2 Chronicles 25:23

KJV

And Joash the king of Israel took Amaziah king of Judah, the son of Joash, the son of Jehoahaz, at Bethshemesh, and brought him to Jerusalem, and brake down the wall of Jerusalem from the gate of Ephraim to the corner gate, four hundred cubits.

KJV (with Strong's)

And Joash {H3101} the king {H4428} of Israel {H3478} took {H8610} Amaziah {H558} king {H4428} of Judah {H3063}, the son {H1121} of Joash {H3101}, the son {H1121} of Jehoahaz {H3059}, at Bethshemesh {H1053}, and brought {H935} him to Jerusalem {H3389}, and brake down {H6555} the wall {H2346} of Jerusalem {H3389} from the gate {H8179} of Ephraim {H669} to the corner {H6437} gate {H8179}, four {H702} hundred {H3967} cubits {H520}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Yo'ash king of Isra'el took Amatzyah king of Y'hudah, the son of Yo'ash the son of Y'ho'achaz, prisoner at Beit-Shemesh. Then he brought him to Yerushalayim and demolished the wall of Yerushalayim between the Gate of Efrayim and the Corner Gate, a section 600 feet long.

Berean Standard Bible

There at Beth-shemesh, Jehoash king of Israel captured Amaziah king of Judah, the son of Joash, the son of Jehoahaz. Then Jehoash brought him to Jerusalem and broke down the wall of Jerusalem from the Ephraim Gate to the Corner Gate—a section of four hundred cubits.

American Standard Version

And Joash king of Israel took Amaziah king of Judah, the son of Joash the son of Jehoahaz, at Beth-shemesh, and brought him to Jerusalem, and brake down the wall of Jerusalem from the gate of Ephraim unto the corner gate, four hundred cubits.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Second Chronicles 25:23 vividly recounts the humiliating defeat and capture of King Amaziah of Judah by King Joash of Israel at Beth-shemesh. As a direct consequence of Amaziah's pride and disobedience to God, Joash brought the captive Judahite king to Jerusalem and, in a profound act of subjugation and dominance, demolished a significant portion of the city's protective wall, rendering the capital vulnerable and underscoring Israel's military superiority.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse marks the bitter culmination of Amaziah's reign, as detailed in [2 Chronicles 25](/2_chronicles/25 "2 Chronicles 25 - Amaziah's Reign"). Initially, Amaziah "did that which was right in the sight of the Lord, but not with a perfect heart" ([2 Chronicles 25:2](/2_chronicles/25-2 "2 Chronicles 25:2 - Amaziah's Imperfect Heart")). After a divinely assisted victory over Edom, his heart turned to idolatry, bringing back and worshipping the gods of Seir ([2 Chronicles 25:14](/2_chronicles/25-14 "2 Chronicles 25:14 - Amaziah's Idolatry")). Despite a prophet's stern warning, Amaziah, inflated with pride, defiantly challenged King Joash of Israel to battle, declaring, "Come, let us look one another in the face" ([2 Chronicles 25:17](/2_chronicles/25-17 "2 Chronicles 25:17 - Amaziah's Challenge to Joash")). Joash responded with a parable of a thistle challenging a cedar, warning against Amaziah's overconfidence ([2 Chronicles 25:18-19](/2_chronicles/25-18 "2 Chronicles 25:18-19 - Joash's Parable")). This verse, then, describes the swift and devastating outcome of that ill-advised challenge, directly linking Amaziah's spiritual decline and arrogance to national disaster.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The events of 2 Chronicles 25 occur during the divided monarchy, with Judah in the south and Israel in the north, around the late 9th to early 8th century BC. Amaziah reigned over Judah (796-767 BC), and Joash (Jehoash) reigned over Israel (798-782 BC). Beth-shemesh, located in the Shephelah (lowlands) between Judah and Philistia, was a strategic border town, making it a logical site for a decisive battle between the two kingdoms. The destruction of city walls was a common ancient Near Eastern practice following a military victory, serving multiple purposes: a profound act of humiliation, a demonstration of absolute dominance, a means to prevent future rebellion, and often a prelude to exacting tribute or subjugation. For Jerusalem, the capital and spiritual center of Judah, this act was particularly grievous, stripping the city of its primary defense and symbolizing the utter defeat and vulnerability of the kingdom.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully illustrates several key themes prevalent in the Deuteronomistic history. Foremost is the **consequence of pride and disobedience**, where Amaziah's initial faithfulness gives way to idolatry and arrogance, leading directly to his downfall and national humiliation. It highlights the destructive nature of **inter-kingdom strife** between Judah and Israel, two nations with a common heritage but frequently at odds, often to their mutual detriment. The tearing down of Jerusalem's wall underscores themes of **vulnerability and divine judgment**, demonstrating how God allows consequences to unfold when His people turn away from Him. Ultimately, it serves as a stark reminder that true security and strength come not from military might or human pride, but from steadfast reliance upon the Lord, a theme echoed throughout the historical books of the Old Testament, particularly in the [Book of Chronicles](/2_chronicles/1 "The Book of 2 Chronicles").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **took (Hebrew, לָכַד _lakad_):** This verb signifies "to seize," "to capture," or "to take hold of." In this context, it emphasizes the decisive and forceful capture of Amaziah, indicating that he was not merely defeated but apprehended as a prisoner of war. It conveys a complete reversal of fortune from the victor over Edom to a humiliated captive.
* **brake down (Hebrew, פָּרַץ _parats_):** This powerful verb means "to break forth," "to burst out," "to break through," or "to demolish." It implies a violent, aggressive, and deliberate act of destruction. It's not a gentle dismantling but a forceful breaching, underscoring the severity of the blow dealt to Jerusalem's defenses and its symbolic significance as an act of conquest and subjugation.
* **four hundred cubits (Hebrew, אַרְבַּע מֵאוֹת אַמָּה _'arba' me'ot 'ammah_):** A cubit was approximately 18 inches (45 cm), making 400 cubits roughly 600 feet (180-200 meters). This precise measurement highlights the substantial extent of the damage. It was not a minor breach but a significant section of the city's primary defenses, leaving Jerusalem gravely exposed and emphasizing the magnitude of Israel's victory and Judah's defeat.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And Joash the king of Israel took Amaziah king of Judah, the son of Joash, the son of Jehoahaz, at Bethshemesh":** This clause establishes the key actors and the location of the decisive event. King Joash of Israel, the victor, captures King Amaziah of Judah, the vanquished. The full lineage of Amaziah is given (son of Joash, son of Jehoahaz) to distinguish him from Joash of Israel, emphasizing the specific Judahite king who suffered this humiliating defeat. The battle's location at Beth-shemesh signifies a strategic victory for Israel, a border town often contested.
* **"and brought him to Jerusalem":** This seemingly simple phrase carries immense weight. Bringing a captured king to his own capital as a prisoner was the ultimate act of public humiliation and a powerful display of dominance. It demonstrated to the people of Judah that their king was subjugated, and by extension, their kingdom was under the control of the conquering power. It was a triumphal procession for Joash and a walk of shame for Amaziah.
* **"and brake down the wall of Jerusalem from the gate of Ephraim to the corner gate, four hundred cubits":** This is the most devastating consequence. The demolition of a significant portion of Jerusalem's wall, spanning specific gates (Ephraim Gate on the north, Corner Gate likely on the northwest), was a profound act of military and psychological warfare. It stripped Jerusalem of its physical security, leaving it vulnerable to future attacks, and served as a lasting monument to Judah's defeat and Israel's supremacy. The precise measurement of 400 cubits underscores the scale of this destructive act.

