2 Chronicles 20:34

Now the rest of the acts of Jehoshaphat, first and last, behold, they [are] written in the book of Jehu the son of Hanani, who [is] mentioned in the book of the kings of Israel.

Now the rest {H3499} of the acts {H1697} of Jehoshaphat {H3092}, first {H7223} and last {H314}, behold, they are written {H3789} in the book {H1697} of Jehu {H3058} the son {H1121} of Hanani {H2607}, who is mentioned {H5927} in the book {H5612} of the kings {H4428} of Israel {H3478}.

Other activities of Y'hoshafat, from beginning to end, are written in the records of Yehu the son of Hanani, which have been inserted in the Annals of the Kings of Isra'el.

As for the rest of the acts of Jehoshaphat, from beginning to end, they are indeed written in the Chronicles of Jehu son of Hanani, which are recorded in the Book of the Kings of Israel.

Now the rest of the acts of Jehoshaphat, first and last, behold, they are written in the history of Jehu the son of Hanani, which is inserted in the book of the kings of Israel.

Commentary

Context

This verse concludes the narrative of King Jehoshaphat's reign in 2 Chronicles, specifically following the detailed account of Judah's miraculous victory over the combined forces of Moab, Ammon, and Mount Seir, as described in 2 Chronicles chapter 20. It serves as a concluding summary, pointing to other historical records for a more complete picture of his life and actions. Jehoshaphat was largely known for his efforts to lead Judah back to the Lord, removing high places and sending Levites and priests to teach the law throughout the land, as detailed in 2 Chronicles 17:7-9.

Key Themes

  • Biblical Historiography and Divine Record-Keeping: The Bible often refers to external or internal historical documents, underscoring its foundation in real events and its nature as a compiled historical record. This verse points to a specific source, "the book of Jehu the son of Hanani," which was apparently a significant historical and prophetic record of its time. This practice reinforces the idea that God's actions in history are verifiable and recorded.
  • The Role of Prophets and Seers: Jehu, the son of Hanani, was a prophet who also famously prophesied against King Baasha of Israel (1 Kings 16:7). The Chronicler's reference to his book highlights the importance of prophetic voices not just for delivering divine messages, but also for preserving historical accounts from a divine perspective.
  • Comprehensive Accounts: The phrase "first and last" indicates a thorough and complete record of Jehoshaphat's reign, suggesting that the Chronicler had access to comprehensive historical sources beyond what is presented in the biblical narrative itself.

Linguistic Insights

The term "book" (Hebrew: sepher) refers to a scroll or written document, indicating a formal and authoritative record. The phrase "first and last" (Hebrew: rishonim v'acharonim) suggests a comprehensive account, from beginning to end, reflecting the thoroughness of the ancient historical records that formed the basis for biblical narratives.

Practical Application

This verse, though seemingly a mere historical note, offers valuable insights:

  • Reliability of Scripture: By referencing external historical documents, the biblical narrative demonstrates its rootedness in verifiable history, indirectly strengthening the credibility of the biblical authors who meticulously compiled sacred history.
  • Learning from History: Just as the Chronicler points to records of Jehoshaphat's reign, we are encouraged to study history, especially biblical history, to understand God's dealings with humanity and draw lessons for our own lives and leadership.
  • The Value of Good Leadership: Jehoshaphat's generally positive reign, though not without flaws, serves as an example of a leader who primarily sought the Lord, demonstrating the blessings that can flow from such devotion, as seen in his prosperity and peace.
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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • 1 Kings 16:1

    ¶ Then the word of the LORD came to Jehu the son of Hanani against Baasha, saying,

  • 2 Chronicles 19:2

    And Jehu the son of Hanani the seer went out to meet him, and said to king Jehoshaphat, Shouldest thou help the ungodly, and love them that hate the LORD? therefore [is] wrath upon thee from before the LORD.

  • 1 Kings 16:7

    And also by the hand of the prophet Jehu the son of Hanani came the word of the LORD against Baasha, and against his house, even for all the evil that he did in the sight of the LORD, in provoking him to anger with the work of his hands, in being like the house of Jeroboam; and because he killed him.

  • 2 Chronicles 16:11

    And, behold, the acts of Asa, first and last, lo, they [are] written in the book of the kings of Judah and Israel.

  • 2 Chronicles 13:22

    And the rest of the acts of Abijah, and his ways, and his sayings, [are] written in the story of the prophet Iddo.

  • 2 Chronicles 12:15

    Now the acts of Rehoboam, first and last, [are] they not written in the book of Shemaiah the prophet, and of Iddo the seer concerning genealogies? And [there were] wars between Rehoboam and Jeroboam continually.
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