2 Chronicles 18:2

2 Chronicles 18:2 in Multiple Translations

Berean Standard Bible BSB

And some years later he went down to visit Ahab in Samaria, where Ahab sacrificed many sheep and cattle for him and the people with him, and urged him to march up to Ramoth-gilead.

King James Version KJV

And after certain years he went down to Ahab to Samaria. And Ahab killed sheep and oxen for him in abundance, and for the people that he had with him, and persuaded him to go up with him to Ramoth-gilead.

American Standard Version ASV

And after certain years he went down to Ahab to Samaria. And Ahab killed sheep and oxen for him in abundance, and for the people that were with him, and moved him to go up with him to Ramoth-gilead.

Bible in Basic English BBE

And after some years he went down to Samaria to see Ahab. And Ahab made a feast for him and the people who were with him, putting to death great numbers of sheep and oxen; and he got Jehoshaphat to go with him to Ramoth-gilead.

Free Bible Version FBV

Some years later he went to pay Ahab a visit in Samaria. Ahab sacrificed many sheep and cattle for him and the people who accompanied him, and encouraged him to attack Ramoth-gilead.

Geneva Bible 1599 GNV

And after certaine yeeres he went downe to Ahab to Samaria: and Ahab slew sheepe and oxen for him in great nomber, and for the people that he had with him, and entised him to goe vp vnto Ramoth Gilead.

Young's Literal Translation YLT

and goeth down at the end of [certain] years unto Ahab to Samaria, and Ahab sacrificeth for him sheep and oxen in abundance, and for the people who [are] with him, and persuadeth him to go up unto Ramoth-Gilead.

World English Bible WEB

After some years, he went down to Ahab to Samaria. Ahab killed sheep and cattle for him in abundance, and for the people who were with him, and moved him to go up with him to Ramoth Gilead.

Noah Webster Bible WBS

Douay-Rheims 1899 DRV

And he went down to him after some years to Samaria: and Achab at his coming killed sheep and oxen in abundance for him and the people that came with him: and he persuaded him to go up to Ramoth Galaad.

Translation for Translators T4T

Several years later, he went down from Jerusalem to Samaria to visit Ahab. Ahab welcomed him and the people who had come with him by slaughtering many sheep and cattle for a feast.

Study Highlights

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Berean Amplified Bible — 2 Chronicles 18:2

BAB

Word Study

Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.

Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.

2 Chronicles 18:2 Interlinear (Deep Study)

BIB

HEB וַ/יֵּרֶד֩ לְ/קֵ֨ץ שָׁנִ֤ים אֶל אַחְאָב֙ לְ/שֹׁ֣מְר֔וֹן וַ/יִּֽזְבַּֽח ל֨/וֹ אַחְאָ֜ב צֹ֤אן וּ/בָקָר֙ לָ/רֹ֔ב וְ/לָ/עָ֖ם אֲשֶׁ֣ר עִמּ֑/וֹ וַ/יְסִיתֵ֕/הוּ לַ/עֲל֖וֹת אֶל רָמ֥וֹת גִּלְעָֽד

וַ/יֵּרֶד֩ yârad H3381 to go down Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms

לְ/קֵ֨ץ qêts H7093 end Prep | N-ms

שָׁנִ֤ים shâneh H8141 year N-fp

אֶל ʼêl H413 to(wards) Prep

אַחְאָב֙ ʼAchʼâb H256 Ahab N-proper

לְ/שֹׁ֣מְר֔וֹן Shômᵉrôwn H8111 Samaria Prep | N-proper

וַ/יִּֽזְבַּֽח zâbach H2076 to sacrifice Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms

ל֨/וֹ Prep | Suff

אַחְאָ֜ב ʼAchʼâb H256 Ahab N-proper

צֹ֤אן tsôʼn H6629 Sheep (Gate) N-cs

וּ/בָקָר֙ bâqâr H1241 cattle Conj | N-cs

לָ/רֹ֔ב rôb H7230 abundance Prep | N-cs

וְ/לָ/עָ֖ם ʻam H5971 Amaw Conj | Prep | N-ms

אֲשֶׁ֣ר ʼăsher H834 which Rel

עִמּ֑/וֹ ʻim H5973 with Prep | Suff

וַ/יְסִיתֵ֕/הוּ çûwth H5496 to incite Conj | V-Hiphil-ConsecImperf-3ms | Suff

לַ/עֲל֖וֹת ʻâlâh H5927 to ascend Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a

