2 Kings 9:17
2 Kings 9:17 in Multiple Translations
Now the watchman standing on the tower in Jezreel saw Jehu’s troops approaching, and he called out, “I see a company of troops!” “Choose a rider,” Joram commanded. “Send him out to meet them and ask, ‘Have you come in peace?’”
And there stood a watchman on the tower in Jezreel, and he spied the company of Jehu as he came, and said, I see a company. And Joram said, Take an horseman, and send to meet them, and let him say, Is it peace?
Now the watchman was standing on the tower in Jezreel, and he spied the company of Jehu as he came, and said, I see a company. And Joram said, Take a horseman, and send to meet them, and let him say, Is it peace?
And the watchman on the tower in Jezreel saw Jehu and his band coming, and said, I see a band of people. And Joram said, Send out a horseman to them, and let him say, Is it peace?
The watchman on the tower in Jezreel saw Jehu's soldiers approaching, and he shouted out, “I see soldiers coming!” “Choose a horseman,” Joram ordered. “Send him out to meet them and ask, ‘Do you come in peace?’”
And the watchman that stoode in the towre in Izreel spyed the companie of Iehu as hee came, and sayd, I see a companie. And Iehoram said, Take a horseman and send to meete them, that hee may say, Is it peace?
And the watchman is standing on the tower in Jezreel, and seeth the company of Jehu in his coming, and saith, 'A company I see;' and Joram saith, 'Take a rider and send to meet them, and let him say, Is there peace?'
Now the watchman was standing on the tower in Jezreel, and he spied the company of Jehu as he came, and said, “I see a company.” Joram said, “Take a horseman, and send to meet them, and let him say, ‘Is it peace?’”
And there stood a watchman on the tower in Jezreel, and he spied the company of Jehu as he came, and said, I see a company. And Joram said, Take a horseman, and send to meet them, and let him say, Is it peace?
The watchmen therefore, that stood upon the tower of Jezrahel, saw the troop of Jehu coming, and said: I see a troop. And Joram said: Take a chariot, and send to meet them, and let him that goeth say: Is all well?
A guard was standing in the watchtower in Jezreel. He saw Jehu and his men approaching. He called out, “I see a lot of men who are approaching!” King Joram heard what the watchman said, so he said to his soldiers, “Send someone on a horse to go and find out if they are coming to be friendly to us or to attack us.”
Berean Amplified Bible — 2 Kings 9:17
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 Kings 9:17 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
וְ/הַ/צֹּפֶה֩
עֹמֵ֨ד
עַֽל
הַ/מִּגְדָּ֜ל
בְּ/יִזְרְעֶ֗אל
וַ/יַּ֞רְא
אֶת
שִׁפְעַ֤ת
יֵהוּא֙
בְּ/בֹא֔/וֹ
וַ/יֹּ֕אמֶר
שִׁפְעַ֖ת
אֲנִ֣י
רֹאֶ֑ה
וַ/יֹּ֣אמֶר
יְהוֹרָ֗ם
קַ֥ח
רַכָּ֛ב
וּֽ/שְׁלַ֥ח
לִ/קְרָאתָ֖/ם
וְ/יֹאמַ֥ר
הֲ/שָׁלֽוֹם
וְ/הַ/צֹּפֶה֩
tsâphâh
H6822
to watch
Conj | Art | V-Qal
עֹמֵ֨ד
ʻâmad
H5975
to stand
V-Qal
עַֽל
ʻal
H5921
upon
Prep
הַ/מִּגְדָּ֜ל
migdâl
H4026
tower
Art | N-cs
בְּ/יִזְרְעֶ֗אל
Yizrᵉʻêʼl
H3157
Jezreel
Prep | N-proper
וַ/יַּ֞רְא
râʼâh
H7200
Provider
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
אֶת
ʼêth
H853
Obj.
DirObjM
שִׁפְעַ֤ת
shiphʻâh
H8229
abundance
N-fs
יֵהוּא֙
Yêhûwʼ
H3058
Jehu
N-proper
בְּ/בֹא֔/וֹ
bôwʼ
H935
Lebo
Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a | Suff
וַ/יֹּ֕אמֶר
ʼâmar
H559
to say
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
שִׁפְעַ֖ת
shiphʻâh
H8229
abundance
N-fs
אֲנִ֣י
ʼănîy
H589
I
Pron
רֹאֶ֑ה
râʼâh
H7200
Provider
V-Qal
וַ/יֹּ֣אמֶר
ʼâmar
H559
to say
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
יְהוֹרָ֗ם
Yᵉhôwrâm
H3088
Joram
N-proper
קַ֥ח
lâqach
H3947
to take
V-Qal-Impv-2ms
רַכָּ֛ב
rakkâb
H7395
charioteer
N-ms
וּֽ/שְׁלַ֥ח
shâlach
H7971
to send
Conj | V-Qal-Impv-2ms
לִ/קְרָאתָ֖/ם
qirʼâh
H7125
befall
Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a | Suff
וְ/יֹאמַ֥ר
ʼâmar
H559
to say
Conj | V-Qal-Imperf-3ms
הֲ/שָׁלֽוֹם
shâlôwm
H7965
Peace
Part | N-ms
Hebrew Word Study
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Hebrew Word Reference — 2 Kings 9:17
וְ/הַ/צֹּפֶה֩
tsâphâh
H6822
"to watch"
Conj | Art | V-Qal
Tsaphah means to watch or observe, often by leaning forward to see into the distance. It can also mean to wait or keep watch, like a guard.
