Old Testament
2 Kings 23:20
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this passage, King Josiah took decisive action against the corrupt practices of worship that had infiltrated the land.
- Author
- Author unknown; possibly Jeremiah
- Written
- Around 560 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Exiled Israelites in Babylon
He executed all the priests of those high places right there on their own altars and burned human bones on them. Then he returned to Jerusalem.
And he slew all the priests of the high places that were there upon the altars, and burned men’s bones upon them, and returned to Jerusalem.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, King Josiah took decisive action against the corrupt practices of worship that had infiltrated the land. He confronted the priests who served at the high places, which were sites of idol worship. By executing them on their own altars, he demonstrated his commitment to restoring true worship. Burning human bones on these altars symbolized the complete rejection of these false practices. This act was not just about punishment; it was a powerful statement against the idolatry that had led the people astray. Josiah's return to Jerusalem marked a significant moment in his reign, as he sought to lead his people back to faithfulness. His actions remind us of the importance of standing firm against influences that compromise our values and beliefs. Josiah's zeal for purity in worship serves as an example of how we can confront and eliminate negativity in our lives, ensuring that we remain true to what we believe is right and just. His story encourages us to take bold steps in our own lives to uphold our convictions.
Related Bible verses
How to apply 2 Kings 23:20 to your life
Reflect on areas in your life where you may be compromising your values. Just as Josiah took action, consider what steps you can take to eliminate negative influences. Surround yourself with positive influences that encourage your growth and commitment to your beliefs. Stand firm in your convictions and lead by example in your community. Seek to inspire others to do the same as you pursue a life of integrity and faithfulness to your values.
Curated for this public verse page. 2 Kings Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 2 Kings 23:20 mean?
2 Kings 23:20 describes King Josiah's actions to eliminate idol worship in Judah. He executed the priests of the high places and burned human bones on their altars, symbolizing a complete rejection of false worship and a commitment to restoring true worship in the land.
What is the significance of burning bones in 2 Kings 23:20?
Burning bones on the altars in 2 Kings 23:20 signifies a strong condemnation of the idolatrous practices that had taken root. It represents the total desecration of the sites of false worship, emphasizing Josiah's determination to purify the worship of God in Judah.
Who was King Josiah in 2 Kings 23:20?
King Josiah was a ruler of Judah known for his religious reforms and efforts to eliminate idol worship. His actions in 2 Kings 23:20 reflect his zeal for purifying worship and returning the people to faithfulness to God.
What can we learn from 2 Kings 23:20?
From 2 Kings 23:20, we learn the importance of standing firm against negative influences and taking action to uphold our values. Josiah's example encourages us to confront and eliminate anything that compromises our beliefs.
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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