Old Testament
2 Kings 21:6
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He made his son pass through the fire, practiced sorcery and divination, and dealt with familiar spirits and wizards. He committed much evil in the sight of the LORD, provoking Him to anger.
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And he made his son pass through the fire, and observed times, and used enchantments, and dealt with familiar spirits and wizards: he wrought much wickedness in the sight of the LORD, to provoke him to anger.
What 2 Kings 21:6 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see a king who made some very troubling choices. He sacrificed his own son, which was a horrific act that showed his complete disregard for life. He also engaged in sorcery and divination, seeking knowledge and power from dark sources instead of trusting in God. This king consulted with familiar spirits and wizards, turning to practices that were forbidden and deeply offensive to God. His actions were not just mistakes; they were deliberate choices that provoked God's anger. The king's behavior illustrates how far one can stray from what is right when they seek power and control through evil means. Ultimately, his actions led to significant consequences, not just for himself but for his entire nation. This story serves as a warning about the dangers of turning away from God and embracing practices that lead us away from goodness and truth. It reminds us that our choices matter and can have lasting effects on our lives and those around us. We should seek wisdom and guidance from God rather than from harmful sources.
How to apply 2 Kings 21:6 to your life
Reflect on the influences in your life. Are there areas where you might be seeking guidance from harmful sources? Choose to turn towards positive influences and seek wisdom from God. Your choices can lead to a better path for yourself and those around you. Make decisions that align with goodness and truth instead of darkness and confusion.
Curated for this public verse page. 2 Kings Summary
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Keep studying 2 Kings 21:6
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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 21:6 mean?
2 Kings 21:6 describes a king who made horrific choices, including sacrificing his son and engaging in sorcery. These actions showed his rejection of God and led to severe consequences for himself and his nation.
What is the significance of 'passing through the fire' in 2 Kings 21:6?
'Passing through the fire' refers to the practice of child sacrifice, which was a grave sin in the eyes of God. It symbolizes extreme disregard for life and a willingness to engage in evil practices.
What does the verse say about sorcery and divination?
The verse highlights that the king practiced sorcery and divination, seeking knowledge and power from forbidden sources. This behavior was offensive to God and demonstrated a lack of trust in Him.
What are the consequences of the actions described in 2 Kings 21:6?
The king's actions provoked God's anger and led to significant consequences for him and his nation. It serves as a warning about the dangers of turning away from God and embracing evil practices.
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