How does 2 Chronicles 21:4 compare to God's commandment against murder in Exodus 20:13? The Command: Exodus 20:13 “You shall not murder.” • The verb translated “murder” (Hebrew rātsaḥ) forbids the intentional, unjust taking of human life. • The command rests on the truth that every person bears God’s image (Genesis 9:6). • It is absolute, timeless, and applies to kings and commoners alike. The Crime: 2 Chronicles 21:4 “When Jehoram had established himself over his father’s kingdom, he strengthened himself and put to the sword all his brothers along with some of the princes of Israel.” • Jehoram, newly enthroned in Judah, slays every potential rival—even his own brothers. • The phrase “put to the sword” signals deliberate, premeditated killing, not judicial execution. • No divine sanction is given; the text starkly records his bloodshed to underline its wickedness. Direct Violation of God’s Law • Exodus 20:13 forbids exactly what Jehoram does; narrative and law stand in sharp moral contrast. • Deuteronomy 17:18-20 required Israel’s kings to copy and obey the Law, “so that his heart will not be lifted up above his brothers.” Jehoram does the opposite—elevating himself by slaughtering his brothers. • By ignoring God’s clear command, Jehoram shows contempt for both God’s authority and human life. Underlying Heart Issues • Ambition and fear drive Jehoram to secure the throne by violence—echoing Cain’s jealousy (Genesis 4:8). • 2 Chronicles 21:6 links his actions to marriage into Ahab’s house, indicating corrupt influence and idolatry. • Jesus later exposes the root: “Everyone who is angry with his brother will be subject to judgment” (Matthew 5:22). Murder begins in an unrepentant heart. Consequences of Jehoram’s Murder 2 Chronicles 21:12-19 details God’s swift judgment: • A letter from Elijah foretells severe plague and enemy invasion. • Philistines and Arabs raid Jerusalem, carrying off his possessions and sons (vv. 16-17). • Jehoram dies in agony from an incurable intestinal disease; “his bowels came out” (v. 19). • The chronicler concludes, “He departed with no one’s regret” (v. 20). Public opinion mirrors divine verdict. Broader Biblical Echoes • Proverbs 6:16-17 lists “hands that shed innocent blood” among things the Lord hates. • Psalm 5:6: “The LORD abhors the violent and deceitful.” • Revelation 21:8 places murderers among those excluded from the New Jerusalem. Scripture’s testimony is consistent from beginning to end. Lessons for Today • God’s moral law is unchanged; power or position never excuses violence. • Sin’s immediate gains bring long-term loss—Jehoram’s dynasty and health crumbled. • Hearts submitted to God value life, trusting Him to secure their future rather than seizing it by force. |
    |