Definition: 1) to look out or about, spy, keep watch, observe, watch 1a)(Qal) to keep watch, spy 1b) (Piel) to watch, watch closely
Usage: Occurs in 33 OT verses. KJV: behold, espy, look up (well), wait for, (keep the) watch(-man). See also: Genesis 31:49; Proverbs 31:27; Psalms 5:4.
עֹמֵ֨ד
ʻâmad
H5975
"to stand"
V-Qal
Means 'to stand' in a strong sense, like in Exodus 17:12 where Moses stood with his arms up to help Israel win a battle.
Definition: : stand/stop/establish 1) to stand, remain, endure, take one's stand 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to stand, take one's stand, be in a standing attitude, stand forth, take a stand, present oneself, attend upon, be or become servant of 1a2) to stand still, stop (moving or doing), cease 1a3) to tarry, delay, remain, continue, abide, endure, persist, be steadfast 1a4) to make a stand, hold one's ground 1a5) to stand upright, remain standing, stand up, rise, be erect, be upright 1a6) to arise, appear, come on the scene, stand forth, appear, rise up or against 1a7) to stand with, take one's stand, be appointed, grow flat, grow insipid 1b) (Hiphil) 1b1) to station, set 1b2) to cause to stand firm, maintain 1b3) to cause to stand up, cause to set up, erect 1b4) to present (one) before (king) 1b5) to appoint, ordain, establish 1c) (Hophal) to be presented, be caused to stand, be stood before
Usage: Occurs in 497 OT verses. KJV: abide (behind), appoint, arise, cease, confirm, continue, dwell, be employed, endure, establish, leave, make, ordain, be (over), place, (be) present (self), raise up, remain, repair, [phrase] serve, set (forth, over, -tle, up), (make to, make to be at a, with-) stand (by, fast, firm, still, up), (be at a) stay (up), tarry. See also: Genesis 18:8; Joshua 21:44; 1 Chronicles 6:17.
עַֽל
ʻal
H5921
"upon"
Prep
This Hebrew word means on or above something, like a physical object or a situation. It can also imply a sense of responsibility or accountability, as in being on behalf of someone.
Definition: prep 1) upon, on the ground of, according to, on account of, on behalf of, concerning, beside, in addition to, together with, beyond, above, over, by, on to, towards, to, against 1a) upon, on the ground of, on the basis of, on account of, because of, therefore, on behalf of, for the sake of, for, with, in spite of, notwithstanding, concerning, in the matter of, as regards 1b) above, beyond, over (of excess) 1c) above, over (of elevation or pre-eminence) 1d) upon, to, over to, unto, in addition to, together with, with (of addition) 1e) over (of suspension or extension) 1f) by, adjoining, next, at, over, around (of contiguity or proximity) 1g) down upon, upon, on, from, up upon, up to, towards, over towards, to, against (with verbs of motion) 1h) to (as a dative)
Usage: Occurs in 4493 OT verses. KJV: above, according to(-ly), after, (as) against, among, and, [idiom] as, at, because of, beside (the rest of), between, beyond the time, [idiom] both and, by (reason of), [idiom] had the charge of, concerning for, in (that), (forth, out) of, (from) (off), (up-) on, over, than, through(-out), to, touching, [idiom] with. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 24:13; Genesis 41:33.
הַ/מִּגְדָּ֜ל
migdâl
H4026
"tower"
Art | N-cs
Migdal means tower, referring to a tall structure or elevated stage. It can also symbolize a bed of flowers in the Bible.
Definition: 1) tower 1a) tower 1b) elevated stage, pulpit 1c) raised bed
Usage: Occurs in 44 OT verses. KJV: castle, flower, tower. Compare the names following. See also: Genesis 11:4; Nehemiah 3:26; Psalms 48:13.
