2 Kings 20:20

KJV

And the rest of the acts of Hezekiah, and all his might, and how he made a pool, and a conduit, and brought water into the city, [are] they not written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Judah?

KJV (with Strong's)

And the rest {H3499} of the acts {H1697} of Hezekiah {H2396}, and all his might {H1369}, and how he made {H6213} a pool {H1295}, and a conduit {H8585}, and brought {H935} water {H4325} into the city {H5892}, are they not written {H3789} in the book {H5612} of the chronicles {H1697}{H3117} of the kings {H4428} of Judah {H3063}?

Complete Jewish Bible

Other activities of Hizkiyahu, his power and how he built the pool and aqueduct to bring water into the city are recorded in the Annals of the Kings of Y'hudah.

Berean Standard Bible

As for the rest of the acts of Hezekiah, along with all his might and how he constructed the pool and the tunnel to bring water into the city, are they not written in the Book of the Chronicles of the Kings of Judah?

American Standard Version

Now the rest of the acts of Hezekiah, and all his might, and how he made the pool, and the conduit, and brought water into the city, are they not written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Judah?

Commentary

### SUMMARY
This verse serves as the concluding summary of King Hezekiah's remarkable reign, encapsulating his comprehensive legacy which includes both his military prowess and, notably, his extraordinary engineering achievement in securing Jerusalem's water supply. It functions as a historiographical signpost, directing the reader to broader historical records for a more exhaustive account of his significant accomplishments and the divine favor that marked his time on the throne.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse marks the conclusion of the narrative concerning King Hezekiah in 2 Kings, immediately preceding the transition to the reign of his son, Manasseh, in [2 Kings 21:1](/2_kings/21-1 "2 Kings 21:1 - Manasseh's Reign Begins"). The preceding chapters detail Hezekiah's righteous reign, his religious reforms (e.g., [2 Kings 18:4](/2_kings/18-4 "2 Kings 18:4 - Hezekiah's Reforms")), his miraculous healing from a terminal illness ([2 Kings 20:1-11](/2_kings/20-1 "2 Kings 20:1-11 - Hezekiah's Illness and Recovery")), and his interaction with Babylonian envoys ([2 Kings 20:12-19](/2_kings/20-12 "2 Kings 20:12-19 - Hezekiah Shows Off His Treasures")). This concluding summary formula, common in the Books of Kings, provides a concise overview of the king's achievements and directs the reader to external sources for further information, serving as a literary bridge between the detailed narrative and the broader historical tradition.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** King Hezekiah ruled Judah from approximately 715-686 BC, a period marked by the formidable threat of the Neo-Assyrian Empire. His reign is most famously associated with the Assyrian siege of Jerusalem under Sennacherib in 701 BC, an event detailed in [2 Kings 18-19](/2_kings/18 "2 Kings 18-19 - Sennacherib's Invasion"). The "pool" and "conduit" refer to Hezekiah's Tunnel, an extraordinary engineering feat that diverted water from the Gihon Spring, located outside the city walls, into the Pool of Siloam within Jerusalem. This project was crucial for ensuring the city's water supply during a siege, demonstrating remarkable foresight and strategic planning in a time of constant geopolitical instability. Such waterworks were vital for ancient cities, and their construction often signified a king's strength and ability to protect his people.

* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes to several key themes within the Books of Kings and the broader Deuteronomistic History. Firstly, it highlights the **comprehensive nature of righteous kingship**, encompassing not only military "might" and divine deliverance (as seen in [2 Kings 19](/2_kings/19 "2 Kings 19 - God Delivers Jerusalem")) but also practical, infrastructural development essential for the welfare of the kingdom. Secondly, it underscores the **interplay between human ingenuity and divine provision**. While Hezekiah's tunnel was a testament to human engineering, it was undertaken in the context of God's protection and guidance for His people. Finally, the reference to "the book of the chronicles of the kings of Judah" emphasizes the **importance and reliability of historical record-keeping** in ancient Israel, pointing to a larger body of official documentation that affirmed the events and legacies of the kings. This reinforces the theological message that God works within history, and His actions are verifiable.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Might (Hebrew, _gᵉbûwrâh'_):** This term (H1369) signifies strength, power, and valor, often in a military context. In Hezekiah's case, it encompasses his successful resistance against Assyria, his military preparedness, and his overall capacity as a formidable ruler. It speaks to his effectiveness in leading and defending Judah, not just his physical strength but his kingly authority and prowess.
* **Pool (Hebrew, _bᵉrêkâh'_):** This word (H1295) refers to a reservoir or a fish-pool. In the context of Hezekiah's reign, it specifically denotes the Pool of Siloam, the destination of the water channeled by his famous tunnel. Its construction was a monumental undertaking, crucial for Jerusalem's survival during sieges, and highlights Hezekiah's practical wisdom in safeguarding his people.
* **Conduit (Hebrew, _tᵉʻâlâh'_):** This word (H8585) refers specifically to an aqueduct or channel for water. This points directly to Hezekiah's most famous engineering achievement, the tunnel (now known as Hezekiah's Tunnel or Siloam Tunnel) which brought water from the Gihon Spring into the city of Jerusalem. This was a monumental undertaking, involving tunneling through solid rock, and was critical for Jerusalem's survival during sieges.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And the rest of the acts of Hezekiah, and all his might,"**: This opening phrase serves as a comprehensive summary, indicating that the preceding narrative in 2 Kings has only covered a selection of Hezekiah's accomplishments. "Acts" (or "deeds") refers to his general conduct and achievements as king, while "might" specifically highlights his strength, valor, and military successes, particularly in resisting the Assyrians. The phrase suggests a full and impactful reign, worthy of extensive documentation.
* **"and how he made a pool, and a conduit, and brought water into the city,"**: This clause specifies one of Hezekiah's most significant and enduring achievements: the construction of Jerusalem's sophisticated water system. The "pool" is likely the Pool of Siloam, and the "conduit" refers to the famous tunnel that channeled water from the Gihon Spring, ensuring a secure water supply for the city, especially vital during times of siege. This engineering marvel underscored his practical foresight and dedication to his people's welfare.
* **"[are] they not written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Judah?"**: This is a rhetorical question, a common literary device in the Books of Kings. It functions as an affirmation, emphatically stating that these events *are indeed* recorded in the official royal annals. It serves to validate the biblical account by pointing to external, authoritative historical sources, assuring the reader of the veracity and completeness of the historical record available to the ancient Israelite audience.

#### Literary Devices
The verse primarily employs a **Summary Formula**, which is a recurring literary convention in the Books of Kings used to conclude the account of each monarch's reign. This formula typically includes a reference to the king's "acts" and often directs the reader to external historical records, such as "the book of the chronicles of the kings of Judah." This device serves to provide a concise overview of the reign, acknowledge the existence of more detailed records, and transition to the next king. Furthermore, the final clause, "[are] they not written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Judah?", functions as a **Rhetorical Question**. This is not a question seeking an answer, but rather a forceful affirmation, emphasizing the well-documented nature and public knowledge of Hezekiah's accomplishments. It lends authority and credibility to the narrative by appealing to widely accessible historical archives.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This concluding verse for Hezekiah's reign underscores the multifaceted nature of godly leadership, where spiritual devotion (as seen in his reforms and trust in God during the Assyrian crisis) is coupled with practical wisdom and foresight. Hezekiah's engineering feat, while a testament to human ingenuity, is also implicitly a demonstration of God's provision working through human agency to protect His people. The reference to the "chronicles" highlights God's sovereignty over history and the importance of preserving His redemptive work through time. It reminds us that God's plan unfolds in real-world events, meticulously recorded for future generations to learn from and trust in His faithfulness.

* [2 Chronicles 32:3-4](/2_chronicles/32-3 "2 Chronicles 32:3-4 - Hezekiah's Water Strategy")
* [Isaiah 22:9-11](/isaiah/22-9 "Isaiah 22:9-11 - Jerusalem's Water Supply")
* [Nehemiah 3:15](/nehemiah/3-15 "Nehemiah 3:15 - The Pool of Siloam")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Hezekiah's legacy, as summarized in this verse, offers profound lessons for contemporary believers. His proactive leadership in securing Jerusalem's water supply, even amidst spiritual revival and military threats, illustrates the importance of practical wisdom and diligent preparation. It reminds us that faith in God does not negate the need for strategic planning and hard work; rather, divine blessing often accompanies human effort. We are called to be good stewards of the resources and opportunities God provides, using our ingenuity and skills for the welfare of our communities and the advancement of His kingdom. Furthermore, the emphasis on historical record-keeping encourages us to value the past, learning from the triumphs and failures of those who came before us, and recognizing God's consistent hand throughout history. Our lives, too, are part of a larger divine narrative, and how we live contributes to the ongoing testimony of God's faithfulness.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life or leadership are you called to exercise both spiritual trust and practical foresight, like Hezekiah?**
* **How does Hezekiah's engineering feat inspire you to use your unique skills and gifts to serve others and build up your community?**
* **What lessons can you draw from the historical accounts of faith, both biblical and personal, to inform your present actions and future plans?**

