2 Chronicles 35:22
Nevertheless Josiah would not turn his face from him, but disguised himself, that he might fight with him, and hearkened not unto the words of Necho from the mouth of God, and came to fight in the valley of Megiddo.
2 Chronicles 35:22 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from 2 Chronicles 35:22 tells the story of King Josiah of Judah, who made a fateful decision to go into battle with Pharaoh Necho of Egypt, despite being warned by Necho that God had commanded him to leave Josiah alone. Josiah, however, did not heed this warning and disguised himself to join the battle at the valley of Megiddo. This act ultimately led to Josiah's tragic death in the battle. The verse serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of ignoring divine warnings and going against the will of God. It emphasizes the importance of listening to God's guidance and not letting pride or arrogance cloud one's judgment. Josiah's story serves as a reminder to trust in God's plan and to seek His will in all circumstances, rather than relying on our own understanding. This verse offers a lesson in humility and obedience, highlighting the consequences of disobedience and the importance of submitting to God's authority.
Theological Overview
In this verse from 2 Chronicles 35:22, Josiah, the king of Judah at the time, encountered Necho, the king of Egypt, as he was on his way to confront the Assyrians. Despite being warned by Necho that God was not with him in this battle, Josiah refused to listen and disguised himself to fight against Necho at the Valley of Megiddo. Josiah's decision to challenge Necho in battle, despite the divine warning, ultimately led to his death in the battle. This passage serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of heeding the words of God and trusting in His guidance, rather than relying on one's own strength and understanding. It highlights the consequences of disobedience and the dangers of ignoring divine warnings. Through the theological interpretation of this verse, we are reminded of the significance of seeking God's will in all our actions and decisions, and the necessity of faithfulness and obedience to His word.
2 Chronicles 35:22 in other translations
American Standard Version
Nevertheless Josiah would not turn his face from him, but disguised himself, that he might fight with him, and hearkened not unto the words of Neco from the mouth of God, and came to fight in the valley of Megiddo.
World English Bible
Nevertheless Josiah would not turn his face from him, but disguised himself, that he might fight with him, and didn’t listen to the words of Neco from the mouth of God, and came to fight in the valley of Megiddo.
Douay-Rheims
Josias would not return, but prepared to fight against him, and hearkened not to the words of Nechao from the mouth of God, but went to fight in the field of Mageddo.
Geneva Bible (1599)
But Iosiah would not turne his face from him, but changed his apparel to fight with him, and hearkened not vnto the wordes of Necho, which were of the mouth of God, but came to fight in the valley of Megiddo.