2 Chronicles 31:2
2 Chronicles 31:2 in Multiple Translations
Hezekiah reestablished the divisions of the priests and Levites—each of them according to their duties as priests or Levites—for the burnt offerings and peace offerings, for ministry, for giving thanks, and for singing praises at the gates of the LORD’s dwelling.
¶ And Hezekiah appointed the courses of the priests and the Levites after their courses, every man according to his service, the priests and Levites for burnt offerings and for peace offerings, to minister, and to give thanks, and to praise in the gates of the tents of the LORD.
And Hezekiah appointed the courses of the priests and the Levites after their courses, every man according to his service, both the priests and the Levites, for burnt-offerings and for peace-offerings, to minister, and to give thanks, and to praise in the gates of the camp of Jehovah.
Then Hezekiah put in order the divisions of the priests and Levites, every man in his division, in relation to his work, for the burned offerings and peace-offerings, and for the ordering of worship and for giving praise at the doors of the Lord's house.
Then Hezekiah reallocated the divisions of the priests and Levites, each according to their service: presenting burnt offerings and friendship offerings, serving, giving thanks, and singing praises at the entrances of the Lord's Temple.
And Hezekiah appoynted the courses of the Priests and Leuites by their turnes, euery man according to his office, both Priestes and Leuites, for the burnt offring and peace offrings, to minister and to giue thankes, and to prayse in the gates of the tentes of the Lord.
And Hezekiah appointeth the courses of the priests, and of the Levites, by their courses, each according to his service, of the priests and of the Levites, for burnt-offering, and for peace-offerings, to minister, and to give thanks, and to give praise in the gates of the camps of Jehovah.
Hezekiah appointed the divisions of the priests and the Levites after their divisions, every man according to his service, both the priests and the Levites, for burnt offerings and for peace offerings, to minister, to give thanks, and to praise in the gates of the LORD’s camp.
And Hezekiah appointed the courses of the priests and the Levites after their courses, every man according to his service, the priests and Levites for burnt-offerings and for peace-offerings, to minister, and to give thanks, and to praise in the gates of the tents of the LORD.
And Ezechias appointed companies of the priests, and the Levites, by their courses, every man in his own office, to wit, both of the priests, and of the Levites, for holocausts, and for peace offerings, to minister, and to praise, and to sing in the gates of the camp of the Lord.
Hezekiah divided the priests and other descendants of Levi into groups. He appointed some of the groups to offer sacrifices that would be completely burned on the altar and offerings to maintain fellowship with Yahweh. He appointed some groups to do other work at the temple: some to lead the people in their worship, some to thank Yahweh, and some to sing songs to praise to Yahweh at the gates of the temple.
Berean Amplified Bible — 2 Chronicles 31:2
BAB
Word Study
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Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.
2 Chronicles 31:2 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
וַ/יַּעֲמֵ֣ד
יְחִזְקִיָּ֡הוּ
אֶת
מַחְלְק֣וֹת
הַ/כֹּהֲנִ֣ים
וְ֠/הַ/לְוִיִּם
עַֽל
מַחְלְקוֹתָ֞/ם
אִ֣ישׁ
כְּ/פִ֣י
עֲבֹדָת֗/וֹ
לַ/כֹּהֲנִים֙
וְ/לַ/לְוִיִּ֔ם
לְ/עֹלָ֖ה
וְ/לִ/שְׁלָמִ֑ים
לְ/שָׁרֵת֙
וּ/לְ/הֹד֣וֹת
וּ/לְ/הַלֵּ֔ל
בְּ/שַׁעֲרֵ֖י
מַחֲנ֥וֹת
יְהוָֽה
וַ/יַּעֲמֵ֣ד
ʻâmad
H5975
to stand
Conj | V-Hiphil-ConsecImperf-3ms
יְחִזְקִיָּ֡הוּ
Chizqîyâh
H2396
Hezekiah
N-proper
אֶת
ʼêth
H853
Obj.
