2 Kings 14:9

2 Kings 14:9 in Multiple Translations

Berean Standard Bible BSB

But Jehoash king of Israel replied to Amaziah king of Judah: “A thistle in Lebanon sent a message to a cedar in Lebanon, saying, ‘Give your daughter to my son in marriage.’ Then a wild beast in Lebanon came along and trampled the thistle.

King James Version KJV

And Jehoash the king of Israel sent to Amaziah king of Judah, saying, The thistle that was in Lebanon sent to the cedar that was in Lebanon, saying, Give thy daughter to my son to wife: and there passed by a wild beast that was in Lebanon, and trode down the thistle.

American Standard Version ASV

Bible in Basic English BBE

And Jehoash, king of Israel, sent to Amaziah, king of Judah, saying, The thorn-tree in Lebanon sent to the cedar in Lebanon, saying, Give your daughter to my son for a wife: and a beast from the woodland in Lebanon went by, crushing the thorn under his feet.

Free Bible Version FBV

Jehoash, king of Israel, replied to Amaziah, king of Judah: “In Lebanon a thistle sent a message to a cedar, saying, ‘Give your daughter as a wife to my son.’ But a wild animal of Lebanon came by and trampled down the thistle.

Geneva Bible 1599 GNV

Then Iehoash the King of Israel sent to Amaziah King of Iudah, saying, The thistle that is in Lebanon, sent to the cedar that is in Lebanon, saying, Giue thy daughter to my sonne to wife: and the wilde beast that was in Lebanon, went and trode downe the thistle.

Young's Literal Translation YLT

And Jehoash king of Israel sendeth unto Amaziah king of Judah, saying, 'The thorn that [is] in Lebanon hath sent unto the cedar that [is] in Lebanon, saying, Give thy daughter to my son for a wife; and pass by doth a beast of the field that [is] in Lebanon, and treadeth down the thorn.

World English Bible WEB

Jehoash the king of Israel sent to Amaziah king of Judah, saying, “The thistle that was in Lebanon sent to the cedar that was in Lebanon, saying, ‘Give your daughter to my son as wife.’ Then a wild animal that was in Lebanon passed by, and trampled down the thistle.

Noah Webster Bible WBS

And Jehoash the king of Israel sent to Amaziah king of Judah, saying, The thistle that was in Lebanon sent to the cedar that was in Lebanon, saying, Give thy daughter to my son for a wife: and there passed by a wild beast that was in Lebanon, and trod down the thistle.

Douay-Rheims 1899 DRV

And Joas king of Israel sent again to Amasias king of Juda, saying: A thistle of Libanus sent to a cedar tree, which is in Libanus, saying: Give thy daughter to my son to wife. And the beasts of the forest, that are in Libanus, passed and trod down the thistle.

Translation for Translators T4T

But King Jehoash replied to King Amaziah: “Once a thornbush growing in the mountains in Lebanon sent a message to a cedar tree, saying, ‘Give your daughter to my son in order that he may marry her.’ But a wild animal in Lebanon passed by the thornbush and trampled it.

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Berean Amplified Bible — 2 Kings 14:9

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 14:9 Interlinear (Deep Study)

BIB

HEB וַ/יִּשְׁלַ֞ח יְהוֹאָ֣שׁ מֶֽלֶךְ יִשְׂרָאֵ֗ל אֶל אֲמַצְיָ֣הוּ מֶֽלֶךְ יְהוּדָה֮ לֵ/אמֹר֒ הַ/ח֜וֹחַ אֲשֶׁ֣ר בַּ/לְּבָנ֗וֹן שָׁ֠לַח אֶל הָ/אֶ֜רֶז אֲשֶׁ֤ר בַּ/לְּבָנוֹן֙ לֵ/אמֹ֔ר תְּנָֽ/ה אֶת בִּתְּ/ךָ֥ לִ/בְנִ֖/י לְ/אִשָּׁ֑ה וַֽ/תַּעֲבֹ֞ר חַיַּ֤ת הַ/שָּׂדֶה֙ אֲשֶׁ֣ר בַּ/לְּבָנ֔וֹן וַ/תִּרְמֹ֖ס אֶת הַ/חֽוֹחַ

וַ/יִּשְׁלַ֞ח shâlach H7971 to send Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms

יְהוֹאָ֣שׁ Yᵉhôwʼâsh H3060 Jehoash N-proper

מֶֽלֶךְ melek H4428 King's N-ms

יִשְׂרָאֵ֗ל Yisrâʼêl H3478 Israel N-proper

אֶל ʼêl H413 to(wards) Prep

אֲמַצְיָ֣הוּ ʼĂmatsyâh H558 Amaziah N-proper

מֶֽלֶךְ melek H4428 King's N-ms

יְהוּדָה֮ Yᵉhûwdâh H3063 Judah N-proper

לֵ/אמֹר֒ ʼâmar H559 to say Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a

הַ/ח֜וֹחַ chôwach H2336 thistle Art | N-ms

אֲשֶׁ֣ר ʼăsher H834 which Rel

בַּ/לְּבָנ֗וֹן Lᵉbânôwn H3844 Lebanon Prep | N-proper

שָׁ֠לַח shâlach H7971 to send V-Qal-Perf-3ms

אֶל ʼêl H413 to(wards) Prep

הָ/אֶ֜רֶז ʼerez H730 cedar Art | N-ms

אֲשֶׁ֤ר ʼăsher H834 which Rel

בַּ/לְּבָנוֹן֙ Lᵉbânôwn H3844 Lebanon Prep | N-proper

לֵ/אמֹ֔ר ʼâmar H559 to say Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a

תְּנָֽ/ה nâthan H5414 to give V-Qal-Impv-2ms | Suff

אֶת ʼêth H853 Obj. DirObjM

בִּתְּ/ךָ֥ bath H1323 Bath (Shua) N-fs | Suff

לִ/בְנִ֖/י bên H1121 son Prep | N-ms | Suff

לְ/אִשָּׁ֑ה ʼishshâh H802 woman Prep | N-fs

וַֽ/תַּעֲבֹ֞ר ʻâbar H5674 to pass Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3fs

חַיַּ֤ת chay H2416 alive N-fs

הַ/שָּׂדֶה֙ sâdeh H7704 field Art | N-ms

אֲשֶׁ֣ר ʼăsher H834 which Rel

בַּ/לְּבָנ֔וֹן Lᵉbânôwn H3844 Lebanon Prep | N-proper

וַ/תִּרְמֹ֖ס râmaç H7429 to trample Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3fs

אֶת ʼêth H853 Obj. DirObjM

הַ/חֽוֹחַ chôwach H2336 thistle Art | N-ms

Hebrew Word Study

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Hebrew Word Reference — 2 Kings 14:9

וַ/יִּשְׁלַ֞ח shâlach H7971 "to send" Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms

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.

יְהוֹאָ֣שׁ Yᵉhôwʼâsh H3060 "Jehoash" N-proper

Jehoash was the name of two Israelite kings, including a king of Israel who was the son of Jehoahaz and father of Jeroboam. His name means given by the Lord, and he is also referred to as Joash.

Definition: A king of the Kingdom of Israel, living at the time of Divided Monarchy, first mentioned at 2Ki.13.9; son of: Jehoahaz (H3059); father of: Jeroboam (H3379H); also called Jehoash at 2Ki.13.10,25; 14.8,9,11,13,15,16,17; Another name of yo.ash (יוֹאָשׁ "Joash" H3101J) § Jehoash = "given by the Lord" 1) son of king Ahaziah and the 8th king of Judah 2) son of king Jehoahaz and the 12th king of the northern kingdom of Israel

Usage: Occurs in 16 OT verses. KJV: Jehoash. Compare H3101 (יוֹאָשׁ). See also: 2 Kings 12:1; 2 Kings 13:25; 2 Kings 14:17.

מֶֽלֶךְ melek H4428 "King's" N-ms

This word refers to a king or royal person, like King David or King Saul. It can also describe something related to a king, like the King's Valley in Genesis. The Bible often uses this word to talk about the rulers of Israel.

Definition: King's (Valley) (Gen.14.17)

Usage: Occurs in 1919 OT verses. KJV: king, royal. See also: Genesis 14:1; Joshua 10:39; 1 Samuel 16:1.

יִשְׂרָאֵ֗ל Yisrâʼêl H3478 "Israel" N-proper

Israel is the symbolic name of Jacob, also referring to his descendants. Jacob, son of Isaac and Rebekah, had 12 sons who became the tribes of Israel, as told in Genesis 25:26. His story is crucial to the Bible's narrative.

Definition: A man living at the time of the Patriarchs, first mentioned at Gen.25.26; son of: Isaac (H3327) and Rebekah (H7259); brother of: Esau (H6215); married to Rachel (H7354), Leah (H3812), Zilpah (H2153) and Bilhah (H1090A); father of: Reuben (H7205), Simeon (H8095), Levi (H3878), Judah (H3063), Dan (H1835H), Naphtali (H5321), Gad (H1410), Asher (H0836), Issachar (H3485), Zebulun (H2074), Dinah (H1783), Joseph (H3130) and Benjamin (H1144); also called Jacob frequently § Israel = "God prevails" 1) the second name for Jacob given to him by God after his wrestling with the angel at Peniel 2) the name of the descendants and the nation of the descendants of Jacob 2a) the name of the nation until the death of Solomon and the split 2b) the name used and given to the northern kingdom consisting of the 10 tribes under Jeroboam; the southern kingdom was known as Judah 2c) the name of the nation after the return from exile

Usage: Occurs in 2231 OT verses. KJV: Israel. See also: Genesis 32:29; Exodus 13:18; Exodus 40:38.