#### Literary Devices
The narrative of 2 Chronicles 25:23 employs several potent **literary devices**. **Symbolism** is paramount, with the "broken wall" serving as a powerful symbol of Judah's broken pride, broken security, and the broken covenant relationship with God that led to this disaster. The physical breach in the city's defenses mirrors the spiritual breach in Amaziah's heart. There is also a strong element of **irony** in Amaziah's challenge to Joash, "Come, let us look one another in the face" ([2 Chronicles 25:17](/2_chronicles/25-17 "2 Chronicles 25:17 - Amaziah's Challenge to Joash")). His desire for a face-to-face confrontation ultimately leads to him being literally "looked in the face" as a humiliated captive in his own capital. Furthermore, the account uses **cause and effect** to clearly link Amaziah's pride and idolatry directly to the national humiliation and physical destruction, reinforcing the Chronicler's theological message that obedience brings blessing and disobedience brings judgment. The **vivid imagery** of the broken wall creates a lasting impression of the magnitude of Judah's defeat.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This episode in 2 Chronicles 25:23 stands as a stark biblical testament to the principle that pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall. Amaziah's initial success against Edom, enabled by God, led not to greater humility and dependence but to self-reliance, idolatry, and a foolish challenge. The narrative powerfully illustrates God's sovereign hand in allowing consequences to unfold when His people turn from Him, even using one kingdom to discipline another. It underscores the importance of a "perfect heart" in worship and obedience, not just outward conformity, for true security and prosperity. The vulnerability of Jerusalem's walls after the breach serves as a theological reminder that human defenses are ultimately insufficient without divine protection and favor.