בְּ/יִזְרְעֶ֗אל
Yizrᵉʻêʼl
H3157
"Jezreel"
Prep | N-proper
Jezreel means God sows, the name of a city in Issachar and a place in Palestine where God sows or nurtures growth.
Definition: Combined with e.meq (עֵ֫מֶק " Valley" H6010M) § Jezreel = "God sows" a city in Issachar on the northwest spur of Mount Gilboa
Usage: Occurs in 32 OT verses. KJV: Jezreel. See also: Joshua 15:56; 2 Kings 9:15; Hosea 2:24.
וַ/יַּ֞רְא
râʼâh
H7200
"Provider"
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
The Hebrew word for provider means to see or look after, and is used to describe God's care for his people. It appears in various forms throughout the Bible, including in Genesis and other books.
Definition: (Lord will) Provide, cause to be seen. This name means to see, look at, inspect, look after
Usage: Occurs in 1206 OT verses. KJV: advise self, appear, approve, behold, [idiom] certainly, consider, discern, (make to) enjoy, have experience, gaze, take heed, [idiom] indeed, [idiom] joyfully, lo, look (on, one another, one on another, one upon another, out, up, upon), mark, meet, [idiom] be near, perceive, present, provide, regard, (have) respect, (fore-, cause to, let) see(-r, -m, one another), shew (self), [idiom] sight of others, (e-) spy, stare, [idiom] surely, [idiom] think, view, visions. See also: Genesis 1:4; Genesis 41:41; Exodus 33:13.
אֶת
ʼêth
H853
"Obj."
DirObjM
In the original Hebrew, this word points out the object of a verb or preposition, like 'namely' or 'even'. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus. It's not directly translated in English, but helps clarify the meaning of sentences.
Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)
Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.
שִׁפְעַ֤ת
shiphʻâh
H8229
"abundance"
N-fs
This word also means abundance, but can refer to a large group of people or things. It is used to describe a multitude or copiousness. In the Bible, it is often used to describe God's blessings.
Definition: abundance, quantity, multitude
Usage: Occurs in 5 OT verses. KJV: abundance, company, multitude. See also: 2 Kings 9:17; Job 38:34; Isaiah 60:6.
יֵהוּא֙
Yêhûwʼ
H3058
"Jehu"
N-proper
Jehu was the name of several Israelites, including a king who overthrew the dynasty of Omri and a prophet who lived during the time of Baasha and Jehoshaphat. His name means Jehovah is He.
Definition: A man living at the time of Divided Monarchy, only mentioned at 1Ch.12.3 § Jehu = "Jehovah is He" 1) the king of the northern kingdom Israel who overthrew the dynasty of Omri 2) son of Hanani and an Israelite prophet in the time of Baasha and Jehoshaphat 3) the Antothite, a Benjamite, one of David's mighty warriors 4) a descendant of Judah of the house of Hezron 5) son of Josibiah and a chief of the tribe of Simeon
Usage: Occurs in 54 OT verses. KJV: Jehu. See also: 1 Kings 16:1; 2 Kings 10:19; Hosea 1:4.
בְּ/בֹא֔/וֹ
bôwʼ
H935
"Lebo"
Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a | Suff
This verb means to go or come, and is used in many contexts, such as entering a place or approaching someone, as seen in the book of Genesis. It can also mean to abide or apply, and is translated in various ways in the KJV Bible. This term is related to the name Lebo Hamath.
Definition: A shortened name of Lebo Hamath complined withcha.mat (חֲמָת "Hamath" H2574) This name means to go in, enter
Usage: Occurs in 2307 OT verses. KJV: abide, apply, attain, [idiom] be, befall, [phrase] besiege, bring (forth, in, into, to pass), call, carry, [idiom] certainly, (cause, let, thing for) to come (against, in, out, upon, to pass), depart, [idiom] doubtless again, [phrase] eat, [phrase] employ, (cause to) enter (in, into, -tering, -trance, -try), be fallen, fetch, [phrase] follow, get, give, go (down, in, to war), grant, [phrase] have, [idiom] indeed, (in-) vade, lead, lift (up), mention, pull in, put, resort, run (down), send, set, [idiom] (well) stricken (in age), [idiom] surely, take (in), way. See also: Genesis 2:19; Genesis 32:7; Exodus 1:19.
וַ/יֹּ֕אמֶר
ʼâmar
H559
"to say"
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
This Hebrew word means to say or speak, and it's used in many different ways in the Bible. It can mean to command, promise, or think, and it's translated in the KJV as 'answer', 'appoint', or 'command'.
