2 Chronicles 25:28

They carried him back on horses and buried him with his fathers in the City of Judah.

Study Bible

They carried him back on horses
This phrase refers to the transportation of King Amaziah's body after his assassination. The use of horses indicates a measure of respect and urgency in returning the king's body to his homeland. Horses were valuable and often associated with royalty and military power in ancient Israel. This act of carrying a king on horses signifies the honor given to him despite his failures. In biblical times, horses were not commonly used for burial processions, which highlights the significance of this event.

and buried him with his fathers
The phrase "buried him with his fathers" is a common biblical expression indicating that Amaziah was laid to rest in the royal tombs, alongside previous kings of Judah. This burial practice underscores the importance of family lineage and the continuation of the Davidic line, which is central to the biblical narrative. It also reflects the cultural emphasis on honoring one's ancestors and maintaining family heritage. The burial of kings with their ancestors is a recurring theme in the Old Testament, seen in the accounts of other kings such as David and Solomon.

in the City of Judah
The "City of Judah" refers to Jerusalem, the capital city and spiritual center of the kingdom of Judah. Jerusalem holds significant historical and theological importance as the site of the Temple, the dwelling place of God among His people. The city's mention here emphasizes its role as the final resting place for the kings of Judah, reinforcing its status as the heart of the nation. Jerusalem's prominence in biblical prophecy and its connection to the lineage of David, from which Jesus Christ is descended, further highlights its importance in the biblical narrative.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Amaziah
The king of Judah who reigned after his father Joash. His reign was marked by initial obedience to God, but later he turned away, leading to his downfall.

2. City of Judah
Refers to the burial place of Amaziah, which is likely Jerusalem, the capital city of Judah, where the kings were traditionally buried.

3. Horses
Symbolic of the royal treatment in transporting the deceased king back to his burial place, indicating respect for his position despite his failures.

4. Burial with his fathers
A traditional practice signifying honor and continuity with the lineage of the Davidic kings.

5. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, which remained after the division of the united monarchy. It was the kingdom over which Amaziah ruled.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Finishing Well
Amaziah's life serves as a reminder that starting well in faith is not enough; perseverance and faithfulness to God are crucial throughout one's life.

The Consequences of Turning Away
Amaziah's downfall illustrates the dangers of turning away from God and relying on one's own strength or wisdom.

Respect for Authority Despite Failures
The respectful burial of Amaziah shows that even flawed leaders deserve respect for their position and contributions.

Legacy and Continuity
Being buried with his fathers signifies the importance of legacy and the continuity of God's promises through the Davidic line.

God's Sovereignty in Leadership
Despite human failures, God's sovereign plan continues, as seen in the preservation of the Davidic line through Amaziah's burial.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Amaziah's life illustrate the importance of remaining faithful to God throughout one's life, and what practical steps can we take to ensure we finish well?

2. In what ways do we sometimes rely on our own strength or resources instead of trusting in God, and how can we realign our focus?

3. How can we show respect for leaders and authorities in our lives, even when they have made mistakes or failed in some way?

4. What does the burial of Amaziah with his fathers teach us about the importance of legacy and continuity in our own families and communities?

5. How can we see God's sovereignty at work in the leadership and events of our own lives, and how does this understanding impact our trust in Him?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Kings 14
Provides a parallel account of Amaziah's reign, offering additional details about his life and actions.

2 Chronicles 25:2
Highlights Amaziah's initial obedience to God, setting the stage for understanding his later failures.

Deuteronomy 17:16
Warns against reliance on horses and military might, which can be seen as a backdrop to Amaziah's reliance on military power rather than God.

1 Kings 2:10
Describes the burial of King David, establishing a precedent for the burial of kings in the city of Judah.