2 Chronicles
36 chapters · Old Testament
Second Chronicles continues the sweeping narrative begun in 1 Chronicles, covering the reign of Solomon and the divided kingdom's history through the fall of Jerusalem. Jewish tradition attributes authorship to Ezra, and the book was likely compiled and shaped for the Jewish community returning from Babylonian exile around the fifth century BC. Drawing on earlier temple records, royal archives, and prophetic writings, the Chronicler presents a carefully theological retelling of Israel's history rather than a simple chronicle of events.
The heart of 2 Chronicles beats with a consistent message: faithfulness to God brings blessing, while unfaithfulness brings consequence. The Jerusalem temple stands at the center of the narrative as the sacred meeting place between God and His people, and true worship is portrayed as the foundation of national life. The book gives remarkable attention to kings who led revivals — Solomon, Jehoshaphat, Hezekiah, and Josiah — offering their stories as models of repentance and renewal. For the returning exiles and for readers today, 2 Chronicles carries a profound promise: when God's people humble themselves, seek His face, and turn from sin, He is faithful to hear and to heal.