DirObjM
מַחְלְק֣וֹת
machălôqeth
H4256
division
N-fp
הַ/כֹּהֲנִ֣ים
kôhên
H3548
priest
Art | N-mp
וְ֠/הַ/לְוִיִּם
Lêvîyîy
H3881
Levi
Conj | Art | Ngmpa
עַֽל
ʻal
H5921
upon
Prep
מַחְלְקוֹתָ֞/ם
machălôqeth
H4256
division
N-fp | Suff
אִ֣ישׁ
ʼîysh
H376
man
N-ms
כְּ/פִ֣י
peh
H6310
lip
Prep | N-ms
עֲבֹדָת֗/וֹ
ʻăbôdâh
H5656
service
N-fs | Suff
לַ/כֹּהֲנִים֙
kôhên
H3548
priest
Prep | N-mp
וְ/לַ/לְוִיִּ֔ם
Lêvîyîy
H3881
Levi
Conj | Prep | Ngmpa
לְ/עֹלָ֖ה
ʻôlâh
H5930
burnt offering
Prep | N-fs
וְ/לִ/שְׁלָמִ֑ים
shelem
H8002
peace offering
Conj | Prep | N-mp
לְ/שָׁרֵת֙
shârath
H8334
to minister
Prep | V-Piel-Inf-a
וּ/לְ/הֹד֣וֹת
yâdâh
H3034
to give thanks
Conj | Prep | V-Hiphil-Inf-a
וּ/לְ/הַלֵּ֔ל
hâlal
H1984
to shine
Conj | Prep | V-Piel-Inf-a
בְּ/שַׁעֲרֵ֖י
shaʻar
H8179
gate
Prep | N-mp
מַחֲנ֥וֹת
machăneh
H4264
camp
N-cp
יְהוָֽה
Yᵉhôvâh
H3068
The Lord
N-proper
Hebrew Word Study
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Hebrew Word Reference — 2 Chronicles 31:2
וַ/יַּעֲמֵ֣ד
ʻâmad
H5975
"to stand"
Conj | V-Hiphil-ConsecImperf-3ms
Means 'to stand' in a strong sense, like in Exodus 17:12 where Moses stood with his arms up to help Israel win a battle.
Definition: : stand/stop/establish 1) to stand, remain, endure, take one's stand 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to stand, take one's stand, be in a standing attitude, stand forth, take a stand, present oneself, attend upon, be or become servant of 1a2) to stand still, stop (moving or doing), cease 1a3) to tarry, delay, remain, continue, abide, endure, persist, be steadfast 1a4) to make a stand, hold one's ground 1a5) to stand upright, remain standing, stand up, rise, be erect, be upright 1a6) to arise, appear, come on the scene, stand forth, appear, rise up or against 1a7) to stand with, take one's stand, be appointed, grow flat, grow insipid 1b) (Hiphil) 1b1) to station, set 1b2) to cause to stand firm, maintain 1b3) to cause to stand up, cause to set up, erect 1b4) to present (one) before (king) 1b5) to appoint, ordain, establish 1c) (Hophal) to be presented, be caused to stand, be stood before
Usage: Occurs in 497 OT verses. KJV: abide (behind), appoint, arise, cease, confirm, continue, dwell, be employed, endure, establish, leave, make, ordain, be (over), place, (be) present (self), raise up, remain, repair, [phrase] serve, set (forth, over, -tle, up), (make to, make to be at a, with-) stand (by, fast, firm, still, up), (be at a) stay (up), tarry. See also: Genesis 18:8; Joshua 21:44; 1 Chronicles 6:17.
יְחִזְקִיָּ֡הוּ
Chizqîyâh
H2396
"Hezekiah"
N-proper
Hezekiah was a king of Judah who served Jehovah and removed idolatrous practices. He was the son of Ahaz and Abijah, and a great-great-grandfather of Zephaniah the prophet. His name means Jehovah is my strength.
Definition: A man living at the time of Divided Monarchy, only mentioned at Zep.1.1; father of: Amariah (H0568O) § Hezekiah or Hizkiah or Hizkijah = "Jehovah is my strength" 1) 12th king of Judah, son of Ahaz and Abijah; a good king in that he served Jehovah and did away with idolatrous practices 2) great-great-grandfather of Zephaniah the prophet 3) son of Neariah, a descendant of David 4) head of a family of returning exiles in the time of Nehemiah
Usage: Occurs in 119 OT verses. KJV: Hezekiah, Hizkiah, Hizkijah. Compare H3169 (יְחִזְקִיָּה). See also: 2 Kings 16:20; 2 Chronicles 31:20; Proverbs 25:1.
אֶת
ʼêth
H853
"Obj."
DirObjM
In the original Hebrew, this word points out the object of a verb or preposition, like 'namely' or 'even'. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus. It's not directly translated in English, but helps clarify the meaning of sentences.
Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)
Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.
