Old Testament

2 Kings 3:25

Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.

ClearClear Bible Translation

They demolished the cities, and every soldier threw stones onto every good piece of farmland until it was covered. They blocked every spring and chopped down every productive tree. Finally, only Kirharaseth was left standing, and even that city was surrounded by slingers who battered it.

Compare translations
KJVKing James Version

And they beat down the cities, and on every good piece of land cast every man his stone, and filled it; and they stopped all the wells of water, and felled all the good trees: only in Kirharaseth left they the stones thereof; howbeit the slingers went about it, and smote it.

What 2 Kings 3:25 means

Plain-English insight for readers

In this passage, we see a devastating scene where an army systematically destroys cities and farmland. They throw stones onto fertile land, ruining it for future crops. They also block water sources and cut down trees that provide food and shelter. The only city left standing is Kirharaseth, which is surrounded by soldiers who continue to attack it. This act of destruction highlights the consequences of conflict, where not only people suffer, but the land and resources are devastated as well. The imagery of barren fields and fallen trees serves as a reminder of the lasting impact of war on communities and their livelihoods. It emphasizes the importance of protecting our resources and the environment, as they are vital for survival and prosperity. The passage invites us to reflect on the cost of violence and the need for peace in our lives and communities, urging us to seek ways to build rather than destroy, fostering growth and healing instead of devastation and loss.

How to apply 2 Kings 3:25 to your life

This passage challenges us to consider how our actions affect others and the environment. In our daily lives, we can choose to build up our communities rather than tear them down. By promoting peace and protecting our resources, we contribute to a healthier, more sustainable world for future generations. Every small action counts in fostering a positive impact on our surroundings and relationships. Let's strive to be builders of hope.

Curated for this public verse page. 2 Kings Summary

Explore more of the Bible

Learn the Bible through its people and places

Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.

A painting of Lamech holding his newborn son Noah outside a tent, with a plow and tools lying on the ground nearby

Illustrated scene from Noah's story: Noah Is Born (Genesis 5:28–32)

Meet the people of the Bible

Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.

Noah

An old color photograph of Nablus in a green valley below Mount Gerizim, with people resting on rocks in front.

Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725043). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nablus and Mount Gerizim, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.

Explore the places of the Bible

See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.

Shechem

Where God promised the land to Abram, and where Joshua led Israel to renew the covenant.

Get full access with one subscription

Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.

See Plans

Ask AI about 2 Kings 3:25

Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.

Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter

Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.

Keep studying 2 Kings 3:25

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 3:25 mean?

2 Kings 3:25 describes the destruction caused by an army that systematically ruins cities and farmland. They throw stones on fertile land, block water sources, and cut down trees, illustrating the severe impact of conflict on both people and the environment.

What is the significance of Kirharaseth in 2 Kings 3:25?

Kirharaseth is the only city left standing after the destruction, indicating its strategic importance. The verse highlights that even in devastation, some places may endure, but they are still under threat from ongoing attacks.

What themes are present in 2 Kings 3:25?

The themes in 2 Kings 3:25 include destruction, conflict, and the impact on resources and survival. It emphasizes the consequences of war on communities and the environment, urging reflection on the need for peace.

How does 2 Kings 3:25 relate to environmental issues?

This verse illustrates the destructive effects of war on the environment, such as ruined farmland and deforestation. It serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting natural resources for future generations.

Daily Verse — straight to your inbox

A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.