2 Chronicles 15:8

KJV

¶ And when Asa heard these words, and the prophecy of Oded the prophet, he took courage, and put away the abominable idols out of all the land of Judah and Benjamin, and out of the cities which he had taken from mount Ephraim, and renewed the altar of the LORD, that [was] before the porch of the LORD.

KJV (with Strong's)

And when Asa {H609} heard {H8085} these words {H1697}, and the prophecy {H5016} of Oded {H5752} the prophet {H5030}, he took courage {H2388}, and put away {H5674} the abominable idols {H8251} out of all the land {H776} of Judah {H3063} and Benjamin {H1144}, and out of the cities {H5892} which he had taken {H3920} from mount {H2022} Ephraim {H669}, and renewed {H2318} the altar {H4196} of the LORD {H3068}, that was before {H6440} the porch {H197} of the LORD {H3068}.

Complete Jewish Bible

When Asa heard these words prophesied by 'Oded the prophet, it gave him courage to throw the disgusting things out of the whole land of Y'hudah and Binyamin and out of the cities he had captured in the hills of Efrayim; he also renewed the altar of ADONAI which was in front of the vestibule of ADONAI.

Berean Standard Bible

When Asa heard these words and the prophecy of Azariah son of Oded the prophet, he took courage and removed the detestable idols from the whole land of Judah and Benjamin and from the cities he had captured in the hill country of Ephraim. He then restored the altar of the LORD that was in front of the portico of the LORD’s temple.