Definition: 1) to say, speak, utter 1a) (Qal) to say, to answer, to say in one's heart, to think, to command, to promise, to intend 1b) (Niphal) to be told, to be said, to be called 1c) (Hithpael) to boast, to act proudly 1d) (Hiphil) to avow, to avouch Aramaic equivalent: a.mar (אֲמַר "to say" H0560)
Usage: Occurs in 4337 OT verses. KJV: answer, appoint, avouch, bid, boast self, call, certify, challenge, charge, [phrase] (at the, give) command(-ment), commune, consider, declare, demand, [idiom] desire, determine, [idiom] expressly, [idiom] indeed, [idiom] intend, name, [idiom] plainly, promise, publish, report, require, say, speak (against, of), [idiom] still, [idiom] suppose, talk, tell, term, [idiom] that is, [idiom] think, use (speech), utter, [idiom] verily, [idiom] yet. See also: Genesis 1:3; Genesis 18:23; Genesis 25:32.
שִׁפְעַ֖ת
shiphʻâh
H8229
"abundance"
N-fs
This word also means abundance, but can refer to a large group of people or things. It is used to describe a multitude or copiousness. In the Bible, it is often used to describe God's blessings.
Definition: abundance, quantity, multitude
Usage: Occurs in 5 OT verses. KJV: abundance, company, multitude. See also: 2 Kings 9:17; Job 38:34; Isaiah 60:6.
אֲנִ֣י
ʼănîy
H589
"I"
Pron
This Hebrew word is a simple way of saying 'I' or 'me', often used for emphasis. It is used by people like David in the Psalms to express their thoughts and feelings. The word is a basic part of the Hebrew language.
Definition: I (first pers. sing. -usually used for emphasis)
Usage: Occurs in 803 OT verses. KJV: I, (as for) me, mine, myself, we, [idiom] which, [idiom] who. See also: Genesis 6:17; Leviticus 19:36; 1 Samuel 25:24.
רֹאֶ֑ה
râʼâh
H7200
"Provider"
V-Qal
The Hebrew word for provider means to see or look after, and is used to describe God's care for his people. It appears in various forms throughout the Bible, including in Genesis and other books.
Definition: (Lord will) Provide, cause to be seen. This name means to see, look at, inspect, look after
Usage: Occurs in 1206 OT verses. KJV: advise self, appear, approve, behold, [idiom] certainly, consider, discern, (make to) enjoy, have experience, gaze, take heed, [idiom] indeed, [idiom] joyfully, lo, look (on, one another, one on another, one upon another, out, up, upon), mark, meet, [idiom] be near, perceive, present, provide, regard, (have) respect, (fore-, cause to, let) see(-r, -m, one another), shew (self), [idiom] sight of others, (e-) spy, stare, [idiom] surely, [idiom] think, view, visions. See also: Genesis 1:4; Genesis 41:41; Exodus 33:13.
וַ/יֹּ֣אמֶר
ʼâmar
H559
"to say"
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
This Hebrew word means to say or speak, and it's used in many different ways in the Bible. It can mean to command, promise, or think, and it's translated in the KJV as 'answer', 'appoint', or 'command'.
Definition: 1) to say, speak, utter 1a) (Qal) to say, to answer, to say in one's heart, to think, to command, to promise, to intend 1b) (Niphal) to be told, to be said, to be called 1c) (Hithpael) to boast, to act proudly 1d) (Hiphil) to avow, to avouch Aramaic equivalent: a.mar (אֲמַר "to say" H0560)
Usage: Occurs in 4337 OT verses. KJV: answer, appoint, avouch, bid, boast self, call, certify, challenge, charge, [phrase] (at the, give) command(-ment), commune, consider, declare, demand, [idiom] desire, determine, [idiom] expressly, [idiom] indeed, [idiom] intend, name, [idiom] plainly, promise, publish, report, require, say, speak (against, of), [idiom] still, [idiom] suppose, talk, tell, term, [idiom] that is, [idiom] think, use (speech), utter, [idiom] verily, [idiom] yet. See also: Genesis 1:3; Genesis 18:23; Genesis 25:32.
יְהוֹרָ֗ם
Yᵉhôwrâm
H3088
"Joram"
N-proper
Jehoram was a king of Israel, and his story is told in 2 Kings 1:17. He was the son of Ahab and Jezebel, and his name means 'Jehovah is exalted'. Jehoram was also known as Joram, and he had several brothers and sisters, including Joash and Athaliah.
