2 Kings 10:15

KJV

¶ And when he was departed thence, he lighted on Jehonadab the son of Rechab [coming] to meet him: and he saluted him, and said to him, Is thine heart right, as my heart [is] with thy heart? And Jehonadab answered, It is. If it be, give [me] thine hand. And he gave [him] his hand; and he took him up to him into the chariot.

KJV (with Strong's)

And when he was departed {H3212} thence, he lighted {H4672} on Jehonadab {H3082} the son {H1121} of Rechab {H7394} coming to meet {H7125} him: and he saluted {H1288} him, and said {H559} to him, Is {H3426} thine heart {H3824} right {H3477}, as my heart {H3824} is with thy heart {H3824}? And Jehonadab {H3082} answered {H559}, It is {H3426}. If it be, give {H5414} me thine hand {H3027}. And he gave {H5414} him his hand {H3027}; and he took him up {H5927} to him into the chariot {H4818}.

Complete Jewish Bible

On leaving there, he happened upon Y'honadav the son of Rekhav coming toward him. He greeted him and said to him, "Are you wholeheartedly with me, as I am with you?" "Yes," answered Y'honadav. "If so, give me your hand." He gave him his hand, and Yehu took him up into the chariot.

Berean Standard Bible

When he left there, he found Jehonadab son of Rechab, who was coming to meet him. Jehu greeted him and asked, “Is your heart as true to mine as my heart is to yours?” “It is!” Jehonadab replied. “If it is,” said Jehu, “give me your hand.” So he gave him his hand, and Jehu helped him into his chariot,

