And Menahem rested with his fathersThis phrase indicates the death of Menahem, the king of Israel. The expression "rested with his fathers" is a common biblical euphemism for death, suggesting a joining with ancestors in the afterlife. Menahem's reign was marked by brutality and oppression, as seen in
2 Kings 15:16, where he attacked Tiphsah and ripped open pregnant women. His death marks the end of a turbulent period in Israel's history. The phrase also reflects the belief in an afterlife and the continuation of one's lineage, a significant aspect of Israelite culture.
and his son Pekahiah reigned in his place
Pekahiah's succession to the throne follows the typical pattern of dynastic succession in the ancient Near East, where kingship often passed from father to son. Pekahiah's reign, however, was short-lived, lasting only two years (2 Kings 15:23-24). His rule was characterized by continued idolatry, as he did not depart from the sins of Jeroboam, who led Israel into sin. This transition of power highlights the instability of the Northern Kingdom during this period, as frequent assassinations and coups were common. Pekahiah's reign would eventually end with his assassination by Pekah, one of his own officers, illustrating the ongoing political turmoil and the failure to adhere to the covenant with God, which was a recurring theme in the history of Israel.
Persons / Places / Events
1.
MenahemMenahem was a king of Israel who reigned for ten years. His reign was marked by violence and oppression, including a brutal attack on the city of Tiphsah. He is noted for paying tribute to the Assyrian king Pul to secure his reign.
2.
PekahiahThe son of Menahem, Pekahiah became king after his father's death. His reign was short-lived, lasting only two years, and he continued in the sinful ways of his predecessors.
3.
IsraelThe northern kingdom of Israel, where Menahem and Pekahiah ruled. During this period, Israel was experiencing political instability and moral decline.
4.
Rested with his fathersA phrase indicating that Menahem died and was buried, following the tradition of being laid to rest with one's ancestors.
5.
AssyriaThe dominant empire during this period, which exerted influence over Israel through political pressure and military might.
Teaching Points
The Consequences of Sinful LeadershipMenahem's reign was characterized by violence and idolatry, leading to a legacy of instability. Leaders are called to uphold righteousness and justice, as their actions have lasting impacts on their people.
The Importance of Godly SuccessionPekahiah's brief and troubled reign serves as a reminder of the importance of raising successors who are committed to following God's ways. Spiritual mentorship and discipleship are crucial in preparing future leaders.
The Influence of External PowersMenahem's tribute to Assyria shows how external pressures can lead to compromise. Believers must remain steadfast in their faith, trusting God rather than succumbing to worldly influences.
The Cycle of DisobedienceThe repeated pattern of disobedience and violence in Israel's history highlights the need for repentance and a return to God's commandments. Personal and communal renewal is essential for breaking cycles of sin.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1.What is the meaning of 2 Kings 15:22?
2.How does 2 Kings 15:22 illustrate the consequences of leadership transitions in Israel?
3.What can we learn about God's sovereignty from 2 Kings 15:22?
4.How does 2 Kings 15:22 connect to God's covenant with Israel?
5.How should we respond to leadership changes in our church or community?
6.What lessons from 2 Kings 15:22 apply to our personal spiritual leadership?
7.What is the significance of Menahem's death in 2 Kings 15:22 for Israel's history?
8.How does 2 Kings 15:22 reflect the political instability of Israel during this period?
9.What theological lessons can be drawn from the transition of power in 2 Kings 15:22?
10.What are the top 10 Lessons from 2 Kings 15?
11.2 Kings 15:19 speaks of Menahem paying tribute to Pul, king of Assyria--do extrabiblical sources confirm this tribute or Pul's identity?
12.How can 2 Chronicles 27:1-2 claim Jotham faithfully followed God if 'the high places' were not removed, suggesting partial disobedience?
13.If 2 Chronicles 22:2 identifies Athaliah as the granddaughter of Omri, how can the timeline accurately place her as Ahaziah's mother?
14.In 1 Kings 15:2, why does Abijam's mother appear as 'Maachah,' while 2 Chronicles 13:2 identifies her differently?What Does 2 Kings 15:22 Mean
And Menahem rested with his fathers• The phrase “rested with his fathers” is the biblical way of saying that Menahem died and was buried among his ancestors, as seen with David in1 Kings 2:10 and Jehu in2 Kings 10:35.
• Scripture’s consistent wording underscores the literal historical record of each king’s death while quietly reminding us that earthly power is temporary (Psalm 103:15-16).
• Though Menahem’s reign was marked by cruelty and heavy tribute to Assyria (2 Kings 15:16-20), God’s Word records his end without embellishment, demonstrating the impartiality of the divine narrative (Romans 2:11).
• The statement hints at accountability: every king ends in the same place—awaiting God’s judgment—regardless of their earthly exploits (Hebrews 9:27).
and his son Pekahiah reigned in his place• Royal succession in Israel normally passed from father to son, following the pattern seen earlier with Baasha and Elah (1 Kings 16:6-8) or Omri and Ahab (1 Kings 16:28-29). Yet, unlike Judah’s Davidic line, Israel’s dynasties were often short-lived; Pekahiah’s reign would last only two years before assassination (2 Kings 15:23-26).
• God had promised longevity to a dynasty only if the king walked in His ways (1 Kings 9:4-6). Menahem’s brutal conduct left no spiritual legacy, and Pekahiah “did evil in the sight of the LORD” (2 Kings 15:24), so the family line quickly collapsed, illustratingGalatians 6:7: “Whatever a man sows, he will reap.”
• This transition sets the stage for increased instability in the northern kingdom, ultimately hastening Israel’s fall to Assyria (2 Kings 17:6). The verse therefore serves as a hinge point, showing how personal sin breeds national consequences (Proverbs 14:34).
summary2 Kings 15:22 records a simple yet weighty fact: the brutal king Menahem died, and his son Pekahiah took the throne. The wording testifies to the historical reliability of Scripture, reflects the brevity of worldly power, and signals that God’s moral order governs every generation.
Verse 22. -
And Menahem slept with his fathers -
i.e., died -
and Pekahiah his son reigned in his stead. So Josephus ('Ant. Jud.,' 9:11. § 1), who calls him "Phakeias."
Parallel Commentaries ...
Hebrew
And Menahemמְנַחֵ֖ם(mə·na·ḥêm)Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 4505:Menahem -- 'comforter', king of Northern Israelrestedוַיִּשְׁכַּ֥ב(way·yiš·kaḇ)Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Consecutive imperfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 7901:To lie downwithעִם־(‘im-)Preposition
Strong's 5973:With, equally withhis fathers,אֲבֹתָ֑יו(’ă·ḇō·ṯāw)Noun - masculine plural construct | third person masculine singular
Strong's 1:Fatherand his sonבְנ֖וֹ(ḇə·nōw)Noun - masculine singular construct | third person masculine singular
Strong's 1121:A sonPekahiahפְּקַחְיָ֥ה(pə·qaḥ·yāh)Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 6494:Pekahiah -- 'Yah has opened (the eyes)', a king of Israelbecame kingוַיִּמְלֹ֛ךְ(way·yim·lōḵ)Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Consecutive imperfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 4427:To reign, inceptively, to ascend the throne, to induct into royalty, to take counselin his place.תַּחְתָּֽיו׃(taḥ·tāw)Preposition | third person masculine singular
Strong's 8478:The bottom, below, in lieu of
Links
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OT History: 2 Kings 15:22 Menahem slept with his fathers (2Ki iiKi ii ki 2 kg 2kg) 
