Old Testament
2 Kings 21:12
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, God is communicating a serious warning to the people of Jerusalem and Judah.
- Author
- Author unknown; possibly Jeremiah
- Written
- Around 560 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Exiled Israelites in Babylon
this is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says: 'I am about to bring such disaster on Jerusalem and Judah that the ears of everyone who hears about it will ring.
Therefore thus saith the LORD God of Israel, Behold, I am bringing such evil upon Jerusalem and Judah, that whosoever heareth of it, both his ears shall tingle.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God is communicating a serious warning to the people of Jerusalem and Judah. He is about to unleash a disaster so severe that it will shock everyone who hears about it. The phrase 'ears will ring' emphasizes the intensity of the coming events. This is not just a minor issue; it’s a significant moment that will leave a lasting impact. God is making it clear that their actions have consequences, and they cannot ignore the seriousness of their situation. The people are being called to recognize the gravity of their choices and the impending judgment. This message serves as a reminder that ignoring warnings can lead to devastating outcomes. It’s a call to reflect on one’s life and the direction it is heading, urging a change before it’s too late. God’s words are meant to stir the hearts of the people, prompting them to reconsider their ways and turn back to Him before disaster strikes. The urgency in this message is palpable, highlighting the importance of heeding divine guidance.
Related Bible verses
How to apply 2 Kings 21:12 to your life
This verse encourages us to pay attention to warnings in our lives. Just as the people of Jerusalem were urged to change, we too should reflect on our choices. Consider areas where you might be ignoring important signs. Take action to align your life with positive values and avoid potential pitfalls. Change is possible if we listen and respond to guidance before it’s too late.
Curated for this public verse page. 2 Kings Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 2 Kings 21:12 mean?
2 Kings 21:12 conveys a warning from God about impending disaster for Jerusalem and Judah. It emphasizes the severity of the consequences of their actions, indicating that the news of this disaster will shock everyone who hears it.
What is the significance of 'ears will ring' in 2 Kings 21:12?
The phrase 'ears will ring' in 2 Kings 21:12 signifies the intensity and shock of the disaster that is to come. It highlights that the events will be so severe that they will leave a lasting impression on those who hear about them.
How does 2 Kings 21:12 relate to personal reflection?
2 Kings 21:12 encourages personal reflection by reminding us to heed warnings in our lives. It prompts us to consider our choices and make necessary changes to avoid negative outcomes.
What themes are present in 2 Kings 21:12?
The themes in 2 Kings 21:12 include divine warning, the consequences of actions, urgency, reflection, and judgment. These themes highlight the importance of recognizing the seriousness of one's choices.

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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