Definition: A king of the Kingdom of Israel, living at the time of Divided Monarchy, first mentioned at 2Ki.1.17; son of: Ahab (H0256) and Jezebel (H0348); brother of: Joash (H3101H), Ahaziah (H0274) and Athaliah (H6271); also called Jehoram at 2Ki.1.17a; 3.1,6; 1x,6,7; Another spelling of yo.ram (יוֹרָם "Joram" H3141H) § Jehoram or Joram = "Jehovah is exalted" 1) son of king Jehoshaphat of Judah and himself king of Judah for 8 years; his wife was the wicked Athaliah who was probably the instigator for his returning the nation of Judah to the worship of Baal 2) son of king Ahab of the northern kingdom of Israel and king of Israel himself for 12 years; he was murdered by Jehu on the plot of land for which his father had murdered Naboth thus fulfilling the prophecy of Elijah to the very letter 3) a priest in the reign of Jehoshaphat
Usage: Occurs in 26 OT verses. KJV: Jehoram, Joram. Compare H3141 (יוֹרָם). See also: 1 Kings 22:51; 2 Kings 12:19; 2 Chronicles 22:11.
קַ֥ח
lâqach
H3947
"to take"
V-Qal-Impv-2ms
This Hebrew word means to take or get something, and it is used in many different ways in the Bible. It can mean to take a wife, to take possession of something, or to receive a gift. For example, in Genesis 2:22, God takes a rib from Adam to create Eve.
Definition: : take 1) to take, get, fetch, lay hold of, seize, receive, acquire, buy, bring, marry, take a wife, snatch, take away 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to take, take in the hand 1a2) to take and carry along 1a3) to take from, take out of, take, carry away, take away 1a4) to take to or for a person, procure, get, take possession of, select, choose, take in marriage, receive, accept 1a5) to take up or upon, put upon 1a6) to fetch 1a7) to take, lead, conduct 1a8) to take, capture, seize 1a9) to take, carry off 1a10) to take (vengeance) 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be captured 1b2) to be taken away, be removed 1b3) to be taken, brought unto 1c) (Pual) 1c1) to be taken from or out of 1c2) to be stolen from 1c3) to be taken captive 1c4) to be taken away, be removed 1d) (Hophal) 1d1) to be taken unto, be brought unto 1d2) to be taken out of 1d3) to be taken away 1e) (Hithpael) 1e1) to take hold of oneself 1e2) to flash about (of lightning)
Usage: Occurs in 909 OT verses. KJV: accept, bring, buy, carry away, drawn, fetch, get, infold, [idiom] many, mingle, place, receive(-ing), reserve, seize, send for, take (away, -ing, up), use, win. See also: Genesis 2:15; Genesis 34:17; Exodus 30:23.
רַכָּ֛ב
rakkâb
H7395
"charioteer"
N-ms
A charioteer is a driver of a chariot, and this Hebrew word describes someone who operates a horse-drawn vehicle. In the Bible, charioteers played important roles in battles and royal transportation, as seen in the stories of Elijah and King David.
Definition: 1) driver, charioteer, horseman 1a) charioteer 1b) horseman
Usage: Occurs in 3 OT verses. KJV: chariot man, driver of a chariot, horseman. See also: 1 Kings 22:34; 2 Kings 9:17; 2 Chronicles 18:33.
וּֽ/שְׁלַ֥ח
shâlach
H7971
"to send"
Conj | V-Qal-Impv-2ms
To send or depart is the meaning of this Hebrew word, which has various applications in the Bible. It can describe sending someone or something away, or letting something go.
Definition: : depart/send 1) to send, send away, let go, stretch out 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to send 1a2) to stretch out, extend, direct 1a3) to send away 1a4) to let loose 1b) (Niphal) to be sent 1c) (Piel) 1c1) to send off or away or out or forth, dismiss, give over, cast out 1c2) to let go, set free 1c3) to shoot forth (of branches) 1c4) to let down 1c5) to shoot 1d) (Pual) to be sent off, be put away, be divorced, be impelled 1e) (Hiphil) to send
Usage: Occurs in 790 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] any wise, appoint, bring (on the way), cast (away, out), conduct, [idiom] earnestly, forsake, give (up), grow long, lay, leave, let depart (down, go, loose), push away, put (away, forth, in, out), reach forth, send (away, forth, out), set, shoot (forth, out), sow, spread, stretch forth (out). See also: Genesis 3:22; Exodus 9:27; Joshua 14:11.
לִ/קְרָאתָ֖/ם
qirʼâh
H7125
"befall"
Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a | Suff
To encounter or meet someone or something, either by accident or on purpose, as seen in the story of Joseph meeting his brothers in Genesis 37:23. This word can also mean to befall or happen to someone. It is used in various contexts, including friendly or hostile encounters.
Definition: 1) (BDB) to encounter, befall, meet 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to meet, encounter 1a2) to befall (fig)
Usage: Occurs in 98 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] against (he come), help, meet, seek, [idiom] to, [idiom] in the way. See also: Genesis 14:17; 2 Samuel 10:9; Psalms 35:3.