אֶל ʼêl H413 to(wards) Prep

רָמ֥וֹת Râmôth Gilʻâd H7433 Ramoth (Gilead) N-proper

גִּלְעָֽד Gilʻâd H1568 Gilead N-proper

Hebrew Word Study

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Hebrew Word Reference — 2 Chronicles 18:2

וַ/יֵּרֶד֩ yârad H3381 "to go down" Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms

To go down or descend, like going to a lower place or falling. It appears in Genesis and Exodus, describing people and things moving downwards.

Definition: 1) to go down, descend, decline, march down, sink down 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to go or come down 1a2) to sink 1a3) to be prostrated 1a4) to come down (of revelation) 1b) (Hiphil) 1b1) to bring down 1b2) to send down 1b3) to take down 1b4) to lay prostrate 1b5) to let down 1c) (Hophal) 1c1) to be brought down 1c2) to be taken down

Usage: Occurs in 345 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] abundantly, bring down, carry down, cast down, (cause to) come(-ing) down, fall (down), get down, go(-ing) down(-ward), hang down, [idiom] indeed, let down, light (down), put down (off), (cause to, let) run down, sink, subdue, take down. See also: Genesis 11:5; Judges 3:28; 2 Kings 1:15.

לְ/קֵ֨ץ qêts H7093 "end" Prep | N-ms

The end refers to the extremity or conclusion of something, whether in time or space. It can also mean after or at the border of something, as in the utmost end of a process.

Definition: 1) end 1a) end, at the end of (of time) 1b) end (of space)

Usage: Occurs in 62 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] after, (utmost) border, end, (in-) finite, [idiom] process. See also: Genesis 4:3; Isaiah 23:15; Psalms 39:5.

שָׁנִ֤ים shâneh H8141 "year" N-fp

This word also means a year, like when Abraham was 100 years old in Genesis 21. It is used to describe a period of time, age, or a lifetime.

Definition: 1) year 1a) as division of time 1b) as measure of time 1c) as indication of age 1d) a lifetime (of years of life) Aramaic equivalent: she.nah (שְׁנָה "year" H8140)

Usage: Occurs in 647 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] whole age, [idiom] long, [phrase] old, year([idiom] -ly). See also: Genesis 1:14; Genesis 47:28; Numbers 7:35.

אֶל ʼêl H413 "to(wards)" Prep

This Hebrew word means 'to' or 'toward', showing direction or movement. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus, to indicate where someone is going. The KJV translates it in various ways, like 'about', 'according to', or 'against'.

Definition: 1) to, toward, unto (of motion) 2) into (limit is actually entered) 2a) in among 3) toward (of direction, not necessarily physical motion) 4) against (motion or direction of a hostile character) 5) in addition to, to 6) concerning, in regard to, in reference to, on account of 7) according to (rule or standard) 8) at, by, against (of one's presence) 9) in between, in within, to within, unto (idea of motion to)

Usage: Occurs in 4205 OT verses. KJV: about, according to, after, against, among, as for, at, because(-fore, -side), both...and, by, concerning, for, from, [idiom] hath, in(-to), near, (out) of, over, through, to(-ward), under, unto, upon, whether, with(-in). See also: Genesis 1:9; Genesis 21:14; Genesis 31:13.

אַחְאָב֙ ʼAchʼâb H256 "Ahab" N-proper

Ahab was a king of Israel who lived a long time ago. He was married to a queen named Jezebel and did many bad things. The prophet Jeremiah also wrote about a different man named Ahab.

Definition: A man living at the time of Divided Monarchy, first mentioned at Jer.29.21; son of: Kolaiah (H6964H) § Ahab = "father's brother" 1) king of Israel, son of Omri, husband of Jezebel 2) false prophet executed by Nebuchadrezzar, time of Jeremiah

Usage: Occurs in 81 OT verses. KJV: Ahab. See also: 1 Kings 16:28; 1 Kings 22:40; Jeremiah 29:21.

