2 Chronicles 14:6

KJV

And he built fenced cities in Judah: for the land had rest, and he had no war in those years; because the LORD had given him rest.

KJV (with Strong's)

And he built {H1129} fenced {H4694} cities {H5892} in Judah {H3063}: for the land {H776} had rest {H8252}, and he had no war {H4421} in those years {H8141}; because the LORD {H3068} had given him rest {H5117}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Because the land was quiet, and he had no war during those years, since ADONAI had given him rest, he built fortified cities in Y'hudah.

Berean Standard Bible

Because the land was at peace, Asa built fortified cities in Judah. In those days no one made war with him, because the LORD had given him rest.

American Standard Version

And he built fortified cities in Judah; for the land was quiet, and he had no war in those years, because Jehovah had given him rest.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Second Chronicles 14:6 recounts a pivotal period in King Asa's reign over Judah, highlighting his prudent leadership in building fortified cities. This constructive activity was made possible by a divinely granted era of peace, where the land experienced rest and freedom from war. The verse explicitly attributes this tranquility not to human strategy alone, but directly to the Lord's benevolent provision, underscoring the deep connection between divine favor and national well-being.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated early in King Asa's reign, immediately following a description of his righteous actions. The preceding verses [2 Chronicles 14:2-5](/2_chronicles/14-2 "2 Chronicles 14:2-5 - Asa's Righteous Reign") detail how Asa "did what was good and right in the eyes of the Lord his God." He removed foreign altars and high places, broke down sacred pillars, cut down Asherim, and commanded Judah to seek the Lord God of their fathers and to obey the law and the commandment. This period of peace and building in [2 Chronicles 14:6-8](/2_chronicles/14-6 "2 Chronicles 14:6-8 - Asa Builds and Trains") serves as a direct consequence and reward for Asa's initial faithfulness, setting the stage for the significant military challenge he would face later in the chapter against Zerah the Cushite [2 Chronicles 14:9-15](/2_chronicles/14-9 "2 Chronicles 14:9-15 - Asa's Victory Over Zerah"). The narrative structure emphasizes that divine blessing precedes human preparation, enabling it.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Following the division of the kingdom after Solomon's death, Judah, though smaller than Israel, often faced existential threats from surrounding nations. Fortified cities were crucial for defense, providing refuge for the population and strategic strongholds against invaders. The period described here, approximately 911-870 BC, was a time when the northern kingdom of Israel was often unstable, and Judah itself had seen periods of idolatry and weakness under previous kings like Rehoboam and Abijah. Asa's reign marked a significant return to monotheistic worship and national stability. The concept of "rest" (Hebrew: _nuach_) was deeply significant in ancient Israel, often linked to God's covenant promises of security in the land, as seen in the conquest narratives where God gives Israel rest from their enemies [Joshua 21:44](/joshua/21-44 "Joshua 21:44 - The Lord Gives Rest to Israel"). This divine rest allowed Judah to consolidate its strength without external distraction.
* **Key Themes:** The primary theme is **Divine Blessing and Providence**, clearly stated by the phrase "because the LORD had given him rest." This highlights God's active involvement in the affairs of His people, rewarding obedience with peace and security. Another significant theme is **Prudent Leadership and Preparation**. Asa's decision to build "fenced cities" during a time of peace demonstrates foresight and wisdom, recognizing that even divinely granted rest is a window for strengthening foundations, not an excuse for complacency. This mirrors the biblical principle of preparing in times of plenty for times of scarcity, or in peace for potential conflict. Finally, the verse underscores the theme of **Obedience and its Consequences**. Asa's earlier reforms and commitment to seeking the Lord directly precede and enable this period of national tranquility and constructive activity, illustrating a recurring pattern in the Deuteronomistic history where faithfulness to God leads to blessing and prosperity, while disobedience brings hardship, as seen throughout the books of [Kings](/1_kings/1 "1 Kings - The Divided Kingdom") and [Chronicles](/2_chronicles/1 "2 Chronicles - History of Judah").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Fenced Cities (Hebrew, עָרֵי מִבְצָר, _‘arei mivtzar'_):** This term refers to fortified cities, typically equipped with walls, towers, gates, and sometimes moats, designed for defense against military assault. In the ancient Near East, such fortifications were essential for national security and survival. Asa's building program indicates a strategic investment in Judah's infrastructure and defense capabilities, utilizing the peace to enhance the kingdom's resilience. It was a practical response to a divinely provided opportunity.
* **Rest (Hebrew, נוּחַ, _nuach'_):** The word _nuach_ carries a rich theological meaning beyond mere cessation of hostilities. It implies a state of quietness, security, and tranquility, often divinely granted. It signifies a comprehensive peace that allows for flourishing and development, a state of being settled and at ease. The repetition of "rest" in the verse emphasizes its divine origin and profound impact, distinguishing it from a temporary lull in conflict. This "rest" allowed for internal focus and growth.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And he built fenced cities in Judah:"** This clause highlights King Asa's proactive and wise leadership. Recognizing the opportunity afforded by peace, he invested in the long-term security of his kingdom. The construction of fortified cities was a crucial defensive measure in ancient warfare, ensuring protection for the populace and strategic points for military deployment. This action demonstrates that true rest is not passive idleness but an active period for strengthening foundations.
* **"for the land had rest, and he had no war in those years;"** This section provides the immediate reason for Asa's building activities. The absence of external conflict created a window of opportunity. The phrase "the land had rest" denotes a widespread state of peace and stability across the kingdom, allowing resources and manpower to be diverted from defense to construction and development. The explicit statement "he had no war" emphasizes the complete cessation of military engagements during this period.
* **"because the LORD had given him rest."** This final, crucial clause reveals the ultimate theological explanation for the peace. The rest was not a stroke of luck or a result of Asa's military prowess (which was not yet tested), but a direct, sovereign gift from God. This underscores the core message that Judah's peace and security were contingent upon divine favor, which in turn was a response to Asa's earlier obedience and reforms. It attributes all blessing and tranquility to God's active hand in their affairs.

