2 Chronicles 25:23

French S21 2007 (Bible Segond 21)

Joas, le roi d'Israël, captura Amatsia, le roi de Juda, fils de Joas et petit-fils de Joachaz, à Beth-Shémesh. Il le fit venir à Jérusalem et il fit une brèche de 200 mètres dans la muraille de Jérusalem, depuis la porte d'Ephraïm jusqu'à la porte de l'angle.

What Does This Mean?

This verse tells us that Joash, the king of Israel, captured Amaziah, the king of Judah, near a place called Bethshemesh. Joash then took Amaziah to Jerusalem and damaged part of the city's wall, from the gate of Ephraim to the corner gate, a distance of four hundred cubits. It's a story of conflict and victory between two kings.

Explained for Children

Imagine two kids playing in a sandbox, and one kid builds a big sandcastle. The other kid gets jealous and knocks down a part of the sandcastle. In this story, Joash is like the jealous kid who damaged part of Amaziah's city, which is like the sandcastle.

Historical Background

2 Chronicles was written by priests or Levites around 536-515 BC. The book was meant to encourage the people of Judah returning from exile to maintain their faith and rebuild their temple and city. The story is set in a time of political tension and conflict between Israel and Judah.

Living It Out Today

This verse reminds us that jealousy and power struggles can lead to conflict and destruction. In modern times, we see this when groups or individuals fight over resources or influence, often causing harm to others or damaging relationships. It's important to handle conflicts with wisdom and grace.

Topics

• conflict
• leadership
• judgment
• victory
• destruction
• jealousy

Related Verses

• 2 Kings 14:13
• 2 Chronicles 25:1-16
• 2 Chronicles 25:25-28
• Psalm 10:2
• Romans 12:21

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Joash and Amaziah?

Joash was the king of Israel, while Amaziah was the king of Judah. They were two rival kings in the ancient world.

Why did Joash break down the wall of Jerusalem?

Joash, in his victory over Amaziah, likely damaged the wall as a symbolic act of power and to weaken Judah's defenses.

What is the significance of Bethshemesh in this verse?

Bethshemesh is where Joash captured Amaziah, indicating it was a strategic location in the conflict between Israel and Judah.

How long is four hundred cubits?

A cubit is about 18 inches, so four hundred cubits would be approximately 600 feet, or nearly two football fields long.