2 Kings 10:5
And he that was over the house, and he that was over the city, the elders also, and the bringers up of the children, sent to Jehu, saying, We are thy servants, and will do all that thou shalt bid us; we will not make any king: do thou that which is good in thine eyes.
2 Kings 10:5 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse, the leaders of the house, city, elders, and caretakers of the children all express their allegiance and submission to Jehu, a newly appointed king. They acknowledge him as their ruler and pledge to carry out his commands faithfully. By stating that they will not make any king but will follow Jehu's lead, they demonstrate their recognition of his authority and their willingness to support his leadership. Their declaration to do whatever Jehu deems as good in his eyes signifies their trust in his judgment and their commitment to serving him wholeheartedly. This verse reflects the importance of obedience, loyalty, and unity in leadership, as well as the significance of seeking guidance from a chosen leader in making decisions for the community.
Theological Overview
Within this verse, there is a sense of surrender and submission to Jehu as a newly appointed leader. The mention of the various officials, including the one over the house, the one over the city, the elders, and the bringers up of the children, signifies a collective acknowledgment of Jehu's authority. By declaring themselves as servants of Jehu and expressing their obedience to his commands, these individuals demonstrate their willingness to follow his leadership. Furthermore, their pledge not to make any king and their commitment to carry out whatever Jehu deems good reflects a trust in his judgment and a desire for unity under his rule. This act of submission highlights the importance of respect for leadership and the need for cooperation within a community to achieve common goals. Ultimately, this verse serves as a reminder of the significance of humility and loyalty in maintaining order and harmony within a society.
2 Kings 10:5 in other translations
American Standard Version
And he that was over the household, and he that was over the city, the elders also, and they that brought up [the children], sent to Jehu, saying, We are thy servants, and will do all that thou shalt bid us; we will not make any man king: do thou that which is good in thine eyes.
World English Bible
He who was over the household, and he who was over the city, the elders also, and those who raised the children, sent to Jehu, saying, “We are your servants, and will do all that you ask us. We will not make any man king. You do that which is good in your eyes.”
Douay-Rheims
Therefore they that were over the king's house, and the rulers of the city, and the ancients, and the bringers up of the children, sent to Jehu, saying: We are thy servants: whatsoever thou shalt command us we will do; we will not make us any king: do thou all that pleaseth thee.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And he that was gouernour of Ahabs house, and he that ruled the citie, and the Elders, and the bringers vp of the children sent to Iehu, saying, We are thy seruants, and will doe all that thou shalt bid vs: we will make no King: do what seemeth good to thee.