2 Kings 10:35

And Jehu rested with his fathers and was buried in Samaria, and his son Jehoahaz reigned in his place.

Study Bible

And Jehu rested
The phrase "rested" is often used in the Old Testament to denote death, particularly of kings. The Hebrew word used here is "שָׁכַב" (shakab), which means to lie down or to rest. This term reflects the belief in a peaceful transition from life to death for those who have fulfilled their divine purpose. Jehu, having executed God's judgment on the house of Ahab, now rests, suggesting a completion of his earthly mission.

with his fathers
This phrase indicates that Jehu was buried in the family tomb, a common practice in ancient Israel. It signifies continuity and connection with one's ancestors, emphasizing the importance of family lineage and heritage. In a spiritual sense, it also implies joining the patriarchs in the afterlife, a concept that resonates with the hope of eternal rest for the faithful.

and was buried in Samaria
Samaria was the capital of the Northern Kingdom of Israel, established by King Omri. Jehu's burial in Samaria signifies his status as a legitimate king of Israel, despite his violent rise to power. Archaeological findings in Samaria, such as the remains of palaces and fortifications, highlight its significance as a political and cultural center during Jehu's reign.

And his son Jehoahaz
Jehoahaz, meaning "Yahweh has grasped," indicates a divine appointment or favor. The naming of kings often reflected the religious sentiments of the time, and Jehoahaz's name suggests a hope for divine guidance and protection. His succession marks the continuation of Jehu's dynasty, which was promised by God to last for four generations (2 Kings 10:30).

became king in his place
The orderly transition of power from Jehu to Jehoahaz underscores the stability of Jehu's dynasty at this point. In the context of Israel's turbulent history, where coups and assassinations were common, this peaceful succession is noteworthy. It reflects God's faithfulness to His promise to Jehu, despite the moral and spiritual failings that would later characterize Jehoahaz's reign.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jehu
The tenth king of the northern kingdom of Israel, known for his zealous eradication of Baal worship and the house of Ahab. His reign is marked by both commendable zeal for the Lord and significant bloodshed.

2. Jehoahaz
The son of Jehu, who succeeded him as king. His reign is noted in the subsequent chapters of 2 Kings, where he continues the legacy of his father but also faces challenges due to Israel's ongoing idolatry.

3. Samaria
The capital of the northern kingdom of Israel, where Jehu was buried. It serves as a central location for many events in the history of Israel's kings.

4. Rested with his fathers
A common biblical expression indicating death and burial, often used to denote the end of a king's reign and the transition of power.

5. Burial
The act of burying Jehu in Samaria signifies the honor and recognition of his role as king, despite the mixed legacy he left behind.

Teaching Points

The Complexity of Leadership
Jehu's reign illustrates the complexity of leadership, where zeal for God's commands can be marred by excessive violence and personal ambition. Leaders today must balance zeal with wisdom and compassion.

Legacy and Consequences
The transition from Jehu to Jehoahaz reminds us that our actions have lasting impacts on future generations. We should strive to leave a legacy that honors God and benefits those who come after us.

Divine Sovereignty and Human Responsibility
Jehu's account underscores the interplay between God's sovereign plans and human actions. While God orchestrates events, individuals are responsible for their choices and actions.

The Importance of Faithfulness
Despite Jehu's initial zeal, his failure to fully turn Israel back to God serves as a warning about the importance of sustained faithfulness and obedience to God's commands.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jehu's life and reign reflect both obedience and disobedience to God's commands, and what can we learn from this duality?

2. In what ways does the burial of Jehu in Samaria signify both honor and the complexity of his legacy?

3. How can we apply the lessons from Jehu's transition of power to our own lives, particularly in terms of leadership and legacy?

4. What are the potential consequences of zeal without wisdom, as seen in Jehu's actions, and how can we ensure our zeal aligns with God's will?

5. How does the account of Jehu and Jehoahaz encourage us to consider the long-term impact of our actions on future generations?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 19:16-17
This passage foretells the anointing of Jehu as king over Israel, highlighting God's sovereign plan and Jehu's role in executing judgment on the house of Ahab.

2 Kings 9:6-10
Details the anointing of Jehu by a prophet, emphasizing his divine commission to destroy the house of Ahab and eradicate Baal worship.

Hosea 1:4
References the bloodshed at Jezreel, which is associated with Jehu's actions, indicating the long-term consequences of his reign and the divine judgment that follows.