American Standard Version

And when he was departed thence, he lighted on Jehonadab the son of Rechab coming to meet him; and he saluted him, and said to him, Is thy heart right, as my heart is with thy heart? And Jehonadab answered, It is. If it be, give me thy hand. And he gave him his hand; and he took him up to him into the chariot.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
In 2 Kings 10:15, following his divinely mandated purge of the house of Ahab and the prophets of Baal, Jehu encounters Jehonadab, the son of Rechab. This pivotal meeting serves to solidify Jehu's mission by bringing him into alliance with a man renowned for his unwavering integrity and devotion to God's ways, symbolizing a shared commitment to righteousness and the eradication of idolatry from Israel. Jehu's direct inquiry about Jehonadab's "heart" reveals his desire for a spiritual and moral alignment, which Jehonadab affirms by joining him in his chariot, signifying a powerful partnership in God's redemptive judgment.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically placed within the narrative of Jehu's violent but divinely sanctioned purge of the Omride dynasty and Baal worship in Israel. Having executed King Joram, King Ahaziah, and Jezebel, and massacred the seventy sons of Ahab in Samaria, Jehu is now on his way to complete the eradication of Baal's prophets. The encounter with Jehonadab occurs as Jehu is traveling from Samaria towards the temple of Baal, setting the stage for the final, decisive act of his mission described in [2 Kings 10:18-28](/2_kings/10-18 "2 Kings 10:18-28 - Jehu's Deception and Slaughter of Baal Worshippers"). This meeting is not merely incidental but highlights Jehu's desire for legitimate, God-fearing support for his zealous undertaking.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The period of Jehu's reign (c. 841–814 BC) was marked by deep religious apostasy in Israel, largely due to the influence of King Ahab and his Phoenician wife, Jezebel, who aggressively promoted Baal worship (as seen in [1 Kings 16:31-33](/1_kings/16-31 "1 Kings 16:31-33 - Ahab's Introduction of Baal Worship")). Jehu was anointed by a prophet of Elisha specifically to destroy the house of Ahab and eradicate Baalism ([2 Kings 9:1-10](/2_kings/9-10 "2 Kings 9:1-10 - Jehu Anointed King")). Jehonadab, the son of Rechab, represents a counter-cultural movement. The Rechabites were a nomadic clan known for their strict adherence to the commands of their ancestor Rechab, which included abstaining from wine, not planting vineyards, not building houses, and living in tents ([Jeremiah 35:6-10](/jeremiah/35-6 "Jeremiah 35:6-10 - The Rechabites' Obedience")). Their ascetic lifestyle and unwavering faithfulness to their ancestral vows made them symbols of moral purity and devotion to Yahweh in a time of widespread syncretism and idolatry. Jehonadab's reputation for integrity would have been widely known, making him an ideal, untainted ally for Jehu's mission.
* **Key Themes:** This encounter underscores several key themes. Firstly, it highlights the theme of **Divine Providence and Partnership**, demonstrating how God orchestrates meetings between individuals of like mind to accomplish His purposes. Jehu, though flawed, was an instrument of God's judgment, and Jehonadab represented unwavering fidelity. Secondly, the theme of **Alignment of Heart and Purpose** is central. Jehu's direct question, "Is thine heart right, as my heart is with thy heart?" reveals his search for genuine spiritual and moral solidarity, not just political expediency. He sought someone whose inner being—their intellect, will, and conscience—was aligned with God's righteous judgment and his own zealous mission, as further emphasized by Jehu's declaration of his [zeal for the Lord](/2_kings/10-16 "2 Kings 10:16 - Jehu's Zeal for the Lord"). Thirdly, it emphasizes **Integrity and Faithfulness**. Jehonadab's simple "It is" and his immediate willingness to join Jehu underscore his reputation for unwavering integrity and his conviction that Jehu's actions were indeed in line with God's will, demonstrating his own faithfulness to Yahweh, even in a time of national apostasy. This alliance speaks to the power of [walking together in agreement](/amos/3-3 "Amos 3:3 - Can Two Walk Together Unless They Agree?").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Heart (Hebrew, _lēv_):** In biblical anthropology, the "heart" is far more than just the seat of emotions; it encompasses the totality of the inner person—the mind, will, intellect, conscience, and moral character. When Jehu asks, "Is thine heart right, as my heart is with thy heart?", he is inquiring about Jehonadab's fundamental disposition, his core convictions, his allegiance, and his moral alignment with God's will and Jehu's mission. It is a profound question about spiritual and ethical solidarity.
* **Hand (Hebrew, _yād_):** The gesture "give me thine hand" (Hebrew: _natan yad_) is a significant act in ancient Near Eastern culture. It signifies a pledge, an agreement, a covenant, or an act of fellowship and loyalty. It is a physical manifestation of a verbal commitment, solidifying an alliance or partnership. Jehonadab's giving of his hand and Jehu's taking him into the chariot is a public declaration of their shared purpose and mutual trust.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And when he was departed thence, he lighted on Jehonadab the son of Rechab [coming] to meet him:"** This phrase establishes the setting and the seemingly providential nature of the encounter. Jehu is on his way from Samaria, having completed the initial phase of his purge, and Jehonadab is specifically "coming to meet him," suggesting a pre-arranged or divinely guided rendezvous rather than a chance meeting. Jehonadab's proactive approach indicates his awareness of Jehu's mission and his willingness to participate.
* **"and he saluted him, and said to him, Is thine heart right, as my heart [is] with thy heart?"** Jehu initiates the conversation with a greeting, followed by a direct and penetrating question. This is not a superficial inquiry but a profound test of Jehonadab's spiritual and moral alignment. Jehu seeks to know if Jehonadab's inner core—his loyalty, intentions, and commitment to Yahweh—is in full accord with Jehu's own zealous, God-ordained mission to cleanse Israel of idolatry. The emphasis is on internal integrity and shared conviction.
* **"And Jehonadab answered, It is."** Jehonadab's response is terse, unequivocal, and confident. His simple "It is" affirms his complete agreement and solidarity with Jehu's spiritual and moral stance. This brevity underscores his reputation for integrity and straightforwardness; there is no hesitation or equivocation.
* **"If it be, give [me] thine hand. And he gave [him] his hand; and he took him up to him into the chariot."** Jehu's immediate request for Jehonadab's hand is a call for a tangible pledge of commitment and alliance. Jehonadab's immediate compliance, giving his hand, signifies his full acceptance of the partnership. Jehu then taking him into the chariot is a public act of endorsement and inclusion. The chariot, Jehu's mobile command center, symbolizes power, authority, and the swift execution of his mission. Jehonadab's presence in it publicly aligns him with Jehu's cause and indicates his active participation in the subsequent events.