לְ/שֹׁ֣מְר֔וֹן Shômᵉrôwn H8111 "Samaria" Prep | N-proper

Samaria means watch mountain, a region in northern Palestine and the capital city of the northern kingdom of Israel, located near Jerusalem. It was the kingdom of the 10 tribes of Israel after Solomon's death.

Definition: § Samaria = "watch mountain" 1) the region of northern Palestine associated with the northern kingdom of the 10 tribes of Israel which split from the kingdom after the death of Solomon during the reign of his son Rehoboam and were ruled by Jeroboam 2) the capital city of the northern kingdom of Israel located 30 miles (50 km) north of Jerusalem and 6 miles (10 km) northwest of Shechem

Usage: Occurs in 101 OT verses. KJV: Samaria. See also: 1 Kings 13:32; 2 Kings 17:5; Isaiah 7:9.

וַ/יִּֽזְבַּֽח zâbach H2076 "to sacrifice" Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms

To sacrifice means to slaughter an animal, usually for a religious offering, as seen in the Bible's instructions for worship. This term is used in many contexts, including sacrifices for eating or in divine judgment. It's often translated as 'kill' or 'offer' in the KJV.

Definition: 1) to slaughter, kill, sacrifice, slaughter for sacrifice 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to slaughter for sacrifice 1a2) to slaughter for eating 1a3) to slaughter in divine judgment 1b) (Piel) to sacrifice, offer sacrifice Aramaic equivalent: de.vach (דְּבַח "to sacrifice" H1684)

Usage: Occurs in 127 OT verses. KJV: kill, offer, (do) sacrifice, slay. See also: Genesis 31:54; 1 Kings 8:62; Psalms 4:6.

ל֨/וֹ "" Prep | Suff

אַחְאָ֜ב ʼAchʼâb H256 "Ahab" N-proper

Ahab was a king of Israel who lived a long time ago. He was married to a queen named Jezebel and did many bad things. The prophet Jeremiah also wrote about a different man named Ahab.

Usage: Occurs in 81 OT verses. KJV: Ahab. See also: 1 Kings 16:28; 1 Kings 22:40; Jeremiah 29:21.

צֹ֤אן tsôʼn H6629 "Sheep (Gate)" N-cs

This word refers to a flock of sheep or goats, and is sometimes used to describe people in a figurative sense. It is also associated with the Sheep Gate in Jerusalem, a significant location in biblical times.

Definition: This name means sheep and goats Also named: probatikos (προβατικός "Sheep Gate" G4262)

Usage: Occurs in 247 OT verses. KJV: (small) cattle, flock ([phrase] -s), lamb ([phrase] -s), sheep(-cote, -fold, -shearer, -herds). See also: Genesis 4:2; Deuteronomy 28:31; Psalms 44:12.

וּ/בָקָר֙ bâqâr H1241 "cattle" Conj | N-cs

Domesticated cattle or oxen, used for work or sacrifice, like the animals used in the temple sacrifices in 1 Kings 8:63.

Definition: 1) cattle, herd, oxen, ox 1a) cattle (generic pl. but sing. in form-coll) 1b) herd (particular one) 1c) head of cattle (individually)

Usage: Occurs in 172 OT verses. KJV: beeve, bull ([phrase] -ock), [phrase] calf, [phrase] cow, great (cattle), [phrase] heifer, herd, kine, ox. See also: Genesis 12:16; Deuteronomy 8:13; Psalms 66:15.

לָ/רֹ֔ב rôb H7230 "abundance" Prep | N-cs

Describes abundance or greatness in the Bible, used to talk about God's power and creation in Psalms and Isaiah.

Definition: 1) multitude, abundance, greatness 1a) multitude 1a1) abundance, abundantly 1a2) numerous 1b) greatness

Usage: Occurs in 145 OT verses. KJV: abundance(-antly), all, [idiom] common (sort), excellent, great(-ly, -ness, number), huge, be increased, long, many, more in number, most, much, multitude, plenty(-ifully), [idiom] very (age). See also: Genesis 16:10; Job 32:7; Psalms 5:8.

וְ/לָ/עָ֖ם ʻam H5971 "Amaw" Conj | Prep | N-ms

A people or nation is what this Hebrew word represents, like the nation of Israel in Exodus 33:13. It can also mean a tribe, troops, or attendants, and is used to describe a group of people gathered together. The word is often used to refer to the people of God.

