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Book of 2 Kings - Chapter 11 - Verse 14

11:14
And when she looked, behold, the king stood by a pillar, as the manner was, and the princes and the trumpeters by the king, and all the people of the land rejoiced, and blew with trumpets: and Athaliah rent her clothes, and cried, Treason, Treason.

Meaning

This verse comes from the book of 2 Kings in the Bible and describes a pivotal moment in the history of Israel. It depicts the dramatic scene when the wicked queen, Athaliah, is confronted with the rightful king of Judah, Joash. The verse reveals Joash standing by a pillar, surrounded by princes and trumpeters, as the people of the land rejoice and blow their trumpets in celebration of his reign. In stark contrast, Athaliah reacts with shock and despair, tearing her clothes and accusing Joash of treason. This passage highlights the themes of justice, rightful rulership, and divine intervention in the face of evil. Joash's ultimate victory over Athaliah symbolizes the triumph of righteousness over wickedness and the restoration of the rightful king to the throne. This verse serves as a powerful reminder of God's sovereignty and His faithfulness to His chosen people, even in the darkest of times.

Theological Overview

In this verse from 2 Kings 11:14, the theological interpretation centers around the dramatic moment when Queen Athaliah's treacherous reign comes to an end. The mention of the king standing by a pillar, surrounded by princes and trumpeters, represents the rightful restoration of the Davidic monarchy after Athaliah's usurpation. The pillar symbolizes strength and stability, reflecting the new king's legitimacy and authority. As the people rejoiced and blew trumpets, it signifies their joy and relief at the overthrow of the wicked queen. Athaliah's reaction of tearing her clothes and crying 'Treason' reveals her desperation and realization that her reign is over. This event highlights themes of justice, divine intervention, and the consequences of evil deeds in the biblical narrative. Word studies on terms like 'pillar,' 'treason,' and 'rejoiced' provide deeper insights into the historical and cultural context of this passage, enriching our understanding of the events and emotions portrayed in this pivotal moment in Israel's history.

American Standard Version

and she looked, and, behold, the king stood by the pillar, as the manner was, and the captains and the trumpets by the king; and all the people of the land rejoiced, and blew trumpets. Then Athaliah rent her clothes, and cried, Treason! treason!
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