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.

אֲמַצְיָ֣הוּ ʼĂmatsyâh H558 "Amaziah" N-proper

Amaziah was a common name in Israel, meaning Jehovah is mighty. It was given to a king of Judah, a priest, a Levite singer, and a Simeonite. These men lived during different times.

Definition: A man living at the time of Divided Monarchy, first mentioned at Amo.7.10 § Amaziah = "Jehovah is mighty" 1) a king of Judah, son Joash, father of Azariah 2) a priest of Bethel under Jeroboam II 3) father of Joshah, of the tribe of Simeon 4) a Levite tabernacle singer in David's day

Usage: Occurs in 39 OT verses. KJV: Amaziah. See also: 2 Kings 12:22; 2 Chronicles 25:5; Amos 7:14.

מֶֽלֶךְ melek H4428 "King's" N-ms

Definition: King's (Valley) (Gen.14.17)

Usage: Occurs in 1919 OT verses. KJV: king, royal. See also: Genesis 14:1; Joshua 10:39; 1 Samuel 16:1.

יְהוּדָה֮ Yᵉhûwdâh H3063 "Judah" N-proper

Judah is the name of the tribe descended from Judah, the son of Jacob. It is also the name of the region where the tribe lived. The name means 'praised' and is first mentioned in Genesis.

Definition: § Judah = "praised" the tribe descended from Judah the son of Jacob

Usage: Occurs in 754 OT verses. KJV: Judah. See also: Genesis 29:35; 1 Samuel 23:3; 2 Kings 14:13.

לֵ/אמֹר֒ ʼâmar H559 "to say" Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a

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.

הַ/ח֜וֹחַ chôwach H2336 "thistle" Art | N-ms

A thistle is a type of thorny plant, often found in the wilderness. In the Bible, it symbolizes something unwanted or troublesome, and is sometimes used to describe a difficult or challenging situation.

Definition: 1) thorn, brier, bramble, thornbush, thicket 2) hook, ring, fetter Also means: cha.vach (חָוָח "thicket" H2337)

Usage: Occurs in 9 OT verses. KJV: bramble, thistle, thorn. See also: 2 Kings 14:9; Job 40:26; Proverbs 26:9.

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.

בַּ/לְּבָנ֗וֹן Lᵉbânôwn H3844 "Lebanon" Prep | N-proper

Lebanon is a mountain range in Israel, named for its white snow or limestone peaks, often mentioned in Psalms and other books.

Definition: Combined with biq.ah (בִּקְעָה " Valley" H1237I) § Lebanon = "whiteness" a wooded mountain range on the northern border of Israel

Usage: Occurs in 64 OT verses. KJV: Lebanon. See also: Deuteronomy 1:7; Psalms 104:16; Psalms 29:5.

שָׁ֠לַח shâlach H7971 "to send" V-Qal-Perf-3ms

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.

אֶל ʼêl H413 "to(wards)" Prep

הָ/אֶ֜רֶז ʼerez H730 "cedar" Art | N-ms

A cedar tree, known for its strength and durability, like the cedar wood used to build Solomon's temple in 1 Kings 5-6. The cedar tree was highly valued in ancient times for its timber and wood.

Definition: 1) cedar 1a) cedar tree 1b) cedar timber, cedar wood (in building) 1c) cedar wood (in purifications)

Usage: Occurs in 69 OT verses. KJV: cedar (tree). See also: Leviticus 14:4; 1 Chronicles 22:4; Psalms 29:5.

אֲשֶׁ֤ר 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.

בַּ/לְּבָנוֹן֙ Lᵉbânôwn H3844 "Lebanon" Prep | N-proper

Lebanon is a mountain range in Israel, named for its white snow or limestone peaks, often mentioned in Psalms and other books.

Definition: Combined with biq.ah (בִּקְעָה " Valley" H1237I) § Lebanon = "whiteness" a wooded mountain range on the northern border of Israel

Usage: Occurs in 64 OT verses. KJV: Lebanon. See also: Deuteronomy 1:7; Psalms 104:16; Psalms 29:5.

לֵ/אמֹ֔ר ʼâmar H559 "to say" Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a

תְּנָֽ/ה nâthan H5414 "to give" V-Qal-Impv-2ms | Suff

This word means to give, put, or set something, with a wide range of applications. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus, describing God's actions and human interactions. The word is used to convey giving, selling, or exchanging something.