מַחְלְק֣וֹת
machălôqeth
H4256
"division"
N-fp
A division or section of people, including soldiers, priests, and Levites, as described in the Bible's accounts of the Israelites' military and priestly organizations.
Definition: 1) division, course, class, share, allotment 1a) division, part 1b) division, class, course 1b1) of priests, Levites (technical term of organisation) Aramaic equivalent: mach.le.qah (מַחְלְקָה "class" H4255)
Usage: Occurs in 36 OT verses. KJV: company, course, division, portion. See also H5555 (סֶלַע הַמַּחְלְקוֹת). See also: Joshua 11:23; 1 Chronicles 27:12; Ezekiel 48:29.
הַ/כֹּהֲנִ֣ים
kôhên
H3548
"priest"
Art | N-mp
In the Bible, a priest is a person who serves God and leads others in worship, like the Levitical priests in Exodus. They were responsible for making sacrifices and following God's laws. This term is also used to describe Jesus as a priest-king.
Definition: 1) priest, principal officer or chief ruler 1a) priest-king (Melchizedek, Messiah) 1b) pagan priests 1c) priests of Jehovah 1d) Levitical priests 1e) Zadokite priests 1f) Aaronic priests 1g) the high priest Aramaic equivalent: ka.hen (כָּהֵן "priest" H3549)
Usage: Occurs in 653 OT verses. KJV: chief ruler, [idiom] own, priest, prince, principal officer. See also: Genesis 14:18; Leviticus 13:33; Numbers 17:2.
וְ֠/הַ/לְוִיִּם
Lêvîyîy
H3881
"Levi"
Conj | Art | Ngmpa
A Levite is a descendant of Levi, one of Jacob's 12 sons, mentioned in Genesis 29:34. Levi's brothers include Reuben, Simeon, and Judah. His descendants played a key role in Israel's spiritual life.
Definition: Someone from the tribe of Levi living at the time of the Patriarchs, first mentioned at Gen.29.34; son of: Israel (H3478) and Leah (H3812); brother of: Reuben (H7205), Simeon (H8095), Judah (H3063), Issachar (H3485), Zebulun (H2074) and Dinah (H1783); half-brother of: Dan (H1835H), Naphtali (H5321), Gad (H1410), Asher (H0836), Joseph (H3130) and Benjamin (H1144); father of: Gershon (H1648), Kohath (H6955), Merari (H4847) and Jochebed (H3115) Another name of le.vi (לֵוִי "Levi" H3878) § Levite, of Levi "joined to" 1) the descendants of Levi, the 3rd son of Jacob by Leah 1a) the tribe descended from Levi specially set aside by God for His service
Usage: Occurs in 258 OT verses. KJV: Leviite. See also: Exodus 4:14; 1 Chronicles 6:33; Ezra 6:20.
עַֽל
ʻal
H5921
"upon"
Prep
This Hebrew word means on or above something, like a physical object or a situation. It can also imply a sense of responsibility or accountability, as in being on behalf of someone.
Definition: prep 1) upon, on the ground of, according to, on account of, on behalf of, concerning, beside, in addition to, together with, beyond, above, over, by, on to, towards, to, against 1a) upon, on the ground of, on the basis of, on account of, because of, therefore, on behalf of, for the sake of, for, with, in spite of, notwithstanding, concerning, in the matter of, as regards 1b) above, beyond, over (of excess) 1c) above, over (of elevation or pre-eminence) 1d) upon, to, over to, unto, in addition to, together with, with (of addition) 1e) over (of suspension or extension) 1f) by, adjoining, next, at, over, around (of contiguity or proximity) 1g) down upon, upon, on, from, up upon, up to, towards, over towards, to, against (with verbs of motion) 1h) to (as a dative)
Usage: Occurs in 4493 OT verses. KJV: above, according to(-ly), after, (as) against, among, and, [idiom] as, at, because of, beside (the rest of), between, beyond the time, [idiom] both and, by (reason of), [idiom] had the charge of, concerning for, in (that), (forth, out) of, (from) (off), (up-) on, over, than, through(-out), to, touching, [idiom] with. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 24:13; Genesis 41:33.
מַחְלְקוֹתָ֞/ם
machălôqeth
H4256
"division"
N-fp | Suff
A division or section of people, including soldiers, priests, and Levites, as described in the Bible's accounts of the Israelites' military and priestly organizations.