American Standard Version

And when Asa heard these words, and the prophecy of Oded the prophet, he took courage, and put away the abominations out of all the land of Judah and Benjamin, and out of the cities which he had taken from the hill-country of Ephraim; and he renewed the altar of Jehovah, that was before the porch of Jehovah.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
2 Chronicles 15:8 captures King Asa's decisive and Spirit-empowered response to the prophetic word delivered by Azariah, son of Oded. Emboldened by this divine message, Asa initiated a sweeping religious reformation throughout his kingdom, meticulously removing all "abominable idols" from Judah, Benjamin, and the territories he had recently acquired from Mount Ephraim. This comprehensive purification was coupled with the vital act of renewing the altar of the LORD, signifying a national recommitment to covenant worship and a profound spiritual restoration.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse serves as the immediate and powerful climax of the prophetic encounter described in [2 Chronicles 15:1-7](/2_chronicles/15-1-7 "2 Chronicles 15:1-7 - Azariah's Prophecy to King Asa"). Azariah's message, delivered with the Spirit of God, was a potent blend of encouragement for those who seek the LORD and a stark warning about the consequences of forsaking Him. Asa's actions in verse 8 are a direct demonstration of his receptiveness to this divine word, showcasing an exemplary obedience that sets the stage for the subsequent national covenant renewal ceremony detailed in [2 Chronicles 15:9-19](/2_chronicles/15-9-19 "2 Chronicles 15:9-19 - Asa's Covenant Renewal and Reign of Peace"). The narrative structure emphasizes the cause-and-effect relationship between divine revelation and human response, highlighting how a king's faithfulness can lead to national revival.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** King Asa reigned over Judah during a period when idolatry was deeply entrenched, not only among surrounding nations but also within Judah itself, often manifesting as syncretistic practices that blended Yahweh worship with pagan rituals. While Asa had initiated some reforms early in his reign ([2 Chronicles 14:2-7](/2_chronicles/14-2-7 "2 Chronicles 14:2-7 - Asa's Early Reforms")), significant pagan elements, including "high places" and Asherah poles, persisted. The mention of "cities which he had taken from mount Ephraim" refers to territories gained through Asa's decisive military victory over Zerah the Cushite ([2 Chronicles 14:9-15](/2_chronicles/14-9-15 "2 Chronicles 14:9-15 - Asa's Victory over Zerah the Cushite")), indicating his extended political and spiritual influence. The "altar of the LORD" refers to the bronze altar in the temple courtyard, which was central to Israelite sacrificial worship and had likely fallen into disrepair, disuse, or even defilement due to the pervasive idolatry and neglect.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully illustrates the theme of **Divine Empowerment for Obedience**, demonstrating that hearing and internalizing God's word instills the necessary courage for righteous action. It underscores **Radical Purity and Reform**, as Asa's extensive removal of "abominable idols" signifies a comprehensive cleansing from all forms of pagan influence, emphasizing the exclusive worship of Yahweh as mandated by the covenant (e.g., [Deuteronomy 6:4-5](/deuteronomy/6-4-5 "Deuteronomy 6:4-5 - The Great Commandment")). The act of "renewing the altar of the LORD" highlights the theme of **Restoration of True Worship**, symbolizing a return to proper, God-ordained sacrificial practices and a renewed national commitment to the covenant. Furthermore, the narrative emphasizes the **Catalytic Power of the Prophetic Word**, demonstrating how a direct message from God can inspire profound spiritual transformation and national revival, leading to a period of peace and blessing as seen in [2 Chronicles 15:19](/2_chronicles/15-19 "2 Chronicles 15:19 - Asa's Reign of Peace").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Courage (Hebrew, _châzaq'_):** This verb (H2388) signifies to be strong, firm, or to seize, often implying a divinely imparted strength or resolve. In this context, it describes an inner strengthening that enabled Asa to act decisively in the face of widespread spiritual decay and potential opposition. It indicates that the prophetic word did not merely inform Asa but empowered him, transforming his existing zeal into a resolute boldness capable of undertaking radical, comprehensive reform.
* **Abominable idols (Hebrew, _shiqqûwts'_):** This term (H8251), derived from a root meaning "to be disgusting" or "loathsome," refers specifically to detestable things, particularly idols or practices associated with pagan worship that are an offense to God's holiness. Its use here emphasizes the severe impurity and spiritual defilement that Asa was meticulously removing from the land, highlighting the absolute incompatibility of these pagan objects and practices with the exclusive and pure worship of the LORD.
* **Renewed (Hebrew, _châdash'_):** This primitive root (H2318) means "to be new" or, causatively, "to rebuild" or "repair." In this context, it signifies more than a superficial clean-up; it implies a fundamental re-establishment of the altar's function and significance. This act denotes a return to proper, covenantal worship, indicating that the altar had either fallen into disrepair, been defiled, or its use neglected due to the prevalence of idolatry. It symbolizes a revival of the prescribed worship practices and a recommitment to God's covenant.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And when Asa heard these words, and the prophecy of Oded the prophet":** This clause establishes the direct catalyst for Asa's subsequent actions. While [2 Chronicles 15:1](/2_chronicles/15-1 "2 Chronicles 15:1 - Azariah's Prophecy") specifies Azariah, son of Oded, as the prophet, the text here may refer to Oded as the head of a prophetic family or simply as a more general identification of the prophetic source. The crucial point is Asa's active reception and internalization of a divinely inspired message, which profoundly moved him to decisive action.
* **"he took courage":** This phrase describes Asa's immediate and profound internal response to the prophetic word. It signifies that he was emboldened, strengthened in resolve, and divinely empowered to undertake difficult and potentially unpopular reforms. This courage is not mere human bravado but a divinely inspired resolve to act in radical obedience to God's will.
* **"and put away the abominable idols out of all the land of Judah and Benjamin":** This describes the primary action of reform: the systematic removal and destruction of pagan objects of worship. The term "abominable idols" (שִׁקּוּץ, _shiqquwts_) underscores their detestable nature in God's sight. The scope "all the land" indicates a thorough, comprehensive cleansing, signifying a commitment to eliminate all forms of spiritual impurity from the core territories of his kingdom.
* **"and out of the cities which he had taken from mount Ephraim":** This specifies the extended reach of Asa's reforms. His military successes had allowed him to reclaim territory from the northern kingdom of Israel (as seen in [2 Chronicles 14:9-15](/2_chronicles/14-9-15 "2 Chronicles 14:9-15 - Asa's Victory over Zerah")), and he extended his religious purification efforts into these newly acquired areas. This demonstrates his commitment to Yahweh's exclusive worship beyond Judah's traditional borders and throughout his entire sphere of influence, signifying a truly national purification.
* **"and renewed the altar of the LORD, that [was] before the porch of the LORD":** This second major action signifies the restoration of legitimate worship. The "altar of the LORD" refers to the bronze altar in the temple courtyard, central to the sacrificial system. "Renewed" implies its restoration to proper function and sanctity, indicating a revival of the prescribed worship practices that had likely fallen into disuse or disrepair due to the prevalence of idolatry. Its location "before the porch of the LORD" emphasizes its centrality to the temple complex and thus to national worship and communion with God.