Definition: : give/deliver/send/produce 1) to give, put, set 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to give, bestow, grant, permit, ascribe, employ, devote, consecrate, dedicate, pay wages, sell, exchange, lend, commit, entrust, give over, deliver up, yield produce, occasion, produce, requite to, report, mention, utter, stretch out, extend 1a2) to put, set, put on, put upon, set, appoint, assign, designate 1a3) to make, constitute 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be given, be bestowed, be provided, be entrusted to, be granted to, be permitted, be issued, be published, be uttered, be assigned 1b2) to be set, be put, be made, be inflicted 1c) (Hophal) 1c1) to be given, be bestowed, be given up, be delivered up 1c2) to be put upon

Usage: Occurs in 1816 OT verses. KJV: add, apply, appoint, ascribe, assign, [idiom] avenge, [idiom] be (healed), bestow, bring (forth, hither), cast, cause, charge, come, commit, consider, count, [phrase] cry, deliver (up), direct, distribute, do, [idiom] doubtless, [idiom] without fail, fasten, frame, [idiom] get, give (forth, over, up), grant, hang (up), [idiom] have, [idiom] indeed, lay (unto charge, up), (give) leave, lend, let (out), [phrase] lie, lift up, make, [phrase] O that, occupy, offer, ordain, pay, perform, place, pour, print, [idiom] pull, put (forth), recompense, render, requite, restore, send (out), set (forth), shew, shoot forth (up), [phrase] sing, [phrase] slander, strike, (sub-) mit, suffer, [idiom] surely, [idiom] take, thrust, trade, turn, utter, [phrase] weep, [phrase] willingly, [phrase] withdraw, [phrase] would (to) God, yield. See also: Genesis 1:17; Genesis 40:21; Exodus 30:12.

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.

בִּתְּ/ךָ֥ bath H1323 "Bath (Shua)" N-fs | Suff

The Hebrew word for daughter is used to describe a female child or a woman, and can also be used figuratively. In the Bible, it is used to describe women like Bathsheba, the wife of Uriah and later of King David.

Definition: A woman living at the time of the Patriarchs, first mentioned at Gen.38.2; daughter of: Shua (H7770); married to Judah (H3063); mother of: Er (H6147), Onan (H0209) and Shelah (H7956) the wife of Uriah whom David had murdered, having had adulterous relations with her; subsequently wife of David and mother of Solomon, Shimea, Shobab, and Nathan (alternate spelling to 'Bathsheba')

Usage: Occurs in 498 OT verses. KJV: apple (of the eye), branch, company, daughter, [idiom] first, [idiom] old, [phrase] owl, town, village. See also: Genesis 5:4; Exodus 2:21; Ruth 1:13.

לִ/בְנִ֖/י bên H1121 "son" Prep | N-ms | Suff

In the Bible, this word means a son or descendant, and can also refer to a grandson, nation, or quality. It appears in 1 Chronicles 24, describing a Levite named Beno. The word is used to show family relationships and inheritance.

Definition: : child/son

Usage: Occurs in 3653 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] afflicted, age, (Ahoh-) (Ammon-) (Hachmon-) (Lev-) ite, (anoint-) ed one, appointed to, ([phrase]) arrow, (Assyr-) (Babylon-) (Egypt-) (Grec-) ian, one born, bough, branch, breed, [phrase] (young) bullock, [phrase] (young) calf, [idiom] came up in, child, colt, [idiom] common, [idiom] corn, daughter, [idiom] of first, [phrase] firstborn, foal, [phrase] very fruitful, [phrase] postage, [idiom] in, [phrase] kid, [phrase] lamb, ([phrase]) man, meet, [phrase] mighty, [phrase] nephew, old, ([phrase]) people, [phrase] rebel, [phrase] robber, [idiom] servant born, [idiom] soldier, son, [phrase] spark, [phrase] steward, [phrase] stranger, [idiom] surely, them of, [phrase] tumultuous one, [phrase] valiant(-est), whelp, worthy, young (one), youth. See also: Genesis 3:16; Genesis 23:3; Genesis 34:18.

לְ/אִשָּׁ֑ה ʼishshâh H802 "woman" Prep | N-fs

The Hebrew word for woman, used to describe a female person, wife, or animal, appears in many biblical passages, including Genesis and Exodus, and is often translated as woman, wife, or female.

Definition: : woman 1) woman, wife, female 1a) woman (opposite of man) 1b) wife (woman married to a man) 1c) female (of animals) 1d) each, every (pronoun)

Usage: Occurs in 686 OT verses. KJV: (adulter) ess, each, every, female, [idiom] many, [phrase] none, one, [phrase] together, wife, woman. Often unexpressed in English. See also: Genesis 2:22; Genesis 34:4; Numbers 5:12.

