2 Chronicles 21:1

KJV

¶ Now Jehoshaphat slept with his fathers, and was buried with his fathers in the city of David. And Jehoram his son reigned in his stead.

KJV (with Strong's)

Now Jehoshaphat {H3092} slept {H7901} with his fathers {H1}, and was buried {H6912} with his fathers {H1} in the city {H5892} of David {H1732}. And Jehoram {H3088} his son {H1121} reigned {H4427} in his stead.

Complete Jewish Bible

Y'hoshafat slept with his ancestors and was buried with his ancestors in the City of David, and Y'horam his son became king in his place.

Berean Standard Bible

And Jehoshaphat rested with his fathers and was buried with them in the City of David. And his son Jehoram reigned in his place.

American Standard Version

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

Commentary

### SUMMARY
2 Chronicles 21:1 meticulously records the transition of power in the kingdom of Judah, marking the end of King Jehoshaphat's generally righteous and prosperous reign and the immediate ascension of his son, Jehoram, to the throne. This verse employs a standard formulaic expression for royal succession, signaling a pivotal moment in the narrative where a period of stability and spiritual fidelity gives way to a new era under Jehoram, whose subsequent rule would dramatically diverge from his father's godly example, introducing a period of significant moral and political decline for Judah.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse serves as a critical narrative hinge, bridging the detailed and largely positive account of Jehoshaphat's reign (found in 2 Chronicles 17-20) with the somber and tragic narrative of Jehoram's rule (detailed in 2 Chronicles 21:2-20). The preceding chapters extensively laud Jehoshaphat for his zealous efforts to restore true worship, his comprehensive judicial reforms, and the miraculous divine intervention that granted him victory over a formidable coalition of enemies, resulting in a period of peace and prosperity for Judah. The abrupt transition introduced by this verse, from Jehoshaphat's peaceful passing to Jehoram's immediate consolidation of power through the brutal murder of his brothers (as explicitly detailed in [2 Chronicles 21:4](/2_chronicles/21-4 "2 Chronicles 21:4 - Jehoram Murders His Brothers")), starkly contrasts the two reigns. This immediate shift foreshadows the severe spiritual and political consequences that will befall Judah under Jehoram's wicked leadership, setting a tone of impending judgment.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The phrase "slept with his fathers" is a deeply ingrained biblical idiom, a respectful euphemism signifying a peaceful death and being gathered to one's ancestors. This expression is commonly used for kings and patriarchs, denoting an honorable end to their life and reign. The subsequent mention of being "buried with his fathers in the city of David" refers to Jerusalem, specifically the royal necropolis within or near the capital, a place of high honor reserved for the kings of Judah. This burial practice served to affirm the continuity of the Davidic dynasty and the legitimate transfer of power to the successor. During the 9th century BCE, Judah, though geographically smaller and politically less powerful than the northern kingdom of Israel, maintained its distinct identity and the unbroken lineage of the Davidic throne. The orderly succession from father to son was paramount for political stability, yet, as the narrative of Jehoram's reign vividly illustrates, the moral and spiritual character of the reigning king proved far more determinative for the nation's spiritual and political health than mere dynastic continuity. The enduring Davidic covenant, promising an eternal dynasty (see 2 Samuel 7:12-16), provided the theological framework for this succession, even when individual kings deviated significantly from God's righteous ways.
* **Key Themes:** This concise verse encapsulates several profound and interconnected themes central to the Chronicler's theological agenda. Firstly, **Royal Succession** is explicitly highlighted, underscoring the established and divinely sanctioned pattern of power transfer within the Davidic monarchy, which was crucial for the kingdom's stability and the continuity of God's covenant promises. Secondly, the theme of **Legacy and Influence** is powerfully introduced. Jehoshaphat's death invites reflection on his generally righteous reign and its positive impact, while the immediate mention of Jehoram, whose wickedness is soon detailed (e.g., [2 Chronicles 21:6](/2_chronicles/21-6 "2 Chronicles 21:6 - Jehoram's Evil Reign")), creates a stark contrast, powerfully illustrating that a godly heritage does not automatically guarantee godly offspring. This emphasizes the individual's personal accountability before God, regardless of parental example. Thirdly, **Divine Sovereignty** is implicitly affirmed. Even amidst the natural cycle of death and succession, the biblical narrative consistently points to God's overarching control and His continued work within the lineage of David, despite the unfaithfulness of individual kings. The Chronicler frequently emphasizes the direct correlation between the king's obedience to God and the nation's prosperity, a principle that will be severely tested and tragically violated under Jehoram's rule, leading to divine judgment as seen in 2 Chronicles 21:12-19.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Fathers (Hebrew, _ʼâb'_):** This primitive word refers to a "father" in both a literal and figurative sense, encompassing ancestors or predecessors. In the phrase "slept with his fathers," it denotes joining the line of deceased kings and patriarchs, implying a proper and honorable end to Jehoshaphat's life, consistent with his royal status and generally righteous conduct. It signifies being gathered to one's ancestors.
