Old Testament
2 Kings 12:7
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this passage, King Jehoash is addressing Jehoiada the priest and the other priests about the neglected state of the temple.
- Author
- Author unknown; possibly Jeremiah
- Written
- Around 560 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Exiled Israelites in Babylon
So King Jehoash summoned Jehoiada the priest and the other priests and said to them, "Why haven't you repaired the damage to the temple? From now on, stop collecting money from your acquaintances and give it for the temple repairs."
Then king Jehoash called for Jehoiada the priest, and the other priests, and said unto them, Why repair ye not the breaches of the house? now therefore receive no more money of your acquaintance, but deliver it for the breaches of the house.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, King Jehoash is addressing Jehoiada the priest and the other priests about the neglected state of the temple. He questions why they have not taken action to repair the temple, which is a significant place of worship. Jehoash emphasizes the importance of maintaining the temple and instructs the priests to stop collecting money from their friends for other purposes. Instead, he wants that money to be directed specifically towards the necessary repairs of the temple. This shows his commitment to restoring the place where people come to connect with God. Jehoash's leadership highlights the responsibility of those in authority to ensure that sacred spaces are cared for and respected. It also reflects the need for community support in maintaining places of worship, reminding us that everyone has a role to play in preserving what is important to them. The king's directive serves as a call to action for the priests to prioritize the temple's restoration and to be accountable for its upkeep.
Related Bible verses
How to apply 2 Kings 12:7 to your life
Consider how you can contribute to the upkeep of your community spaces, whether they are places of worship or other shared areas. Reflect on your responsibilities in maintaining what is important to you and your community. Small actions can lead to significant improvements and foster a sense of belonging and care among everyone involved. Remember, every contribution counts!
Curated for this public verse page. 2 Kings Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 2 Kings 12:7 mean?
In 2 Kings 12:7, King Jehoash is confronting the priests about the neglected repairs of the temple. He instructs them to stop collecting money for other purposes and to focus on using those funds for the temple's restoration, emphasizing the importance of maintaining sacred spaces.
What is the significance of the temple in 2 Kings 12:7?
The temple represents a central place of worship and connection to God for the people. In this verse, its neglected state highlights the need for proper care and attention from leaders and the community to ensure it remains a vital part of their spiritual lives.
What does Jehoash's directive in 2 Kings 12:7 teach us?
Jehoash's directive teaches the importance of prioritizing community responsibilities, especially regarding shared sacred spaces. It emphasizes accountability among leaders and the necessity for collective effort in maintaining what is significant to the community.
How does 2 Kings 12:7 relate to community support?
2 Kings 12:7 illustrates the need for community support in maintaining important places like the temple. It shows that everyone has a role in contributing to the upkeep of shared spaces, fostering a sense of belonging and responsibility.
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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