וַֽ/תַּעֲבֹ֞ר ʻâbar H5674 "to pass" Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3fs

This verb can mean to cross over or transition from one thing to another, and is sometimes used to describe being arrogant or crossing a boundary.

Definition: 1) to pass over or by or through, alienate, bring, carry, do away, take, take away, transgress 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to pass over, cross, cross over, pass over, march over, overflow, go over 1a2) to pass beyond 1a3) to pass through, traverse 1a3a) passers-through (participle) 1a3b) to pass through (the parts of victim in covenant) 1a4) to pass along, pass by, overtake and pass, sweep by 1a4a) passer-by (participle) 1a4b) to be past, be over 1a5) to pass on, go on, pass on before, go in advance of, pass along, travel, advance 1a6) to pass away 1a6a) to emigrate, leave (one's territory) 1a6b) to vanish 1a6c) to perish, cease to exist 1a6d) to become invalid, become obsolete (of law, decree) 1a6e) to be alienated, pass into other hands 1b) (Niphal) to be crossed 1c) (Piel) to impregnate, cause to cross 1d) (Hiphil) 1d1) to cause to pass over, cause to bring over, cause to cross over, make over to, dedicate, devote 1d2) to cause to pass through 1d3) to cause to pass by or beyond or under, let pass by 1d4) to cause to pass away, cause to take away 1e) (Hithpael) to pass over

Usage: Occurs in 493 OT verses. KJV: alienate, alter, [idiom] at all, beyond, bring (over, through), carry over, (over-) come (on, over), conduct (over), convey over, current, deliver, do away, enter, escape, fail, gender, get over, (make) go (away, beyond, by, forth, his way, in, on, over, through), have away (more), lay, meddle, overrun, make partition, (cause to, give, make to, over) pass(-age, along, away, beyond, by, -enger, on, out, over, through), (cause to, make) [phrase] proclaim(-amation), perish, provoke to anger, put away, rage, [phrase] raiser of taxes, remove, send over, set apart, [phrase] shave, cause to (make) sound, [idiom] speedily, [idiom] sweet smelling, take (away), (make to) transgress(-or), translate, turn away, (way-) faring man, be wrath. See also: Genesis 8:1; Deuteronomy 27:2; 1 Samuel 25:19.

חַיַּ֤ת chay H2416 "alive" N-fs

In the Bible, this word means life or being alive. It can refer to physical life, like in Genesis 1:20, or spiritual life, like in Psalm 30:5.

Definition: adj 1) living, alive 1a) green (of vegetation) 1b) flowing, fresh (of water) 1c) lively, active (of man) 1d) reviving (of the springtime) Aramaic equivalent: chay (חַי "living" H2417)

Usage: Occurs in 450 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] age, alive, appetite, (wild) beast, company, congregation, life(-time), live(-ly), living (creature, thing), maintenance, [phrase] merry, multitude, [phrase] (be) old, quick, raw, running, springing, troop. See also: Genesis 1:20; Deuteronomy 4:9; 2 Kings 5:16.

הַ/שָּׂדֶה֙ sâdeh H7704 "field" Art | N-ms

A field or land is what this word represents, often referring to a flat area of land used for cultivation or as a habitat for wild animals, as described in the book of Genesis. It can also mean a plain or a country, as opposed to a mountain or sea. This term is used in the story of Ruth and Boaz.

Definition: 1) field, land 1a) cultivated field 1b) of home of wild beasts 1c) plain (opposed to mountain) 1d) land (opposed to sea)

Usage: Occurs in 309 OT verses. KJV: country, field, ground, land, soil, [idiom] wild. See also: Genesis 2:5; Deuteronomy 28:38; Nehemiah 12:29.

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.

בַּ/לְּבָנ֔וֹן Lᵉbânôwn H3844 "Lebanon" Prep | N-proper

Lebanon is a mountain range in Israel, named for its white snow or limestone peaks, often mentioned in Psalms and other books.

Definition: Combined with biq.ah (בִּקְעָה " Valley" H1237I) § Lebanon = "whiteness" a wooded mountain range on the northern border of Israel

Usage: Occurs in 64 OT verses. KJV: Lebanon. See also: Deuteronomy 1:7; Psalms 104:16; Psalms 29:5.

וַ/תִּרְמֹ֖ס râmaç H7429 "to trample" Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3fs

This Hebrew word means to trample or tread on something, often in a violent or abusive manner. It is used in the Bible to describe oppression or mistreatment. In KJV translations, it is rendered as 'oppressor' or 'trample'.

Definition: 1) to trample 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to trample 1a2) trampler (participle) 1b) (Niphal) to be trampled

Usage: Occurs in 19 OT verses. KJV: oppressor, stamp upon, trample (under feet), tread (down, upon). See also: 2 Kings 7:17; Isaiah 26:6; Psalms 7:6.

