Old Testament
2 Kings 13:23
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
But the LORD was gracious to Israel, showed them compassion, and had respect for them because of his covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. He refused to destroy them or banish them from his presence yet.
Compare translations
And the LORD was gracious unto them, and had compassion on them, and had respect unto them, because of his covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and would not destroy them, neither cast he them from his presence as yet.
What 2 Kings 13:23 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, we see a powerful reminder of God's kindness towards Israel. Despite their mistakes and failures, God chose to show them mercy. His compassion was rooted in a promise he made long ago to their ancestors, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. This covenant was a commitment that God would not easily break. Even when Israel faced challenges, God held back his anger and chose not to destroy them. Instead, he remained present with them, offering hope and a chance for redemption. This illustrates the depth of God's love and loyalty, showing that he values relationships and keeps his promises. It’s a beautiful picture of grace, reminding us that we are not defined by our failures but by the love that God has for us. His willingness to forgive and restore is a central theme in our understanding of who he is and how he interacts with us today. We can take comfort in knowing that, like Israel, we are never beyond the reach of God's compassion and grace, no matter our circumstances.
How to apply 2 Kings 13:23 to your life
Reflect on the ways you experience God's grace in your life. Consider how you can extend that same compassion to others. Remember that everyone deserves a second chance, just as God offers us. Let this inspire you to be more forgiving and loving in your relationships. Embrace the hope that comes from knowing you are valued and loved by God, no matter your past actions or mistakes.
Curated for this public verse page. 2 Kings 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 Kings 13:23
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 Kings 13:23
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of 2 Kings
- Author
- Author unknown; possibly Jeremiah
- Written
- Around 560 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Exiled Israelites in Babylon
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 2 Kings 13:23 mean?
2 Kings 13:23 highlights God's mercy towards Israel despite their failures. It emphasizes that God's compassion is rooted in His covenant with their ancestors, showing that He values His promises and relationships.
What is the significance of God's covenant in 2 Kings 13:23?
The covenant mentioned in 2 Kings 13:23 signifies God's commitment to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, which assures Israel of His continued mercy and presence, even in difficult times.
How does 2 Kings 13:23 show God's grace?
In 2 Kings 13:23, God's grace is demonstrated through His refusal to destroy Israel despite their shortcomings. This verse illustrates that God's love and compassion are greater than their failures.
What themes are present in 2 Kings 13:23?
Key themes in 2 Kings 13:23 include God's grace, compassion, the importance of covenant, forgiveness, and the possibility of redemption for His people.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.