2 Kings 15:10

And Shallum the son of Jabesh conspired against him, and smote him before the people, and slew him, and reigned in his stead.

And Shallum {H7967} the son {H1121} of Jabesh {H3003} conspired {H7194} against him, and smote {H5221} him before {H6905} the people {H5971}, and slew {H4191} him, and reigned {H4427} in his stead.

Shalum the son of Yavesh formed a conspiracy against him. He struck him in the presence of the people and killed him; then he took his place as king.

Then Shallum son of Jabesh conspired against Zechariah, struck him down and killed him in front of the people, and reigned in his place.

And Shallum the son of Jabesh conspired against him, and smote him before the people, and slew him, and reigned in his stead.

Commentary

2 Kings 15:10 records a pivotal moment of political upheaval in the northern kingdom of Israel: the assassination of King Zechariah by Shallum, who then usurps the throne.

Context of 2 Kings 15:10

This verse is set during a tumultuous period in the history of Israel, specifically the declining years of the northern kingdom. King Zechariah, the subject of this assassination, had reigned for only six months (2 Kings 15:8). His death marks the violent end of the dynasty of Jehu, which had been prophesied to rule for four generations (2 Kings 10:30). The book of 2 Kings frequently details a cycle of disobedience, judgment, and political instability among the Israelite kings, particularly in the northern kingdom, which consistently failed to turn from idolatry.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Political Instability: The most striking theme is the severe political instability plaguing Israel during this era. Coups, assassinations, and short reigns became the norm, reflecting a society without a stable, God-ordained leadership.
  • Fulfillment of Prophecy: Zechariah's assassination directly fulfills the prophecy given to Jehu, demonstrating God's sovereign control over historical events and the consequences of both obedience and disobedience within a lineage.
  • Consequences of Sin: The chronic unrest and violence in the northern kingdom are often presented in the biblical narrative as a direct result of Israel's persistent idolatry and departure from God's covenant. The constant bloodshed is a visible symptom of a deeper spiritual decay.
  • Usurpation: Shallum's act is a clear example of usurpation, seizing power through violence rather than divine appointment or legitimate succession. This pattern is repeated throughout this period of Israel's history.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV uses strong, direct language: "conspired," "smote," "slew," and "reigned in his stead." The word "smote" (Hebrew: nakah) here implies a fatal blow, reinforced by "slew him." The phrase "before the people" emphasizes the public and audacious nature of Shallum's coup, not a hidden act but a clear demonstration of power transfer through violence.

Practical Application

While detailing an ancient historical event, 2 Kings 15:10 offers several timeless lessons:

  • It highlights the destructive nature of unchecked ambition and the pursuit of power through illicit means.
  • It serves as a reminder that societal and political instability often stem from spiritual decline and a departure from divine principles. When a nation or people abandon their moral compass, chaos can ensue.
  • The fulfillment of prophecy, even through violent acts, underscores God's ultimate sovereignty and His ability to work through human actions, both good and evil, to accomplish His purposes. This should encourage believers to trust in God's overarching plan, even amidst turmoil, reflecting themes found in Proverbs 19:21, which states, "Many are the plans in a man's heart, but it is the LORD's purpose that prevails."
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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • 1 Kings 15:28 (2 votes)

    Even in the third year of Asa king of Judah did Baasha slay him, and reigned in his stead.

  • Hosea 1:4 (2 votes)

    And the LORD said unto him, Call his name Jezreel; for yet a little [while], and I will avenge the blood of Jezreel upon the house of Jehu, and will cause to cease the kingdom of the house of Israel.

  • Hosea 1:5 (2 votes)

    And it shall come to pass at that day, that I will break the bow of Israel in the valley of Jezreel.

  • 2 Kings 15:25 (2 votes)

    But Pekah the son of Remaliah, a captain of his, conspired against him, and smote him in Samaria, in the palace of the king's house, with Argob and Arieh, and with him fifty men of the Gileadites: and he killed him, and reigned in his room.

  • 2 Kings 15:14 (2 votes)

    For Menahem the son of Gadi went up from Tirzah, and came to Samaria, and smote Shallum the son of Jabesh in Samaria, and slew him, and reigned in his stead.

  • 2 Kings 15:30 (2 votes)

    And Hoshea the son of Elah made a conspiracy against Pekah the son of Remaliah, and smote him, and slew him, and reigned in his stead, in the twentieth year of Jotham the son of Uzziah.

  • Amos 7:9 (2 votes)

    And the high places of Isaac shall be desolate, and the sanctuaries of Israel shall be laid waste; and I will rise against the house of Jeroboam with the sword.