Old Testament
2 Kings 6:29
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In a time of extreme desperation, a mother recounts a horrific act of survival during a siege.
- Author
- Author unknown; possibly Jeremiah
- Written
- Around 560 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Exiled Israelites in Babylon
"So we boiled my son and ate him. The next day I said to her, 'Now give up your son so we can eat him,' but she has hidden her son."
So we boiled my son, and did eat him: and I said unto her on the next day, Give thy son, that we may eat him: and she hath hid her son.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In a time of extreme desperation, a mother recounts a horrific act of survival during a siege. She explains that she and another woman agreed to eat their sons to stay alive. They boiled her son and consumed him, but when it was time for the other woman to fulfill her part of the agreement, she hid her son instead. This shocking story highlights the depths of human despair and the lengths people will go to in dire situations. It reveals the breakdown of community and trust when survival is at stake. The mother's anguish and betrayal reflect the tragic consequences of war and famine, where moral boundaries are blurred. This moment serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the extreme choices that can arise in desperate times. It challenges us to consider how we would respond in similar circumstances and the value we place on human life amidst suffering and chaos. Such stories compel us to reflect on compassion and the importance of community support during crises.
Related Bible verses
How to apply 2 Kings 6:29 to your life
This passage invites us to reflect on our values during tough times. It challenges us to prioritize compassion and support for one another, even when faced with overwhelming difficulties. In our own lives, we can strive to build strong communities that uplift and care for each other, especially in crises. We should remember the importance of empathy and connection in our daily interactions, fostering a spirit of unity and understanding.
Curated for this public verse page. 2 Kings Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 2 Kings 6:29 mean?
2 Kings 6:29 describes a mother's account of extreme desperation during a siege, where she and another woman agreed to eat their sons to survive. It highlights the horrific choices people may make when faced with dire circumstances and the breakdown of trust in a community.
What is the meaning of 'boiled my son' in 2 Kings 6:29?
The phrase 'boiled my son' in 2 Kings 6:29 refers to a shocking act of survival where a mother recounts cooking her son as a last resort during a famine. This illustrates the extreme measures people may take when faced with starvation and hopelessness.
What themes are present in 2 Kings 6:29?
The themes in 2 Kings 6:29 include desperation, survival, betrayal, and the breakdown of community. It reflects on the moral choices individuals face in extreme situations and the impact of war and famine on human relationships.
How does 2 Kings 6:29 relate to community support?
2 Kings 6:29 illustrates the tragic consequences of a breakdown in community support during a crisis. It emphasizes the importance of compassion and unity in difficult times, reminding us to care for one another to prevent such despair.
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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