2 Kings 14:14

KJV

And he took all the gold and silver, and all the vessels that were found in the house of the LORD, and in the treasures of the king's house, and hostages, and returned to Samaria.

KJV (with Strong's)

And he took {H3947} all the gold {H2091} and silver {H3701}, and all the vessels {H3627} that were found {H4672} in the house {H1004} of the LORD {H3068}, and in the treasures {H214} of the king's {H4428} house {H1004}, and hostages {H1121}{H8594}, and returned {H7725} to Samaria {H8111}.

Complete Jewish Bible

He took all the gold and silver, all the articles he could find in the house of ADONAI and in the treasuries of the royal palace, and hostages; then he returned to Shomron.

Berean Standard Bible

He took all the gold and silver and all the articles found in the house of the LORD and in the treasuries of the royal palace, as well as some hostages. Then he returned to Samaria.

American Standard Version

And he took all the gold and silver, and all the vessels that were found in the house of Jehovah, and in the treasures of the king’s house, the hostages also, and returned to Samaria.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Second Kings 14:14 meticulously details the severe consequences of King Amaziah of Judah's defeat by King Jehoash of Israel. Following a decisive victory at Beth-shemesh, Jehoash advanced on Jerusalem, systematically breaching its fortifications and plundering its most valuable assets. This extensive raid encompassed not only the royal treasury but, more significantly, the sacred vessels and treasures from the Temple of the LORD, alongside the seizure of prominent individuals as hostages, before Jehoash made his triumphant return to Samaria. The verse thus encapsulates a moment of profound national humiliation and subjugation for the southern kingdom, starkly illustrating the devastating repercussions of pride and internal conflict within the divided monarchy.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse serves as the culmination of a narrative sequence initiated by King Amaziah's ill-advised challenge to King Jehoash of Israel. Having secured a victory over Edom, Amaziah, perhaps emboldened by his success, provocatively dared Jehoash to war ([2 Kings 14:8](/2_kings/14-8 "2 Kings 14:8 - Amaziah Challenges Jehoash")). Jehoash's initial response was a dismissive parable, a cautionary tale against Amaziah's burgeoning pride, advising him to remain peacefully at home ([2 Kings 14:9-10](/2_kings/14-9-10 "2 Kings 14:9-10 - Jehoash's Parable and Warning")). Despite this clear warning, Amaziah stubbornly refused to listen, leading to a direct military confrontation at Beth-shemesh where Judah suffered a catastrophic defeat, and Amaziah himself was captured ([2 Kings 14:11-12](/2_kings/14-11-12 "2 Kings 14:11-12 - Judah's Defeat at Beth-shemesh")). Following this decisive victory, Jehoash marched on Jerusalem, dismantled a significant portion of its protective walls ([2 Kings 14:13](/2_kings/14-13 "2 Kings 14:13 - Jehoash Breaches Jerusalem's Wall")), and then executed the comprehensive plunder detailed in 2 Kings 14:14 before returning to his capital, Samaria. This narrative progression powerfully underscores the direct cause-and-effect relationship between Amaziah's hubris and Judah's subsequent humiliation and loss.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The events described in 2 Kings 14:14 are situated within the tumultuous period of the divided monarchy, a time characterized by intermittent conflict, shifting alliances, and power struggles between the northern kingdom of Israel and the southern kingdom of Judah. In the ancient Near East, the plundering of defeated cities, especially their royal treasuries and religious sanctuaries, was a customary and expected practice. Such acts served not only as a means of enriching the victorious power but also as a potent display of dominance, a profound humiliation of the vanquished, and a symbolic assertion of the conqueror's military might or the superiority of their deity. The seizure of "hostages"—typically members of the royal family or prominent nobles—was a standard strategic maneuver designed to ensure the defeated kingdom's future compliance and to guarantee the payment of tribute, effectively reducing them to a vassal state. The plundering of the "house of the LORD" was particularly egregious, representing a profound act of sacrilege and a deep blow to Judah's national and religious identity, as the Temple was revered as the dwelling place of Yahweh and the central locus of their worship.

