2 Chronicles 36:5
Jehoiakim was twenty and five years old when he began to reign, and he reigned eleven years in Jerusalem: and he did that which was evil in the sight of the LORD his God.
2 Chronicles 36:5 · King James Version
Meaning
When King Jehoiakim began his reign, he was only twenty-five years old. He ruled over Jerusalem for eleven years, during which he did what was considered evil in the eyes of the Lord his God. This verse is found in the Old Testament of the Bible and is a part of the historical account of the kings of Judah. Jehoiakim's reign was characterized by disobedience to God's laws and a failure to lead his people in righteousness. His actions brought about negative consequences for the nation of Judah, ultimately leading to its downfall and capture by foreign powers. The verse serves as a reminder of the importance of following God's commands and the consequences of turning away from Him.
Theological Overview
When delving into the theological interpretation of the verse which states Jehoiakim's reign as king in Jerusalem, it becomes apparent that his actions were deemed as evil in the eyes of the Lord his God. The term "evil" here refers to actions that went against the will and commandments of God. Throughout the Bible, evil is often associated with disobedience, idolatry, and oppression of the vulnerable. Jehoiakim's reign serves as a reminder of the consequences of straying from God's ways and the importance of following His commands. This verse prompts readers to reflect on the significance of obedience and righteousness in the eyes of the Lord. Additionally, the word "reign" in this context highlights Jehoiakim's authority and leadership over the people of Jerusalem, emphasizing the impact his actions had on the nation as a whole. Overall, this verse encourages readers to strive for righteousness and faithfulness in their own lives, avoiding the path of evil that Jehoiakim chose to follow.
2 Chronicles 36:5 in other translations
American Standard Version
Jehoiakim was twenty and five years old when he began to reign; and he reigned eleven years in Jerusalem: and he did that which was evil in the sight of Jehovah his God.
World English Bible
Jehoiakim was twenty-five years old when he began to reign; and he reigned eleven years in Jerusalem: and he did that which was evil in the sight of Yahweh his God.
Douay-Rheims
Joakim was five and twenty years old when he began to reign, and he reigned eleven years in Jerusalem: and he did evil before the Lord his God.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Iehoiakim was fiue and twentie yeere old, when he began to reigne, and he reigned eleuen yeere in Ierusalem, and did euill in the sight of the Lord his God.