* **Slept (Hebrew, _shâkab'_):** A primitive root meaning "to lie down" or "to sleep." In the context of death, particularly for kings and patriarchs, it functions as a common and respectful euphemism. It signifies a peaceful passing, as if one is simply going to rest, and often implies being gathered to one's ancestors. This term does not inherently convey specific theological meaning about the afterlife but simply denotes the cessation of earthly life and reign.
* **Reigned (Hebrew, _mâlak'_):** A primitive root meaning "to reign" or, inceptively, "to ascend the throne." It can also causatively mean "to induct into royalty." In this verse, it clearly indicates the formal and legitimate transfer of royal authority from Jehoshaphat to his son Jehoram, emphasizing the continuity of the Davidic monarchy despite the change in leadership.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"¶ Now Jehoshaphat slept with his fathers,"**: This initial clause formally marks the conclusion of King Jehoshaphat's earthly life and the end of his reign. The "¶" symbol, a paragraph mark in the KJV, often indicates a new section or a significant narrative transition. The idiom "slept with his fathers" is a gentle and respectful euphemism for death, particularly fitting for a king. It suggests a peaceful and honorable end, aligning with Jehoshaphat's generally righteous character and the period of relative stability and prosperity that marked his rule.
* **"and was buried with his fathers in the city of David."**: This part of the verse specifies the honorable and customary burial place for King Jehoshaphat. "The city of David" refers to Jerusalem, specifically the royal tombs located within or immediately adjacent to the capital. This burial site was a privileged honor reserved for the kings of Judah, signifying their royal status, their integral connection to the foundational Davidic lineage, and their esteemed place within the nation's history. It underscores the formal and proper conclusion of his reign and the continuity of the royal line.
* **"And Jehoram his son reigned in his stead."**: This final clause announces the immediate and legitimate succession of Jehoram to the throne. The phrase "his son" explicitly emphasizes the dynastic continuity within the sacred Davidic line, reinforcing the legitimacy of Jehoram's claim to the kingship. "Reigned in his stead" confirms the formal and recognized transfer of royal power, setting the narrative stage for the account of Jehoram's kingship, which, as the subsequent chapters reveal, would dramatically and tragically diverge from the righteous path established by his father.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several significant literary techniques. **Formulaic Language** is prominently featured in the standard phrase "slept with his fathers, and was buried with his fathers in the city of David." This common biblical idiom, used consistently for the death and burial of kings and patriarchs (e.g., David in [1 Kings 2:10](/1_kings/2-10 "1 Kings 2:10 - David's Death and Burial"), Solomon in [1 Kings 11:43](/1_kings/11-43 "1 Kings 11:43 - Solomon's Death")), provides a sense of continuity, legitimacy, and historical rhythm to the narrative of royal succession. The abrupt transition from the positive portrayal of Jehoshaphat's death and honorable burial to the immediate, unadorned mention of Jehoram's ascension creates a subtle yet powerful **Juxtaposition**. This stark contrast, especially when read in light of the preceding chapters on Jehoshaphat's piety and the subsequent chapters detailing Jehoram's wickedness, serves as a poignant **Foreshadowing**. While the verse itself maintains a neutral, factual tone, its strategic placement within the Chronicler's narrative imbues it with a profound sense of impending change, making it a pivotal moment that signals a dramatic shift in the spiritual and moral trajectory of Judah's leadership.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This seemingly straightforward verse is replete with profound theological implications, particularly concerning the enduring nature of the Davidic covenant and the inherent responsibilities of kingship in Israel. It subtly highlights God's unwavering faithfulness in maintaining the Davidic line, even when individual kings, such as Jehoram, would prove profoundly unfaithful. The orderly succession, though divinely ordained for the stability and continuity of the kingdom, also underscores the profound individual accountability of each ruler before God. While Jehoshaphat's godly legacy was significant and impactful, it did not automatically transfer to his son, Jehoram, emphasizing that personal righteousness and a genuine relationship with God are matters of individual choice and commitment, not merely inherited status. This enduring tension between divine promise and human responsibility is a recurring and central theme woven throughout the Deuteronomistic history and the Chronicler's theological narrative.