Definition: 1) division, course, class, share, allotment 1a) division, part 1b) division, class, course 1b1) of priests, Levites (technical term of organisation) Aramaic equivalent: mach.le.qah (מַחְלְקָה "class" H4255)
Usage: Occurs in 36 OT verses. KJV: company, course, division, portion. See also H5555 (סֶלַע הַמַּחְלְקוֹת). See also: Joshua 11:23; 1 Chronicles 27:12; Ezekiel 48:29.
אִ֣ישׁ
ʼîysh
H376
"man"
N-ms
The Hebrew word for man, referring to a male person or individual, is used in the Bible to describe humans in contrast to God or animals, as seen in Genesis and Psalms. It can also mean husband or servant. In the KJV, it is translated as man or male.
Definition: : man 1) man 1a) man, male (in contrast to woman, female) 1b) husband 1c) human being, person (in contrast to God) 1d) servant 1e) mankind 1f) champion 1g) great man 2) whosoever 3) each (adjective)
Usage: Occurs in 1851 OT verses. KJV: also, another, any (man), a certain, [phrase] champion, consent, each, every (one), fellow, (foot-, husband-) man, (good-, great, mighty) man, he, high (degree), him (that is), husband, man(-kind), [phrase] none, one, people, person, [phrase] steward, what (man) soever, whoso(-ever), worthy. Compare H802 (אִשָּׁה). See also: Genesis 2:23; Genesis 42:25; Exodus 32:23.
כְּ/פִ֣י
peh
H6310
"lip"
Prep | N-ms
In the Bible, this Hebrew word refers to the mouth, lips, or edge of something, and can also mean a portion or side of something. It is often used to describe speech or the act of speaking. This word appears in various forms, such as mouth, lip, or edge.
Definition: : lip/mouth peh 1) mouth 1a) mouth (of man) 1b) mouth (as organ of speech) 1c) mouth (of animals) 1d) mouth, opening, orifice (of a well, river, etc) 1e) extremity, end pim 2) a weight equal to one third of a shekel, occurs only in 1Sa 13:21
Usage: Occurs in 460 OT verses. KJV: accord(-ing as, -ing to), after, appointment, assent, collar, command(-ment), [idiom] eat, edge, end, entry, [phrase] file, hole, [idiom] in, mind, mouth, part, portion, [idiom] (should) say(-ing), sentence, skirt, sound, speech, [idiom] spoken, talk, tenor, [idiom] to, [phrase] two-edged, wish, word. See also: Genesis 4:11; Deuteronomy 21:17; Ezra 9:11.
עֲבֹדָת֗/וֹ
ʻăbôdâh
H5656
"service"
N-fs | Suff
This Hebrew word means service or work, including serving God or others. It appears in various forms in the Bible, such as in Exodus and Deuteronomy, to describe labor or ministry.
Definition: : service[as_servant/slave] 1) labour, service 1a) labour, work 1b) labour (of servant or slave) 1c) labour, service (of captives or subjects) 1d) service (of God)
Usage: Occurs in 125 OT verses. KJV: act, bondage, [phrase] bondservant, effect, labour, ministering(-try), office, service(-ile, -itude), tillage, use, work, [idiom] wrought. See also: Genesis 29:27; Numbers 18:6; Psalms 104:14.
לַ/כֹּהֲנִים֙
kôhên
H3548
"priest"
Prep | N-mp
In the Bible, a priest is a person who serves God and leads others in worship, like the Levitical priests in Exodus. They were responsible for making sacrifices and following God's laws. This term is also used to describe Jesus as a priest-king.
Definition: 1) priest, principal officer or chief ruler 1a) priest-king (Melchizedek, Messiah) 1b) pagan priests 1c) priests of Jehovah 1d) Levitical priests 1e) Zadokite priests 1f) Aaronic priests 1g) the high priest Aramaic equivalent: ka.hen (כָּהֵן "priest" H3549)
Usage: Occurs in 653 OT verses. KJV: chief ruler, [idiom] own, priest, prince, principal officer. See also: Genesis 14:18; Leviticus 13:33; Numbers 17:2.
וְ/לַ/לְוִיִּ֔ם
Lêvîyîy
H3881
"Levi"
Conj | Prep | Ngmpa
A Levite is a descendant of Levi, one of Jacob's 12 sons, mentioned in Genesis 29:34. Levi's brothers include Reuben, Simeon, and Judah. His descendants played a key role in Israel's spiritual life.