#### Literary Devices
The verse prominently employs **Repetition**, specifically of the word "rest," which appears twice ("the land had rest," "the LORD had given him rest"). This repetition serves to emphasize the central theme of divine tranquility and its source. It highlights that the peace was not merely an absence of war, but a profound, divinely orchestrated state of security. Furthermore, the verse uses **Cause and Effect** to establish a clear theological chain: Asa's initial obedience (implied from previous verses) led to God granting rest, which then enabled Asa to build and strengthen the kingdom. This demonstrates a clear **Divine Intervention** motif, where God's active hand is the primary mover behind the nation's prosperity and peace.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The period of rest granted to Judah under King Asa profoundly illustrates God's covenant faithfulness and His active involvement in the lives of His people. This "rest" is more than just a temporary cessation of hostilities; it is a divinely bestowed tranquility that allows for growth, consolidation, and preparation. It teaches that true peace and security ultimately derive from God's sovereign hand, often as a direct consequence of a nation's or leader's obedience and pursuit of righteousness. This divine rest is not an invitation to complacency but an opportunity to build stronger foundations, both physically and spiritually, in anticipation of future challenges. It mirrors the broader biblical narrative where God provides seasons of peace to enable His people to flourish and fulfill their purposes.

* [Joshua 21:44](/joshua/21-44 "Joshua 21:44 - The Lord Gives Israel Rest")
* [Psalm 46:10](/psalms/46-10 "Psalm 46:10 - Be Still and Know God")
* [Isaiah 26:3](/isaiah/26-3 "Isaiah 26:3 - Perfect Peace for the Steadfast")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The account of King Asa in 2 Chronicles 14:6 offers a powerful paradigm for individuals and communities today. It challenges us to recognize that periods of peace, stability, or relative ease in our lives are precious gifts from God, not merely fortunate circumstances. The crucial lesson is how we utilize these seasons. Like Asa, who wisely invested in building and strengthening Judah's defenses during rest, we are called to be proactive in our spiritual, emotional, and relational lives. Instead of succumbing to complacency, we should use times of tranquility to deepen our faith, strengthen our character, fortify our relationships, and prepare for future challenges, knowing that trials will inevitably come. This might involve dedicating more time to prayer, studying God's Word, investing in spiritual disciplines, or building up our "spiritual fences" through intentional community and service. True wisdom lies in leveraging God-given rest for growth and preparedness, ensuring our foundations are strong when the storms of life inevitably arrive.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How do I typically respond to periods of peace and stability in my life? Do I become complacent or proactive?**
* **What "fenced cities" or foundations (spiritual, relational, personal) might God be calling me to build during my current season of "rest"?**
* **In what ways can I more intentionally acknowledge God as the source of any peace or tranquility I experience?**
* **How does Asa's example challenge my understanding of preparation and reliance on God simultaneously?**

