2 Chronicles 14:1

ΒΆ So Abijah slept with his fathers, and they buried him in the city of David: and Asa his son reigned in his stead. In his days the land was quiet ten years.

So Abijah {H29} slept {H7901} with his fathers {H1}, and they buried {H6912} him in the city {H5892} of David {H1732}: and Asa {H609} his son {H1121} reigned {H4427} in his stead. In his days {H3117} the land {H776} was quiet {H8252} ten {H6235} years {H8141}.

Aviyah slept with his ancestors, and they buried him in the City of David. Then Asa his son became king in his place; during his time the land was quiet for ten years.

Then Abijah rested with his fathers and was buried in the City of David. And his son Asa reigned in his place, and in his days the land was at peace for ten years.

So Abijah slept with his fathers, and they buried him in the city of David; and Asa his son reigned in his stead. In his days the land was quiet ten years.

Commentary

This opening verse of 2 Chronicles chapter 14 marks a significant transition in the history of the Southern Kingdom of Judah. It signals the end of King Abijah's brief reign and the beginning of his son Asa's long and impactful rule.

Context

King Abijah, son of Rehoboam, had a short reign of just three years, as noted in 2 Chronicles 13:1-2. His time on the throne was marked by a decisive victory against Jeroboam and the Northern Kingdom of Israel. The phrase "slept with his fathers" is a common biblical idiom signifying a king's death and joining his royal ancestors. His burial in the city of David, or Jerusalem, indicates his legitimate place within the Davidic dynasty. Asa's immediate succession ensured the continuity of the royal line, a crucial aspect of Judah's stability.

Key Themes

  • Royal Succession: The verse highlights the orderly transfer of power within the Davidic line, from Abijah to his son Asa. This smooth transition was vital for the kingdom's stability, especially given the ongoing tensions with the Northern Kingdom.
  • Divine Blessing of Peace: The most striking detail is that "the land was quiet ten years." This extended period of tranquility at the beginning of Asa's reign signifies a time of rest from external conflicts and internal strife. Such peace is often presented in Scripture as a direct blessing from God, providing an opportunity for the nation to consolidate and thrive.
  • Opportunity for Reform: This era of peace provided King Asa with a crucial window to implement significant religious and social reforms, setting the stage for a period of national revival, as detailed in the subsequent verses of this chapter.

Linguistic Insights

The idiom "slept with his fathers" is a gentle way of describing death, used frequently for the kings of Judah and Israel. It emphasizes a natural passing and a connection to the lineage. The word "quiet" in "the land was quiet ten years" comes from the Hebrew verb shaqat (שקט), meaning "to be at rest," "to be tranquil," or "to be undisturbed." This term denotes a complete cessation of hostilities, both external and internal, leading to a profound state of peace. This concept of the land having "rest" is a recurring motif in the historical books, often linked to obedience to God and divine favor, as seen in instances like Judges 3:11.

Practical Application

This concise verse offers timeless lessons:

  • Value of Peace: It underscores the immense value of peace and stability. For nations and individuals alike, periods of quietness provide a vital opportunity for growth, reflection, and constructive action.
  • Leadership's Impact: Asa's reign begins with a period of peace, which he wisely used to initiate reforms and strengthen the kingdom. This highlights how effective and righteous leadership can usher in times of blessing and prosperity.
  • Seizing Opportunity: The "ten quiet years" represent a divine window of opportunity. It reminds us to recognize and utilize times of peace and grace to pursue what is good and right, to build up, and to draw closer to God, much like Asa did by removing idolatry and encouraging true worship (see 2 Chronicles 14:2-5).
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Cross-References

  • 1 Kings 15:8

    And Abijam slept with his fathers; and they buried him in the city of David: and Asa his son reigned in his stead.

  • 1 Kings 15:24

    And Asa slept with his fathers, and was buried with his fathers in the city of David his father: and Jehoshaphat his son reigned in his stead.

  • 1 Chronicles 3:10

    ΒΆ And Solomon's son [was] Rehoboam, Abia his son, Asa his son, Jehoshaphat his son,

  • 1 Kings 14:31

    And Rehoboam slept with his fathers, and was buried with his fathers in the city of David. And his mother's name [was] Naamah an Ammonitess. And Abijam his son reigned in his stead.

  • 1 Kings 2:10

    So David slept with his fathers, and was buried in the city of David.

  • 2 Chronicles 9:31

    And Solomon slept with his fathers, and he was buried in the city of David his father: and Rehoboam his son reigned in his stead.

  • Matthew 1:7

    And Solomon begat Roboam; and Roboam begat Abia; and Abia begat Asa;
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