2 Kings 10:34

KJV

Now the rest of the acts of Jehu, and all that he did, and all his might, [are] they not written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Israel?

KJV (with Strong's)

Now the rest {H3499} of the acts {H1697} of Jehu {H3058}, and all that he did {H6213}, and all his might {H1369}, are they not written {H3789} in the book {H5612} of the chronicles {H1697}{H3117} of the kings {H4428} of Israel {H3478}?

Complete Jewish Bible

Other activities of Yehu, all his accomplishments and all his power are recorded in the Annals of the Kings of Isra'el.

Berean Standard Bible

As for the rest of the acts of Jehu, along with all his accomplishments and all his might, are they not written in the Book of the Chronicles of the Kings of Israel?

American Standard Version

Now the rest of the acts of Jehu, and all that he did, and all his might, are they not written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Israel?

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Second Kings 10:34 functions as a standard concluding formula for the reign of King Jehu, a consistent literary device employed throughout the Books of Kings. This verse marks the end of the biblical narrative's summary of his rule and directs the reader to external, non-canonical historical records for a more exhaustive account of his "acts" and "might." It profoundly underscores the selective yet divinely purposeful nature of biblical history, prioritizing theological and moral lessons over comprehensive historical documentation.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse serves as the concluding summary for the detailed account of Jehu's reign, which commenced in [2 Kings 9](/2_kings/9 "2 Kings 9 - Jehu Anointed and Purges Ahab's House") with his anointing by a prophet sent by Elisha, followed by his swift and brutal purge of the house of Ahab, Jezebel, and the prophets of Baal in [2 Kings 10](/2_kings/10 "2 Kings 10 - Jehu's Purge and Partial Obedience"). The summary formula, "Now the rest of the acts of [King's Name]... are they not written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Israel/Judah?", is a pervasive literary feature found at the conclusion of nearly every king's narrative in 1 and 2 Kings. This formula provides a consistent structural rhythm, facilitates the transition between reigns, and implicitly acknowledges that the biblical text is a divinely curated selection of events, not an exhaustive historical record, pointing to external sources for further details. This particular verse follows the theological assessment of Jehu's reign, noting his significant failure to depart from the idolatrous sins of Jeroboam, despite his zeal for the Lord in purging Baal worship ([2 Kings 10:29-31](/2_kings/10-29-31 "2 Kings 10:29-31 - Jehu's Partial Obedience")).
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Jehu's reign (c. 841-814 BC) represented a dramatic and violent turning point in the history of the Northern Kingdom of Israel. He was divinely commissioned to execute God's severe judgment against the deeply entrenched idolatry of the Omride dynasty and the pervasive Baal worship introduced by Jezebel. His coup was exceptionally brutal, involving the systematic extermination of Ahab's seventy sons, the entire household of Ahab, and the prophets and worshippers of Baal ([2 Kings 10:1-28](/2_kings/10-1-28 "2 Kings 10:1-28 - Jehu's Bloody Purge")). Such violent regime changes, often accompanied by purges of the previous ruling elite, were not uncommon in the turbulent political landscape of the ancient Near East. The reference to "the book of the chronicles of the kings of Israel" points to official state annals or court records, which were meticulously kept by royal scribes in ancient kingdoms. These records documented daily events, royal decrees, military campaigns, and administrative matters, serving as primary historical sources that the biblical authors consulted and then interpreted through a distinct theological lens. It is crucial to differentiate these ancient state chronicles from the biblical books of 1 and 2 Chronicles, which were compiled much later (post-exile) with a different theological purpose, focusing on the Davidic covenant and temple worship.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the Books of Kings and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it highlights the **selective nature of Scripture**, emphasizing that the Bible's primary purpose is theological revelation and spiritual formation rather than comprehensive historical documentation. While it affirms the historicity of events by referencing external records, it prioritizes spiritual lessons, divine judgment, and covenant faithfulness. Secondly, it underscores the theme of **divine sovereignty and human accountability**, subtly suggesting that all human actions, especially those of leaders, are recorded and will ultimately be accounted for, both in human annals and before the divine tribunal. Jehu, despite his pivotal role in executing God's judgment, was still assessed by divine standards, particularly concerning his partial obedience to the Law of the Lord, as noted in [2 Kings 10:31](/2_kings/10-31 "2 Kings 10:31 - Jehu's Partial Obedience"). Lastly, it reinforces the concept of **God's meticulous record-keeping** and His overarching control over history, where even seemingly mundane details are part of His grand design and will be brought to light in His perfect timing.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **acts (Hebrew, _dâbâr'_):** This versatile Hebrew term (H1697), often translated as "word," "thing," or "matter," in this context specifically refers to the deeds, affairs, or significant events that characterized Jehu's reign. It encompasses his public life, administrative decisions, military campaigns, and the various undertakings he initiated or was involved in as king. It implies a comprehensive record of his governmental actions and public engagements.
* **might (Hebrew, _gᵉbûwrâh'_):** This term (H1369) denotes strength, power, valor, or significant achievements. When applied to a king, it typically refers to his military prowess, the inherent strength of his rule, his political influence, or any notable feats of power, such as successful campaigns, the forceful execution of his agenda, or the establishment of his authority. In Jehu's case, it would certainly include the decisive and violent manner in which he carried out the purge of the house of Ahab and the Baal worshippers, demonstrating his formidable power.
* **book (Hebrew, _çêpher'_):** This word (H5612) literally means "writing" or "document," and by implication, a "book" or "scroll." In the phrase "book of the chronicles," it refers to the official state annals or court records maintained by royal scribes. These were detailed, chronological accounts of events, decrees, and significant occurrences during a king's reign (literally "words of the days," from H1697 _dâbâr_ and H3117 _yôwm_). They served as the primary historical documentation for the kingdom, distinct from the biblical narrative which drew upon them but had a different, theological purpose.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Now the rest of the acts of Jehu, and all that he did, and all his might":** This opening clause functions as a standard literary marker, signaling the conclusion of the biblical narrative's summary of Jehu's reign. It explicitly states that the preceding account is not exhaustive but rather a selective overview. The comprehensive phrase "the rest of the acts...all that he did, and all his might" indicates that there were many more details, events, and demonstrations of power during Jehu's rule than the biblical text chooses to record. It acknowledges the fullness of his historical tenure while simultaneously preparing the reader for the theological focus of the biblical account.
* **"[are] they not written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Israel?":** This rhetorical question expects an affirmative answer, serving to confirm the existence and accessibility (at the time of writing) of more detailed historical records. It directs the reader to these external, non-biblical archives for further information. By doing so, the biblical author validates the historical grounding of the narrative while simultaneously asserting the unique, divinely inspired purpose of the biblical text, which is not merely to provide a comprehensive historical record but to convey specific theological truths and lessons about God's dealings with His people and their kings.

