Matthew Henry's Complete Bible Commentary

2 Kings 13

This chapter brings us again to the history of the kings of Israel, and particularly of the family of Jehu. We have here an account of the reign, I. Of his son Jehoahaz, which continued seventeen years. 1. His bad character in general (2 Kings 13:1, 13:2), the trouble he was brought into (2 Kings 13:3), and the low ebb of his affairs, 2 Kings 13:7. 2. His humiliation before God, and God’s compassion towards him, 2 Kings 13:4, 13:5, 13:23. 3. His continuance in his idolatry notwithstanding, 2 Kings 13:6. 4. His death, 2 Kings 13:8, 13:9. II. Of his grandson Joash, which continued sixteen years. Here is a general account of his reign in the usual form (2 Kings 13:10-13:13), but a particular account of the death of Elisha in his time. 1. The kind visit the king made him (2 Kings 13:14), the encouragement he gave the king in his wars with Syria, 2 Kings 13:15-13:19. 2. His death and burial (2 Kings 13:20), and a miracle wrought by his bones, 2 Kings 13:21. And, lastly, the advantages Joash gained against the Syrians, according to his predictions, 2 Kings 13:24, 13:25. MHBCC 327.1