And ye shall compass the king round about, every man with his weapons in his hand: and he that cometh within the ranges, let him be slain: and be ye with the king as he goeth out and as he cometh in.
You must surround the king on all sides, each man holding his weapons. If anyone tries to break through your ranks, kill them. Stay with the king wherever he goes, whether he's leaving or coming back.
The writer is describing security instructions to protect the young king Joash with armed guards who should eliminate any threats.
📚 Historical Context
This verse comes from the account of seven-year-old Joash being crowned king of Judah around 835 BC. The priest Jehoiada was orchestrating a coup to remove the wicked Queen Athaliah, who had murdered most of the royal family to seize power. These were military orders given to the temple guards and commanders to protect the rightful heir during his coronation ceremony.
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