In the twenty and sixth year of Asa king of Judah began Elah the son of Baasha to reign over Israel in Tirzah, two years.
In the twenty-sixth year of King Asa's reign in Judah, Elah (Baasha's son) became king over Israel in the city of Tirzah, and he ruled for two years.
This verse records when Elah became king of Israel and how long he ruled - just two years in the capital city of Tirzah.
📚 Historical Context
In the Books of Kings, which chronicle the history of the divided kingdoms of Israel and Judah after Solomon's reign, we see a pattern of political instability and moral decline among the rulers. Elah, the son of Baasha, ascended to the throne of Israel during the 26th year of Asa’s rule in Judah, establishing his capital in Tirzah, which was a key city in the northern kingdom at that time. His brief two-year reign reflects the ongoing cycle of judgment and short-lived dynasties due to idolatry and disobedience to God as described in the biblical account.
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