2 Kings 14:13

KJV

And Jehoash king of Israel took Amaziah king of Judah, the son of Jehoash the son of Ahaziah, at Bethshemesh, and came to Jerusalem, and brake down the wall of Jerusalem from the gate of Ephraim unto the corner gate, four hundred cubits.

KJV (with Strong's)

And Jehoash {H3060} king {H4428} of Israel {H3478} took {H8610} Amaziah {H558} king {H4428} of Judah {H3063}, the son {H1121} of Jehoash {H3060} the son {H1121} of Ahaziah {H274}, at Bethshemesh {H1053}, and came {H935} to Jerusalem {H3389}, and brake down {H6555} the wall {H2346} of Jerusalem {H3389} from the gate {H8179} of Ephraim {H669} unto the corner {H6438} gate {H8179}, four {H702} hundred {H3967} cubits {H520}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Y'ho'ash king of Isra'el took Amatzyah king of Y'hudah, the son of Y'ho'ash the son of Achazyah, prisoner at Beit-Shemesh. Then he went 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 Ahaziah. Then Jehoash went 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 Jehoash king of Israel took Amaziah king of Judah, the son of Jehoash the son of Ahaziah, at Beth-shemesh, and came to Jerusalem, and brake down the wall of Jerusalem from the gate of Ephraim unto the corner gate, four hundred cubits.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Second Kings 14:13 vividly records the humiliating climax of King Amaziah of Judah's ill-conceived war against King Jehoash of Israel, detailing Amaziah's capture at Bethshemesh and Jehoash's subsequent march on Jerusalem, where he inflicted a significant breach upon the city's formidable walls, a stark demonstration of Israel's dominance and Judah's vulnerability.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately follows the account of the battle between Judah and Israel at Bethshemesh, where Amaziah's forces were utterly routed and he himself was captured ([2 Kings 14:11-12](/2_kings/14-11-12 "2 Kings 14:11-12 - Battle of Bethshemesh")). The preceding verses detail Amaziah's arrogant challenge to Jehoash ([2 Kings 14:8](/2_kings/14-8 "2 Kings 14:8 - Amaziah's Challenge")) and Jehoash's dismissive, yet prophetic, parable warning Amaziah against his pride ([2 Kings 14:9-10](/2_kings/14-9-10 "2 Kings 14:9-10 - Jehoash's Parable")). The narrative in [2 Kings 14](/2_kings/14 "2 Kings 14 - Reign of Amaziah and Jehoash") consistently portrays Amaziah's initial success against Edom ([2 Kings 14:7](/2_kings/14-7 "2 Kings 14:7 - Amaziah's Victory over Edom")) as a prelude to his downfall, directly linking his pride and subsequent idolatry (as elaborated in [2 Chronicles 25:14-16](/2_chronicles/25-14-16 "2 Chronicles 25:14-16 - Amaziah's Idolatry and Divine Judgment")) to the catastrophic defeat at Bethshemesh and the subsequent desecration of Jerusalem's defenses.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The period of the divided monarchy was often characterized by internecine conflict between the Northern Kingdom of Israel and the Southern Kingdom of Judah, despite their shared heritage. Jerusalem, as the capital of Judah and the site of the Temple, held immense religious and political significance, and its walls were its primary defense, symbolizing its security and divine protection. The act of "breaking down the wall" was not merely a military tactic but a profound act of humiliation and subjugation, demonstrating complete dominance over the defeated city. The "Gate of Ephraim" and the "Corner Gate" were significant points along Jerusalem's northern wall, historically a vulnerable sector of the city's defenses, making the 400-cubit (approximately 600 feet or 180 meters) breach a substantial and strategically important act of destruction.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully illustrates several recurring themes within the books of [Kings](/2_kings/1 "2 Kings - The Reigns of Kings of Israel and Judah") and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it underscores the **consequences of pride and arrogance**, particularly in leadership, as Amaziah's overconfidence, fueled by his victory over Edom, directly led to his humiliating defeat and the suffering of his kingdom. Secondly, it highlights the destructive nature of **inter-kingdom strife** between Israel and Judah, demonstrating how internal divisions weakened both nations and left them vulnerable. Thirdly, the breaching of Jerusalem's walls emphasizes the **vulnerability of human defenses** and the temporary nature of earthly security, especially when divine favor is withdrawn due to unfaithfulness. Finally, when read in conjunction with the parallel account in [2 Chronicles 25:20](/2_chronicles/25-20 "2 Chronicles 25:20 - Divine Hand in Amaziah's Defeat"), this event serves as a clear example of **divine discipline and judgment** against a king who turned away from the Lord.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Jehoash (Hebrew, _Yəhōʾāš'_):** This name, meaning "Yahweh has given" or "Yahweh has supported," ironically belongs to the king of Israel, the instrument of Judah's humiliation. His victory over Amaziah, despite Amaziah's initial success against Edom, underscores the shifting allegiances and power dynamics in the divided kingdom, and ultimately, God's sovereign hand in delivering Judah into Israel's hands.
* **Bethshemesh (Hebrew, _Bêṯ Šemeš'_):** Meaning "house of the sun," this city was located in the Shephelah, a strategic border region between Judah and Philistia. Its name might allude to ancient sun worship, though by this period, it primarily served as a significant geographical marker. As the site of the decisive battle, Bethshemesh became synonymous with Judah's catastrophic defeat and Amaziah's capture, marking the beginning of Jerusalem's subsequent subjugation.
* **Brake down (Hebrew, פָּרַץ, _pāraṣ'_):** This verb signifies "to break through," "to burst forth," or "to make a breach." It conveys a forceful, destructive action, indicating not just a minor opening but a significant demolition of the wall. The use of _pāraṣ_ emphasizes the complete and deliberate nature of Jehoash's act, designed to assert dominance, humiliate Judah, and leave Jerusalem exposed and vulnerable.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And Jehoash king of Israel took Amaziah king of Judah, the son of Jehoash the son of Ahaziah, at Bethshemesh":** This clause immediately establishes the victor and the vanquished, highlighting the profound reversal of fortune for Amaziah. His capture by the king of the rival northern kingdom at Bethshemesh, the very site of the battle, signifies a complete and utter defeat, stripping him of his royal dignity and rendering him a prisoner of war. The full lineage provided for Amaziah (son of Jehoash, son of Ahaziah) serves to identify him clearly and perhaps to underscore the historical continuity of the Davidic line, now brought low.
* **"and came to Jerusalem":** Following the capture of Amaziah, Jehoash's march on Jerusalem was a logical and expected next step for a victorious king seeking to consolidate his triumph. This move was not merely about occupying the city but about asserting his authority over Judah's capital, demonstrating his power and the extent of Judah's defeat. It sets the stage for the ultimate act of humiliation.
* **"and brake down the wall of Jerusalem from the gate of Ephraim unto the corner gate, four hundred cubits.":** This final clause details the specific act of desecration and humiliation. The demolition of a significant section of Jerusalem's wall, spanning 400 cubits between two key gates, was a calculated act to dismantle the city's defenses and symbolize Judah's broken power. It left the capital vulnerable and served as a lasting monument to Jehoash's victory and Amaziah's folly, a visible scar on the city's fortifications.