#### Literary Devices
The verse prominently employs **Formulaic Language**, a recurring literary device throughout the Books of Kings. The precise phrasing, "Now the rest of the acts of [King's Name]... are they not written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Israel/Judah?", serves as a consistent structural marker, signaling the end of a king's reign and the transition to the next. This formula provides cohesion and predictability to the narrative flow, reinforcing the historical continuity of the royal succession. Additionally, the verse utilizes a **Rhetorical Question** ("are they not written...?"). This question is not posed to elicit new information but rather to affirm an obvious truth, namely the existence of external historical records. This device lends credibility and verifiability to the biblical account, demonstrating that the biblical authors were aware of and drew upon broader historical documentation, even as they maintained their distinct theological focus and selective presentation of events.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Second Kings 10:34 powerfully reinforces the theological principle that the Bible, while historically grounded, is not an exhaustive historical encyclopedia but a divinely inspired revelation with a specific, redemptive purpose. By pointing to external "chronicles," the text implicitly teaches us that God, in His infinite wisdom, has chosen to reveal to us precisely what is essential for understanding His character, His covenant, and His unfolding plan for humanity. It highlights the profound theme of divine record-keeping and ultimate accountability, reminding us that every king's "acts" and "might" were observed and recorded, ultimately under God's sovereign oversight. This principle extends to all people, underscoring that our lives are lived before an omniscient God, and our deeds, whether public or private, are known to Him and will ultimately be accounted for.