### FAQ
**What was the significance of Hezekiah's Tunnel mentioned in this verse?**

Answer: Hezekiah's Tunnel was an extraordinary engineering marvel designed to secure Jerusalem's water supply. During times of siege, the city relied on the Gihon Spring, which was located outside its walls and vulnerable to enemy forces. Hezekiah orchestrated the digging of a 1,750-foot tunnel through solid rock to divert the spring's water directly into the Pool of Siloam, safely within the city's defenses. This strategic move, also referenced in [2 Chronicles 32:3-4](/2_chronicles/32-3 "2 Chronicles 32:3-4 - Hezekiah's Water Strategy") and [Isaiah 22:9-11](/isaiah/22-9 "Isaiah 22:9-11 - Jerusalem's Water Supply"), ensured the survival of Jerusalem's inhabitants during the Assyrian siege by Sennacherib, demonstrating Hezekiah's remarkable foresight and God's provision for His people.

**Why does 2 Kings often refer to "the book of the chronicles of the kings of Judah"?**

Answer: The recurring phrase "the book of the chronicles of the kings of Judah" (or Israel) serves as a historiographical citation, indicating that the biblical authors of Kings were drawing upon and summarizing more extensive official court records or royal annals. These "chronicles" were likely detailed historical documents maintained by royal scribes, containing comprehensive accounts of each king's reign, including administrative details, military campaigns, and building projects. By referencing these external sources, the biblical narrative authenticates its claims and provides a point of reference for readers who might have had access to these broader historical archives. It underscores the historical grounding of the biblical account, even as it presents a theological interpretation of these events.

**Does this verse imply that the Books of Kings are incomplete historical accounts?**

Answer: Yes, in a sense, it does. This verse, like many others in the Books of Kings, explicitly states that "the rest of the acts" of a king are recorded elsewhere. This indicates that the biblical account is not an exhaustive historical record of every single event or detail of a king's reign. Instead, the Books of Kings are a selective theological history, focusing on events and details that illustrate God's covenant faithfulness, the consequences of obedience and disobedience, and the unfolding of His redemptive plan. The references to external chronicles confirm the historical reality of the events while highlighting the biblical author's specific theological purpose in selecting and presenting the information.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Hezekiah's provision of physical water for Jerusalem, a testament to his wise and proactive leadership, powerfully foreshadows the ultimate and eternal provision offered by Jesus Christ. Just as Hezekiah secured the city's temporal survival by channeling life-giving water, Christ offers spiritual life and eternal sustenance as the [Living Water](/john/4-10 "John 4:10 - Jesus Offers Living Water"). In [John 4:14](/john/4-14 "John 4:14 - Spring of Water Welling Up"), Jesus declares that whoever drinks the water He gives "will never be thirsty again," signifying a satisfaction that transcends physical needs. Hezekiah's might and leadership, though significant, were limited and temporal, ultimately pointing to the perfect and eternal reign of Christ, the true [King of Kings](/revelation/19-16 "Revelation 19:16 - King of Kings and Lord of Lords"). The "chronicles of the kings of Judah" recorded earthly accomplishments, but the ultimate "book of life" ([Revelation 20:12](/revelation/20-12 "Revelation 20:12 - The Book of Life")) records those who are eternally His. Thus, Hezekiah's earthly provision and kingly legacy serve as a shadow, drawing our gaze to the superior, spiritual provision and everlasting kingdom of our Lord Jesus Christ.

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 3:16

After him repaired Nehemiah the son of Azbuk, the ruler of the half part of Bethzur, unto [the place] over against the sepulchres of David, and to the pool that was made, and unto the house of the mighty.

2 Chronicles 32:32

Now the rest of the acts of Hezekiah, and his goodness, behold, they [are] written in the vision of Isaiah the prophet, the son of Amoz, [and] in the book of the kings of Judah and Israel.

2 Chronicles 32:4

So there was gathered much people together, who stopped all the fountains, and the brook that ran through the midst of the land, saying, Why should the kings of Assyria come, and find much water?

1 Kings 15:7

Now the rest of the acts of Abijam, and all that he did, [are] they not written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Judah? And there was war between Abijam and Jeroboam.

1 Kings 15:23

The rest of all the acts of Asa, and all his might, and all that he did, and the cities which he built, [are] they not written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Judah? Nevertheless in the time of his old age he was diseased in his feet.

2 Kings 15:6

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

2 Kings 8:23

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