Definition: This name means nation, people

Usage: Occurs in 1655 OT verses. KJV: folk, men, nation, people. See also: Genesis 11:6; Exodus 16:4; Leviticus 17:9.

אֲשֶׁ֣ר ʼăsher H834 "which" Rel

This Hebrew word is a conjunction that connects ideas and events in the Bible, like in the book of Genesis, where it's used to describe the relationship between God and His creation.

Definition: A: 1) (relative part.) 1a) which, who 1b) that which 2) (conj) 2a) that (in obj clause) 2b) when 2c) since 2d) as 2e) conditional if B: Beth+ 1) in (that) which 2) (adv) 2a) where 3) (conj) 3a) in that, inasmuch as 3b) on account of C: Mem+ 1) from (or than) that which 2) from (the place) where 3) from (the fact) that, since D: Kaph+ 1) (conj.), according as, as, when 1a) according to that which, according as, as 1b) with a causal force: in so far as, since 1c) with a temporal force: when

Usage: Occurs in 4440 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] after, [idiom] alike, as (soon as), because, [idiom] every, for, [phrase] forasmuch, [phrase] from whence, [phrase] how(-soever), [idiom] if, (so) that ((thing) which, wherein), [idiom] though, [phrase] until, [phrase] whatsoever, when, where ([phrase] -as, -in, -of, -on, -soever, -with), which, whilst, [phrase] whither(-soever), who(-m, -soever, -se). As it is indeclinable, it is often accompanied by the personal pronoun expletively, used to show the connection. See also: Genesis 1:7; Genesis 20:9; Genesis 31:16.

עִמּ֑/וֹ ʻim H5973 "with" Prep | Suff

This Hebrew word means with or together, like when God is with his people in Exodus 33:14-15. It's used to describe accompaniment or association, and can also mean against or beside. The word is used to convey a sense of relationship or proximity between people or things.

Definition: 1) with 1a) with 1b) against 1c) toward 1d) as long as

Usage: Occurs in 919 OT verses. KJV: accompanying, against, and, as ([idiom] long as), before, beside, by (reason of), for all, from (among, between), in, like, more than, of, (un-) to, with(-al). See also: Genesis 3:6; Exodus 21:14; Deuteronomy 29:11.

וַ/יְסִיתֵ֕/הוּ çûwth H5496 "to incite" Conj | V-Hiphil-ConsecImperf-3ms | Suff

To incite or stimulate is the meaning of this verb, which can also mean to seduce or entice. It is used in the Bible to describe the temptation of people to sin, such as the temptation of Adam and Eve in the garden of Eden, and is often associated with the actions of false prophets and leaders.

Definition: 1) to incite, allure, instigate, entice 1a) (Hiphil) 1a1) to incite (to a request) 1a2) to allure, lure 1a3) to instigate (bad sense)

Usage: Occurs in 18 OT verses. KJV: entice, move, persuade, provoke, remove, set on, stir up, take away. See also: Deuteronomy 13:7; 2 Chronicles 18:31; Isaiah 36:18.

לַ/עֲל֖וֹת ʻâlâh H5927 "to ascend" Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a

To ascend means to go up or rise, like the smoke from an altar going up to God, as described in many Bible passages, including Leviticus and Psalms.

Definition: : rise/go 1) to go up, ascend, climb 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to go up, ascend 1a2) to meet, visit, follow, depart, withdraw, retreat 1a3) to go up, come up (of animals) 1a4) to spring up, grow, shoot forth (of vegetation) 1a5) to go up, go up over, rise (of natural phenomenon) 1a6) to come up (before God) 1a7) to go up, go up over, extend (of boundary) 1a8) to excel, be superior to 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be taken up, be brought up, be taken away 1b2) to take oneself away 1b3) to be exalted 1c) (Hiphil) 1c1) to bring up, cause to ascend or climb, cause to go up 1c2) to bring up, bring against, take away 1c3) to bring up, draw up, train 1c4) to cause to ascend 1c5) to rouse, stir up (mentally) 1c6) to offer, bring up (of gifts) 1c7) to exalt 1c8) to cause to ascend, offer 1d) (Hophal) 1d1) to be carried away, be led up 1d2) to be taken up into, be inserted in 1d3) to be offered 1e) (Hithpael) to lift oneself

