Summary of the Verse

This verse marks the conclusion of King Jeroboam II's reign in Israel, noting his death and the succession of his son Zechariah. Jeroboam II is recognized as one of the more notable kings of Israel who restored the kingdom's fortunes and territorial boundaries, which had diminished during previous reigns. His death signifies a pivotal moment in the history of the northern kingdom.

Interpretation and Insights

• Matthew Henry's Commentary:

  Henry emphasizes the significance of Jeroboam II's reign, illustrating how he was instrumental in restoring Israel's prosperity. His death and succession of Zechariah suggest a continuity in leadership, albeit foreshadowing the impending instability and decline that would follow in Israel's history.

• Albert Barnes' Notes:

  Barnes points out the fulfillment of prophecies related to the lineage of Jeroboam. The change in king is of historical importance as it reflects God's sovereign role in the leadership of Israel, linking to Scripture that points to the judgment of Israel due to their unfaithfulness.

• Adam Clarke's Commentary:

  Clarke draws attention to the transitions occurring within the monarchy, underlining how despite a successful reign, Jeroboam II did not bring lasting spiritual reform. The mention of his “sleeping with his fathers” indicates a return to the ancestral role, touching on the perpetual theme of mortality and legacy in kingship.

Connections between Bible Verses

This verse can be understood more deeply by cross-referencing it with several relevant passages:

• 1 Kings 14:16: Discusses God's judgment on Israel due to Jeroboam's idolatry.
• 2 Kings 15:8-12: Provides context on Zechariah's brief reign and its tumultuous beginnings.
• Amos 6:14: Reflects on the prosperity during Jeroboam II's reign but warns of imminent judgment.
• Hosea 1:1: Prophetic context that occurs during Jeroboam II's reign, highlighting the spiritual decline of Israel.
• Micah 1:1: Links to the prophetic writings during the times of Jeroboam II, reinforcing themes of judgment and justice.
• 2 Kings 10:29-31: Reflects further on the nature of kingship post-Jeroboam II, illustrating the challenges faced by his successors.
• 1 Chronicles 5:26: Mentions the impact of Jeroboam's reign on the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and Manasseh, contextualizing the broader implications of his leadership.

Thematic Connections

The verse highlights critical themes in biblical narrative, such as:

• Divine Sovereignty: God's guidance in the leadership of Israel throughout its kings.
• Legacy of Leadership: The implications of one king's actions on the next generation and Israel's fate.
• Judgment vs. Prosperity: The ongoing struggle between Israel's spiritual fidelity and its temporal success.
• Transition of Power: Events surrounding ascension to the throne and the stability of the nation following changes in leadership.

Tools for Bible Cross-Referencing

For those looking to deepen their understanding of Scriptural connections, several tools can facilitate cross-referencing:

• Utilizing a Bible concordance to find similar themes and relationships between chapters.
• Employing a Bible cross-reference guide designed for thematic studies.
• Exploring Bible reference resources that delineate links between specific books and verses.
• Engaging in Cross-reference Bible study to uncover deeper insights into verses.

Conclusion

The narrative in 2 Kings 14:29 serves as a crucial juncture in understanding the history of Israel's monarchy. By examining the verse in its broader scriptural context, we can appreciate the complexity of leadership and fidelity to God that transpired throughout the eras of kings. As future readers and seekers of biblical truths, engaging with cross-references will enrich both understanding and application of biblical teachings.