2 Kings 14:10

KJV

Thou hast indeed smitten Edom, and thine heart hath lifted thee up: glory [of this], and tarry at home: for why shouldest thou meddle to [thy] hurt, that thou shouldest fall, [even] thou, and Judah with thee?

KJV (with Strong's)

Thou hast indeed {H5221} smitten {H5221} Edom {H123}, and thine heart {H3820} hath lifted thee up {H5375}: glory {H3513} of this, and tarry {H3427} at home {H1004}: for why shouldest thou meddle {H1624} to thy hurt {H7451}, that thou shouldest fall {H5307}, even thou, and Judah {H3063} with thee?

Complete Jewish Bible

True, you have defeated Edom, and now you're ambitious. So enjoy the glory, but stay home! Why provoke calamity, to your own ruin, yours and Y'hudah's too?"

Berean Standard Bible

You have indeed defeated Edom, and your heart has become proud. Glory in that and stay at home. Why should you stir up trouble so that you fall—you and Judah with you?”

American Standard Version

Thou hast indeed smitten Edom, and thy heart hath lifted thee up: glory thereof, and abide at home; for why shouldest thou meddle to thy hurt, that thou shouldest fall, even thou, and Judah with thee?

Commentary

### SUMMARY
In 2 Kings 14:10, King Jehoash of Israel delivers a sharp, cautionary rebuke to King Amaziah of Judah. Amaziah, recently victorious over Edom, had allowed his heart to be "lifted up" in pride, prompting him to foolishly challenge Israel to war. Jehoash, recognizing the self-destructive nature of such hubris, advises Amaziah to be content with his current glory and remain at home, warning that further "meddling" would only lead to the catastrophic downfall of both Amaziah himself and the entire kingdom of Judah. This verse serves as a potent biblical warning against the perils of arrogance and the wisdom of discerning restraint.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is a direct and pivotal response within a significant exchange between the kings of Judah and Israel. Immediately preceding this, King Amaziah of Judah had achieved a decisive victory over Edom in the Valley of Salt, slaying ten thousand men and capturing Sela (later renamed Joktheel), as recorded in [2 Kings 14:7](/2_kings/14-7 "2 Kings 14:7 - Amaziah's Victory Over Edom"). Emboldened by this success, Amaziah sends a challenge to Jehoash, King of Israel, saying, "Come, let us look one another in the face" ([2 Kings 14:8](/2_kings/14-8 "2 Kings 14:8 - Amaziah Challenges Jehoash")). Jehoash responds with a parable of a thistle and a cedar, illustrating the folly of Amaziah's challenge and warning him against self-exaltation ([2 Kings 14:9](/2_kings/14-9 "2 Kings 14:9 - Jehoash's Parable to Amaziah")). Our verse, [2 Kings 14:10](/2_kings/14-10 "2 Kings 14:10 - Jehoash's Warning to Amaziah"), then directly interprets that parable, explicitly stating the danger Amaziah faces due to his pride. The narrative continues to describe Amaziah's refusal to heed this warning, leading to the predicted defeat of Judah at Beth-shemesh and the subsequent plundering of Jerusalem ([2 Kings 14:11-14](/2_kings/14-11 "2 Kings 14:11-14 - Judah's Defeat and Jerusalem Plundered")).
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The period of the divided monarchy (Israel in the North, Judah in the South) was often marked by political tension, occasional warfare, and shifting alliances. While both kingdoms shared a common heritage, their relationship was frequently strained. Amaziah's victory over Edom was a significant achievement, reclaiming territory and asserting Judah's power, which likely fueled his ambition. Edom, a long-standing rival and descendant of Esau, had often been a thorn in Judah's side, and this victory would have been a source of national pride. The challenge to "look one another in the face" was a formal declaration of war, inviting a direct confrontation. Jehoash's response reflects an understanding of the precarious balance of power and the devastating consequences of inter-Israelite conflict, particularly when initiated by hubris rather than necessity. The cultural context would have understood the concept of "lifting up the heart" as a clear sign of pride and arrogance, a theme prevalent in ancient Near Eastern wisdom literature and throughout the Old Testament.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within [2 Kings](/2_kings/1 "The Book of 2 Kings") and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it highlights the destructive nature of **pride and hubris**, directly linking Amaziah's "lifted up" heart to his impending downfall. This echoes the consistent biblical warning that "Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall" ([Proverbs 16:18](/proverbs/16-18 "Proverbs 16:18 - Pride Before a Fall")). Secondly, it underscores the **consequences of folly and reckless decision-making**, particularly for leaders whose choices impact an entire nation. Jehoash explicitly warns that Amaziah's "meddling" will lead to "hurt" and the fall of "Judah with thee," demonstrating the ripple effect of a leader's sin. Thirdly, the verse contrasts **wisdom and discernment** with impulsivity. Jehoash's counsel to "glory [of this], and tarry at home" is a plea for strategic restraint and contentment, advocating for peace over unnecessary conflict driven by ego. This aligns with the wisdom tradition that values prudence and foresight in governance, as seen in passages like [Proverbs 20:18](/proverbs/20-18 "Proverbs 20:18 - Plans Established by Counsel").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Heart (Hebrew, _levav'_):** In biblical anthropology, the "heart" is not merely the seat of emotions but the core of a person's being—their intellect, will, and moral character. When Amaziah's "heart hath lifted thee up," it signifies a profound internal shift, an elevation of self-importance and arrogance that has taken root in his very essence, influencing his judgment and actions. This is a spiritual condition of pride.
* **Lifted thee up (Hebrew, _nasa'_):** The verb _nasa'_ means to lift, carry, or exalt. Here, in the Hithpael stem, it implies a reflexive action: "to lift oneself up" or "to be exalted." This is a strong indicator of self-exaltation, a dangerous form of pride where one attributes success to oneself rather than to divine favor, leading to an inflated sense of capability and invincibility.
* **Meddle (Hebrew, _garah'_):** The verb _garah'_ means to stir up, provoke, contend, or engage in strife. In this context, it refers to Amaziah's act of initiating an unnecessary conflict or provoking a fight. Jehoash's use of this word highlights the aggressive and unwarranted nature of Amaziah's challenge, emphasizing that it is not a defensive or divinely sanctioned war but a self-initiated provocation.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Thou hast indeed smitten Edom, and thine heart hath lifted thee up:"** Jehoash acknowledges Amaziah's recent military success against Edom, validating his achievement. However, this acknowledgment immediately pivots to the core issue: Amaziah's internal response to that victory. The phrase "thine heart hath lifted thee up" directly diagnoses Amaziah's spiritual malady—pride and arrogance, which have distorted his judgment and fueled his ambition beyond what is wise or necessary.
* **"glory [of this], and tarry at home:"** This is Jehoash's direct counsel and command. "Glory [of this]" advises Amaziah to be content with the honor and reputation gained from his victory over Edom. There is no need for further conquest or validation. "Tarry at home" is a pragmatic instruction to remain in Judah, avoid unnecessary conflict, and consolidate his gains rather than seeking further, dangerous engagements. It is a call for peace and strategic restraint.
* **"for why shouldest thou meddle to [thy] hurt, that thou shouldest fall, [even] thou, and Judah with thee?"** This rhetorical question serves as a stark warning, articulating the inevitable and devastating consequences of Amaziah's prideful challenge. "Why shouldest thou meddle to [thy] hurt" directly questions the wisdom of provoking a conflict that will only result in self-inflicted harm or injury. The climax of the warning is the prediction of a catastrophic "fall," emphasizing that this defeat will not be limited to Amaziah alone but will tragically encompass "Judah with thee," highlighting the leader's responsibility for the well-being of his entire nation.