אֶת ʼêth H853 "Obj." DirObjM

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.

הַ/חֽוֹחַ chôwach H2336 "thistle" Art | N-ms

Definition: 1) thorn, brier, bramble, thornbush, thicket 2) hook, ring, fetter Also means: cha.vach (חָוָח "thicket" H2337)

Usage: Occurs in 9 OT verses. KJV: bramble, thistle, thorn. See also: 2 Kings 14:9; Job 40:26; Proverbs 26:9.

Study Notes — 2 Kings 14:9

Show Verse Quote Highlights

Context
Cross References
2 Kings 14:9 Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Reflection Questions
Gill's Exposition on 2 Kings 14:9
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 2 Kings 14:9
Matthew Poole's Commentary on 2 Kings 14:9
Trapp's Commentary on 2 Kings 14:9
Ellicott's Commentary on 2 Kings 14:9
Adam Clarke's Commentary on 2 Kings 14:9
Cambridge Bible on 2 Kings 14:9
Barnes' Notes on 2 Kings 14:9
Whedon's Commentary on 2 Kings 14:9
Sermons on 2 Kings 14:9

Context — Jehoash Defeats Amaziah

7Amaziah struck down 10,000 Edomites in the Valley of Salt. He took Sela in battle and called it Joktheel, which is its name to this very day. 8Then Amaziah sent messengers to the king of Israel Jehoash son of Jehoahaz, the son of Jehu. “Come, let us meet face to face,” he said.

9But Jehoash king of Israel replied to Amaziah king of Judah: “A thistle in Lebanon sent a message to a cedar in Lebanon, saying, ‘Give your daughter to my son in marriage.’ Then a wild beast in Lebanon came along and trampled the thistle.

10You have indeed defeated Edom, and your heart has become proud. Glory in that and stay at home. Why should you stir up trouble so that you fall—you and Judah with you?” 11But Amaziah would not listen, so Jehoash king of Israel advanced. He and King Amaziah of Judah faced each other at Beth-shemesh in Judah.

Cross References

	Reference	Text (BSB)
1	Judges 9:8–15	One day the trees set out to anoint a king for themselves. They said to the olive tree, ‘Reign over us.’ But the olive tree replied, ‘Should I stop giving my oil that honors both God and man, to hold sway over the trees?’ Then the trees said to the fig tree, ‘Come and reign over us.’ But the fig tree replied, ‘Should I stop giving my sweetness and my good fruit, to hold sway over the trees?’ Then the trees said to the grapevine, ‘Come and reign over us.’ But the grapevine replied, ‘Should I stop giving my wine that cheers both God and man, to hold sway over the trees?’ Finally all the trees said to the thornbush, ‘Come and reign over us.’ But the thornbush replied, ‘If you really are anointing me as king over you, come and find refuge in my shade. But if not, may fire come out of the thornbush and consume the cedars of Lebanon.’
2	1 Kings 4:33	He spoke of trees, from the cedar in Lebanon to the hyssop growing in the wall, and he taught about animals, birds, reptiles, and fish.
3	2 Chronicles 33:11	So the LORD brought against them the military commanders of the king of Assyria, who captured Manasseh, put a hook in his nose, bound him with bronze shackles, and took him to Babylon.
4	Hosea 9:6	For even if they flee destruction, Egypt will gather them and Memphis will bury them. Their precious silver will be taken over by thistles, and thorns will overrun their tents.
5	Ezekiel 20:49	Then I said, “Ah, Lord GOD, they are saying of me, ‘Is he not just telling parables?’”
6	2 Samuel 12:1–4	Then the LORD sent Nathan to David, and when he arrived, he said, “There were two men in a certain city, one rich and the other poor. The rich man had a great number of sheep and cattle, but the poor man had nothing except one small ewe lamb that he had bought. He raised it, and it grew up with him and his children. It shared his food and drank from his cup; it slept in his arms and was like a daughter to him. Now a traveler came to the rich man, who refrained from taking one of his own sheep or cattle to prepare for the traveler who had come to him. Instead, he took the poor man’s lamb and prepared it for his guest.”
7	2 Chronicles 25:10–13	So Amaziah dismissed the troops who had come to him from Ephraim and sent them home. And they were furious with Judah and returned home in great anger. Amaziah, however, summoned his strength and led his troops to the Valley of Salt, where he struck down 10,000 men of Seir, and the army of Judah also captured 10,000 men alive. They took them to the top of a cliff and threw them down so that all were dashed to pieces. Meanwhile the troops that Amaziah had dismissed from battle raided the cities of Judah, from Samaria to Beth-horon. They struck down 3,000 people and carried off a great deal of plunder.
8	Song of Solomon 2:2	Like a lily among the thorns is my darling among the maidens.
9	1 Samuel 13:6	Seeing that they were in danger because their troops were hard-pressed, the men of Israel hid in caves and thickets, among the rocks, and in cellars and cisterns.
10	Isaiah 34:13	Her towers will be overgrown with thorns, her fortresses with thistles and briers. She will become a haunt for jackals, an abode for ostriches.

