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Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers 2 Chronicles 14:1–8. His four-level outline is real structure in the source text, so it is rendered as structure.
Here is, I. Asa's general character (Ch2 14:2): He did that which was good and right in the eyes of the Lord his God. 1. He aimed at pleasing God, studied to approve himself to him. Happy are those that walk by this rule, to do that which is right, not in their own eyes, or in the eye of the world, but in the eyes of God. 2. He saw God's eye always upon him, and that helped much to keep him to what was good and right. 3. God graciously accepted him in what he did, and approved his conduct as good and right.
II.A blessed work of reformation which he set on foot immediately upon his accession to the crown.
1.He removed and abolished idolatry. Since Solomon admitted idolatry, in the latter end of his reign, nothing had been done to suppress it, and so, we presume, it had got ground. Strange gods were worshipped and had their altars, images, and groves; and the temple service, though kept up by the priests (Ch2 13:10), was neglected by many of the people. Asa, as soon as he had power in his hands, made it his business to destroy all those idolatrous altars and images (Ch2 14:3, Ch2 14:5), they being a great provocation to a jealous God and a great temptation to a careless unthinking people. He hoped by destroying the idols to reform the idolaters, which he aimed at, rather than to ruin them.
2.He revived and established the pure worship of God; and, since the priests did their part in attending God's altars, he obliged the people to do theirs (Ch2 14:4): He commanded Judah to seek the Lord God of their fathers, and not the gods of the heathen, and to do the law and the commandments, that is, to observe all divine institutions, which many had utterly neglected. In doing this, the land was quiet before him, Ch2 14:5. Though they were much in love with their idols, and very loth to leave them, yet the convictions of their consciences sided with the commands of Asa, and they could not, for shame, refuse to comply with them. Note, Those that have power in their hands, and will use it vigorously for the suppression of profaneness and the reformation of manners, will not meet with so much difficulty and opposition therein as perhaps they feared. Vice is a sneaking thing, and virtue has reason enough on its side to make all iniquity stop her mouth, Psa 107:42.
III.The tranquillity of his kingdom, after constant alarms of war during the last two reigns:
In his days the land was quiet ten years ( Ch2 14:1), no war with the kingdom of Israel, who did not recover the blow given them in the last reign for a great while. Abijah's victory, which was owing, under God, to his courage and bravery, laid a foundation for Asa's peace, which was the reward of his piety and reformation. Though Abijah had little religion himself, he was instrumental to prepare the way for one that had much. If Abijah had not done what he did to quiet the land, Asa could not have done what he did to reform it; for inter arma silent leges - amidst the din of arms the voice of law is unheard.
IV.The prudent improvement he made of that tranquillity:
The land had rest, for the Lord had given him rest. Note, If God give quietness, who then can make trouble? Job 34:29. Those have rest indeed to whom God gives rest, peace indeed to whom Christ gives peace, not as the world giveth, Joh 14:27. Now,
1.Asa takes notice of the rest they had as the gift of God (He hath given us rest on every side. Note, God must be acknowledged with thankfulness in the rest we are blessed with, of body and mind, family and country), and as the reward of the reformation begun: Because we have sought the Lord our God, he has given us rest. Note, As the frowns and rebukes of Providence should be observed for a check to us in an evil way, so the smiles of Providence should be taken notice of for our encouragement in that which is good. See Hag 2:18, Hag 2:19; Mal 3:10. We find by experience that it is good to seek the Lord; it gives us rest. While we pursue the world we meet with nothing but vexation.
2.He consults with his people, by their representatives, how to make a good use of the present gleams of peace they enjoyed, and concludes with them,
(1.)That they must not be idle, but busy. Times of rest from war should be employed in work, for we must always find ourselves something to do. In the years when he had no war he said, "Let us build; still let us be doing." When the churches had rest they were built up, Act 9:31. When the sword is sheathed take up the trowel.
(2.)That they must not be secure, but prepare for wars. In times of peace we must be getting ready for trouble, expect it and lay up in store for it.
[1.]He fortified his principle cities with walls, towers, gates, and bars, Ch2 14:7. "This let us do," says he, "while the land is yet before us," that is, "while we have opportunity and advantage for it and have nothing to hinder us." He speaks as if he expected that, some way or other, trouble would arise, when it would be too late to fortify, and when they would wish they had done it. So they built and prospered.
[2.]He had a good army ready to bring into the field (Ch2 14:8), not a standing army, but the militia or trained-bands of the country. Judah and Benjamin were mustered severally; and Benjamin (which not long ago was called little Benjamin, Psa 68:27) had almost as many soldiers as Judah, came as near as 28 to 30, so strangely had that tribe increased of late. The blessing of God can make a little one to become a thousand. It should seem, these two tribes were differently armed, both offensively and defensively. The men of Judah guarded themselves with targets, the men of Benjamin with shields, the former of which were much larger than the latter, Kg1 10:16, Kg1 10:17. The men of Judah fought with spears when they closed in with the enemy; the men of Benjamin drew bows, to reach the enemy at a distance. Both did good service, and neither could say to the other, I have no need of thee. Different gifts and employments are for the common good.
