2 Kings 21:19

Amon was twenty-two years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem two years. His mother's name was Meshullemeth daughter of Haruz; she was from Jotbah.

Study Bible

Amon was twenty-two years old when he became king
Amon's ascension to the throne at a young age reflects the hereditary monarchy system in Judah, where kingship often passed from father to son. His father, Manasseh, was one of the longest-reigning and most notoriously idolatrous kings of Judah, which likely influenced Amon's reign. The age of twenty-two suggests a period of youthful vigor but also potential immaturity in leadership.

and he reigned in Jerusalem two years
Amon's short reign indicates instability and possibly internal strife within the kingdom. Jerusalem, the capital of Judah, was the political and spiritual center, housing the Temple built by Solomon. Amon's brief rule suggests that he may not have had the opportunity to establish significant reforms or policies, and his reign was marked by continuation of his father's idolatrous practices, as noted in other biblical accounts.

His mother’s name was Meshullemeth daughter of Haruz
The mention of Amon's mother, Meshullemeth, highlights the importance of maternal lineage in the biblical narrative. Her name, meaning "friend" or "ally," may suggest her role or influence in the royal court. The inclusion of her father's name, Haruz, indicates the significance of family heritage and connections, which were crucial in the political alliances and social structures of ancient Judah.

she was from Jotbah
Jotbah is a location not frequently mentioned in the Bible, suggesting it may have been a smaller or less significant town. Its mention here provides geographical context and may imply that Amon's maternal family had roots outside the main political centers, possibly influencing his reign and alliances. The specific mention of Jotbah underscores the importance of regional identities and familial ties in the narrative of Judah's monarchy.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Amon
The son of Manasseh, Amon became king of Judah at the age of twenty-two. His reign was marked by evil practices, following in the footsteps of his father, Manasseh.

2. Meshullemeth
Amon's mother, identified as the daughter of Haruz from Jotbah. Her mention highlights the maternal lineage, which was significant in the historical context.

3. Haruz
The father of Meshullemeth, mentioned to provide a genealogical context for Amon's maternal side.

4. Jotbah
A location associated with Meshullemeth, indicating her origin. It is a place of lesser-known significance in the biblical account.

5. Jerusalem
The capital city of Judah, where Amon reigned as king. It is central to the history of the Israelites and the site of the Temple.

Teaching Points

The Influence of Parental Legacy
Amon's reign reflects the influence of his father, Manasseh. This highlights the importance of a godly legacy and the impact of parental example on future generations.

The Consequences of Idolatry
Amon's continuation of idolatrous practices serves as a warning against turning away from God. Idolatry leads to spiritual and moral decay.

The Importance of Obedience to God
Amon's failure to adhere to God's commandments underscores the necessity of obedience to God's Word for a righteous life and leadership.

The Role of Accountability in Leadership
Amon's assassination by his servants indicates the lack of accountability and the potential consequences of corrupt leadership.

The Hope for Redemption
Despite Amon's evil reign, the account of Judah's kings ultimately points to the hope of redemption through a future righteous king, fulfilled in Jesus Christ.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Amon's reign reflect the influence of his father, Manasseh, and what can we learn about the impact of parental legacy?

2. In what ways does Amon's idolatry contrast with the commandments given in Exodus 20:3-6, and what are the implications for our own lives?

3. How does the account of Amon's reign in 2 Chronicles 33:21-25 provide additional insights into his character and leadership?

4. What lessons can we draw from Amon's failure to follow the guidelines for kingship outlined in Deuteronomy 17:14-20?

5. How does the account of Amon's reign point to the need for a righteous king, and how is this fulfilled in the New Testament?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Kings 21:20-22
These verses continue the account of Amon's reign, describing his evil actions and idolatry, similar to his father, Manasseh.

2 Chronicles 33:21-25
This passage parallels the account in 2 Kings, providing additional details about Amon's reign and his assassination by his servants.

Deuteronomy 17:14-20
This passage outlines the laws for kings in Israel, emphasizing the importance of following God's commandments, which Amon failed to do.

Exodus 20:3-6
The Ten Commandments, particularly the prohibition against idolatry, which Amon violated during his reign.