Definition: Someone from the tribe of Levi living at the time of the Patriarchs, first mentioned at Gen.29.34; son of: Israel (H3478) and Leah (H3812); brother of: Reuben (H7205), Simeon (H8095), Judah (H3063), Issachar (H3485), Zebulun (H2074) and Dinah (H1783); half-brother of: Dan (H1835H), Naphtali (H5321), Gad (H1410), Asher (H0836), Joseph (H3130) and Benjamin (H1144); father of: Gershon (H1648), Kohath (H6955), Merari (H4847) and Jochebed (H3115) Another name of le.vi (לֵוִי "Levi" H3878) § Levite, of Levi "joined to" 1) the descendants of Levi, the 3rd son of Jacob by Leah 1a) the tribe descended from Levi specially set aside by God for His service
Usage: Occurs in 258 OT verses. KJV: Leviite. See also: Exodus 4:14; 1 Chronicles 6:33; Ezra 6:20.
לְ/עֹלָ֖ה
ʻôlâh
H5930
"burnt offering"
Prep | N-fs
This word refers to a step or stairs, often used to describe the ascent to the altar for a burnt offering. In the Bible, it can also mean a holocaust or sacrifice, like in Leviticus.
Definition: whole burnt offering Aramaic equivalent: a.lah (עֲלָת "burnt offering" H5928)
Usage: Occurs in 262 OT verses. KJV: ascent, burnt offering (sacrifice), go up to. See also H5766 (עֶוֶל). See also: Genesis 8:20; Numbers 15:5; 2 Chronicles 29:7.
וְ/לִ/שְׁלָמִ֑ים
shelem
H8002
"peace offering"
Conj | Prep | N-mp
A peace offering is a voluntary sacrifice to show thanks, like the ones described in Leviticus. It's a way to express gratitude and friendship with God. The Israelites gave these offerings to celebrate special occasions.
Definition: 1) peace offering, requital, sacrifice for alliance or friendship 1a) voluntary sacrifice of thanks
Usage: Occurs in 84 OT verses. KJV: peace offering. See also: Exodus 20:24; Numbers 7:53; Proverbs 7:14.
לְ/שָׁרֵת֙
shârath
H8334
"to minister"
Prep | V-Piel-Inf-a
This verb means to serve or minister to someone, often in a worship or temple setting. It is used to describe the work of priests and Levites in the Old Testament.
Definition: (Piel) to minister, serve, minister to
Usage: Occurs in 92 OT verses. KJV: minister (unto), (do) serve(-ant, -ice, -itor), wait on. See also: Genesis 39:4; 1 Chronicles 26:12; Psalms 101:6.
וּ/לְ/הֹד֣וֹת
yâdâh
H3034
"to give thanks"
Conj | Prep | V-Hiphil-Inf-a
To give thanks or praise, originally meaning to throw or cast, like shooting an arrow. In the Bible, it's used to describe worship or confession with extended hands. It appears in Psalms and other books, like 1 Chronicles.
Definition: 1) to throw, shoot, cast 1a) (Qal) to shoot (arrows) 1b) (Piel) to cast, cast down, throw down 1c) (Hiphil) 1c1) to give thanks, laud, praise 1c2) to confess, confess (the name of God) 1d) (Hithpael) 1d1) to confess (sin) 1d2) to give thanks Aramaic equivalent: ye.da (יְדָא "to praise" H3029)
Usage: Occurs in 111 OT verses. KJV: cast (out), (make) confess(-ion), praise, shoot, (give) thank(-ful, -s, -sgiving). See also: Genesis 29:35; Psalms 57:10; Psalms 6:6.
וּ/לְ/הַלֵּ֔ל
hâlal
H1984
"to shine"
Conj | Prep | V-Piel-Inf-a
To be foolish means to act wildly or make a show, like the prophets of Baal in 1 Kings 18:29. It can also mean to celebrate or boast, as in Psalm 38:5.
Definition: 1) to shine 1a) (Qal) to shine (fig. of God's favour) 1b) (Hiphil) to flash forth light
Usage: Occurs in 140 OT verses. KJV: (make) boast (self), celebrate, commend, (deal, make), fool(-ish, -ly), glory, give (light), be (make, feign self) mad (against), give in marriage, (sing, be worthy of) praise, rage, renowned, shine. See also: Genesis 12:15; Psalms 113:1; Psalms 5:6.
