2 Chronicles 21:5

Jehoram [was] thirty and two years old when he began to reign, and he reigned eight years in Jerusalem.

Jehoram {H3088} was thirty {H7970} and two {H8147} years {H8141} old {H1121} when he began to reign {H4427}, and he reigned {H4427} eight {H8083} years {H8141} in Jerusalem {H3389}.

He was thirty-two years old when he began his reign, and he ruled eight years in Yerushalayim.

Jehoram was thirty-two years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem eight years.

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

Commentary

Context of 2 Chronicles 21:5

This verse introduces King Jehoram (also known as Joram), the son of Jehoshaphat, as the new ruler of the Southern Kingdom of Judah. Following the death of his father, Jehoram ascended to the throne in Jerusalem. While his father, King Jehoshaphat, was known for his piety and reforms, this verse, along with the subsequent ones, begins to paint a starkly different picture of Jehoram's reign. The record of his age at ascension (thirty-two) and the length of his rule (eight years) is typical of the historical summaries provided for the kings of both Judah and Israel in the books of Chronicles and Kings, setting the stage for the narrative of his actions. His succession is detailed immediately after his father's death, as mentioned in 2 Chronicles 21:4.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Chronological Record: The verse serves as a precise historical marker, emphasizing the detailed and systematic nature of biblical chronology concerning the kings of Judah. It establishes the temporal framework for Jehoram's period of rule.
  • Transition of Power: It highlights the continuous succession within the Davidic line, even as the moral and spiritual quality of leadership could drastically change from one generation to the next.
  • Setting the Stage for Character: Though this verse is purely factual, it precedes the grim account of Jehoram's wickedness. The brevity of his reign (eight years) foreshadows a period of severe spiritual decline for Judah under his leadership, especially in contrast to his father. The following verse, 2 Chronicles 21:6, immediately describes his evil ways.

Linguistic Insights

The name Jehoram (Hebrew: יְהוֹרָם, Yehōrām) is a theophoric name, meaning "Yahweh is exalted" or "Yahweh is high." This meaning presents a profound irony when considering the subsequent narrative of his reign, which was characterized by idolatry and apostasy, directly contrary to the exaltation of the true God. The record of his age and reign duration is straightforward, typical of the annalistic style used to document the reigns of the kings.

Practical Application and Reflection

While a seemingly simple historical record, 2 Chronicles 21:5 reminds us of several enduring truths. Firstly, it underscores God's meticulous oversight of history, even in the details of a king's life and reign. Secondly, it subtly introduces the concept that leadership transitions are significant; the character and choices of a leader, even if they come from a godly lineage, profoundly impact a nation or community. Jehoram's short but destructive reign, further detailed in later verses, serves as a powerful reminder that personal choices and spiritual commitment are paramount, regardless of one's heritage or position. It challenges us to consider the legacy we are building and the impact of our own "reign" in whatever sphere of influence we possess.

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Cross-References

  • 2 Kings 8:17

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

  • 2 Kings 8:22

    Yet Edom revolted from under the hand of Judah unto this day. Then Libnah revolted at the same time.
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