History · Old Testament
2 Chronicles
c. 970–538 BC
- Section
- History · Old Testament
- Events span
- c. 970–538 BC
- Written
- c. 450–430 BC critical view: c. 400 BC
- Author
- Ezra (by tradition) critical view: The Chronicler, an anonymous author, c. 400 BC
2 Chronicles continues the Chronicler's history from Solomon's temple to the Babylonian exile — following only the kings of Judah, highlighting the reforms of faithful kings, and ending with Cyrus's decree that the exiles may return.
Chronological placement: Parallels 1–2 Kings (Solomon to the exile), told from Judah’s temple-centered perspective; placed with them though written after the exile.
Key themes
- The temple and worship
- Kings of Judah
- Reform and revival
- Seek God and be blessed
- Exile and the hope of return
Key events
Solomon & the Temple (2 Chronicles 1–9)
- Solomon asks for wisdom and builds and dedicates the temple, which God's glory fills
- The Queen of Sheba visits, and Solomon's wealth and fame reach their height
The Kings of Judah (2 Chronicles 10–36)
- The kingdom divides under Rehoboam; only Judah is followed from here
- The faithful kings Asa and Jehoshaphat lead reforms and trust God in battle
- Wicked reigns and Athaliah’s usurpation nearly extinguish the line of David
- Joash, Uzziah, and Hezekiah lead reforms; Hezekiah restores the Passover
- Manasseh's wickedness and repentance, then Josiah's sweeping reforms
- Judah’s persistent sin brings Babylonian exile; Cyrus later decrees the return
“If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.”