2 Kings 14:11
But Amaziah would not heare: therefore Iehoash king of Israel went vp, and hee, and Amaziah king of Iudah, looked one another in the face at Bethshemesh, which belongeth to Iudah. 2 Kings 14:11 (KJV)
But Amaziah would not hear; for it came of God, that he might deliver them into the hand of their enemies, because they sought after the gods of Edom. And Jehoash the king of Israel went up, and he and Amaziah king of Judah looked one another in the face at Bethshemesh, which belongeth to Judah.
Historical Context: 2 Kings 14:11 is part of the account of Amaziah, who reigned as king of Judah from approximately 796‑767 BC. Amaziah’s reign followed the reign of his father, Joash, who was a good king. However, Amaziah did not follow in his father’s footsteps and made some unwise decisions. This verse describes a confrontation between Amaziah and Jehoash, the king of Israel.
Amaziah’s refusal to heed Jehoash’s warning: Prior to this verse, Amaziah challenged Jehoash to a battle, and Jehoash wisely advised him to withdraw and avoid unnecessary conflict. However, Amaziah refused to listen and went ahead with his plans, displaying his pride and arrogance. Amaziah’s decision to reject Jehoash’s counsel ultimately led to the face‑to‑face encounter described in the verse.
The meeting at Bethshemesh: Bethshemesh was a city in Judah’s territory, and it served as the meeting point for Amaziah and Jehoash. This encounter highlights the tension between the northern kingdom of Israel (ruled by Jehoash) and the southern kingdom of Judah (ruled by Amaziah). It symbolizes the divided state of Israel and the political conflicts that arose between the northern and southern kingdoms.
Related Scriptures: Proverbs 11:2 (NIV): “When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom.” Proverbs 15:22 (NIV): “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers, they succeed.” Romans 12:16 (NIV): “Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited.”