#### Literary Devices
The narrative of 2 Kings 14:13 employs several potent literary devices. **Irony** is prominent, as Amaziah, initially victorious and emboldened by divine help against Edom, succumbs to pride and challenges a weaker foe, only to be utterly defeated and humiliated. His overconfidence, rather than leading to further glory, precipitates his downfall, a classic biblical theme. The act of "breaking down the wall" functions as powerful **Symbolism**, representing not just a physical breach but the shattering of Judah's security, prestige, and perceived divine protection, a direct consequence of Amaziah's unfaithfulness and pride. This event also serves as a subtle **Foreshadowing** of future destructions of Jerusalem, particularly the Babylonian exile, where the city's walls would again be breached, signaling a more profound judgment upon the kingdom. The precise geographical details and measurements lend a sense of historical veracity and emphasize the tangible, devastating impact of this event.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The humiliation of Amaziah and the breaching of Jerusalem's walls in 2 Kings 14:13 resonate deeply with broader theological themes concerning divine sovereignty, the consequences of pride, and the nature of true security. This event serves as a stark reminder that human strength, military prowess, or even past successes are no guarantee of future favor or protection when a leader or nation deviates from God's will. Amaziah's defeat underscores the principle that God often uses seemingly lesser powers (Israel, in this case) to humble the proud and execute His judgment. The vulnerability of Jerusalem's physical defenses, despite its status as the "City of God," highlights that true security lies not in fortifications but in faithful obedience to the Lord.