* [2 Samuel 7:12-16](/2_samuel/7-12-16 "God's Covenant with David")
* [1 Kings 15:11](/1_kings/15-11 "Asa's Righteous Reign and Example")
* [2 Chronicles 21:5-6](/2_chronicles/21-5-6 "Jehoram's Wickedness and Departure from God")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The transition of power, whether within a national leadership, a family unit, a church, or any organizational structure, is an inevitable and continuous facet of human experience. This verse serves as a potent reminder that while leadership roles and responsibilities pass from one generation to the next, the profound impact of a leader's character, choices, and spiritual disposition resonates far beyond their immediate tenure. Jehoshaphat's legacy was predominantly one of earnestly seeking the Lord and implementing significant spiritual reforms, thereby providing a robust and positive spiritual foundation for his son. However, Jehoram's subsequent actions, detailed in the following verses, powerfully illustrate that even the most godly heritage does not guarantee personal godliness or spiritual fidelity. Each individual, irrespective of their upbringing, inherited status, or the exemplary figures who preceded them, is ultimately and personally accountable for their own choices and their relationship with God. This profound truth compels us to consider not only the legacy we may have inherited but, more critically, the legacy we are actively constructing through our daily decisions, our moral integrity, and our unwavering commitment to Christ. We are called to live faithfully and purposefully, understanding that our lives, both in public and private spheres, possess the potential to profoundly influence those who will follow us, yet always remembering that true spiritual transformation and enduring righteousness are deeply personal journeys of faith, repentance, and obedience to God.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What kind of spiritual and moral legacy am I actively building for those who will follow me, whether within my family, my community, or my professional sphere?**
* **How does the stark contrast between Jehoshaphat's righteous reign and Jehoram's wickedness challenge my assumptions about inherited faith, privilege, or the automatic transmission of spiritual character?**
* **In what specific areas of my life am I being called to take greater personal accountability for my choices and actions, regardless of my past experiences or external circumstances?**
* **Beyond practical skills, how can I more effectively prepare and mentor the next generation for leadership, particularly by fostering their spiritual growth and commitment to God?**

### FAQ
**What does the phrase "slept with his fathers" signify in the Bible?**

Answer: "Slept with his fathers" is a common biblical idiom or euphemism for death, particularly for kings and patriarchs. It signifies a peaceful passing and being gathered to one's ancestors. This phrase emphasizes the continuity of lineage and often implies an honorable end to life, suggesting the deceased joined their forebears in the realm of the dead. It does not inherently convey specific theological details about the afterlife but simply marks the cessation of earthly life and reign, often preceding a description of burial. This phrase is used for many kings throughout the Old Testament, both those considered righteous and those who were wicked, though in Jehoshaphat's case, it aligns with his generally righteous reign and honorable end.

