2 Kings 15:25

Then his officer, Pekah son of Remaliah, conspired against him along with Argob, Arieh, and fifty men of Gilead. And at the citadel of the king's palace in Samaria, Pekah struck down and killed Pekahiah and reigned in his place.

Study Bible

Then his officer Pekah son of Remaliah
The name "Pekah" is derived from the Hebrew root "פָּקַח" (paqach), meaning "to open" or "to be open-eyed," suggesting vigilance or insight. Pekah, as an officer, held a significant position in the military hierarchy, indicating his influence and capability. Historically, Pekah's lineage, being the son of Remaliah, is crucial as it highlights the political dynamics of the Northern Kingdom of Israel, where military leaders often seized power. This reflects the turbulent period of Israel's history, marked by frequent coups and instability.

conspired against him
The act of conspiracy, from the Hebrew "קָשַׁר" (qashar), meaning "to bind" or "to conspire," indicates a secretive and deliberate plan to overthrow the reigning king. This reflects the political unrest and the lack of a stable succession in the Northern Kingdom. Conspiracies were common as leaders sought power through treachery rather than divine appointment, contrasting with the Davidic line in Judah, which emphasized a God-ordained monarchy.

struck him down, and killed him
The phrase "struck him down" comes from the Hebrew "נָכָה" (nakah), meaning "to smite" or "to strike." This violent act underscores the brutal nature of political transitions in Israel. The assassination of a king was not only a personal betrayal but also a national crisis, as it often led to further instability and conflict. This reflects the moral and spiritual decline of Israel, where power was seized through violence rather than righteous leadership.

and reigned in his place
The Hebrew word for "reigned" is "מָלַךְ" (malak), meaning "to become king" or "to rule." Pekah's ascension to the throne through assassination rather than legitimate succession highlights the chaotic nature of Israel's monarchy. This period was marked by a departure from God's covenant, as kings ruled by might rather than divine guidance, leading to the eventual downfall of the Northern Kingdom.

during the twentieth year of Jotham son of Uzziah
Jotham, the son of Uzziah, was the king of Judah, and his reign provides a chronological anchor for Pekah's usurpation. The mention of Jotham, a king of Judah, serves as a contrast to the instability in Israel. Jotham's reign, characterized by relative stability and adherence to God's laws, highlights the divergent paths of the two kingdoms. This juxtaposition serves as a reminder of the blessings of obedience to God and the consequences of turning away from His commandments.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Pekah
Son of Remaliah, a chief officer who conspired against King Pekahiah and became king of Israel after assassinating him.

2. Pekahiah
The king of Israel who was assassinated by Pekah. He was the son of Menahem and reigned for a short period.

3. Gilead
A region east of the Jordan River, known for its balm and rugged terrain. Fifty men from this area assisted Pekah in his conspiracy.

4. Conspiracy and Assassination
The event where Pekah plotted and executed the assassination of King Pekahiah to seize the throne of Israel.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Ambition and Violence
The account of Pekah's conspiracy and assassination of Pekahiah serves as a cautionary tale about the destructive nature of unchecked ambition and violence. It reminds us that seeking power through ungodly means leads to chaos and instability.

The Sovereignty of God Amidst Human Schemes
Despite human attempts to control and manipulate power, God's sovereign plan prevails. The political upheaval in Israel serves as a reminder that God is ultimately in control, and His purposes will be fulfilled.

The Importance of Righteous Leadership
The repeated cycles of conspiracy and assassination in Israel highlight the need for righteous and God-fearing leaders. As believers, we are called to pray for and support leaders who seek to govern with integrity and justice.

Bible Study Questions

1. What motivated Pekah to conspire against Pekahiah, and how does this reflect the broader political climate in Israel at the time?

2. How does the account of Pekah's conspiracy illustrate the dangers of seeking power through ungodly means? Can you think of modern examples where similar principles apply?

3. In what ways does the instability in Israel during Pekah's time demonstrate the need for righteous leadership? How can we apply this lesson in our communities today?

4. How does the account of Pekah's rise to power connect with the prophecies found in Isaiah and Hosea? What do these connections teach us about God's sovereignty?

5. Reflect on a time when you witnessed or experienced the consequences of ambition and violence. How did you see God's hand at work in that situation, and what lessons did you learn?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Kings 15:27-31
These verses continue the account of Pekah's reign and eventual downfall, providing context to the instability in Israel during this period.

Isaiah 7:1-9
This passage references Pekah's alliance with Rezin, king of Aram, against Judah, highlighting the political turmoil and alliances of the time.

Hosea 10:3-7
Hosea prophesies about the downfall of Israel's kings, which can be seen as a reflection of the instability and violence depicted in 2 Kings 15:25.