Biblical Verses Biblical Verses & Resources

Book of 2 Kings - Chapter 11 - Verse 16

11:16
And they laid hands on her; and she went by the way by the which the horses came into the king's house: and there was she slain.

Meaning

This verse comes from the story of Athaliah, who was a queen of Judah known for her ruthless ambition. In this particular verse, Athaliah is being executed by the orders of Jehoiada the priest. The phrase "And they laid hands on her" signifies the moment Athaliah was seized and captured for her crimes. The following part of the verse describes how she was taken out of the king's house through the same way the horses came in, symbolizing her fall from power and royalty. The phrase "and there was she slain" details the brutal end of Athaliah's life, as she faced the consequences of her tyranny and wickedness. This verse serves as a reminder of the power dynamics and justice prevailing in ancient kingdoms, where even the highest authority figures were held accountable for their actions.

Theological Overview

In this verse, the phrase "laid hands on her" indicates a violent act committed by individuals against someone, often with the intent to harm. The act of laying hands on someone in the Bible can signify power, authority, or control over that person. It can also symbolize the act of physically restraining or arresting someone. The mention of the woman going by the way which the horses came into the King's house may suggest that she was brought to the location where she was slain in a forceful or authoritative manner. The mention of horses coming into the King's house could symbolize power, strength, or even war. The woman being slain at this location carries a significance that could be interpreted as a form of punishment or judgment for her actions or beliefs. This verse showcases the harsh realities of biblical times, where acts of violence and retribution were not uncommon.

American Standard Version

So they made way for her; and she went by the way of the horses' entry to the king's house: and there was she slain.
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