Usage: Occurs in 817 OT verses. KJV: arise (up), (cause to) ascend up, at once, break (the day) (up), bring (up), (cause to) burn, carry up, cast up, [phrase] shew, climb (up), (cause to, make to) come (up), cut off, dawn, depart, exalt, excel, fall, fetch up, get up, (make to) go (away, up); grow (over) increase, lay, leap, levy, lift (self) up, light, (make) up, [idiom] mention, mount up, offer, make to pay, [phrase] perfect, prefer, put (on), raise, recover, restore, (make to) rise (up), scale, set (up), shoot forth (up), (begin to) spring (up), stir up, take away (up), work. See also: Genesis 2:6; Exodus 34:4; Joshua 7:6.

אֶל ʼêl H413 "to(wards)" Prep

רָמ֥וֹת Râmôth Gilʻâd H7433 "Ramoth (Gilead)" N-proper

Ramoth-Gilead is a location east of the Jordan River, mentioned in the Bible as a significant place. It was the site of a major battle and is also associated with the prophet Elisha. The name means heights or high places.

Definition: § Ramoth = "heights" Ramoth-gilead-a place in Gilead

Usage: Occurs in 21 OT verses. KJV: Ramoth-gilead, Ramoth in Gilead. See also H7216 (רָאמוֹת). See also: Joshua 21:38; 2 Kings 9:1; 2 Chronicles 22:5.

גִּלְעָֽד Gilʻâd H1568 "Gilead" N-proper

Gilead refers to a mountainous region east of the Jordan River, also the name of three Israelites. It means 'rocky region' and is sometimes called 'Mount Gilead'.

Definition: Gilead = "rocky region" a mountainous region bounded on the west by the Jordan, on the north by Bashan, on the east by the Arabian plateau, and on the south by Moab and Ammon; sometimes called 'Mount Gilead' or the 'land of Gilead' or just 'Gilead'. Divided into north and south Gilead

Usage: Occurs in 123 OT verses. KJV: Gilead, Gileadite. See also: Genesis 31:21; 1 Samuel 11:9; Psalms 60:9.

Study Notes — 2 Chronicles 18:2

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Context — Jehoshaphat Allies with Ahab

1Now Jehoshaphat had an abundance of riches and honor, and he allied himself with Ahab by marriage.

2And some years later he went down to visit Ahab in Samaria, where Ahab sacrificed many sheep and cattle for him and the people with him and urged him to march up to Ramoth-gilead.

3Ahab king of Israel asked Jehoshaphat king of Judah, “Will you go with me against Ramoth-gilead?” And Jehoshaphat replied, “I am as you are, and my people are your people; we will join you in the war.” 4But Jehoshaphat also said to the king of Israel, “Please inquire first for the word of the LORD.”

