Old Testament
2 Kings 23:36
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
Jehoiakim became king at the young age of 25, taking the throne in Jerusalem.
- Author
- Author unknown; possibly Jeremiah
- Written
- Around 560 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Exiled Israelites in Babylon
Jehoiakim was 25 years old when he became king, and he ruled in Jerusalem for 11 years. His mother was Zebudah, the daughter of Pedaiah of Rumah.
Jehoiakim was twenty and five years old when he began to reign; and he reigned eleven years in Jerusalem. And his mother’s name was Zebudah, the daughter of Pedaiah of Rumah.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
Jehoiakim became king at the young age of 25, taking the throne in Jerusalem. His reign lasted for 11 years, a significant period in the history of Israel. He was the son of a woman named Zebudah, who was the daughter of Pedaiah from a place called Rumah. This detail about his family background highlights the importance of lineage in leadership roles during that time. Jehoiakim's rule was marked by various challenges, including political pressures and conflicts. His age at ascension shows that youth can bring both energy and inexperience to leadership. Understanding his background helps us see the human side of kingship, where personal and familial ties influence decisions. Jehoiakim's story reminds us that leaders are shaped by their upbringing and the expectations placed upon them, which can resonate with our own experiences of growth and responsibility in life. His reign serves as a reflection on the complexities of leadership and the impact of one's origins on their journey.
Related Bible verses
How to apply 2 Kings 23:36 to your life
Consider how your background influences your decisions and leadership style. Reflect on the responsibilities you hold in your life, whether in your family, work, or community. Embrace the lessons from Jehoiakim's reign to grow and lead with wisdom and integrity. Your experiences shape who you are and how you lead others. Use this awareness to make positive changes in your life and leadership roles you take on in the future. .
Curated for this public verse page. 2 Kings Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 2 Kings 23:36 mean?
2 Kings 23:36 provides a brief overview of Jehoiakim's ascension to the throne at the age of 25 and his 11-year reign in Jerusalem. It highlights his lineage, mentioning his mother Zebudah, which reflects the significance of family background in leadership during that time.
What is the significance of Jehoiakim's age in 2 Kings 23:36?
Jehoiakim became king at a young age of 25, which illustrates how youth can bring both energy and inexperience to leadership. His age at ascension emphasizes the challenges young leaders may face in navigating complex political landscapes.
Who was Jehoiakim's mother according to 2 Kings 23:36?
Jehoiakim's mother was Zebudah, the daughter of Pedaiah from a place called Rumah. This detail underscores the importance of familial connections in the context of leadership and royal lineage.
What themes are present in 2 Kings 23:36?
Key themes in 2 Kings 23:36 include leadership, youth, family lineage, historical context, and responsibility. These themes highlight how personal and familial backgrounds can influence a leader's decisions and the nature of their reign.

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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