וְ/יֹאמַ֥ר
ʼâmar
H559
"to say"
Conj | V-Qal-Imperf-3ms
This Hebrew word means to say or speak, and it's used in many different ways in the Bible. It can mean to command, promise, or think, and it's translated in the KJV as 'answer', 'appoint', or 'command'.
Definition: 1) to say, speak, utter 1a) (Qal) to say, to answer, to say in one's heart, to think, to command, to promise, to intend 1b) (Niphal) to be told, to be said, to be called 1c) (Hithpael) to boast, to act proudly 1d) (Hiphil) to avow, to avouch Aramaic equivalent: a.mar (אֲמַר "to say" H0560)
Usage: Occurs in 4337 OT verses. KJV: answer, appoint, avouch, bid, boast self, call, certify, challenge, charge, [phrase] (at the, give) command(-ment), commune, consider, declare, demand, [idiom] desire, determine, [idiom] expressly, [idiom] indeed, [idiom] intend, name, [idiom] plainly, promise, publish, report, require, say, speak (against, of), [idiom] still, [idiom] suppose, talk, tell, term, [idiom] that is, [idiom] think, use (speech), utter, [idiom] verily, [idiom] yet. See also: Genesis 1:3; Genesis 18:23; Genesis 25:32.
הֲ/שָׁלֽוֹם
shâlôwm
H7965
"Peace"
Part | N-ms
This Hebrew word for peace, shalom, means completeness, wellness, and friendship, and is often used to describe God's relationship with humanity, as seen in the covenant with the Israelites. It encompasses physical and spiritual health, prosperity, and harmony.
Definition: This name means completeness, peace Another name of ye.ho.vah (יהוה "LORD" H3068G)
Usage: Occurs in 209 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] do, familiar, [idiom] fare, favour, [phrase] friend, [idiom] great, (good) health, ([idiom] perfect, such as be at) peace(-able, -ably), prosper(-ity, -ous), rest, safe(-ty), salute, welfare, ([idiom] all is, be) well, [idiom] wholly. See also: Genesis 15:15; Esther 2:11; Psalms 4:9.
Study Notes — 2 Kings 9:17
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- 2 Kings 9:17 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on 2 Kings 9:17
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 2 Kings 9:17
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on 2 Kings 9:17
- Trapp's Commentary on 2 Kings 9:17
- Ellicott's Commentary on 2 Kings 9:17
- Adam Clarke's Commentary on 2 Kings 9:17
- Cambridge Bible on 2 Kings 9:17
- Whedon's Commentary on 2 Kings 9:17
- Sermons on 2 Kings 9:17
Context — Jehu Kills Joram and Ahaziah
15but King Joram had returned to Jezreel to recover from the wounds he had suffered at the hands of the Arameans in the battle against Hazael their king.) So Jehu said, “If you commanders wish to make me king, then do not let anyone escape from the city to go and tell it in Jezreel.”
16Then Jehu got into his chariot and went to Jezreel, because Joram was laid up there. And Ahaziah king of Judah had gone down to see him.
17Now the watchman standing on the tower in Jezreel saw Jehu’s troops approaching, and he called out, “I see a company of troops!” “Choose a rider,” Joram commanded. “Send him out to meet them and ask, ‘Have you come in peace?’”
18So a horseman rode off to meet Jehu and said, “This is what the king asks: ‘Have you come in peace?’” “What do you know about peace?” Jehu replied. “Fall in behind me.” And the watchman reported, “The messenger reached them, but he is not coming back.” 19So the king sent out a second horseman, who went to them and said, “This is what the king asks: ‘Have you come in peace?’” “What do you know about peace?” Jehu replied. “Fall in behind me.”Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 Samuel 16:4 | So Samuel did what the LORD had said and went to Bethlehem. When the elders of the town met him, they trembled and asked, “Do you come in peace?” |
| 2 | Ezekiel 33:2–9 | “Son of man, speak to your people and tell them: ‘Suppose I bring the sword against a land, and the people of that land choose a man from among them, appointing him as their watchman, and he sees the sword coming against that land and blows the ram’s horn to warn the people. Then if anyone hears the sound of the horn but fails to heed the warning, and the sword comes and takes him away, his blood will be on his own head. Since he heard the sound of the horn but failed to heed the warning, his blood will be on his own head. If he had heeded the warning, he would have saved his life. But if the watchman sees the sword coming and fails to blow the horn to warn the people, and the sword comes and takes away a life, then that one will be taken away in his iniquity, but I will hold the watchman accountable for his blood.’ As for you, O son of man, I have made you a watchman for the house of Israel; so hear the word from My mouth and give them the warning from Me. If I say to the wicked, ‘O wicked man, you will surely die,’ but you do not speak out to dissuade him from his way, then that wicked man will die in his iniquity, yet I will hold you accountable for his blood. But if you warn the wicked man to turn from his way, and he does not turn from it, he will die in his iniquity, but you will have saved your life. |
