2 Kings 8:17

Thirty and two years old was he when he began to reign; and he reigned eight years in Jerusalem.

Thirty {H7970} and two {H8147} years {H8141} old {H1121} was he when he began to reign {H4427}; and he reigned {H4427} eight {H8083} years {H8141} in Jerusalem {H3389}.

He was thirty-two years old when he began to rule, and he ruled eight years in Yerushalayim.

Jehoram was thirty-two years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem eight years.

Thirty and two years old was he when he began to reign; and he reigned eight years in Jerusalem.

Commentary

2 Kings 8:17 provides a concise summary of the beginning of King Jehoram’s reign over Judah. This verse, typical of the historical books of Kings and Chronicles, offers vital chronological data: Jehoram was thirty-two years old when he ascended the throne, and he reigned for eight years in Jerusalem.

Historical and Cultural Context

This verse immediately follows the introduction of Jehoram, the son of Jehoshaphat, king of Judah. His reign occurred during the period of the divided kingdom, where Judah in the south and Israel in the north operated as separate entities, often with complex political and religious relationships. Jehoram's ascension to the throne of Judah marked a shift from his father Jehoshaphat's generally righteous reign. While this verse only states the facts of his age and reign length, subsequent verses in 2 Kings 8:18 and 2 Chronicles 21:6 quickly reveal the wicked nature of his rule, contrasting sharply with his father's legacy and aligning himself with the idolatrous kings of Israel.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Chronological Precision: The book of Kings meticulously records the ages of kings at their ascension and the duration of their reigns. This emphasis highlights the historical accuracy and divine oversight of the lineage, particularly for the Davidic line from which the Messiah would come.
  • Brevity of Reign: Jehoram's eight-year reign was relatively short compared to some other monarchs, foreshadowing the troubles and instability that characterized his time on the throne.
  • The King's Summary: This verse serves as a standard introductory formula for a new monarch, setting the stage for the narrative details of his rule, which often include an assessment of his moral and spiritual conduct before God.

Practical Application

While a simple historical fact, 2 Kings 8:17 reminds us of several timeless truths. Firstly, it underscores the transient nature of earthly power and leadership. Every reign, no matter how long, eventually ends, prompting us to consider the legacy we leave behind. Secondly, it highlights the importance of how one uses their time and position. Though this verse is neutral, the following verses quickly judge Jehoram's actions, emphasizing that what truly matters is not just the duration of our lives or positions, but the character we cultivate and the choices we make during that time. Our brief earthly tenure should be lived in alignment with God's will, understanding that true significance comes from a life devoted to Him, as seen in the broader narratives of kings who did what was right in the eyes of the Lord.

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Cross-References

  • 2 Chronicles 21:5

    Jehoram [was] thirty and two years old when he began to reign, and he reigned eight years in Jerusalem.

  • 2 Chronicles 21:10

    So the Edomites revolted from under the hand of Judah unto this day. The same time [also] did Libnah revolt from under his hand; because he had forsaken the LORD God of his fathers.
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