* **Key Themes:** This verse significantly contributes to several overarching themes prevalent throughout 2 Kings and the broader Deuteronomistic History. Firstly, it powerfully illustrates the **consequences of pride and disobedience**, particularly as they manifest in leadership. Amaziah's steadfast refusal to heed wise counsel and his overconfidence directly precipitate Judah's devastating defeat and humiliation, serving as a stark cautionary tale against hubris, a principle eloquently articulated in [Proverbs 16:18](/proverbs/16-18 "Proverbs 16:18 - Pride Goes Before Destruction"). Secondly, the extensive plunder highlights the inherent **vulnerability of earthly power and even sacred spaces**. Even the Temple, the revered sanctuary of God, proved susceptible to the ravages of human conflict and the consequences of national sin, demonstrating that divine protection is often contingent upon the faithfulness of His people. This event notably foreshadows later, more comprehensive destructions of the Temple, such as by [Nebuchadnezzar](/2_kings/25-13 "2 Kings 25:13 - Babylonian Plunder of the Temple"). Thirdly, the verse underscores the profoundly **destructive nature of internal strife** within the covenant community. The persistent conflict between Israel and Judah, two nations sharing a common heritage, repeatedly resulted in self-inflicted wounds that weakened both kingdoms against external threats. Finally, the taking of "hostages" powerfully speaks to the theme of **political subjugation and control**, demonstrating Israel's temporary but decisive dominance over Judah and the harsh realities of ancient Near Eastern power politics.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Vessels (Hebrew, _kᵉlî'_ H3627):** This term encompasses a wide array of implements, utensils, and sacred objects utilized within the Temple for worship, sacrificial rituals, and daily service. Their removal by Jehoash was not merely an act of economic plunder but a profoundly symbolic assertion of power over Judah's religious and national core. It represented a desecration of sacred space and a direct assault on their spiritual identity, signifying the vulnerability of their most cherished religious assets.

* **House (Hebrew, _bayith'_ H1004) of the LORD (Hebrew, _Yᵉhôvâh'_ H3068):** This phrase specifically designates the Temple in Jerusalem. The plundering of the Temple constituted an act of profound sacrilege, as it was considered the very dwelling place of God's presence among His people. Its violation signified not only a military defeat but also a deep spiritual blow, implying that even God's sanctuary was vulnerable, perhaps due to the accumulated sins of His covenant people. The term "bayith" itself, meaning "house" in its broadest applications, here specifically refers to the sacred edifice, while "Yᵉhôvâh" emphasizes the unique, self-existent God of Israel, whose house was now violated.

* **Hostages (Hebrew, _taʻărubâh'_ H8594):** Literally meaning "pledge" or "suretyship," this term refers to individuals, typically of noble or royal lineage, who were taken by the conquering power to guarantee the defeated kingdom's future loyalty, compliance, and payment of tribute. Their presence in Samaria served as a constant, tangible reminder of Judah's subjugation and acted as a powerful deterrent against any future rebellion, solidifying a temporary vassal relationship.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And he took all the gold and silver":** This phrase describes the standard practice of plundering valuable metals, which served as both currency and potent symbols of wealth and power in the ancient world. It represents the immediate economic gain for the victorious kingdom of Israel, enriching its treasury at Judah's expense.

* **"and all the vessels that were found in the house of the LORD":** This is a critically significant detail, highlighting the sacrilegious act of seizing sacred implements from the Temple. This act transcended mere economic gain; it was a profound humiliation for Judah, undermining their religious security, desecrating their most holy worship space, and challenging the perceived sanctity of their covenant relationship with God.

* **"and in the treasures of the king's house":** This refers to the royal treasury, which contained the accumulated wealth of the monarchy, intended for state purposes, personal use, and national defense. Its plunder represented a direct and severe blow to the king's power, resources, and administrative capacity.

* **"and hostages":** This signifies the political subjugation of Judah. By taking prominent individuals as collateral, Jehoash effectively ensured Judah's future subservience and deterred any immediate retaliation or rebellion, thereby establishing a temporary but undeniable vassal relationship.

* **"and returned to Samaria":** This concluding phrase marks the successful completion of Jehoash's punitive expedition. His return to his capital, laden with spoils and hostages, vividly demonstrates his triumph, solidifying the re-establishment of Israel's dominance over Judah following the conflict.