2 Kings 14:9 Summary

This verse tells us that King Jehoash of Israel responded to King Amaziah of Judah's challenge with a parable about a thistle and a cedar, warning him against pride and overconfidence, as seen in Proverbs 16:18. The parable reminds us that just as a wild beast can trample a thistle, we can easily be overwhelmed by circumstances if we rely on our own strength, as illustrated in the story of David and Goliath in 1 Samuel 17:1-58. Instead, we should trust in God's power and wisdom, as exhorted in Psalm 20:7-8, and cultivate humility, as encouraged in 1 Peter 5:6-7. By doing so, we can avoid the pitfalls of pride and find strength in our weakness, as taught in 2 Corinthians 12:9-10.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the meaning of the parable of the thistle and the cedar in 2 Kings 14:9?

This parable is a warning from King Jehoash of Israel to King Amaziah of Judah, cautioning him against overconfidence and pride, as seen in 2 Kings 14:10, and reminding him of the consequences of underestimating others, as illustrated in the story of David and Goliath in 1 Samuel 17:1-58.

Why did King Jehoash use this particular parable to respond to King Amaziah's challenge?

King Jehoash used this parable to convey that just as a wild beast can trample a thistle, Israel could easily overpower Judah if they were to engage in battle, as indicated in the outcome of their conflict in 2 Kings 14:11-14, and as warned in Proverbs 16:18, pride goes before destruction.

Is there a spiritual lesson that can be applied from this verse to our personal lives?

Yes, this verse reminds us to remain humble and not to overestimate our abilities, as stated in Proverbs 3:5-6, trusting in God's power and wisdom instead of our own strength, as seen in Psalm 20:7-8, and to be cautious of pride, as warned in 1 Corinthians 10:12.

How does this verse relate to the overall theme of 2 Kings?

This verse fits into the larger narrative of 2 Kings, which explores the consequences of faithfulness and disobedience to God, as seen in the accounts of the kings of Israel and Judah, and serves as a reminder that our actions have consequences, as stated in Galatians 6:7-8, and that we must trust in God's sovereignty, as proclaimed in Psalm 103:19.

Reflection Questions

What are some areas in my life where I may be exhibiting pride, and how can I humble myself before God, as encouraged in 1 Peter 5:6-7?
How can I apply the lesson of the thistle and the cedar to my relationships with others, and what does this teach me about the importance of humility, as seen in Ephesians 4:2-3?
In what ways can I trust in God's power and wisdom, rather than my own strength, as exhorted in 2 Corinthians 12:9-10, and how can this impact my daily life?
What are some potential consequences of underestimating others or overestimating myself, and how can I avoid these pitfalls, as warned in Proverbs 27:1-2?
How can I cultivate a spirit of humility and dependence on God, as demonstrated in Psalm 51:1-17, and what role does prayer play in this process, as taught in Philippians 4:6-7?

Gill's Exposition on 2 Kings 14:9

And Jehoash the king of Israel sent to Amaziah the king of Judah,.... By the return of his messengers: saying, the thistle that was in Lebanon sent to the cedar that was in Lebanon; intending by this

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 2 Kings 14:9

And Jehoash the king of Israel sent to Amaziah king of Judah, saying, The thistle that was in Lebanon sent to the cedar that was in Lebanon, saying, Give thy daughter to my son to wife: and there

Matthew Poole's Commentary on 2 Kings 14:9

By the thistle, a low and contemptible, yet troublesome shrub, he understands Amaziah; and by the cedar, himself, whom he intimates to be far stronger than he, and out of his reach, Give thy daughter to my son to wife; let us make a match, i.e. let us fight; only he expresseth this bloody work in a civil manner, as Amaziah had done, , and as Abner did, . Or, let thy kingdom and mine be united under one king, as formerly they were; and let us decide it by a pitched battle, whether thou or I shall be that king. Or, as some expound it, by affirming that it was great arrogancy and presumption for him to desire a friendly league or affinity with him, he leaves him to guess how intolerable it was that he should undertake to wage war against him. Trod down the thistle; and with no less ease shall my soldiers tread down thee and thy forces.