#### Literary Devices
Jehoash's response in [2 Kings 14:10](/2_kings/14-10 "2 Kings 14:10 - Jehoash's Warning to Amaziah") is rich with literary devices that amplify its cautionary message. The most prominent is **Apostrophe**, a direct address to Amaziah, making the warning personal and immediate. The phrase "thine heart hath lifted thee up" is a powerful example of **Metonymy**, where "heart" stands for the entire inner person, emphasizing the internal source of Amaziah's pride. Jehoash employs a **Rhetorical Question** ("for why shouldest thou meddle to [thy] hurt...?") not to solicit an answer, but to underscore the utter folly and self-destructive nature of Amaziah's proposed action, making the negative consequences seem self-evident. There is also an element of **Irony**, as Amaziah's pursuit of further glory, stemming from his recent victory, is precisely what will lead to his downfall and humiliation. Finally, the verse functions as a concise piece of **Proverbial Wisdom**, encapsulating a timeless truth about the dangers of pride and the prudence of knowing when to exercise restraint, echoing the broader wisdom tradition found in books like [Proverbs](/proverbs/1 "The Book of Proverbs").

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The warning in [2 Kings 14:10](/2_kings/14-10 "2 Kings 14:10 - Jehoash's Warning to Amaziah") resonates deeply with the biblical understanding of human nature and divine sovereignty. Amaziah's pride, a common human failing, is presented as a direct threat to his well-being and the stability of his kingdom. The narrative consistently shows that God opposes the proud and gives grace to the humble, and that human ambition, when untethered from divine wisdom and humility, inevitably leads to destruction. This verse serves as a microcosm of the larger biblical narrative where self-exaltation is contrasted with reliance on God, and where true strength is found not in worldly power or boasting, but in righteous living and discerning leadership guided by spiritual principles. The consequences of Amaziah's actions are not merely political but demonstrate a spiritual principle: a heart lifted up in pride invites a fall.