#### Literary Devices
The passage employs several effective literary devices to convey its profound message of Judah's humiliation and defeat. **Juxtaposition** is prominently featured in the parallel listing of treasures from both the "house of the LORD" and "the king's house," emphasizing that neither sacred nor secular wealth was spared from the victor's grasp. This highlights the totality and comprehensive nature of Judah's defeat. **Symbolism** pervades the narrative: the plundering of the Temple vessels profoundly symbolizes the desecration of Judah's spiritual identity and the alarming vulnerability of even the most sacred earthly institutions. The taking of "hostages" powerfully symbolizes Judah's political subjugation, loss of autonomy, and forced subservience. The breach in Jerusalem's walls, mentioned in the preceding verse ([2 Kings 14:13](/2_kings/14-13 "2 Kings 14:13 - Jehoash Breaches Jerusalem's Wall")), also serves as a potent symbol of Judah's broken defenses and exposed vulnerability. Furthermore, the narrative employs **foreshadowing**, as this act of Temple plunder by a fellow Israelite king anticipates the more complete and devastating destructions of the Temple by foreign powers in later history, such as the Babylonians.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The account in 2 Kings 14:14 serves as a stark theological reminder that God's covenant people, despite their unique relationship with Him, are not immune to the consequences of their sin, particularly the insidious dangers of pride and disobedience. Amaziah's hubris directly precipitated Judah's downfall, illustrating the timeless biblical principle that "pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall" ([Proverbs 16:18](/proverbs/16-18 "Proverbs 16:18 - Pride Goes Before Destruction")). The vulnerability of the Temple, the very house of the LORD, underscores that God's presence is not confined to physical structures, nor does it guarantee immunity from the natural consequences of human actions. While the Temple was sacred, its plundering demonstrated that its sanctity did not override divine judgment or the inevitable repercussions of national sin and internal strife. This event highlights the transient nature of earthly security, whether found in material wealth, political power, or even sacred institutions, powerfully redirecting ultimate trust towards God alone.

* [Proverbs 16:18](/proverbs/16-18 "Proverbs 16:18 - Pride Goes Before Destruction")
* [1 Kings 14:25-26](/1_kings/14-25-26 "1 Kings 14:25-26 - Shishak Plunders the Temple")
* [Jeremiah 52:17-23](/jeremiah/52-17-23 "Jeremiah 52:17-23 - Babylonian Plunder of Temple Vessels")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The historical account of 2 Kings 14:14 offers profound and enduring lessons for believers today. Amaziah's story stands as a timeless warning against the insidious perils of pride and self-reliance. When we experience success, whether in our personal lives, professional endeavors, or within the church community, there is a subtle but powerful temptation to become arrogant, to trust in our own strength, wisdom, or accomplishments, and to dismiss the wise counsel of others or, more critically, the guidance of God's Word. This narrative calls us to cultivate a deep and abiding humility, recognizing that all our achievements and blessings are ultimately by God's grace and that true wisdom involves consistently seeking His guidance and listening to the wisdom of others. Furthermore, the devastating conflict between Israel and Judah, leading to such destructive outcomes, underscores the profound and damaging impact of internal strife and division, even within the family of God. Believers are called to earnestly pursue unity, reconciliation, and peace, recognizing that disunity weakens the collective witness of the church and opens the door for spiritual vulnerability and external attack. Finally, the plundering of the Temple serves as a poignant reminder that our ultimate security should never be placed in earthly institutions, material possessions, or even cherished physical spaces. While we rightly value our churches, resources, and ministries, our hope and trust must ultimately rest in the unshakeable character, unfailing promises, and sovereign power of God alone, who is our only true and eternal security.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Amaziah's story challenge my own tendencies toward pride or overconfidence in my abilities or achievements?**
* **In what areas of my life might I be placing my ultimate security in earthly institutions, material possessions, or even human relationships, rather than in God alone?**
* **What role does humility play in navigating conflicts, whether personal, familial, or within the church community, and how can I better embody it?**

### FAQ
**Why did Jehoash plunder the Temple, and what was the significance of this act?**

Answer: Jehoash plundered the Temple as a standard practice of war in the ancient Near East, where victors would seize the treasures of defeated kingdoms, including those from their religious sanctuaries. This act served multiple purposes: it was a significant economic gain for Israel, a profound humiliation for Judah, and a symbolic assertion of Israel's dominance over Judah and, by extension, over Judah's God in the eyes of the surrounding nations. For Judah, it was a deeply sacrilegious act, undermining their sense of divine protection and the sanctity of their most holy site, demonstrating that even the "house of the LORD" was vulnerable to the consequences of human sin and conflict, as seen in earlier instances like the plundering by Shishak of Egypt in [1 Kings 14:25-26](/1_kings/14-25-26 "1 Kings 14:25-26 - Shishak Plunders the Temple").

