Definition: And when he was departed thence, he lighted on Jehonadab the son of Rechab [coming] to meet him: and he saluted him, and said to him, Is thine heart right, as my heart [is] with thy heart? And Jehonadab answered, It is. If it be, give [me] thine hand. And he gave [him] his hand; and he took him up to him into the chariot.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from 2 Kings 10:15 together. It’s a really significant and dramatic moment in the story of the fall of Jerusalem. Here's what it means, explained simply: The Core Story: After the Babylonian army completely destroyed Jerusalem, King Jehosaphat (often called Jezebel) fled into the desert. She was desperately trying to escape capture. She found refuge with her son, Jehonadab, in a remote area. What Happened Next: Jehosaphat Salutes Jehonadab: He greets Jehonadab and says, “Is your heart right? My heart is with yours.” This shows he’s trying to reassure him. Jehonadab Confesses: Jehonadab then admits that his heart is right – meaning it's honest and truthful. Jehosaphat Offers a Hand: He asks, “If it be, give [him] my hand.” This is the crucial part. He’s essentially asking Jehonadab to take his hand. What Does This Signify? This is a very important symbol in the Bible. It represents a test of faith and trust. Jehosaphat's Trust: He trusts Jehonadab, even though he’s a man known for violence and conflict (like his father Rechab). He sees that Jehonadab is honest and has good intentions. The Hand as a Promise: The act of giving his hand symbolizes a promise – a commitment to peace and reconciliation. It signifies a willingness to forgive and work toward a new beginning after the destruction of Jerusalem. In essence, it’s saying: “I trust you, Jehonadab. Let’s move forward with peace.” Important Note: The Bible doesn't explicitly say why this is happening. It’s a symbolic gesture that speaks to the possibility of reconciliation and forgiveness after a great tragedy. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of the story? Discuss the symbolism of this verse in more detail? Connect it to other biblical stories or themes?