Old Testament
2 Kings 17:20
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, we see a moment of deep sorrow for the people of Israel.
- Author
- Author unknown; possibly Jeremiah
- Written
- Around 560 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Exiled Israelites in Babylon
The LORD rejected all the descendants of Israel, afflicted them, and handed them over to plunderers, until he had cast them out of his sight.
And the LORD rejected all the seed of Israel, and afflicted them, and delivered them into the hand of spoilers, until he had cast them out of his sight.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see a moment of deep sorrow for the people of Israel. The LORD, feeling rejected by their actions and choices, decided to turn away from them. This rejection led to suffering and hardship, as they were handed over to those who would take advantage of them. The consequences of their disobedience were severe, resulting in their removal from the land they cherished. It serves as a reminder that our choices can lead to significant outcomes, both good and bad. When we stray from what is right, we may find ourselves facing difficult situations. This passage highlights the importance of staying connected to what is good and true, as it can protect us from harm. Ultimately, it shows that there are serious repercussions for turning away from the right path, emphasizing the need for reflection and alignment with values that promote well-being and community. The story of Israel is a cautionary tale about the importance of faithfulness and the dangers of neglecting one's commitments.
Related Bible verses
How to apply 2 Kings 17:20 to your life
Consider your own choices and how they align with your values. Are there areas in your life where you feel disconnected or have strayed? Reflect on the importance of staying true to what is right, as it can lead to a more fulfilling life. Remember, your actions have consequences that can affect not just you but those around you as well. Stay mindful of your commitments and the impact they have on your journey forward.
Curated for this public verse page. 2 Kings Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 2 Kings 17:20 mean?
2 Kings 17:20 describes how the LORD rejected the people of Israel due to their disobedience. This rejection led to their suffering and eventual removal from their land, illustrating the serious consequences of turning away from God's guidance.
What is the meaning of rejection in 2 Kings 17:20?
In this verse, rejection refers to the LORD's decision to turn away from Israel because of their unfaithfulness. It signifies a break in the relationship between God and His people, resulting in their suffering and vulnerability to enemies.
What are the consequences mentioned in 2 Kings 17:20?
The consequences mentioned in this verse include suffering and being handed over to plunderers. This reflects the severe outcomes that can arise from rejecting God's ways and straying from righteousness.
How does 2 Kings 17:20 relate to personal choices?
2 Kings 17:20 serves as a reminder that our personal choices can lead to significant consequences. It encourages reflection on how our actions align with our values and the potential impact on our lives and those around us.
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.
Unlock the full 2 Kings summary
Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.
The complete summary of 2 Kings — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 25 chapters.
What you get
Every chapter of 2 Kings summarized in clear, modern English
How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points
Permanent access — read anytime, on any device
Best value • Save over 90%
One-time purchase • Access anytime
ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.
Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.