* [Proverbs 16:18](/proverbs/16-18 "Proverbs 16:18 - Pride Precedes Destruction")
* [1 Samuel 15:23](/1_samuel/15-23 "1 Samuel 15:23 - Rebellion as Idolatry")
* [Psalm 127:1](/psalms/127-1 "Psalm 127:1 - Unless the Lord Builds the House")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The account of Amaziah's downfall in 2 Chronicles 25:23 serves as a timeless cautionary tale for all believers. It reminds us that spiritual complacency and pride can creep in even after experiencing God's blessings and victories. Amaziah's initial obedience and success were tragically undermined by a heart that was "not perfect," leading him to embrace idolatry and make rash, prideful decisions. For us today, this underscores the critical importance of cultivating humility, consistently seeking God's counsel, and maintaining an unwavering commitment to His commands, even when circumstances seem favorable. We must guard against the temptation to attribute success to our own strength or wisdom, lest we, like Amaziah, find our "walls"—our spiritual defenses, our relationships, our ministries—broken down by the consequences of our own making. True security and flourishing come from a continual posture of dependence on God, acknowledging that every good gift and every perfect gift is from above.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life might I be prone to spiritual pride or complacency, especially after experiencing success or blessing?**
* **What "walls" in my life (e.g., relationships, character, spiritual disciplines) might be vulnerable or "broken" due to past or present disobedience to God?**
* **How can I actively cultivate a "perfect heart"—one fully devoted to God—and consistently seek His counsel, even when I feel self-sufficient?**

### FAQ
**Why did Joash break down the wall of Jerusalem?**

Answer: Joash's act of breaking down Jerusalem's wall was a multi-faceted demonstration of his victory and Judah's subjugation. It was a profound act of humiliation, stripping the capital of its defenses and symbolizing Judah's defeat. It also served as a practical measure to prevent future rebellion and likely to enforce tribute or vassalage upon Amaziah and Judah. This act was a common practice in ancient warfare to assert dominance and ensure control over a conquered territory.

**What was the significance of Bethshemesh as the battle location?**

Answer: Bethshemesh was strategically important due to its location in the Shephelah, the lowlands between the Judean mountains and the Philistine plain. It was a border town, making it a natural place for the armies of Judah and Israel to meet. Historically, it was also known as the place where the Ark of the Covenant was returned by the Philistines ([1 Samuel 6:12-15](/1_samuel/6-12 "1 Samuel 6:12-15 - The Ark Returns to Bethshemesh")). Its choice as the battleground underscores its tactical importance in controlling access to the Judean highlands.

**How long is "four hundred cubits" in modern measurements?**

Answer: A cubit was an ancient unit of length, typically measured from the elbow to the tip of the middle finger, varying slightly but generally accepted to be about 18 inches (approximately 45 centimeters). Therefore, 400 cubits would be roughly 600 feet or about 180-200 meters. This represents a substantial section of Jerusalem's fortifications, indicating a significant and devastating breach.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The narrative of Amaziah's prideful downfall and the subsequent breaking of Jerusalem's walls in 2 Chronicles 25:23 finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus. Amaziah, a king who began well but succumbed to pride and idolatry, stands in stark contrast to the perfect King, Jesus Christ. Where Amaziah's disobedience led to the vulnerability of Jerusalem, Jesus, through His perfect obedience and humility, even to the point of death on a cross ([Philippians 2:5-8](/philippians/2-5 "Philippians 2:5-8 - Christ's Humility")), secured eternal salvation and an unshakable kingdom. He is the true Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")), unlike Amaziah who brought foreign idols into the sanctuary. Furthermore, while Jerusalem's physical walls were broken, foreshadowing its eventual destruction, Jesus is the cornerstone of a new, spiritual Jerusalem, the Church, whose "walls" are salvation and whose gates are praise ([Isaiah 26:1](/isaiah/26-1 "Isaiah 26:1 - Walls of Salvation"), [Revelation 21:10-27](/revelation/21-10 "Revelation 21:10-27 - The New Jerusalem")). He rebuilds what sin breaks down, offering true security and an eternal dwelling place for those who trust in Him, a security that no earthly enemy can breach.

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

Nehemiah 8:16

So the people went forth, and brought [them], and made themselves booths, every one upon the roof of his house, and in their courts, and in the courts of the house of God, and in the street of the water gate, and in the street of the gate of Ephraim.

2 Chronicles 21:17

And they came up into Judah, and brake into it, and carried away all the substance that was found in the king's house, and his sons also, and his wives; so that there was never a son left him, save Jehoahaz, the youngest of his sons.

Jeremiah 31:38

Behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that the city shall be built to the LORD from the tower of Hananeel unto the gate of the corner.

Nehemiah 12:39

And from above the gate of Ephraim, and above the old gate, and above the fish gate, and the tower of Hananeel, and the tower of Meah, even unto the sheep gate: and they stood still in the prison gate.

2 Chronicles 26:9

Moreover Uzziah built towers in Jerusalem at the corner gate, and at the valley gate, and at the turning [of the wall], and fortified them.

2 Chronicles 22:1

¶ And the inhabitants of Jerusalem made Ahaziah his youngest son king in his stead: for the band of men that came with the Arabians to the camp had slain all the eldest. So Ahaziah the son of Jehoram king of Judah reigned.

2 Chronicles 36:6

Against him came up Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon, and bound him in fetters, to carry him to Babylon.