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Summary
This pivotal verse marks a significant transition in the Southern Kingdom of Judah, recording the death of King Abijah and the accession of his son, Asa, to the throne. Crucially, it highlights a remarkable period of peace and stability at the outset of Asa's reign, as "the land was quiet ten years," setting the stage for his subsequent religious reforms and a season of national consolidation.
Context
Literary Context
This verse serves as a crucial bridge between the brief and somewhat turbulent reign of Abijah, detailed in 2 Chronicles 13, and the much longer and more impactful reign of Asa. Abijah's three-year rule was characterized by a significant military victory over Jeroboam of Israel, demonstrating God's favor towards Judah despite Abijah's own spiritual shortcomings. The immediate succession of Asa, explicitly stated as "his son," underscores the continuity of the Davidic dynasty, a central theme in Chronicles. The mention of the "ten quiet years" immediately following Asa's ascension foreshadows the extensive religious and military reforms that Asa will undertake, as detailed in the subsequent verses of 2 Chronicles 14 and beyond.
Historical & Cultural Context
The phrase "slept with his fathers" is a common biblical idiom for death, particularly for kings, signifying a peaceful passing and joining one's royal ancestors in the grave. Burial "in the city of David," or Jerusalem, was reserved for legitimate kings of Judah, affirming Abijah's rightful place in the Davidic line. This period follows the division of the kingdom into Judah (south) and Israel (north), a time often marked by inter-kingdom conflict and internal instability. The "quiet ten years" is therefore a remarkable and divinely granted respite from the constant warfare that characterized much of the early divided monarchy. Such periods of peace were highly valued in the ancient Near East, often seen as a sign of divine blessing and a king's righteous rule, providing an opportunity for national strengthening and religious renewal.
Key Themes
The verse introduces several key themes that resonate throughout the book of Chronicles. Firstly, Royal Succession is paramount, emphasizing the unbroken line of Davidic kingship, which is central to God's covenant promises to David (see 2 Samuel 7:12-16). Secondly, the Divine Blessing of Peace and Rest is highlighted by the "ten quiet years." This tranquility is not merely an absence of war but a positive state of divinely granted shalom, allowing the nation to consolidate its resources and focus on internal affairs. This concept of "rest" for the land is a recurring motif, often linked to obedience and God's favor, as seen in Judges 3:11. Finally, this period of peace serves as a Divine Opportunity for Reform. Asa's reign begins with this precious window of stability, which he wisely utilizes to initiate significant religious and social reforms, purging idolatry and encouraging true worship of Yahweh, setting a precedent for righteous leadership that would be explored in greater detail in the following verses (e.g., 2 Chronicles 14:2-5).
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
A primitive root meaning "to lie down" for rest, sexual connection, or decease. In this context, it is part of a common biblical idiom for death, particularly of kings. It signifies a peaceful passing and being gathered to one's ancestors, emphasizing the natural end of a life and reign, rather than a violent overthrow.
A primitive word for "father," used literally, figuratively, or remotely. Here, it refers to the ancestral line of kings, indicating that Abijah joined his predecessors in death. This phrase, "slept with his fathers," underscores the continuity and legitimacy of the Davidic dynasty, even through the transition of individual rulers.
A primitive root meaning "to repose," usually figuratively. It denotes a state of tranquility, undisturbed peace, or cessation of conflict. In this verse, it specifically refers to the absence of war and internal strife for a decade, highlighting a divinely granted period of stability and security for the land of Judah.
Verse Breakdown
"So Abijah slept with his fathers"
This clause formally marks the end of Abijah's three-year reign. The idiom "slept with his fathers" is a respectful and common biblical euphemism for death, signifying that he passed away peacefully and joined his royal ancestors in the grave.
"and they buried him in the city of David"
This detail confirms Abijah's legitimate status as a king of Judah. Burial in the "City of David" (Jerusalem), specifically the royal necropolis, was a privilege reserved for the Davidic monarchs, reinforcing his place within the divinely appointed lineage.
"and Asa his son reigned in his stead"
This directly states the succession, establishing Asa as the new king and emphasizing the hereditary nature of the Davidic throne. This smooth, divinely ordained transition was crucial for the stability and continuity of the Southern Kingdom.
"In his days the land was quiet ten years"
This final, crucial clause introduces a significant detail about the initial period of Asa's reign. The "quiet" signifies a decade of profound peace, free from external threats and internal unrest. This is presented as a divine blessing, providing a unique and invaluable opportunity for the young king and the nation to consolidate, reform, and strengthen themselves spiritually and militarily.