#### Literary Devices
The narrative in 2 Chronicles 15:8 effectively employs several literary devices to convey its powerful message of transformation and divine empowerment. **Cause and Effect** is prominently displayed, as Asa's hearing of the prophecy (the divine cause) directly leads to his courageous action and sweeping reforms (the human effect). The phrase "took courage" functions as a crucial **Turning Point**, marking a decisive shift in Asa's reign from a state of partial reform to one of comprehensive and zealous action. The juxtaposition of removing "abominable idols" and renewing "the altar of the LORD" creates a stark **Contrast** between the impurity of idolatry and the purity of true worship, underscoring the radical nature of Asa's purification efforts. Furthermore, the geographic scope ("all the land of Judah and Benjamin, and out of the cities which he had taken from mount Ephraim") utilizes **Merism** to emphasize the thoroughness and extensiveness of Asa's reforms, implying a complete national cleansing from all forms of spiritual defilement.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
King Asa's zealous response to the prophetic word in 2 Chronicles 15:8 serves as a powerful theological statement on the necessity of radical obedience and the transformative power of God's word. It underscores the principle that true spiritual renewal—whether personal or national—begins with a decisive break from anything that rivals God's rightful place and a fervent return to the exclusive worship of the one true God. The narrative highlights God's active involvement in human affairs, sending prophets to stir His people to repentance and providing the courage needed for such profound societal and personal change. This commitment to purity and proper worship is presented as foundational for national blessing and divine favor, echoing the covenantal stipulations found throughout the Torah, which mandate exclusive devotion to Yahweh and warn against the abominations of idolatry.

* [Deuteronomy 6:13-15](/deuteronomy/6-13-15 "Deuteronomy 6:13-15 - Worship the Lord Your God Only")
* [Joshua 24:14-15](/joshua/24-14-15 "Joshua 24:14-15 - Choose Whom You Will Serve")
* [1 Samuel 7:3-4](/1_samuel/7-3-4 "1 Samuel 7:3-4 - Samuel Calls Israel to Repentance and Reform")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
King Asa's story in 2 Chronicles 15:8 provides a compelling model for believers today, demonstrating that genuine spiritual transformation requires both courageous action and a return to foundational truths. Just as Asa was called to purify his land from "abominable idols," we are continually called to examine our hearts and lives for anything that competes with God's rightful supremacy. This might not be physical idols, but rather modern equivalents such as materialism, self-reliance, the pursuit of worldly approval, unchecked desires, or any addiction or habit that subtly displaces God from the center of our affections and priorities. Asa's "taking courage" after hearing God's word reminds us that the strength to confront our internal and external "idols" comes from an active engagement with Scripture and a willingness to obey its challenging truths. Furthermore, his "renewing the altar of the LORD" encourages us to prioritize and restore genuine worship in our lives—through fervent prayer, diligent study of God's Word, active participation in the community of faith, and living a life of sacrificial obedience. Our personal "altar" must be kept in good repair, signifying our ongoing commitment to communion with God and His exclusive Lordship, ensuring that our lives are a continuous act of worship.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What are the "abominable idols" in my own life—habits, desires, or pursuits—that compete for God's rightful place and need to be "put away"?**
* **How does hearing and meditating on God's word empower me to "take courage" in confronting sin and pursuing righteousness in difficult circumstances?**
* **In what practical ways can I "renew the altar of the LORD" in my daily life, ensuring that true worship and devotion remain central and vibrant?**

### FAQ

**Who was Oded the prophet, and why is he mentioned here when Azariah delivered the prophecy?**

Answer: The text in [2 Chronicles 15:1](/2_chronicles/15-1 "2 Chronicles 15:1 - Azariah's Prophecy") explicitly states that the prophecy was delivered by "Azariah the son of Oded." It is common in biblical literature for a prophet to be identified by his father's name or lineage, especially if the father was also a known prophet or a significant figure. Therefore, "Oded the prophet" in [2 Chronicles 15:8](/2_chronicles/15-8 "2 Chronicles 15:8 - Asa's Reforms") likely refers to Azariah's father, Oded, perhaps indicating that Azariah was a member of a recognized prophetic family or school, or simply providing a more complete identification of the prophetic source. The key point is that King Asa heard and responded to a divinely inspired message, regardless of the precise familial attribution.