**What was the purpose of taking hostages back to Samaria?**

Answer: The taking of "hostages" was a common and crucial tactic in ancient warfare and diplomacy. These individuals, often members of the royal family, nobility, or other influential figures, were taken to the conquering king's capital (in this case, Samaria) to ensure the defeated kingdom's compliance. Their presence served as powerful leverage, preventing future rebellions and guaranteeing the payment of tribute or other forms of subservience. It was a clear and effective way for the victorious power to maintain control and demonstrate the subjugation of the vanquished, a practice also evident in later accounts such as the Babylonian captivity where Jehoiachin was taken to Babylon ([2 Kings 24:15](/2_kings/24-15 "2 Kings 24:15 - Jehoiachin Taken Captive to Babylon")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The plundering of the Temple in 2 Kings 14:14, a physical structure intended to house God's presence, powerfully foreshadows the ultimate vulnerability and transience of all earthly institutions, even those dedicated to God. This historical event points us to the profound New Covenant reality where God's dwelling is no longer confined to a physical building made with human hands, but rather resides perfectly in the person of Jesus Christ and, through Him, within His redeemed people. Jesus Himself declared, "Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up," speaking prophetically of the temple of His own body ([John 2:19-21](/john/2-19-21 "John 2:19-21 - Jesus Predicts His Resurrection")). The ultimate "treasure" is not gold, silver, or sacred vessels that can be plundered, but the very life of Christ, given as a ransom for many ([Mark 10:45](/mark/10-45 "Mark 10:45 - The Son of Man Came to Serve")). Unlike the earthly Temple, which could be desecrated and its contents seized, Christ's sacrifice on the cross achieved an unassailable, eternal victory over sin, death, and all spiritual enemies, securing a redemption that cannot be taken away ([Hebrews 9:11-12](/hebrews/9-11-12 "Hebrews 9:11-12 - Christ's Superior Sacrifice")). In Him, we find true, unshakeable security and an unplunderable treasure, for "in Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form" ([Colossians 2:9](/colossians/2-9 "Colossians 2:9 - Fullness of Deity in Christ")), and through Him, believers are transformed into living temples of the Holy Spirit ([1 Corinthians 6:19](/1_corinthians/6-19 "1 Corinthians 6:19 - Your Body is a Temple")). Thus, the humiliation of Judah and the vulnerability of the Temple in 2 Kings 14:14 ultimately serve to magnify the eternal, unshakeable glory and perfect security found in Christ, our true and lasting sanctuary.

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

1 Kings 14:26

And he took away the treasures of the house of the LORD, and the treasures of the king's house; he even took away all: and he took away all the shields of gold which Solomon had made.

1 Kings 7:51

So was ended all the work that king Solomon made for the house of the LORD. And Solomon brought in the things which David his father had dedicated; [even] the silver, and the gold, and the vessels, did he put among the treasures of the house of the LORD.

1 Kings 15:18

Then Asa took all the silver and the gold [that were] left in the treasures of the house of the LORD, and the treasures of the king's house, and delivered them into the hand of his servants: and king Asa sent them to Benhadad, the son of Tabrimon, the son of Hezion, king of Syria, that dwelt at Damascus, saying,

2 Kings 18:23

Now therefore, I pray thee, give pledges to my lord the king of Assyria, and I will deliver thee two thousand horses, if thou be able on thy part to set riders upon them.

2 Kings 25:15

And the firepans, and the bowls, [and] such things as [were] of gold, [in] gold, and of silver, [in] silver, the captain of the guard took away.

2 Kings 12:18

And Jehoash king of Judah took all the hallowed things that Jehoshaphat, and Jehoram, and Ahaziah, his fathers, kings of Judah, had dedicated, and his own hallowed things, and all the gold [that was] found in the treasures of the house of the LORD, and in the king's house, and sent [it] to Hazael king of Syria: and he went away from Jerusalem.

2 Kings 24:13

And he carried out thence all the treasures of the house of the LORD, and the treasures of the king's house, and cut in pieces all the vessels of gold which Solomon king of Israel had made in the temple of the LORD, as the LORD had said.