בְּ/שַׁעֲרֵ֖י
shaʻar
H8179
"gate"
Prep | N-mp
In the Bible, this Hebrew word means a gate or door, often referring to city entrances or temple doors, like in Genesis and Exodus. It can also symbolize a meeting place or marketplace. The word is used to describe important locations in the Bible.
Definition: : gate 1) gate 1a) gate (of entrance) 1b) gate (of space inside gate, i.e. marketplace, public meeting place) 1b1) city, town 1c) gate (of palace, royal castle, temple, court of tabernacle) 1d) heaven
Usage: Occurs in 302 OT verses. KJV: city, door, gate, port ([idiom] -er). See also: Genesis 19:1; 1 Chronicles 9:18; Psalms 9:14.
מַחֲנ֥וֹת
machăneh
H4264
"camp"
N-cp
This word refers to a camp or army, like the Israelites' encampments in the wilderness. It can also mean a group of people or animals. The KJV translates it as 'army, band, or camp'.
Definition: 1) encampment, camp 1a) camp, place of encampment 1b) camp of armed host, army camp 1c) those who encamp, company, body of people
Usage: Occurs in 190 OT verses. KJV: army, band, battle, camp, company, drove, host, tents. See also: Genesis 32:3; Joshua 6:18; Psalms 27:3.
יְהוָֽה
Yᵉhôvâh
H3068
"The Lord"
N-proper
Yehovah is another name for God, often translated as 'the Lord'. It is a national name for God in the Jewish faith. This name is used throughout the Old Testament.
Definition: Another name of ye.ru.sha.laim (יְרוּשָׁלִַ֫ם, יְרוּשְׁלֵם "Jerusalem" H3389)
Usage: Occurs in 5522 OT verses. KJV: Jehovah, the Lord. Compare H3050 (יָהּ), H3069 (יְהֹוִה). See also: Genesis 2:4; Genesis 24:42; Exodus 8:8.
Study Notes — 2 Chronicles 31:2
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Context — The Destruction of Idols
1When all this had ended, the Israelites in attendance went out to the cities of Judah and broke up the sacred pillars, chopped down the Asherah poles, and tore down the high places and altars throughout Judah and Benjamin, as well as in Ephraim and Manasseh, until they had utterly destroyed them all. Then all the Israelites returned to their cities, each to his own property.
2Hezekiah reestablished the divisions of the priests and Levites—each of them according to their duties as priests or Levites—for the burnt offerings and peace offerings, for ministry, for giving thanks, and for singing praises at the gates of the LORD’s dwelling.
3The king contributed from his own possessions for the regular morning and evening burnt offerings and for the burnt offerings on the Sabbaths, New Moons, and appointed feasts, as written in the Law of the LORD. 4Moreover, he commanded the people living in Jerusalem to make a contribution for the priests and Levites so that they could devote themselves to the Law of the LORD.Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 Chronicles 24:1 | These were the divisions of the descendants of Aaron. The sons of Aaron were Nadab, Abihu, Eleazar, and Ithamar. |
| 2 | 1 Chronicles 16:4–6 | David appointed some of the Levites to minister before the ark of the LORD, to celebrate, to give thanks, and to praise the LORD, the God of Israel. Asaph was the chief, Zechariah was second, then Jeiel, Shemiramoth, Jehiel, Mattithiah, Eliab, Benaiah, Obed-edom, and Jeiel. They were to play the harps and lyres, while Asaph sounded the cymbals and the priests Benaiah and Jahaziel blew the trumpets regularly before the ark of the covenant of God. |
| 3 | 2 Chronicles 29:24–26 | And the priests slaughtered the goats and put their blood on the altar for a sin offering, to make atonement for all Israel, because the king had ordered the burnt offering and the sin offering for all Israel. Hezekiah stationed the Levites in the house of the LORD with cymbals, harps, and lyres according to the command of David, of Gad the king’s seer, and of Nathan the prophet. For the command had come from the LORD through His prophets. The Levites stood with the instruments of David, and the priests with the trumpets. |
| 4 | Psalms 134:1–3 | Come, bless the LORD, all you servants of the LORD who serve by night in the house of the LORD! Lift up your hands to the sanctuary and bless the LORD! May the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth, bless you from Zion. |
| 5 | 2 Chronicles 23:8 | So the Levites and all Judah did everything that Jehoiada the priest had ordered. Each of them took his men—those coming on duty on the Sabbath and those going off duty—for Jehoiada the priest had not released any of the divisions. |
| 6 | 2 Chronicles 8:14 | In keeping with the ordinances of his father David, Solomon appointed the divisions of the priests over their service, and the Levites for their duties to offer praise and to minister before the priests according to the daily requirement. He also appointed gatekeepers by their divisions at each gate, for this had been the command of David, the man of God. |