**What was the significance of renewing "the altar of the LORD"?**

Answer: Renewing "the altar of the LORD" was profoundly significant because the bronze altar in the temple courtyard was the focal point of Israelite worship, where sacrifices were offered for atonement and communion with God. Its renewal symbolized a national return to proper, God-ordained worship practices after a period of neglect or defilement due to widespread idolatry. It signified a recommitment to the Mosaic covenant, acknowledging God's holiness and the prescribed means of approaching Him. This act was not merely ceremonial but represented a deep spiritual cleansing and a re-establishment of the nation's relationship with Yahweh, leading to a renewed covenant as detailed in [2 Chronicles 15:9-15](/2_chronicles/15-9-15 "2 Chronicles 15:9-15 - The Covenant Renewal"). It was a visible sign of an internal spiritual shift.

**Did Asa's reforms last, or did Judah fall back into idolatry?**

Answer: King Asa's reforms were extensive and initially very successful, leading to a significant period of peace and spiritual revival, as seen in [2 Chronicles 15:19](/2_chronicles/15-19 "2 Chronicles 15:19 - Asa's Reign of Peace"). However, later in his reign, Asa demonstrated a decline in his complete reliance on the LORD. For example, in [2 Chronicles 16:1-10](/2_chronicles/16-1-10 "2 Chronicles 16:1-10 - Asa's Alliance with Syria"), he relied on a foreign alliance with Syria rather than seeking God's help in a conflict with Israel, and he imprisoned the prophet Hanani for rebuking him. Furthermore, he suffered from a severe foot disease and, tragically, sought help from physicians instead of the LORD ([2 Chronicles 16:12](/2_chronicles/16-12 "2 Chronicles 16:12 - Asa's Illness")). While his initial reforms were impactful and brought about a national revival, the narrative suggests that his personal faithfulness wavered in his later years, highlighting the ongoing challenge of maintaining spiritual purity and dependence on God throughout one's life.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
King Asa's courageous act of cleansing the land from "abominable idols" and renewing the altar of the LORD in [2 Chronicles 15:8](/2_chronicles/15-8 "2 Chronicles 15:8 - Asa's Sweeping Reforms") powerfully foreshadows the ultimate and perfect cleansing brought by Jesus Christ. While Asa's reforms were external, temporal, and addressed the symptoms of a fallen heart, Christ's redemptive work addresses the root cause of idolatry—sin itself. Jesus is the true and perfect temple ([John 2:19-21](/john/2-19-21 "John 2:19-21 - Jesus Predicts His Resurrection")), and His once-for-all sacrifice on the cross is the definitive "renewal of the altar," providing eternal atonement for sin and making obsolete the need for repeated animal sacrifices ([Hebrews 9:11-14](/hebrews/9-11-14 "Hebrews 9:11-14 - Christ's Superior Sacrifice")). Through His atoning work, Christ enables believers to "take courage" not merely to remove external idols, but to be transformed from within, having their hearts cleansed from the "abominable idols" of sin and self-worship ([Romans 6:6](/romans/6-6 "Romans 6:6 - Our Old Self Crucified")). He is the one who truly takes away the sin of the world ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")) and establishes a new covenant where true worship is in spirit and truth, not confined to a physical altar or location ([John 4:23-24](/john/4-23-24 "John 4:23-24 - Worship in Spirit and Truth")). Thus, Asa's partial, temporal restoration points forward to the complete, eternal spiritual renewal and purification found only in Christ, who empowers His followers to live lives of radical obedience and worship.

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 13:19

And Abijah pursued after Jeroboam, and took cities from him, Bethel with the towns thereof, and Jeshanah with the towns thereof, and Ephrain with the towns thereof.

2 Chronicles 8:12

¶ Then Solomon offered burnt offerings unto the LORD on the altar of the LORD, which he had built before the porch,

2 Chronicles 4:1

¶ Moreover he made an altar of brass, twenty cubits the length thereof, and twenty cubits the breadth thereof, and ten cubits the height thereof.

Acts 28:15

And from thence, when the brethren heard of us, they came to meet us as far as Appii forum, and The three taverns: whom when Paul saw, he thanked God, and took courage.

Isaiah 44:14

He heweth him down cedars, and taketh the cypress and the oak, which he strengtheneth for himself among the trees of the forest: he planteth an ash, and the rain doth nourish [it].

Isaiah 65:4

Which remain among the graves, and lodge in the monuments, which eat swine's flesh, and broth of abominable [things is in] their vessels;

2 Kings 16:14

And he brought also the brasen altar, which [was] before the LORD, from the forefront of the house, from between the altar and the house of the LORD, and put it on the north side of the altar.