* [Deuteronomy 29:29](/deuteronomy/29-29 "The Secret and Revealed Things of God")
* [John 21:25](/john/21-25 "The Abundance of Jesus' Deeds")
* [Revelation 20:12](/revelation/20-12 "The Books of Judgment Opened")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
This seemingly simple concluding verse carries profound implications for our understanding of Scripture and our daily lives. It reminds us that God, in His perfect wisdom, has chosen to reveal to us precisely what we need for faith, godliness, and salvation, not every exhaustive historical or scientific detail. We are called to trust in the sufficiency and authority of His Word, knowing that what is revealed is entirely adequate for our spiritual nourishment and guidance. Furthermore, the concept of "chronicles" and divine record-keeping encourages us to live with a profound sense of accountability. Just as Jehu's "acts" and "might" were noted and preserved, so too are our lives unfolding before the all-seeing eyes of God. This perspective should inspire integrity in our private and public spheres, diligence in our callings, and unwavering faithfulness in our walk with God, knowing that our ultimate audience and righteous judge is the One who meticulously records all things. It challenges us to consider what "acts" and "might" we are demonstrating in our lives that are truly worthy of God's eternal record and His glory.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the Bible's selective nature, as implied by this verse, challenge or affirm your understanding of its purpose and authority in your life?**
* **In what ways does the concept of divine record-keeping, where all "acts" and "might" are noted, impact your daily choices and sense of accountability to God?**
* **What "acts" and "might" in your life are you consciously living out for God's glory, knowing they are observed and eternally recorded by Him?**

### FAQ
**What are "the book of the chronicles of the kings of Israel" mentioned in this verse?**

Answer: "The book of the chronicles of the kings of Israel" (and similarly, "the book of the chronicles of the kings of Judah") refers to official state annals or court records that were meticulously maintained by royal scribes in ancient Israel and Judah. These were detailed, day-by-day accounts of the kings' reigns, including administrative decisions, military campaigns, building projects, and other significant events. They served as primary historical documentation for the kingdoms, providing a comprehensive historical backdrop. It is crucial to understand that these ancient state chronicles are not the same as the biblical books of 1 and 2 Chronicles. While the biblical authors of Kings likely consulted these royal annals as source material, the biblical Books of Chronicles were compiled much later (after the Babylonian exile) and had a distinct theological purpose, focusing on the lineage of David, the temple, and covenant faithfulness. The original "chronicles of the kings of Israel" and Judah are no longer extant, meaning they have been lost to history. Their mention in verses like [2 Kings 10:34](/2_kings/10-34 "The Chronicles of Jehu's Reign") serves to validate the historical basis of the biblical narrative while simultaneously highlighting the Bible's unique, divinely inspired focus on theological truth and redemptive history rather than exhaustive historical detail.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While 2 Kings 10:34 speaks of Jehu's earthly reign and the temporal chronicles of his "acts" and "might," it subtly points to the ultimate King whose reign is eternal and whose "acts" are perfectly recorded and eternally significant: Jesus Christ. Jehu, though divinely appointed to execute judgment, ultimately fell short of full obedience to the Lord, failing to depart from the sins of Jeroboam ([2 Kings 10:29-31](/2_kings/10-29-31 "Jehu's Partial Obedience")). This partiality and imperfection highlight the profound need for a perfect King who would fully embody God's will and fulfill all righteousness. Jesus, the true Son of David and the Messiah, is the King whose "acts" and "might" are not merely recorded in earthly chronicles but are eternally inscribed in the divine record, culminating in His redemptive work. His sinless life, sacrificial death, and glorious resurrection constitute the ultimate "acts" of salvation, far surpassing any earthly king's deeds. Though the Gospel of John acknowledges that not all of Jesus's "acts" could be fully recorded ([John 21:25](/john/21-25 "The Abundance of Jesus' Deeds")), what is written is divinely sufficient for faith and eternal life ([John 20:30-31](/john/20-30-31 "Purpose of John's Gospel")). The theme of divine record-keeping in 2 Kings 10:34 finds its ultimate fulfillment in Christ, who is the righteous Judge before whom all books, including the book of life ([Philippians 4:3](/philippians/4-3 "The Book of Life")), will be opened ([Revelation 20:12](/revelation/20-12 "The Books of Judgment")). Unlike Jehu's temporal and flawed reign, Christ's kingdom is everlasting and characterized by perfect righteousness and justice ([Isaiah 9:6-7](/isaiah/9-6-7 "The Everlasting Kingdom of the Messiah")), ensuring that His "acts" of redemption are the definitive and final record for all eternity.

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

2 Kings 13:8

Now the rest of the acts of Jehoahaz, and all that he did, and his might, [are] they not written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Israel?

1 Kings 14:19

And the rest of the acts of Jeroboam, how he warred, and how he reigned, behold, they [are] written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Israel.

2 Kings 12:19

And the rest of the acts of Joash, and all that he did, [are] they not written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Judah?

1 Kings 14:29

Now the rest of the acts of Rehoboam, and all that he did, [are] they not written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Judah?

1 Kings 11:41

¶ And the rest of the acts of Solomon, and all that he did, and his wisdom, [are] they not written in the book of the acts of Solomon?