**Why was being "buried in the city of David" significant for a king?**

Answer: Being "buried in the city of David" (referring to Jerusalem) was a highly significant honor reserved for the kings of Judah. It indicated a proper, esteemed, and royal burial, placing the deceased king among his predecessors in the royal necropolis. This practice underscored the legitimacy of the king's reign, his integral connection to the foundational Davidic dynasty, and his enduring place within the history of the kingdom. It was a symbol of their status and a mark of respect, in contrast to being buried elsewhere or in a less distinguished manner. For instance, some wicked kings, like Jehoram himself, were explicitly denied burial in the royal tombs, highlighting the importance and symbolic weight of this privilege (see [2 Chronicles 21:20](/2_chronicles/21-20 "2 Chronicles 21:20 - Jehoram's Dishonorable Burial")).

**How does this verse set the stage for the rest of Jehoram's reign in 2 Chronicles?**

Answer: This verse, while seemingly a straightforward record of succession, subtly yet powerfully sets the stage for a dramatic and dark period in Judah's history. By immediately following the extensive and largely positive account of Jehoshaphat's reign, the introduction of Jehoram creates a stark and unsettling contrast. The subsequent verses in [2 Chronicles 21](/2_chronicles/21 "2 Chronicles 21 - Jehoram's Wicked Reign") quickly and tragically reveal Jehoram's profound wickedness, including the brutal murder of his own brothers and his leading Judah into widespread idolatry, a direct and severe repudiation of his father's godly policies and reforms. Thus, this verse serves as a pivotal transition from an era of relative faithfulness and prosperity to one of severe spiritual decline, national judgment, and immense suffering, foreshadowing the calamities that would inevitably befall Judah under Jehoram's ungodly rule.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The seemingly simple transition of power recorded in [2 Chronicles 21:1](/2_chronicles/21-1 "2 Chronicles 21:1 - Jehoshaphat's Death and Jehoram's Accession"), from the passing of King Jehoshaphat to the ascension of his son Jehoram, finds its ultimate fulfillment and profound theological significance in the person and eternal reign of Jesus Christ. The Davidic kingship, though divinely established and promised to be eternal through the Davidic covenant (as powerfully articulated in 2 Samuel 7:12-16), was always imperfect and temporary in its earthly manifestations. Kings like Jehoshaphat, though largely righteous and a blessing to their people, eventually "slept with their fathers," and even the most pious among them were often succeeded by flawed or even wicked heirs like Jehoram. This constant cycle of succession, death, and often moral and spiritual decline in the Old Testament points inexorably to the desperate human need for a perfect, unwavering, and eternal King. Jesus, uniquely identified as the Son of David (a title emphasized from the very beginning of the New Testament in [Matthew 1:1](/matthew/1-1 "Matthew 1:1 - Genealogy of Jesus")), is the only King whose reign is truly everlasting and whose character is perfectly righteous and untainted by sin. Unlike earthly kings who pass away and are buried, Jesus' death was not a final earthly demise but a triumphant act of atonement for sin, and His glorious resurrection secured His eternal reign, ensuring that He will never "sleep with his fathers" in the sense of a permanent end to His kingship. His kingdom is not subject to human frailty, the vagaries of succession, or the moral failings of individual rulers, but is an eternal dominion (as prophesied by the angel Gabriel in Luke 1:32-33). Thus, every earthly succession, even one as pivotal as that in 2 Chronicles 21:1, ultimately serves as a shadow, pointing forward to the one true King who reigns forever and ever, whose kingdom has no end, and who alone holds ultimate authority and power (as declared in [Revelation 11:15](/revelation/11-15 "Revelation 11:15 - The Kingdom of the World Becomes the Kingdom of Christ")).

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

1 Kings 22:50

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

2 Kings 8:16

¶ And in the fifth year of Joram the son of Ahab king of Israel, Jehoshaphat [being] then king of Judah, Jehoram the son of Jehoshaphat king of Judah began to reign.

2 Kings 8:17

Thirty and two years old was he when he began to reign; and he reigned eight years in Jerusalem.

2 Chronicles 12:16

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

2 Chronicles 21:20

Thirty and two years old was he when he began to reign, and he reigned in Jerusalem eight years, and departed without being desired. Howbeit they buried him in the city of David, but not in the sepulchres of the kings.

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.