Cross References

	Reference	Text (BSB)
1	2 Kings 9:1	Now Elisha the prophet summoned one of the sons of the prophets and said to him, “Tuck your cloak under your belt, take this flask of oil, and go to Ramoth-gilead.
2	2 Chronicles 19:2	Jehu son of Hanani the seer went out to confront him and said to King Jehoshaphat, “Should you help the wicked and love those who hate the LORD? Because of this, the wrath of the LORD is upon you.
3	1 Kings 1:9	And Adonijah sacrificed sheep, oxen, and fattened calves near the stone of Zoheleth, which is next to En-rogel. He invited all his royal brothers and all the men of Judah who were servants of the king.
4	1 Kings 17:7	Some time later, however, the brook dried up because there had been no rain in the land.
5	Nehemiah 13:6	While all this was happening, I was not in Jerusalem, because I had returned to Artaxerxes king of Babylon in the thirty-second year of his reign. Some time later I obtained leave from the king
6	1 Kings 22:2–35	However, in the third year, Jehoshaphat king of Judah went down to visit the king of Israel, who said to his servants, “Do you not know that Ramoth-gilead is ours, but we have failed to take it from the hand of the king of Aram?” So he asked Jehoshaphat, “Will you go with me to fight against Ramoth-gilead?” Jehoshaphat answered the king of Israel, “I am like you, my people are your people, and my horses are your horses.” But Jehoshaphat also said to the king of Israel, “Please inquire first for the word of the LORD.” So the king of Israel assembled the prophets, about four hundred men, and asked them, “Should I go to war against Ramoth-gilead, or should I refrain?” “Go up,” they replied, “and the Lord will deliver it into the hand of the king.” But Jehoshaphat asked, “Is there not still a prophet of the LORD here of whom we can inquire?” The king of Israel answered, “There is still one man who can ask the LORD, but I hate him because he never prophesies anything good for me, but only bad. He is Micaiah son of Imlah.” “The king should not say that!” Jehoshaphat replied. So the king of Israel called one of his officials and said, “Bring Micaiah son of Imlah at once.” Dressed in royal attire, the king of Israel and Jehoshaphat king of Judah were sitting on their thrones at the threshing floor by the entrance of the gate of Samaria, with all the prophets prophesying before them. Now Zedekiah son of Chenaanah had made for himself iron horns and declared, “This is what the LORD says: ‘With these you shall gore the Arameans until they are finished off.’” And all the prophets were prophesying the same, saying, “Go up to Ramoth-gilead and prosper, for the LORD will deliver it into the hand of the king.” Then the messenger who had gone to call Micaiah instructed him, “Behold now, with one accord the words of the prophets are favorable to the king. So please let your words be like theirs, and speak favorably.” But Micaiah said, “As surely as the LORD lives, I will speak whatever the LORD tells me.” When Micaiah arrived, the king asked him, “Micaiah, should we go to war against Ramoth-gilead, or should we refrain?” “Go up and triumph,” Micaiah replied, “for the LORD will give it into the hand of the king.” But the king said to him, “How many times must I make you swear not to tell me anything but the truth in the name of the LORD?” So Micaiah declared: “I saw all Israel scattered on the hills like sheep without a shepherd. And the LORD said, ‘These people have no master; let each one return home in peace.’” Then the king of Israel said to Jehoshaphat, “Did I not tell you that he never prophesies good for me, but only bad?” Micaiah continued, “Therefore hear the word of the LORD: I saw the LORD sitting on His throne, and all the host of heaven standing by Him on His right and on His left. And the LORD said, ‘Who will entice Ahab to march up and fall at Ramoth-gilead?’ And one suggested this, and another that. Then a spirit came forward, stood before the LORD, and said, ‘I will entice him.’ ‘By what means?’ asked the LORD. And he replied, ‘I will go out and be a lying spirit in the mouths of all his prophets.’ ‘You will surely entice him and prevail,’ said the LORD. ‘Go and do it.’ So you see, the LORD has put a lying spirit in the mouths of all these prophets of yours, and the LORD has pronounced disaster against you.” Then Zedekiah son of Chenaanah went up, struck Micaiah in the face, and demanded, “Which way did the Spirit of the LORD go when He departed from me to speak with you?” Micaiah replied, “You will soon see, on that day when you go and hide in an inner room.” And the king of Israel declared, “Take Micaiah and return him to Amon the governor of the city and to Joash the king’s son, and tell them that this is what the king says: ‘Put this man in prison and feed him only bread and water until I return safely.’” But Micaiah replied, “If you ever return safely, the LORD has not spoken through me.” Then he added, “Take heed, all you people!” So the king of Israel and Jehoshaphat king of Judah went up to Ramoth-gilead. And the king of Israel said to Jehoshaphat, “I will disguise myself and go into battle, but you wear your royal robes.” So the king of Israel disguised himself and went into battle. Now the king of Aram had ordered his thirty-two chariot commanders, “Do not fight with anyone, small or great, except the king of Israel.” When the chariot commanders saw Jehoshaphat, they said, “Surely this is the king of Israel!” So they turned to fight against him, but Jehoshaphat cried out. And when the chariot commanders saw that he was not the king of Israel, they turned back from pursuing him. However, a certain man drew his bow without taking special aim, and he struck the king of Israel between the joints of his armor. So the king said to his charioteer, “Turn around and take me out of the battle, for I am badly wounded!” The battle raged throughout that day, and the king was propped up in his chariot facing the Arameans. And the blood from his wound ran out onto the floor of the chariot, and that evening he died.
7	Luke 17:27–29	People were eating and drinking, marrying and being given in marriage, up to the day Noah entered the ark. Then the flood came and destroyed them all. It was the same in the days of Lot: People were eating and drinking, buying and selling, planting and building. But on the day Lot left Sodom, fire and sulfur rained down from heaven and destroyed them all.
8	1 Kings 4:13	Ben-geber in Ramoth-gilead (the villages of Jair son of Manasseh in Gilead belonged to him, as well as the region of Argob in Bashan with its sixty great cities with walls and bronze bars);
9	Deuteronomy 4:43	Bezer in the wilderness on the plateau belonging to the Reubenites, Ramoth in Gilead belonging to the Gadites, or Golan in Bashan belonging to the Manassites.
10	Joshua 20:8	And beyond the Jordan, east of Jericho, they designated Bezer on the wilderness plateau from the tribe of Reuben, Ramoth in Gilead from the tribe of Gad, and Golan in Bashan from the tribe of Manasseh.