| 3 | 2 Kings 7:14 | Then the scouts took two chariots with horses, and the king sent them after the Aramean army, saying, “Go and see.” |
| 4 | Isaiah 62:6 | On your walls, O Jerusalem, I have posted watchmen; they will never be silent day or night. You who call on the LORD shall take no rest for yourselves, |
| 5 | 2 Samuel 13:34 | Meanwhile, Absalom had fled. When the young man standing watch looked up, he saw many people coming down the road west of him, along the side of the hill. And the watchman went and reported to the king, “I see men coming from the direction of Horonaim, along the side of the hill.” |
| 6 | Isaiah 56:10 | Israel’s watchmen are blind, they are all oblivious; they are all mute dogs, they cannot bark; they are dreamers lying around, loving to slumber. |
| 7 | Luke 10:5–6 | Whatever house you enter, begin by saying, ‘Peace to this house.’ If a man of peace is there, your peace will rest on him; if not, it will return to you. |
| 8 | Isaiah 21:6–9 | For this is what the Lord says to me: “Go, post a lookout and have him report what he sees. When he sees chariots with teams of horsemen, riders on donkeys, riders on camels, he must be alert, fully alert.” Then the lookout shouted: “Day after day, my lord, I stand on the watchtower; night after night I stay at my post. Look, here come the riders, horsemen in pairs.” And one answered, saying: “Fallen, fallen is Babylon! All the images of her gods lie shattered on the ground!” |
| 9 | 1 Samuel 17:22 | Then David left his supplies in the care of the quartermaster and ran to the battle line. When he arrived, he asked his brothers how they were doing. |
| 10 | Isaiah 21:11–12 | This is the burden against Dumah: One calls to me from Seir, “Watchman, what is left of the night? Watchman, what is left of the night?” The watchman replies, “Morning has come, but also the night. If you would inquire, then inquire. Come back yet again.” |
2 Kings 9:17 Summary
In 2 Kings 9:17, a watchman sees Jehu's troops approaching and reports back to King Joram, who sends a rider to ask if they come in peace. This shows that King Joram is uncertain about Jehu's intentions and wants to know if he is a friend or an enemy, similar to the way we might feel when meeting someone new, as seen in Proverbs 27:19. As we read this verse, we can think about how we can be peaceful and trustworthy in our own relationships, and how we can trust in God's sovereignty, even when we are unsure of what is happening around us, as seen in Psalm 46:1-3. By being vigilant and seeking peace, we can follow God's commands to love our neighbors and live at peace with those around us, as seen in Matthew 22:39 and Romans 12:18.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is happening in 2 Kings 9:17, and why is the watchman reporting to King Joram?
In 2 Kings 9:17, the watchman sees Jehu's troops approaching and reports back to King Joram, who then sends a rider to ask if they come in peace, indicating Joram's concern for his safety and the kingdom's security, as seen in similar situations in 2 Samuel 18:24-27.
Why does King Joram send a rider to ask Jehu if he comes in peace?
King Joram sends a rider to ask Jehu if he comes in peace because he is unsure of Jehu's intentions, as seen in 2 Kings 9:17, and this question is a common way to assess the intentions of an approaching army, similar to the way King David interacted with the Moabites in 2 Samuel 10:1-5.
What can we learn from the watchman's role in 2 Kings 9:17?
The watchman's role in 2 Kings 9:17 teaches us about the importance of being vigilant and reporting truth to those in authority, as seen in Ezekiel 3:17 and 33:2-6, where the prophet is called to be a watchman for the people of God.
How does this verse relate to the larger story of Jehu's anointing as king?
This verse is part of the larger story of Jehu's anointing as king, as seen in 2 Kings 9:1-13, where the prophet Elisha anoints Jehu to be the next king of Israel, and Jehu's actions in 2 Kings 9:17 are a step towards fulfilling that prophecy, similar to the way God anoints leaders in Isaiah 45:1-4.
Reflection Questions
- What are some ways we can be like the watchman, vigilant and reporting truth to those in authority in our own lives?
- How can we discern the intentions of those around us, and what role does peace play in our relationships with others, as seen in Matthew 5:9 and Romans 12:18?
- What can we learn from King Joram's response to the approaching army, and how can we apply that to our own lives when faced with uncertainty or potential conflict, as seen in Proverbs 24:23-25?
- In what ways can we trust in God's sovereignty, even when we are unsure of the intentions of those around us, as seen in Psalm 23:4 and Isaiah 26:3-4?