Literary Devices
The verse employs several effective literary devices that enhance its meaning and narrative flow. The Idiom "slept with his fathers" serves as a gentle euphemism for death, a recurring motif in the books of Kings and Chronicles that lends a sense of continuity and tradition to the royal lineage. There is a clear Juxtaposition between the end of Abijah's relatively short and somewhat turbulent reign and the beginning of Asa's, highlighting the cyclical nature of kingship and God's ongoing work through the Davidic line. More importantly, the turbulent times preceding Asa's rule are implicitly contrasted with the "quiet ten years," emphasizing the profound shift in the nation's circumstances. This period of peace also functions as Foreshadowing, signaling a divinely granted window of opportunity that Asa will wisely utilize for significant religious and national reforms, setting the stage for the narrative that unfolds in the rest of the chapter.
Theological and Thematic Connections
This verse powerfully illustrates God's sovereign hand in the affairs of nations and kings, particularly within the context of His covenant with David. The continuity of the Davidic line, despite the moral failings of individual kings, underscores God's faithfulness to His promises. The "ten quiet years" are not merely a historical detail but a profound theological statement: peace and stability are often direct blessings from God, granted to His people for specific purposes. This divine provision of "rest" creates an environment conducive to spiritual renewal, allowing a nation or an individual to focus on obedience, reform, and drawing closer to God without the immediate pressures of conflict. It highlights God's patience and His desire to provide opportunities for His people to thrive in righteousness, demonstrating that true peace is a gift from above, enabling growth and devotion.
Reflection and Application
The transition from Abijah to Asa, marked by a decade of peace, offers profound lessons for contemporary believers. God, in His providence, often grants seasons of "quiet" in our lives – periods free from overwhelming external pressures or internal turmoil. These seasons are not merely for comfort but are divine opportunities for growth, consolidation, and deeper spiritual work. Just as Asa used this peace to initiate reforms and strengthen Judah's commitment to God, we are called to recognize and steward our own times of tranquility. Are we using these moments to deepen our walk with God, to address areas of spiritual neglect, or to build up our faith and character? Effective leadership, whether in a family, church, or community, involves discerning these windows of opportunity and wisely investing in spiritual and moral foundations. This verse reminds us to be proactive in pursuing righteousness and reform when God provides the space to do so, rather than waiting for crisis to compel us. It challenges us to consider how we might leverage periods of calm to cultivate deeper spiritual disciplines, strengthen relationships, and prepare for future challenges, ensuring that our peace leads to purposeful growth.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
What does "slept with his fathers" mean in this context?
"Slept with his fathers" is a common biblical idiom used to describe the death of a king or patriarch. It does not imply literal sleep but rather a peaceful passing away and being gathered to one's ancestors in death. This phrase emphasizes the continuity of the lineage and the natural course of life and death within the royal family, signifying a legitimate and honorable end to a reign, as seen in many passages like 1 Kings 2:10. It often suggests a peaceful, natural death rather than a violent one.
Why is the "ten quiet years" at the beginning of Asa's reign so significant?
The "ten quiet years" signifies a divinely granted period of peace and stability for the Southern Kingdom of Judah. In an era often marked by constant conflict with the Northern Kingdom of Israel and surrounding nations, such an extended period of tranquility was a rare and precious blessing. It provided King Asa with a crucial window of opportunity to implement significant religious reforms, remove idolatry, and strengthen the nation's defenses and spiritual foundations without the immediate distraction of war. This peace is presented as a sign of God's favor and a testament to the potential for growth when a nation is given rest, as further detailed in 2 Chronicles 14:6-7. It underscores God's providential care for His people, providing the necessary conditions for spiritual renewal and national flourishing.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
The transition from Abijah to Asa, marked by the stability of the Davidic line and the promise of peace, finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The "City of David" where Abijah was buried points to the lineage from which the Messiah would come, the true Son of David who would reign forever (see Matthew 1:1 and Luke 1:32-33). The "quiet ten years" foreshadows the profound and eternal peace that Christ, the Prince of Peace (as prophesied in Isaiah 9:6-7), brings to His people. Unlike the temporary rest granted to Judah, Jesus offers a spiritual rest that transcends earthly circumstances, a Sabbath rest for the people of God that is complete and enduring (see Hebrews 4:9-10). Asa's reforms, which purged idolatry and sought to restore true worship, prefigure Christ's ultimate work of cleansing and reconciliation, where He breaks down all barriers and establishes a new covenant of peace through His blood (as described in Colossians 1:20). In Christ, the true King, we find not just a temporary reprieve from conflict, but eternal peace, perfect rest, and the ultimate fulfillment of all God's promises, culminating in His future reign where there will be no end to peace (Isaiah 9:7).