2 Kings 16:6

At that time Rezin king of Aram recovered Elath for Aram, drove out the men of Judah, and sent the Edomites into Elath, where they live to this day.

Study Bible

At that time
This phrase situates the events within a specific historical context, indicating a period during the reign of King Ahaz of Judah. The phrase suggests a time of political upheaval and conflict, aligning with the broader narrative of the divided kingdoms of Israel and Judah. Historically, this was a period marked by Assyrian expansion and regional instability, which is crucial for understanding the pressures faced by the smaller kingdoms like Judah.

Rezin king of Aram
Rezin was the last king of Aram-Damascus, a significant power in the region during the 8th century BC. The mention of Rezin highlights the geopolitical dynamics of the time, as Aram was often in conflict with Israel and Judah. The Hebrew root for Rezin, "רְצִין" (Rezin), can be associated with firmness or a prince, reflecting his role as a formidable leader. His actions against Judah were part of a larger coalition with Pekah, king of Israel, against the Assyrian threat.

recovered Elath for Aram
Elath, a strategic port city on the Red Sea, was crucial for trade and military advantage. The recovery of Elath by Rezin signifies a shift in control and influence in the region. The Hebrew term for "recovered" suggests a restoration or reclaiming, indicating that Elath was previously under Aramean control before being taken by Judah. This act of recovery underscores the ongoing territorial disputes and the strategic importance of Elath.

and drove the Jews from Elath
This phrase indicates a forced expulsion, reflecting the harsh realities of ancient warfare and conquest. The term "Jews" here refers to the people of Judah, emphasizing their vulnerability during this period. The expulsion from Elath not only represents a loss of territory but also a blow to Judah's economic and strategic interests. It highlights the challenges faced by the Judean kingdom in maintaining its sovereignty amidst stronger regional powers.

Then the Edomites came to Elath
The Edomites, descendants of Esau, were long-standing rivals of Israel and Judah. Their occupation of Elath after the Arameans suggests opportunistic expansion, taking advantage of the power vacuum created by Rezin's actions. This movement of the Edomites into Elath is consistent with their historical enmity and territorial ambitions, as recorded throughout the Old Testament.

and settled there to this day
This phrase indicates a lasting change in the demographic and political landscape of Elath. The settlement of the Edomites "to this day" suggests a permanent shift, at least from the perspective of the author of 2 Kings. It reflects the enduring consequences of military and political actions in the ancient Near East, where territorial changes often had long-lasting impacts on the region's history and culture.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Rezin
King of Aram (Syria) who was an adversary of Judah. His actions against Judah are part of the larger geopolitical struggles of the time.

2. Aram
A region often in conflict with Israel and Judah, located in present-day Syria. Aram's interactions with Israel and Judah are significant throughout the Old Testament.

3. Elath
A strategic port city on the Red Sea, important for trade and military purposes. Its control was contested by various powers, including Judah, Aram, and Edom.

4. Jews
Refers to the people of Judah, the southern kingdom of Israel, who were driven from Elath by Rezin.

5. Edomites
Descendants of Esau, often in conflict with Israel. They took control of Elath after the Jews were expelled.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Disobedience
The loss of Elath is a direct result of Judah's disobedience to God. When we stray from God's commands, we may face consequences that affect not only us but also our communities.

The Importance of Strategic Locations
Elath's significance as a trade and military hub reminds us of the importance of strategic planning in our lives. We should be mindful of the "Elaths" in our lives—areas that require careful stewardship and protection.

God's Sovereignty in Geopolitical Affairs
Despite human conflicts and power struggles, God remains sovereign. We can trust that He is in control, even when nations rise and fall.

The Impact of Leadership
The actions of leaders like Rezin and Ahaz have profound effects on their people. This underscores the importance of godly leadership and the influence it has on a nation's spiritual and physical well-being.

The Role of Prophecy and Fulfillment
The events surrounding Elath and the broader conflict fulfill prophetic words given to Israel. This encourages us to study and trust in the prophetic scriptures, knowing they reveal God's plan.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the loss of Elath reflect the spiritual state of Judah during King Ahaz's reign?

2. In what ways can we identify and protect the "strategic locations" in our personal and spiritual lives?

3. How does the conflict over Elath illustrate the broader theme of God's sovereignty over nations and history?

4. What lessons can we learn from the leadership styles of Rezin and Ahaz, and how can we apply these lessons to our roles in leadership today?

5. How do the events in 2 Kings 16:6 connect to the prophecies found in Isaiah, and what does this teach us about the reliability of God's word?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 7
Provides context for the Syro-Ephraimite War, where Rezin and Pekah of Israel allied against Judah, leading to the events described in 2 Kings 16:6.

2 Chronicles 28
Offers a parallel account of King Ahaz's reign and the geopolitical struggles, including the loss of Elath.

Genesis 25
Describes the origins of the Edomites, tracing back to Esau, Jacob's brother, highlighting the longstanding enmity between Edom and Israel.