Gill's Exposition on 2 Kings 9:17
And there stood a watchman on the tower of Jezreel,.... Who could see afar off when an enemy was coming, and his business was to give notice of it; and especially he was now on his watch tower,
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 2 Kings 9:17
And there stood a watchman on the tower in Jezreel, and he spied the company of Jehu as he came, and said, I see a company. And Joram said, Take an horseman, and send to meet them, and let him say, Is it peace?
Matthew Poole's Commentary on 2 Kings 9:17
Inquire who it is comes, and if he come upon peaceable terms. For he feared, lest either the Syrians had prevailed there, or some sedition or rebellion was raised against him; which the example of Libnah, and his own guilty conscience, made him fear.
Trapp's Commentary on 2 Kings 9:17
2 Kings 9:17 And there stood a watchman on the tower in Jezreel, and he spied the company of Jehu as he came, and said, I see a company. And Joram said, Take an horseman, and send to meet them, and let him say, [Is it] peace?Ver. 17. Is it peace?] This was ever the great question; 2 Kings 9:11, Is all well? Heb., Is it peace? This their guiltiness asketh. All would be well but for their sins. They fear not these; they fear all others, as Cain did, who to them, like comets, are seldom seen without the portendment of a mischief.
Ellicott's Commentary on 2 Kings 9:17
(17) And there stood a watchman.—Literally, and the watchman was standing. The tower was attached to the palace, and the latter was, perhaps, near the eastern wall of the town. The company of Jehu.—The word (shiph‘âh) literally means overflow, and so a multitude of waters (Job 22:11), of camels (Isaiah 60:6), of horses (Ezekiel 26:10). Jehu was accompanied, therefore, by a considerable force. Joram said.—Not to the watchman, but to one of his courtiers. The narrative is very concise. Is it peace?—This hardly represents the force of the original. Joram is not yet apprehensive. His question merely means, “What is the news?” He expects news from the army at Ramoth. Thenius, however, explains “Come ye with friendly or hostile intention?” In that case, would the king have sent a single horseman to ascertain the truth?
Adam Clarke's Commentary on 2 Kings 9:17
Verse 17. A watchman on the tower] These watchmen, fixed on elevated places and generally within hearing of each other, served as a kind of telegraphs, to communicate intelligence through the whole country. But, in some cases, it appears that the intelligence was conveyed by a horseman to the next stage, as in the case before us. At this time, when the armies were at Ramoth-gilead, they were, no doubt, doubly watchful to observe the state of the country, and to notice every movement. See on 2 Samuel 13:34.
Cambridge Bible on 2 Kings 9:17
17. And there stood a watchman] R.V. Now the watchman stood. While such danger was threatening one part of the land, and the army was in the field, the watchman would be kept permanently on the lookout for any messenger that might be seen coming. The tower was probably some lofty part of the royal palace, for the news seems easily to have been conveyed to the king. Is it peace?] There would be much anxiety in the king’s mind, though he would not expect what was coming. He might suppose that the army in Ramoth had been defeated, and that the hasty messenger was coming to announce that Ramoth was again in the hand of Syria. So the ‘Is all well?’ of the margin of R.V. gives an excellent sense, and is the rendering of the same phrase in verse 11, though it does not admit of the reply which Jehu gives in the next verse.
Whedon's Commentary on 2 Kings 9:17
17. A watchman on the tower — “There was usually in ancient times a watchtower over the royal residence, where a man was always stationed, night and day, to keep a good look out in all directions,
Sermons on 2 Kings 9:17
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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Judges and Jesters by Scott Hynds | In this sermon, the preacher highlights various concerning practices and beliefs within the church. He mentions instances of people claiming to have encounters with angels and supe |
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(Men God Made) David by Willie Mullan | In this sermon, the speaker discusses the story of David from the Bible. He starts by mentioning Samuel and how he did what the Lord commanded him to do. The speaker then talks abo |
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Why Will You Die? by Achille Blaize | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of repentance and turning away from sin. He highlights that God issues a universal invitation to all people to turn from thei |
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Feast at the Table by David Wilkerson | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the need for a deep and personal commitment to Jesus. He uses the example of the apostle Paul, who despite experiencing supernatural encounte |
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The Way of the Righteous and the Way of the Wicked by George Plante | In this sermon, the speaker addresses the topic of entertainment and its impact on Christians. He acknowledges that some people may view entertainment as just a form of enjoyment, |
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True Christianity Defended by John Wesley | John Wesley defends true Christianity by addressing the corruption in both doctrine and practice within the Church, lamenting how the faithful city has become unfaithful. He emphas |
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Bible Survey - Ezekiel by Peter Hammond | Peter Hammond preaches on the life and prophecies of Ezekiel, a priestly prophet who ministered among the exiles in Babylon. Ezekiel's unique style of ministry involved using symbo |