| 7 | 1 Chronicles 25:1–3 | Additionally, David and the commanders of the army set apart some of the sons of Asaph, Heman, and Jeduthun to prophesy with the accompaniment of lyres, harps, and cymbals. The following is the list of the men who performed this service: From the sons of Asaph: Zaccur, Joseph, Nethaniah, and Asarelah. These sons of Asaph were under the direction of Asaph, who prophesied under the direction of the king. From the sons of Jeduthun: Gedaliah, Zeri, Jeshaiah, Shimei, Hashabiah, and Mattithiah—six in all—under the direction of their father Jeduthun, who prophesied with the harp, giving thanks and praise to the LORD. |
| 8 | 2 Chronicles 5:11 | Now all the priests who were present had consecrated themselves regardless of their divisions. And when the priests came out of the Holy Place, |
| 9 | Jeremiah 33:11 | the sounds of joy and gladness, the voices of the bride and bridegroom, and the voices of those bringing thank offerings into the house of the LORD, saying: ‘Give thanks to the LORD of Hosts, for the LORD is good; His loving devotion endures forever.’ For I will restore the land from captivity as in former times, says the LORD. |
| 10 | Luke 1:5 | In the time of Herod king of Judea there was a priest named Zechariah, who belonged to the priestly division of Abijah, and whose wife Elizabeth was a daughter of Aaron. |
2 Chronicles 31:2 Summary
In 2 Chronicles 31:2, we see Hezekiah taking steps to restore the proper order of worship in the temple by reestablishing the divisions of the priests and Levites. This means he made sure the priests and Levites were doing their jobs, such as offering sacrifices and singing praises, as mentioned in Psalm 100:4. Hezekiah's actions show us the importance of following God's commands and prioritizing our worship, just as we see in Deuteronomy 12:32 and Matthew 22:37. By doing so, we can experience a deeper connection with God and a more meaningful worship experience, as seen in John 4:24.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of Hezekiah reestablishing the divisions of the priests and Levites?
Hezekiah's actions demonstrate his commitment to following God's commands, as seen in Exodus 28:1 and Numbers 3:6, and to restoring the proper order of worship in the temple.
What were the duties of the priests and Levites in the temple?
The priests and Levites were responsible for various tasks, including offering sacrifices, such as burnt offerings and peace offerings, as well as ministry, giving thanks, and singing praises, as mentioned in 2 Chronicles 31:2 and supported by Leviticus 1:1-7:38.
How did Hezekiah's actions impact the spiritual climate of Judah?
Hezekiah's reestablishment of the priestly divisions and his commitment to following God's commands helped to purify the worship of the Lord, as seen in 2 Chronicles 30:1-31:21, and brought about a period of spiritual revival in Judah, similar to the revival in Josiah's time, as recorded in 2 Chronicles 34:1-35:19.
What can we learn from Hezekiah's example in this verse?
We can learn the importance of order and structure in our worship and spiritual lives, as well as the value of following God's commands, as seen in Deuteronomy 12:32 and Matthew 28:20, and the need for leaders to set a good example for their people, as demonstrated by Hezekiah in 2 Chronicles 31:2-21.
Reflection Questions
- What are some ways I can practically apply the principle of order and structure in my own spiritual life, just as Hezekiah did in the temple?
- How can I, like Hezekiah, prioritize the worship of God and make it a central part of my daily life, as seen in Psalm 95:1-7 and Psalm 100:1-5?
- In what ways can I use my talents and resources to support and encourage those who are serving the Lord, just as Hezekiah supported the priests and Levites?
- What are some areas in my life where I need to 'reestablish' or restore the proper order of priorities, and how can I take steps to do so, with the help of Scripture, such as 1 Corinthians 14:40 and Colossians 2:5?
Gill's Exposition on 2 Chronicles 31:2
And Hezekiah appointed the courses of the priests, and the Levites after their courses,.... As they were fixed by David, and were in the times of Jehoshaphat, and had been since interrupted, and
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 2 Chronicles 31:2
And Hezekiah appointed the courses of the priests and the Levites after their courses, every man according to his service, the priests and Levites for burnt offerings and for peace offerings, to
Matthew Poole's Commentary on 2 Chronicles 31:2
i.e. Within the gates of the house of the Lord; which is here called tents, partly because all houses are oft so called, as 20:8 ; and partly because the host of the Lord, to wit, the priests and Levites, frequently so called, encamped there, and kept their stations and orders there by course.