2 Chronicles 18:2 Summary

This verse tells us that Jehoshaphat, the king of Judah, visited his friend Ahab, the king of Israel, in Samaria, where Ahab showed him great hospitality and encouraged him to join forces in a battle to retake the city of Ramoth-gilead. Ahab's sacrifice of many sheep and cattle was a gesture of friendship and a way to persuade Jehoshaphat to join him in battle, similar to the way that Abraham and Abimelech formed a covenant in Genesis 21:27. As we consider this verse, we can reflect on the importance of seeking God's guidance in our relationships and decisions, as Jehoshaphat later requests in 2 Chronicles 18:4. By prioritizing our relationship with God and seeking His wisdom, we can navigate complex situations and make choices that align with His will, as encouraged in Proverbs 3:5-6.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did Jehoshaphat visit Ahab in Samaria?

Jehoshaphat visited Ahab in Samaria because they had formed an alliance through marriage, as mentioned in 2 Chronicles 18:1, and Ahab likely wanted to strengthen their bond and persuade Jehoshaphat to join him in battle.

What was the significance of Ahab sacrificing many sheep and cattle for Jehoshaphat?

The sacrifice of many sheep and cattle was a gesture of hospitality and friendship, as seen in other biblical accounts such as Genesis 21:27, and it was also a way for Ahab to persuade Jehoshaphat to join him in his military campaign.

What was Ramoth-gilead, and why was it important?

Ramoth-gilead was a city in the kingdom of Israel that had been taken by the king of Syria, and Ahab wanted to retake it, as mentioned in 1 Kings 22:3, and he urged Jehoshaphat to join him in this effort.

How does this verse relate to the biblical theme of alliances and friendships?

This verse illustrates the complexities of forming alliances and friendships, as seen in other biblical accounts such as 2 Corinthians 6:14, and it highlights the importance of seeking God's guidance in these relationships, as Jehoshaphat later requests in 2 Chronicles 18:4.

Reflection Questions

What are some ways that I form alliances or friendships in my own life, and how can I seek God's guidance in these relationships?
How can I balance the desire for human connection and friendship with the need to prioritize my relationship with God, as seen in Matthew 22:37-40?
In what ways can I be mindful of the influences and pressures that others may exert on me, as Ahab exerted on Jehoshaphat, and how can I stand firm in my commitment to God's will?
What are some lessons that I can learn from Jehoshaphat's experience in this verse about the importance of seeking God's guidance and wisdom in all aspects of life?

Gill's Exposition on 2 Chronicles 18:2

And after certain years,.... Two years, according to the Syriac and Arabic versions, or in the third year after the affinity was contracted, see 1 Kings 22:2, he went down to Ahab to Samaria; to pay

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 2 Chronicles 18:2

Trapp's Commentary on 2 Chronicles 18:2

2 Chronicles 18:2 And after [certain] years he went down to Ahab to Samaria. And Ahab killed sheep and oxen for him in abundance, and for the people that [he had] with him, and persuaded him to go up [with him] to Ramothgilead.Ver. 2. He went down to Ahab to Samaria.] See 1 Kings 22:2, in which chapter we have the same history related as here, not abridged - as is usual with this author - but at large; this much commendeth it unto us as necessary and profitable, since the Holy Ghost doth nothing in vain. And Ahab killed sheep and oxen.] As to feast him and his retinue, so, haply, to sacrifice to the gods, as idolaters used to do when great strangers came unto them. Dido did so when Æneas came to her court. “ Simul Aeneam in regia ducit Tecta, simul divum templis indicit honorem. ” - Aeneid, lib. i. Now Jezebel was Dido’ s countrywoman, and had a great influence upon her husband Ahab.

