Old Testament
2 Kings 11:2
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In a time of great danger, Jehosheba, the daughter of King Joram, took a brave step to save her nephew Joash.
- Author
- Author unknown; possibly Jeremiah
- Written
- Around 560 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Exiled Israelites in Babylon
But Jehosheba — the daughter of King Joram and sister of Ahaziah — secretly rescued Joash, Ahaziah's son, snatching him away from among the royal princes who were being murdered. She hid him and his nurse in a bedroom, keeping him out of Athaliah's reach so he wasn't killed.
But Jehosheba, the daughter of king Joram, sister of Ahaziah, took Joash the son of Ahaziah, and stole him from among the king’s sons which were slain; and they hid him, even him and his nurse, in the bedchamber from Athaliah, so that he was not slain.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In a time of great danger, Jehosheba, the daughter of King Joram, took a brave step to save her nephew Joash. Athaliah, the queen, was on a mission to eliminate all potential heirs to the throne. Jehosheba acted quickly, snatching Joash away from the royal princes who were being killed. She hid him and his nurse in a bedroom, ensuring they were safe from Athaliah's wrath. This act of courage not only saved Joash's life but also preserved the royal line of David. Jehosheba's secret rescue highlights the importance of family loyalty and bravery in the face of evil. Her actions remind us that sometimes, standing up for what is right requires taking risks and making sacrifices for those we love. Jehosheba's story is a powerful example of how one person's courage can change the course of history, showing that even in dark times, hope can be found through decisive action and love for family. Her legacy lives on through Joash, who would later become a significant king of Judah.
Related Bible verses
How to apply 2 Kings 11:2 to your life
When faced with difficult situations, consider how you can protect and support those you love. Jehosheba's bravery teaches us that even small actions can have a significant impact. Stand up for what is right, even when it requires personal risk or sacrifice. Your choices can create a ripple effect of hope and change in the lives of others. Remember, courage can be found in unexpected places and people, including yourself.
Curated for this public verse page. 2 Kings Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
Who was Jehosheba in 2 Kings 11:2?
Jehosheba was the daughter of King Joram and the sister of Ahaziah. She played a crucial role in saving her nephew Joash from being killed by Queen Athaliah, who was eliminating potential heirs to the throne.
What did Jehosheba do to protect Joash?
Jehosheba secretly rescued Joash by taking him away from the royal princes who were being murdered. She hid him and his nurse in a bedroom, keeping them safe from Athaliah's reach, thus preserving the royal line of David.
What is the significance of Jehosheba's actions?
Jehosheba's actions were significant because they not only saved Joash's life but also ensured the continuation of the Davidic line. Her bravery and loyalty to her family highlight the importance of standing up against evil and protecting the innocent.
What themes are present in 2 Kings 11:2?
The themes present in this verse include courage, family loyalty, sacrifice, hope, and the preservation of life. Jehosheba's story exemplifies how one person's bravery can lead to significant change and the importance of protecting loved ones.
The Book of 2 Kings
2 Kings 1: Elijah’s Final Prophecy
The book of 2 Kings opens with the reign of Ahaziah, Ahab’s son and successor, who continues his father’s wicked ways. After falling through a lattice in his upper chamber, Ahaziah is seriously injured. Instead of inquiring of the Lord of Israel, he sends messengers to inquire of Baal-zebub, the god of Ekron, whether he will recover. The prophet Elijah is sent by an angel to intercept the messengers. He confronts them with the question, “Is it not because there is not a God in Israel, that ye go to enquire of Baal-zebub the god of Ekron?” and delivers a message of judgment: Ahaziah will not recover but will surely die.
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