Trapp's Commentary on 2 Chronicles 31:2
2 Chronicles 31:2 And Hezekiah appointed the courses of the priests and the Levites after their courses, every man according to his service, the priests and Levites for burnt offerings and for peace offerings, to minister, and to give thanks, and to praise in the gates of the tents of the LORD.Ver. 2. In the gates of the tents of the Lord,] i.e., Of the temple, fitly compared to a camp, for the watch and ward there kept by the priests, and for the convention of the people thither, as to their rendezvous, to pray, which is the chief service of our spiritual warfare.
Ellicott's Commentary on 2 Chronicles 31:2
(2) The courses . . . their courses.—Hezekiah restored the system of service in rotation, ascribed to David. (Comp. 2 Chronicles 8:14, “according to the order of David.”) Every man according to his service.—See the same phrase in Numbers 7:5; Numbers 7:7. Literally, after the mouth (i.e., rule, prescription) of his service.The priests and Levites.—Literally, to the priests and Levites. The words depend upon those which immediately precede. LXX., καὶτὰςἐφημερίαςἑκάστουκατὰτὴνἑαυτοῦλειτουργίαντοῖςἱερεῦσινκαὶτοῖςΛευίταις.To minister . . . praise.—The chronicler’s usual definition of the Levitical functions. In the gates . . . Lord.—Literally, in the gates of the camps of Jehovah. Comp. 1 Chronicles 9:18-19, where the phrase is explained.
Adam Clarke's Commentary on 2 Chronicles 31:2
Verse 2. In the gates of the tents of the Lord.] That is, in the temple; for this was the house, tabernacle, tent, and camp, of the Most High.
Cambridge Bible on 2 Chronicles 31:2
2–21 (not in 2 Kin.). Organisation of the Priests, Tithe 2. the courses] Cp. 1 Chronicles 24:1 ff. the priests and Levites] R.V. both the priests and the Levites. in the gates] Cp. Deuteronomy 16:5. the tents of the Lord] R.V. the camp of the LORD, i.e. (in the language of Deut.) “the place which the Lord chose,” Jerusalem or, more exactly, the Temple area. Cp. 1 Chronicles 9:18, note.
Barnes' Notes on 2 Chronicles 31:2
The tents - literally, “the camps.” The temple is called the “camp of Yahweh” by an apt metaphor: the square enclosure, with its gates and stations, its guards and porters, its reliefs, its orderly
Whedon's Commentary on 2 Chronicles 31:2
OF THE LEVITES, 2 Chronicles 31:2-21.2. The priests and the Levites after their courses — The suspension of the temple service by Ahaz had disarranged the courses and work of the Levites, and so it
Sermons on 2 Chronicles 31:2
| Sermon | Description | |
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The Building of the House of the Lord by Chuck Smith | In this sermon, Pastor Chuck Smith discusses the building of the house of the Lord as described in First Chronicles. He emphasizes the importance of being aware of God's presence a |
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From Babylon to Jerusalem - (Ezra) ch.3 & 4 by Zac Poonen | In this sermon, the speaker discusses the story of the potter and the clay from the book of Jeremiah. The speaker emphasizes that God does not give up on us even when we fail to re |
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Psalm 134 by Henry Law | Henry Law preaches about the exhortation for the ministers of the sanctuary to bless the Lord, with blessings invoked on the speaker in response. Public worship is emphasized as a |
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Exposition on Psalm 135 by St. Augustine | St. Augustine preaches on the importance of praising the Lord, highlighting the goodness of God and the privilege of serving Him. He emphasizes the need for gratitude, acknowledgin |
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Standing Firm in the Lord by T. Austin-Sparks | T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the importance of standing firm in the Lord, using the imagery of the Tabernacle's boards made of acacia wood that remained standing even when stripped |
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Worship in the Night by Charles E. Cowman | Charles E. Cowman preaches about the profound blessing of worshiping God in times of darkness and sorrow, emphasizing that true faith is tested and revealed in the midst of challen |
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Training Below for Service Above, Part 1 by Mary Wilder Tileston | Mary Wilder Tileston preaches about the eternal life believers will have with the Lord, walking in white as worthy servants in His temple. She emphasizes that the Blessed will serv |