Ellicott's Commentary on 2 Chronicles 18:2

(2) And after certain years.—See margin. 1 Kings 22:2 has: “And it came to pass in the third year, that Jehoshaphat went down,” &c.—a date which is relative to the three years’ truce between Syria and Israel mentioned in the preceding verse. From 1 Kings 22:51 of the same chapter we learn that this visit took place in the sixteenth or seventeenth year of the reign of Jehoshaphat. The marriage of Jehoram and Athaliah preceded the visit by eight or nine years. (Syriac and Arabic, “and after two years.”) And Ahab killed sheep and oxen for him in abundance.—This royal hospitality is here represented as part of a deliberate plan for obtaining the co-operation of Jehoshaphat in the projected campaign. Persuaded him.—Incited, pricked him on (Judges 1:12); especially to evil; 1 Chronicles 21:1, Deuteronomy 13:7. In 1 Kings 22:3, Ahab broaches the subject of the expedition to his court. To go up . . . to.—To make an expedition against a town or country (Isaiah 7:1; Isaiah 7:6; 1 Kings 15:17). Comp. Isaiah 8:7-8.

Cambridge Bible on 2 Chronicles 18:2

2. killed sheep and oxen] This phrase implies a feast, for flesh is eaten in the East only on festal occasions. The phrase used for supplying necessary food is to set bread and water before one. that he had with him] R.V. that were with him. and persuaded him] R.V. and moved him. The meaning of both phrases is the same, for in old English to persuade means to use persuasion without reference to the success of the action. Ramoth-gilead] Deuteronomy 4:43; 1 Kings 4:13; 1 Kings 22:3; 2 Kings 8:28; 2 Kings 9:1; 2 Kings 9:14. Ramoth was a city of refuge and (under Solomon) the seat of the governor of a province. Probably it was the most important Israelite city east of Jordan. It has been identified—but not beyond doubt—with the modern es-Salṭ ?. Bädeker, p. 177.

Barnes' Notes on 2 Chronicles 18:2

After certain years - In Jehoshaphat’s 17th year 1 Kings 22:51, not less than 8 years after the marriage (marginal reference note).

Whedon's Commentary on 2 Chronicles 18:2

2. Ahab killed sheep and oxen for him — Made for him a grand feast, thus seeking to secure his consent to assist him in the war with Syria.

Sermons on 2 Chronicles 18:2

	Sermon	Description
	The Importance of Delegating Responsibility by Denis Lyle	Denis Lyle preaches on the importance of delegating responsibility, emphasizing the challenges faced by those in positions of authority who struggle to delegate tasks. Drawing from
	A Study in Hebrews 13 - Part 2 by William MacDonald	In this sermon, the speaker discusses the wicked system described in the book of Revelation. The system is characterized by the rulers of the nations making alliances with it and t
	Shouldest Thou Help the Ungodly, and Love Them by F.B. Meyer	F.B. Meyer addresses the dangers of compromising our faith by aligning too closely with the ungodly, as exemplified by King Jehoshaphat's alliance with Ahab. He warns that wealth a
	Elijah Watched and Waited by Charles E. Cowman	Charles E. Cowman preaches about the unwavering faith of Elijah as he watched the brook dry up, refusing to let circumstances shake his trust in God. While unbelief sees God throug
	Providence of Loss by Charles E. Cowman	Charles E. Cowman preaches about the providence of loss and the ministry of failing, emphasizing the importance of learning to trust in the Giver rather than the gift. Using Elijah
	Bible Survey - Malachi by Peter Hammond	Peter Hammond preaches on the Book of Malachi, the last Book of the Old Testament, which serves as a bridge to the New Testament. Malachi, God's messenger, delivers the last Word o
	The Love of Money - Part 4 by Zac Poonen	This sermon emphasizes the importance of financial wisdom and stewardship, drawing lessons from the simplicity and wisdom of Jesus' life. It highlights the principles of buying onl