### FAQ
**What does "rest" mean in this biblical context, and why is it so important?**

Answer: In 2 Chronicles 14:6, "rest" (Hebrew: _nuach_) signifies more than just the absence of war. It denotes a comprehensive state of tranquility, security, and divinely granted peace that allows for flourishing and development. This rest is important because it is explicitly stated to be a gift from the Lord, directly linked to King Asa's righteous leadership and the nation's turning back to God. It highlights God's sovereign control over historical events and His willingness to bless obedience with periods of stability, enabling His people to grow and strengthen themselves without external threats. This concept of divine rest is a recurring theme in the Old Testament, often associated with God's covenant promises to His people, as seen when God gave Israel rest in the Promised Land [Joshua 21:44](/joshua/21-44 "Joshua 21:44 - The Lord Gives Israel Rest").

**Why would King Asa build "fenced cities" if the land already had "no war"?**

Answer: Asa's decision to build "fenced cities" during a time of peace demonstrates prudent and wise leadership, not a lack of faith in God's provision. While God had granted rest, Asa understood that this tranquility was an opportunity for preparedness, not an excuse for complacency. Fortified cities were vital for national defense in the ancient world, providing strategic strongholds and refuge for the population. Asa's actions reflect the wisdom of using seasons of blessing to strengthen foundations and prepare for future challenges, recognizing that peace is not permanent. It's a practical application of faith, understanding that God's blessing enables human responsibility and foresight. This foresight proved critical when Judah later faced the massive army of Zerah the Cushite [2 Chronicles 14:9](/2_chronicles/14-9 "2 Chronicles 14:9 - Zerah Attacks Judah"), where these very fortifications would have played a role in their defense.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The "rest" granted to King Asa and Judah in 2 Chronicles 14:6, a divinely given tranquility enabling building and strengthening, finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ. While Asa provided temporary, physical rest from external enemies, Jesus offers a spiritual and eternal rest for the soul. He is our true peace, breaking down the dividing wall of hostility between God and humanity, and between people groups [Ephesians 2:14](/ephesians/2-14 "Ephesians 2:14 - Christ Our Peace"). Just as God provided rest for Judah to build, Christ invites all who are weary and burdened to come to Him and find rest for their souls [Matthew 11:28-30](/matthew/11-28 "Matthew 11:28-30 - Come to Me, All Who Are Weary"). This rest is not merely the absence of conflict, but a deep, abiding peace that transcends earthly circumstances, a peace that the world cannot give [John 14:27](/john/14-27 "John 14:27 - Jesus Gives Peace"). Moreover, just as Asa built physical cities, Christ is the ultimate builder of His spiritual kingdom, the Church [Matthew 16:18](/matthew/16-18 "Matthew 16:18 - Peter's Confession and the Church"), establishing an unshakable foundation for all who believe. The temporary rest in Judah foreshadows the eternal Sabbath rest that remains for the people of God, a rest entered into by faith in Christ, our great High Priest [Hebrews 4:9-10](/hebrews/4-9 "Hebrews 4:9-10 - The Sabbath Rest for God's People"). In Him, we find ultimate security, divine provision, and the perfect peace that enables us to build lives of righteousness and purpose, even amidst a fallen world.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

2 Chronicles 15:15

And all Judah rejoiced at the oath: for they had sworn with all their heart, and sought him with their whole desire; and he was found of them: and the LORD gave them rest round about.

1 Chronicles 22:9

Behold, a son shall be born to thee, who shall be a man of rest; and I will give him rest from all his enemies round about: for his name shall be Solomon, and I will give peace and quietness unto Israel in his days.

2 Chronicles 11:5

And Rehoboam dwelt in Jerusalem, and built cities for defence in Judah.

2 Chronicles 11:12

And in every several city [he put] shields and spears, and made them exceeding strong, having Judah and Benjamin on his side.

Job 34:29

When he giveth quietness, who then can make trouble? and when he hideth [his] face, who then can behold him? whether [it be done] against a nation, or against a man only:

1 Kings 5:4

But now the LORD my God hath given me rest on every side, [so that there is] neither adversary nor evil occurrent.

Judges 3:11

And the land had rest forty years. And Othniel the son of Kenaz died.