Old Testament
2 Kings 21:13
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 declaring His intention to measure and judge Jerusalem, similar to how a builder uses tools to ensure a structure is straight and sound.
- Author
- Author unknown; possibly Jeremiah
- Written
- Around 560 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Exiled Israelites in Babylon
I will stretch over Jerusalem the measuring line of Samaria and the plumb line of the house of Ahab. I will wipe Jerusalem as one wipes a dish, wiping it and turning it upside down.
And I will stretch over Jerusalem the line of Samaria, and the plummet of the house of Ahab: and I will wipe Jerusalem as a man wipeth a dish, wiping it, and turning it upside down.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God is declaring His intention to measure and judge Jerusalem, similar to how a builder uses tools to ensure a structure is straight and sound. The reference to the measuring line and plumb line indicates a thorough evaluation of the city's moral and spiritual state. Just as one cleans a dish by wiping it and turning it upside down, God is saying He will cleanse Jerusalem of its corruption. This imagery suggests a complete transformation, where the old ways are discarded, and a new beginning is possible. The comparison to wiping a dish emphasizes the seriousness of the judgment, as it implies that nothing will remain untouched. God’s actions are not just punitive; they are also meant to restore order and righteousness. This verse serves as a reminder that God is attentive to the state of our lives and communities, and He desires to bring about change for the better, even if it requires a difficult process of cleansing and renewal. His ultimate goal is to create a place where goodness can thrive.
Related Bible verses
How to apply 2 Kings 21:13 to your life
Reflect on your own life and consider areas that may need cleansing or change. Just as God measured Jerusalem, take time to evaluate your values and actions. Embrace the process of transformation, knowing that it can lead to a more fulfilling and righteous life. Seek support from others in this journey of renewal and growth.
Curated for this public verse page. 2 Kings Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 2 Kings 21:13 mean?
In 2 Kings 21:13, God is expressing His intention to measure and judge Jerusalem's moral and spiritual condition. The imagery of a measuring line and plumb line signifies a thorough evaluation, while the act of wiping a dish illustrates the complete cleansing and transformation He plans for the city.
What is the significance of the measuring line in 2 Kings 21:13?
The measuring line in 2 Kings 21:13 symbolizes God's careful assessment of Jerusalem's state. It indicates that God will evaluate the city's righteousness and determine the necessary actions for judgment and restoration.
What does the phrase 'wiping it and turning it upside down' mean in 2 Kings 21:13?
The phrase 'wiping it and turning it upside down' in 2 Kings 21:13 conveys the idea of thorough cleansing and transformation. It suggests that God will remove all corruption from Jerusalem, leaving no part untouched in His process of judgment.
How does 2 Kings 21:13 relate to spiritual evaluation?
2 Kings 21:13 relates to spiritual evaluation by illustrating how God examines the moral state of Jerusalem. This serves as a reminder for individuals to reflect on their own lives and assess areas that may need change or improvement.
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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