* [Proverbs 16:18](/proverbs/16-18 "Proverbs 16:18 - Pride Before a Fall")
* [James 4:6](/james/4-6 "James 4:6 - God Opposes the Proud")
* [Daniel 4:30-31](/daniel/4-30 "Daniel 4:30-31 - Nebuchadnezzar's Pride and Humiliation")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
[2 Kings 14:10](/2_kings/14-10 "2 Kings 14:10 - Jehoash's Warning to Amaziah") offers profound wisdom applicable to individuals and leaders across all generations. It serves as a potent reminder that success, whether personal, professional, or spiritual, carries with it the insidious danger of pride. When our "heart is lifted up," we become vulnerable to making rash decisions, overestimating our own capabilities, and underestimating potential risks. True wisdom lies not in constantly seeking more glory or conflict, but in discerning when to be content, when to consolidate gains, and when to exercise restraint. For leaders, this verse is a sobering call to consider the broader impact of their decisions. Amaziah's folly threatened "Judah with thee," illustrating that a leader's pride can have devastating consequences for those under their care. We are called to humility, recognizing that all true success comes from God, and to prioritize peace and the well-being of others over vain glory or personal ambition.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life might success or achievement be subtly "lifting up my heart" to pride?**
* **How can I cultivate a spirit of humility and contentment, even in moments of triumph?**
* **What unnecessary "meddling" or conflicts, driven by ego, might I be tempted to engage in, and what are the potential "hurts" for myself and those around me?**
* **As a leader (in family, work, or ministry), how do my decisions reflect either a humble reliance on God or a dangerous self-exaltation?**

### FAQ
**What was the relationship between Judah and Israel at this time?**

Answer: At this point in history, Judah (the southern kingdom, ruled by Amaziah) and Israel (the northern kingdom, ruled by Jehoash) were distinct political entities, having split after the reign of Solomon ([1 Kings 12](/1_kings/12 "1 Kings 12 - The Division of the Kingdom")). While they shared a common heritage, their relationship was often characterized by rivalry, occasional conflict, and shifting alliances. Jehoash's warning to Amaziah in [2 Kings 14:10](/2_kings/14-10 "2 Kings 14:10 - Jehoash's Warning to Amaziah") highlights this tension, as he seeks to avert a destructive war between the two brother nations, a conflict that ultimately proved devastating for Judah.

**Why was Amaziah's victory over Edom significant?**

Answer: Amaziah's victory over Edom, specifically in the Valley of Salt, was historically and strategically significant. Edom, located southeast of Judah, was a long-standing adversary and a descendant of Esau, Jacob's brother. Control over Edom often meant control over important trade routes, particularly those leading to the Red Sea. The victory, described in [2 Kings 14:7](/2_kings/14-7 "2 Kings 14:7 - Amaziah's Victory Over Edom"), reasserted Judah's dominance over a traditional foe and would have been a major boost to national morale and Amaziah's prestige. However, this success unfortunately fueled his pride, leading him to make the ill-advised challenge to Israel.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The narrative of Amaziah's pride and fall in [2 Kings 14:10](/2_kings/14-10 "2 Kings 14:10 - Jehoash's Warning to Amaziah") finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in the stark contrast between human hubris and divine humility. Amaziah's heart was "lifted up" by earthly victory, leading him to self-destruction. In profound opposition, Jesus Christ, though "in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men" ([Philippians 2:6-7](/philippians/2-6 "Philippians 2:6-7 - Christ's Humility")). He did not "glory" in worldly conquests or "meddle" in human affairs to His own gain, but rather, in ultimate humility, He submitted to the Father's will, even to the point of death on a cross ([Philippians 2:8](/philippians/2-8 "Philippians 2:8 - Christ's Obedience to Death")). Where Amaziah's pride led to his own fall and the fall of Judah, Christ's humility led to His exaltation and the salvation of all who believe ([Philippians 2:9-11](/philippians/2-9 "Philippians 2:9-11 - Christ's Exaltation")). He is the true King who did not seek earthly glory but offered Himself as the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), demonstrating that true victory and lasting glory are found not in self-exaltation, but in self-sacrificial love and obedience to God, establishing a kingdom that will never fall ([Daniel 7:14](/daniel/7-14 "The Everlasting Kingdom")).

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

Deuteronomy 8:14

Then thine heart be lifted up, and thou forget the LORD thy God, which brought thee forth out of the land of Egypt, from the house of bondage;

2 Chronicles 26:16

¶ But when he was strong, his heart was lifted up to [his] destruction: for he transgressed against the LORD his God, and went into the temple of the LORD to burn incense upon the altar of incense.

2 Chronicles 32:25

But Hezekiah rendered not again according to the benefit [done] unto him; for his heart was lifted up: therefore there was wrath upon him, and upon Judah and Jerusalem.

Proverbs 20:3

¶ [It is] an honour for a man to cease from strife: but every fool will be meddling.

Proverbs 15:18

¶ A wrathful man stirreth up strife: but [he that is] slow to anger appeaseth strife.

Proverbs 16:18

¶ Pride [goeth] before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall.

Proverbs 3:30

Strive not with a man without cause, if he have done thee no harm.