* [Proverbs 16:18](/proverbs/16-18 "Proverbs 16:18 - Pride before Destruction")
* [Psalm 127:1](/psalm/127-1 "Psalm 127:1 - The Lord Builds the House")
* [2 Chronicles 25:20](/2_chronicles/25-20 "2 Chronicles 25:20 - God's Purpose in Amaziah's Defeat")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The narrative of Amaziah's downfall and Jerusalem's humiliation in 2 Kings 14:13 provides a timeless cautionary tale for individuals and communities alike. It compels us to examine the sources of our confidence and the motivations behind our actions. Amaziah's initial success against Edom, rather than fostering humility and gratitude, inflated his pride, leading him to challenge a rival with whom he had no legitimate quarrel. This serves as a powerful reminder that achievements, wealth, or power can become snares if they lead us away from dependence on God and into self-reliance or arrogance. True wisdom involves discerning God's will, heeding wise counsel (even from unexpected sources), and recognizing that our ultimate security and strength come from Him alone, not from our own might or the strength of our "walls." The vulnerability of Jerusalem's physical defenses, despite its spiritual significance, teaches us that no earthly protection is absolute, and our ultimate trust must be placed in the Lord, who is our true refuge and strength.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life might I be susceptible to pride, especially after a season of success or achievement?**
* **How do I respond to counsel or warnings that challenge my own plans or perceptions, particularly when they come from unexpected or seemingly "weaker" sources?**
* **What "walls" or sources of security do I tend to rely on more than God, and how might I shift my trust more fully to Him?**
* **How does Amaziah's story encourage me to cultivate humility and a spirit of dependence on God in all circumstances?**

### FAQ
**Why did Amaziah challenge Jehoash, and what was the significance of the battle at Bethshemesh?**

Answer: Amaziah, having recently achieved a decisive victory over Edom ([2 Kings 14:7](/2_kings/14-7 "2 Kings 14:7 - Amaziah's Victory over Edom")), became arrogant and overconfident. He initiated the challenge to Jehoash, king of Israel, perhaps seeking to reassert Judah's dominance over the northern kingdom or to avenge past grievances. The battle at Bethshemesh was highly significant because it resulted in a catastrophic defeat for Judah, with Amaziah himself being captured ([2 Kings 14:12](/2_kings/14-12 "2 Kings 14:12 - Amaziah's Capture")). This outcome was seen as divine judgment for Amaziah's pride and his turning to idolatry after his Edomite victory ([2 Chronicles 25:14-16](/2_chronicles/25-14-16 "2 Chronicles 25:14-16 - Amaziah's Idolatry and Divine Judgment")).

**What was the symbolic and practical significance of Jehoash breaking down Jerusalem's wall?**

Answer: The act of breaking down Jerusalem's wall was profoundly significant on multiple levels. Practically, it severely compromised the city's defenses, leaving it vulnerable to future attacks and demonstrating Israel's military superiority. Symbolically, it was an act of extreme humiliation for Judah and its capital. Jerusalem's walls represented its strength, security, and divine protection. Their breach signified the breaking of Judah's power and a visible sign of God's displeasure and judgment upon Amaziah and his kingdom. It asserted Jehoash's dominance and left a lasting scar on the city's fortifications.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The narrative of Amaziah's pride-driven downfall and the breaching of Jerusalem's walls in 2 Kings 14:13, while a somber account of human folly and divine discipline, ultimately points us to the perfect kingship and redemptive work of Jesus Christ. Amaziah, a king of the Davidic line, failed to secure his kingdom, his pride leading to its humiliation and vulnerability. In stark contrast, Jesus, the true Son of David and the King of Kings, perfectly embodies humility and obedience, even to the point of death on a cross ([Philippians 2:8](/philippians/2-8 "Philippians 2:8 - Christ's Humility")). While Jerusalem's physical walls were broken, foreshadowing its eventual destruction, Christ came to break down spiritual walls—the wall of hostility between Jew and Gentile ([Ephesians 2:14](/ephesians/2-14 "Ephesians 2:14 - Breaking Down the Wall of Hostility")) and the barrier of sin that separates humanity from God ([Colossians 2:14](/colossians/2-14 "Colossians 2:14 - Cancellation of Debt")). Unlike Amaziah, whose reign ended in defeat and disgrace, Jesus's reign is eternal, establishing a kingdom that cannot be shaken ([Hebrews 12:28](/hebrews/12-28 "Hebrews 12:28 - An Unshakable Kingdom")). He is the foundation of the New Jerusalem, whose walls are salvation and gates are praise, a city whose security rests not on human fortifications but on the presence of God Himself ([Revelation 21:23-25](/revelation/21-23-25 "Revelation 21:23-25 - The New Jerusalem")). Thus, Amaziah's broken walls serve as a powerful backdrop, highlighting the ultimate and eternal security found only in Christ, who perfectly fulfills the promise of a King who builds up, rather than breaks down, His people.

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.

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.

Zechariah 14:10

All the land shall be turned as a plain from Geba to Rimmon south of Jerusalem: and it shall be lifted up, and inhabited in her place, from Benjamin's gate unto the place of the first gate, unto the corner gate, and [from] the tower of Hananeel unto the king's winepresses.

Job 40:11

Cast abroad the rage of thy wrath: and behold every one [that is] proud, and abase him.

Job 40:12

Look on every one [that is] proud, [and] bring him low; and tread down the wicked in their place.

Isaiah 2:11

The lofty looks of man shall be humbled, and the haughtiness of men shall be bowed down, and the LORD alone shall be exalted in that day.