Old Testament
2 Kings 3:19
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, a powerful message is conveyed about the total destruction that will come upon the enemy's cities.
- Author
- Author unknown; possibly Jeremiah
- Written
- Around 560 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Exiled Israelites in Babylon
You will attack every fortified city and every choice city. You will cut down every good tree, block all wells of water, and ruin every good piece of land with stones.
And ye shall smite every fenced city, and every choice city, and shall fell every good tree, and stop all wells of water, and mar every good piece of land with stones.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, a powerful message is conveyed about the total destruction that will come upon the enemy's cities. The instruction is clear: every fortified city and every desirable city will be attacked. This means that no stronghold will be left standing. Additionally, the command includes cutting down all good trees, which symbolizes the loss of resources and life. Blocking wells of water signifies cutting off the enemy's access to essential supplies. Finally, ruining the land with stones represents a complete devastation of the area, making it uninhabitable. This imagery illustrates the seriousness of the conflict and the lengths to which one must go to ensure victory. It serves as a reminder of the consequences of war and the importance of preparation and strategy in overcoming challenges. The vivid descriptions evoke a sense of urgency and the need for decisive action in the face of adversity, emphasizing that sometimes, tough decisions must be made to achieve a greater purpose.
Related Bible verses
How to apply 2 Kings 3:19 to your life
In our lives, we may face challenges that require us to take bold actions. Just as the verse illustrates the need for decisive measures, we too must confront obstacles head-on. This might mean letting go of things that hold us back or making difficult choices for a better future. Embrace the courage to act when necessary, even if it feels daunting. Remember, sometimes we must clear the way for new growth and opportunities to emerge.
Curated for this public verse page. 2 Kings Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 2 Kings 3:19 mean?
2 Kings 3:19 describes a command to completely destroy the enemy's cities and resources. It emphasizes total devastation, including attacking fortified cities, cutting down trees, blocking water supplies, and ruining the land.
What is the meaning of 'fortified city' in 2 Kings 3:19?
A 'fortified city' refers to a city that is heavily defended and protected against attacks. In this verse, it signifies strongholds that will be targeted for destruction.
What does cutting down trees symbolize in 2 Kings 3:19?
Cutting down trees in 2 Kings 3:19 symbolizes the loss of resources and life. It represents a strategy to weaken the enemy by destroying their means of sustenance.
How can we apply the message of 2 Kings 3:19 in our lives?
The message of 2 Kings 3:19 encourages us to confront challenges decisively. It suggests that sometimes we must make tough choices and clear obstacles to create space for new opportunities.
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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