Trapp's Commentary on 2 Kings 14:9

2 Kings 14:9 And Jehoash the king of Israel sent to Amaziah king of Judah, saying, The thistle that [was] in Lebanon sent to the cedar that [was] in Lebanon, saying, Give thy daughter to my son to wife: and there passed by a wild beast that [was] in Lebanon, and trode down the thistle.Ver. 9. The thistle that was in Lebanon.] Not the shrub, but the thistle, which is prickly indeed, and can say Nemo me impune lacessit, but a low, vile, weak weed, and not to be named in the same day with the cedar, that tallest and firmest of trees. Thus Joash setteth Amaziah at nought, and looketh upon him as a petty king in comparison of himself. Give thy daughter to my son,] q.d., I would scorn to have any affinity with thee, though we were never so good friends. And there passed by a wild beast.] Whereby he meaneth his own forces. Bellum quasi belluinum: soldiers are brutish and barbarous, skilful to destroy; and the time of war is fitly called "a time of trouble, and of treading down."

Ellicott's Commentary on 2 Kings 14:9

(9) The thistle.—Or bramble or briar. (Comp. Job 31:40; Son 2:2.) The LXX. and Vulg. render “thistle;” the Syriac, “blackthorn” (Prunus silvestris). Give thy daughter to my son to wife.—Perhaps hinting at Amaziah’s demand for the surrender of Israel (the “daughter” of Jehoash) to Judah (the “son” of Amaziah). And there passed by a wild beast that was in Lebanon.—Rather, and the wild beasts that were in Lebanon passed over it. So LXX. and Vulg. It is obvious to compare with this brief but most pithy parable that of Jotham (Judges 9:8-15). The contrast between the northern and southern kingdoms in point of military strength and resources, and the disdainful tolerance with which the former regarded the latter, could hardly have found more forcible expression.

Adam Clarke's Commentary on 2 Kings 14:9

Verse 9. Jehoash - sent to Amaziah - saying] The meaning of this parable is plain. The thistle that was in Lebanon - Amaziah, king of Judah, sent to the cedar that was in Lebanon - Jehoash, king of Israel, saying, Give thy daughter - a part of thy kingdom, to my son to wife - to be united to, and possessed by the kings of Judah. And there passed by a wild beast - Jehoash and his enraged army, and trode down the thistle - utterly discomfited Amaziah and his troops, pillaged the temple, and broke down the walls of Jerusalem: see 2Kg 14:12-14. Probably Amaziah had required certain cities of Israel to be given up to Judah; if so, this accounts for that part of the parable, Give thy daughter to my son to wife.

Cambridge Bible on 2 Kings 14:9

9. the thistle … sent to the cedar] What Jehoash wishes to convey is that he feels himself utterly Amaziah’s superior, and that he can take no notice of his message. This he does by an apologue (cf. Judges 9:8-15) in which he speaks not of war but of marriage. The application is however quite clear. The thistle, who asks for the daughter of the cedar, is trodden down by some passing beast and perishes unregarded, while the cedar stands unharmed. Words could hardly convey more strongly the low opinion which Jehoash entertained of Amaziah’s power.

Barnes' Notes on 2 Kings 14:9

The Oriental use of apologues on the most solemn and serious occasions is well known to all, and scarcely needs illustration (compare marginal reference).

Whedon's Commentary on 2 Kings 14:9

9. The thistle… the cedar — This answer of Jehoash reminds us of the fable of Jotham. Judges 9:8.

Sermons on 2 Kings 14:9

	Sermon	Description
	The Gifting and Calling of God That We Might Serve One Another by Devern Fromke	In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the theme of serving one another and how God often uses natural examples to teach us spiritual lessons. He refers to a parable in the book o
	1 Corinthians 4; Belfast Missionary conf.1964 by J.M. Davies	J.M. Davies emphasizes the importance of prioritizing spiritual responsibilities over worldly success in his sermon at the Belfast Missionary Conference in 1964. He reflects on 1 C
	Two Kingdoms by Dean Taylor	This sermon emphasizes the importance of understanding the concept of the two kingdoms, highlighting the need to grasp the teachings of Jesus. It delves into the historical context
	Bible Reading - Part 1 by J.C. Ryle	J.C. Ryle emphasizes the critical importance of Bible reading in the life of a believer, asserting that it is essential for understanding salvation and living a life aligned with G
	Ii Chronicles 33:11 by Chuck Smith	Chuck Smith discusses the life of Manasseh, who, despite his noble heritage as the son of King Hezekiah, rebelled against God through idolatry and abominable practices. He ignored
	Where Are the Men of God by Steve Hill	This sermon delves into the story of King David's grave sins of adultery and murder, showcasing how we often try to cover up our sins instead of seeking true repentance and cleansi
	The Great Evil of All Sin - Part 2 by Richard Owen Roberts	This sermon delves into the concept of sin and its roots, emphasizing that all individuals are born as sinners and children of the devil, not as children of God. It explores the st