What does 2 Kings 14:6 mean?
"But the children of the murderers he slew not: according unto that which is written in the book of the law of Moses, wherein the LORD commanded, saying, The fathers shall not be put to death for the children, nor the children be put to death for the fathers; but every man shall be put to death for his own sin." - 2 Kings 14:6

The Bible verse 2 Kings 14:6 from the King James Version (KJV) states: "But the children of the murderers he slew not: according unto that which is written in the book of the law of Moses, wherein the Lord commanded, saying, The fathers shall not be put to death for the children, nor the children be put to death for the fathers; but every man shall be put to death for his own sin."
This verse comes from the Old Testament book of 2 Kings, which records the history of the Israelite kingdoms of Judah and Israel. In this particular passage, the focus is on the reign of King Amaziah of Judah. Amaziah was generally a righteous king, who sought to adhere to the laws and commandments of the Lord. This verse specifically addresses his decision not to execute the children of those who had committed murder.
The verse begins by stating that Amaziah did not kill the children of the murderers. This was in accordance with the law of Moses, which had been written in the book of the law. The verse then quotes the specific commandment from the book of the law, in which the Lord commanded that fathers should not be put to death for the children, nor should the children be put to death for the fathers. Instead, every person should be held accountable for their own sins.
This verse reflects an important principle of justice and individual responsibility that was foundational to the Mosaic law. In the ancient Near Eastern context in which the Israelites lived, it was not uncommon for entire families to be punished or held accountable for the actions of one member. This verse from 2 Kings 14 emphasizes the importance of personal responsibility and individual judgment.
One of the key themes in this verse is the concept of justice and personal accountability. The law of Moses was designed to promote fairness and righteousness within the community, and this verse illustrates the importance of upholding these principles. By not punishing the children for the crimes of their parents, King Amaziah demonstrated a commitment to the just application of the law.
Furthermore, this verse also serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and the importance of following His commandments. The law of Moses was given to the Israelites by God as a guide for righteous living, and adherence to these laws was seen as essential for maintaining a close relationship with the Lord.
In a broader sense, this verse can also be viewed as a testament to the mercy and compassion of God. While justice is important, the biblical narrative consistently emphasizes God's willingness to show mercy and forgiveness to those who repent and seek His forgiveness. The decision of King Amaziah to refrain from taking the lives of the children of murderers aligns with this principle of mercy, and serves as a reminder of the grace that is extended to all who seek God's forgiveness.
Symbolically, this verse can be seen as a representation of the redemptive work of Jesus Christ. In the New Testament, Jesus is portrayed as the ultimate sacrifice for the sins of humanity, and His death on the cross serves as a means of atonement for all who believe in Him. The concept of individual responsibility for sin is also reflected in the New Testament, as each person is called to repent and turn to God for forgiveness.
In conclusion, 2 Kings 14:6 from the King James Version of the Bible offers a significant commentary on justice, personal responsibility, and the foundational principles of the Mosaic law. It serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty, mercy, and the importance of following His commandments. The verse also carries symbolic significance that aligns with the redemptive work of Jesus Christ.
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2 Kings 14:6 - "But the children of the murderers he slew not: according unto that which is written in the book of the law of Moses, wherein the LORD commanded, saying, The fathers shall not be put to death for the children, nor the children be put to death for the fathers; but every man shall be put to death for his own sin."
"But the children of the murderers he slew not: according unto that which is written in the book of the law of Moses, wherein the LORD commanded, saying, The fathers shall not be put to death for the children, nor the children be put to death for the fathers; but every man shall be put to death for his own sin." - 2 Kings 14:6
2 Kings 6:14 - "Therefore sent he thither horses, and chariots, and a great host: and they came by night, and compassed the city about."
1 Kings 6:14 - "So Solomon built the house, and finished it."
2 Kings 14:18 - "And the rest of the acts of Amaziah, are they not written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Judah?"
2:6:14
2 kings 6:24
"Therefore sent he thither horses, and chariots, and a great host: and they came by night, and compassed the city about." - 2 Kings 6:14
2 Kings 14:29 - "And Jeroboam slept with his fathers, even with the kings of Israel; and Zachariah his son reigned in his stead."
2 Samuel 6:14
"So Solomon built the house, and finished it." - 1 Kings 6:14
2 Kings 15:6 - "And the rest of the acts of Azariah, and all that he did, are they not written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Judah?"
2 Kings 12:14 - "But they gave that to the workmen, and repaired therewith the house of the LORD."
2 Kings 14:16 - "And Jehoash slept with his fathers, and was buried in Samaria with the kings of Israel; and Jeroboam his son reigned in his stead."
2 Kings 14:14 - "And he took all the gold and silver, and all the vessels that were found in the house of the LORD, and in the treasures of the king's house, and hostages, and returned to Samaria."
2 Samuel 6:14–22
2 Corinthians 6:14-18
2 Kings 14:22 - "He built Elath, and restored it to Judah, after that the king slept with his fathers."
2 Kings 14:12 - "And Judah was put to the worse before Israel; and they fled every man to their tents."
2 Kings 14:15 - "¶ Now the rest of the acts of Jehoash which he did, and his might, and how he fought with Amaziah king of Judah, are they not written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Israel?"
2 Kings 6:16 - "And he answered, Fear not: for they that be with us are more than they that be with them."
2 Kings 14:20 - "And they brought him on horses: and he was buried at Jerusalem with his fathers in the city of David."
"And the rest of the acts of Amaziah, are they not written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Judah?" - 2 Kings 14:18
2 Kings 3:6 - "¶ And king Jehoram went out of Samaria the same time, and numbered all Israel."
2 Kings 14:1 - "In the second year of Joash son of Jehoahaz king of Israel reigned Amaziah the son of Joash king of Judah."
2 Kings 25:14 - "And the pots, and the shovels, and the snuffers, and the spoons, and all the vessels of brass wherewith they ministered, took they away."
2 Kings 7:14 - "They took therefore two chariot horses; and the king sent after the host of the Syrians, saying, Go and see."
2 Kings 12:6 - "But it was so, that in the three and twentieth year of king Jehoash the priests had not repaired the breaches of the house."
1 Kings 2:14 - "He said moreover, I have somewhat to say unto thee. And she said, Say on."
2 Kings 17:14 - "Notwithstanding they would not hear, but hardened their necks, like to the neck of their fathers, that did not believe in the LORD their God."