#### Literary Devices
The passage effectively employs **Dialogue** to reveal character and establish a crucial alliance. Jehu's direct question and Jehonadab's concise answer immediately convey their respective dispositions and the nature of their shared purpose. The **Symbolism** of the "heart" (representing inner character and alignment) and the "hand" (representing covenant and commitment) are central to the interaction, transforming a simple greeting into a profound spiritual and practical agreement. Furthermore, the act of Jehonadab entering Jehu's chariot carries significant **Symbolism**, indicating not just physical proximity but a public declaration of solidarity, shared authority, and active participation in Jehu's mission of judgment and purification. This moment also serves as a **Foreshadowing** of Jehonadab's presence and tacit approval in the subsequent, more violent phase of Jehu's purge against Baal worship.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This encounter between Jehu and Jehonadab highlights the divine principle of seeking out and aligning with those whose hearts are genuinely committed to God's truth and purposes. In a time of widespread apostasy, God raises up individuals—even those with differing methods or backgrounds—who share a zeal for His righteousness. Jehu, a divinely appointed agent of judgment, recognizes the value of Jehonadab's unblemished integrity and unwavering faithfulness to God's commands, finding in him a vital partner whose moral authority lends credibility to his violent purge. This partnership underscores that true spiritual alignment is not merely about outward actions but about the inner disposition of the heart, a heart "right" with God. It also speaks to the importance of discerning genuine spiritual allies in the pursuit of God's will, emphasizing that shared conviction and a pure motive are foundational for effective partnership in divine endeavors.

* [Psalm 78:37](/psalms/78-37 "Their Heart Was Not Right with Him")
* [Proverbs 16:9](/proverbs/16-9 "The Lord Directs Our Steps")
* [1 Corinthians 1:10](/1_corinthians/1-10 "Unity in Christ")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The meeting between Jehu and Jehonadab offers profound lessons for believers today regarding the nature of spiritual partnership and the importance of integrity. In a world often characterized by compromise and shifting allegiances, Jehu's direct question, "Is thine heart right, as my heart is with thy heart?" challenges us to examine our own inner disposition and to seek out relationships—whether in ministry, fellowship, or personal life—that are founded on genuine spiritual alignment and a shared commitment to God's truth. It reminds us that true effectiveness in God's kingdom often comes through intentional, Spirit-led alliances with those whose core values and devotion mirror our own, fostering mutual encouragement and accountability. This passage calls us to be people of unwavering integrity, like Jehonadab, whose reputation for faithfulness precedes them, making them trustworthy partners in God's work. It also encourages us to be discerning, ensuring that our associations are with those whose hearts are truly "right" with God, enabling us to walk together in unity and purpose for His glory.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Jehu's question, "Is thine heart right, as my heart is with thy heart?", challenge your understanding of true spiritual partnership?**
* **In what areas of your life are you seeking to align your heart more fully with God's purposes, and how might this influence your relationships?**
* **What does Jehonadab's simple "It is" teach us about integrity and commitment in the face of significant challenges?**
* **How can you, like Jehu, actively seek out and affirm those whose hearts are "right" with God, fostering stronger, more purposeful fellowship?**

