story: Three Widows (Ruth 1:1–5)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Ruth

Photo: Zeev Stein / PikiWiki Israel, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.5. Source. Location: Tel Beer Sheva National Park, Israel. 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.
Beersheba
Where Abraham and Isaac dug wells and worshiped the LORD, at the southern edge of the land.
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 24:17
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 24:17
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 24:17 mean?
2 Chronicles 24:17 describes the moment after Jehoiada's death when the leaders of Judah approached King Joash, showing him respect. This indicates a shift in power dynamics as Joash begins to listen to their advice, highlighting the importance of wise counsel in leadership.
What is the significance of Jehoiada's death in 2 Chronicles 24:17?
Jehoiada's death marks a turning point for King Joash, as he loses a trusted advisor. This absence makes Joash vulnerable to the influence of the princes of Judah, who may have their own agendas.
What does the phrase 'made obeisance to the king' mean in 2 Chronicles 24:17?
The phrase 'made obeisance to the king' means that the officials showed respect and submission to King Joash. This act signifies their allegiance and the shift in authority following Jehoiada's death.
How does 2 Chronicles 24:17 relate to leadership?
This verse illustrates the importance of having wise advisors in leadership. It shows how the absence of a strong mentor can lead to a leader being swayed by others, emphasizing the need for discernment in choosing whom to listen to.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.