Old Testament
2 Kings 15:25
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
But Pekah, the son of Remaliah, one of his officers, plotted against him and attacked him in Samaria, in the palace of the king's house, with Argob and Arieh, and fifty men of the Gileadites with him. He killed him and reigned in his place.
Compare translations
But Pekah the son of Remaliah, a captain of his, conspired against him, and smote him in Samaria, in the palace of the king’s house, with Argob and Arieh, and with him fifty men of the Gileadites: and he killed him, and reigned in his room.
What 2 Kings 15:25 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, we see a dramatic turn of events in the kingdom of Israel. Pekah, one of King Pekahiah's own officers, betrays him. This betrayal leads to a violent confrontation in the king's palace in Samaria. Pekah, along with his allies Argob, Arieh, and fifty Gileadite men, successfully kills the king. After this act of treachery, Pekah takes over the throne. This moment highlights the dangers of trust and loyalty in leadership. It serves as a reminder that those closest to us can sometimes become our greatest threats. The political landscape is often fraught with intrigue and betrayal, and this story illustrates the consequences of such actions. It also reflects the instability that can arise in leadership when loyalty is compromised. Ultimately, this event marks a significant shift in power within Israel, showcasing how quickly fortunes can change in the world of politics and governance. The story encourages us to be vigilant about whom we trust and the motivations behind their actions.
How to apply 2 Kings 15:25 to your life
Consider the relationships in your life. Are there people you trust completely? Reflect on the importance of discernment in your connections. This story reminds us to be cautious and aware of the potential for betrayal, even from those we consider allies. Stay vigilant and choose your companions wisely to avoid unexpected challenges in your journey.
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 Joseph, Jacob's son's story: Joseph Is Born (Genesis 30:22–24)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Joseph, Jacob's son
Photo: U.S. Army photo by Spc. Samantha R. Ciaramitaro, via DVIDS and Wikimedia Commons. License: Public domain in the United States — U.S. federal-government work. Source. Location: Great Ziggurat, Ur Archaeological City (Tell el-Mukayyar), Dhi Qar Governorate, Iraq. 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.
Ur
The city Abram's family left to travel toward Canaan.
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 15:25
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 15:25
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 15:25 mean?
2 Kings 15:25 describes the assassination of King Pekahiah by his officer Pekah. This act of betrayal occurs in the king's palace, highlighting themes of treachery and the instability of leadership in Israel.
What is the significance of Pekah in 2 Kings 15:25?
Pekah, the son of Remaliah, is significant as he represents betrayal and the shifting power dynamics in Israel. His actions lead to the death of King Pekahiah and his own rise to power, illustrating the dangers of trust in leadership.
What does the phrase 'killed him and reigned in his place' mean in 2 Kings 15:25?
The phrase 'killed him and reigned in his place' indicates that Pekah not only assassinated King Pekahiah but also took over the throne immediately after. This reflects the abrupt changes in leadership that can occur due to betrayal.
What themes are present in 2 Kings 15:25?
Key themes in 2 Kings 15:25 include betrayal, leadership, trust, and political intrigue. The verse illustrates how quickly power can shift and the potential dangers posed by those closest to leaders.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.