### FAQ
**Who were the Rechabites, and why was Jehonadab's association with Jehu significant?**

Answer: The Rechabites were a nomadic clan in ancient Israel, known for their strict adherence to a set of ancestral vows laid down by their forefather, Rechab. These vows included abstaining from wine, not planting vineyards, not building houses, and living in tents. This lifestyle, detailed in [Jeremiah 35:6-10](/jeremiah/35-6 "Jeremiah 35:6-10 - The Rechabites' Obedience to Their Ancestor"), set them apart as a group committed to purity, simplicity, and unwavering faithfulness to their traditions, which were implicitly tied to a devotion to Yahweh. Jehonadab, as their leader, embodied this integrity. His association with Jehu was highly significant because Jehu, though divinely appointed to execute judgment against the idolatrous house of Ahab and Baal worship, was himself a man of violent means. By securing Jehonadab's public endorsement and partnership, Jehu gained a crucial symbol of moral legitimacy and spiritual purity for his mission. Jehonadab's presence in Jehu's chariot signaled to all that Jehu's actions, though extreme, were aligned with the will of God and supported by those known for their uncompromised devotion to Yahweh. It was a powerful statement of shared conviction in the fight against apostasy.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Jehu's mission was one of earthly judgment and the eradication of physical idolatry, the encounter with Jehonadab foreshadows the profound spiritual alignment and partnership called for in the kingdom of God, ultimately fulfilled in Christ. Jesus, the true King and Righteous Judge, does not merely seek outward conformity but a heart fully surrendered to God ([Matthew 12:34](/matthew/12-34 "Matthew 12:34 - Out of the Abundance of the Heart")). His call for discipleship is an invitation to a radical alignment of heart and purpose with His own divine mission to redeem humanity and establish His spiritual kingdom. Just as Jehu sought a partner whose "heart was right," Christ seeks those whose hearts are transformed by the Holy Spirit, ready to bear fruit and abide in Him ([John 15:5](/john/15-5 "John 15:5 - Abiding in Christ")). The act of Jehonadab joining Jehu in the chariot can be seen as a shadow of believers being "taken up" into partnership with Christ, sharing in His mission and His authority, not through physical violence but through spiritual warfare against sin and darkness. Our "hand" given to Christ signifies a covenant of faith, loyalty, and active participation in His work, ensuring that we are not unequally yoked with the world but walk in unity with Him and fellow believers, as [2 Corinthians 6:14](/2_corinthians/6-14 "2 Corinthians 6:14 - Do Not Be Unequally Yoked with Unbelievers") encourages. Ultimately, Christ's return will be as the ultimate righteous judge, [riding forth to execute judgment and establish His eternal reign](/revelation/19-11 "Revelation 19:11 - Christ the Righteous Judge"), and those whose hearts are truly "right" with Him will reign with Him.

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

Jeremiah 35:14

The words of Jonadab the son of Rechab, that he commanded his sons not to drink wine, are performed; for unto this day they drink none, but obey their father's commandment: notwithstanding I have spoken unto you, rising early and speaking; but ye hearkened not unto me.

Jeremiah 35:19

Therefore thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; Jonadab the son of Rechab shall not want a man to stand before me for ever.

1 Chronicles 2:55

And the families of the scribes which dwelt at Jabez; the Tirathites, the Shimeathites, [and] Suchathites. These [are] the Kenites that came of Hemath, the father of the house of Rechab.

Ezra 10:19

And they gave their hands that they would put away their wives; and [being] guilty, [they offered] a ram of the flock for their trespass.

Ezekiel 17:18

Seeing he despised the oath by breaking the covenant, when, lo, he had given his hand, and hath done all these [things], he shall not escape.

1 Chronicles 12:17

And David went out to meet them, and answered and said unto them, If ye be come peaceably unto me to help me, mine heart shall be knit unto you: but if [ye be come] to betray me to mine enemies, seeing [there is] no wrong in mine hands, the God of our fathers look [thereon], and rebuke [it].

1 Chronicles 12:18

Then the spirit came upon Amasai, [who was] chief of the captains, [and he said], Thine [are we], David, and on thy side, thou son of Jesse: peace, peace [be] unto thee, and peace [be] to thine helpers; for thy God helpeth thee. Then David received them, and made them captains of the band.