2 Chronicles 19:8

Moreover in Jerusalem did Jehoshaphat set of the Levites, and [of] the priests, and of the chief of the fathers of Israel, for the judgment of the LORD, and for controversies, when they returned to Jerusalem.

Moreover in Jerusalem {H3389} did Jehoshaphat {H3092} set {H5975} of the Levites {H3881}, and of the priests {H3548}, and of the chief {H7218} of the fathers {H1} of Israel {H3478}, for the judgment {H4941} of the LORD {H3068}, and for controversies {H7379}, when they returned {H7725} to Jerusalem {H3389}.

In Yerushalayim Y'hoshafat appointed some of the L'vi'im, cohanim and clan heads of Isra'el to judge in matters concerning ADONAI and in civil cases. After they had returned to Yerushalayim,

Moreover, Jehoshaphat appointed in Jerusalem some of the Levites, priests, and heads of the Israelite families to judge on behalf of the LORD and to settle disputes. And they lived in Jerusalem.

Moreover in Jerusalem did Jehoshaphat set of the Levites and the priests, and of the heads of the fathersโ€™ houses of Israel, for the judgment of Jehovah, and for controversies. And they returned to Jerusalem.

Commentary

2 Chronicles 19:8 describes a significant judicial reform initiated by King Jehoshaphat in Jerusalem, establishing a court system rooted in divine law. This verse highlights his commitment to restoring righteousness and order within the kingdom of Judah after a period of spiritual compromise.

Context

This verse follows a crucial turning point in King Jehoshaphat's reign. After his ill-fated alliance with King Ahab of Israel and his near-death experience in battle (detailed in 2 Chronicles 18), he was rebuked by the prophet Jehu for helping the ungodly (2 Chronicles 19:2). In response, Jehoshaphat dedicated himself to further reforms, seeking to bring the people back to the Lord. This judicial restructuring in Jerusalem, and later in the fortified cities of Judah (2 Chronicles 19:5), was a direct outcome of this renewed commitment to God's ways, aiming to ensure justice was administered according to divine principles.

Key Themes

  • Divine Justice and Law: The core purpose of this court was "the judgment of the LORD," meaning legal decisions were to be made in accordance with God's revealed law, not merely human discretion. This emphasized God's sovereignty over the judicial system.
  • Accountability and Reform: Jehoshaphat's actions demonstrate a king taking responsibility for the spiritual and moral health of his nation. His reforms aimed to correct societal injustices and promote righteous living across the land.
  • Integrated Leadership: The appointment of Levites, priests, and "chief of the fathers of Israel" shows a blending of spiritual, judicial, and community leadership. This ensured that both religious law and civil disputes were handled by those with authority and understanding, reflecting an ancient Israelite ideal where religious and civil life were intertwined.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "judgment of the LORD" translates from the Hebrew mishpat Yahweh (ืžึดืฉึฐืืคึทึผื˜ ื™ึฐื”ื•ึธื”). Mishpat refers to justice, judgment, or a legal decision, often with the connotation of applying established law or custom. Here, it specifically denotes judgments based on God's divine statutes and ordinances, emphasizing that the legal system was to reflect God's character and will. This is distinct from mere human arbitration, highlighting the sacred nature of the judicial process.

Related Scriptures

The involvement of Levites and priests in judicial matters aligns with earlier Mosaic law, which designated them as interpreters of the law and arbiters in difficult cases (Deuteronomy 17:8-13). This reform by Jehoshaphat can be seen as a re-establishment of these divine mandates. The emphasis on righteous judgment is a recurring theme throughout Scripture, from the wisdom literature (Proverbs 29:4) to the prophetic calls for justice (Amos 5:24).

Practical Application

For believers today, 2 Chronicles 19:8 underscores the importance of justice and integrity within all levels of society, including spiritual and civil spheres. It reminds us that:

  • Leaders, whether in government, business, or the church, have a responsibility to uphold righteous principles and ensure fair dealings.
  • Disputes should be resolved with wisdom, guided by ethical standards and, for believers, by biblical principles.
  • A healthy society or community requires a commitment to order, accountability, and the impartial application of just laws.
This verse serves as a powerful reminder that true reform begins with a renewed commitment to God's ways and a willingness to implement His standards in practical governance.

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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated โ€” the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • 2 Chronicles 17:8

    And with them [he sent] Levites, [even] Shemaiah, and Nethaniah, and Zebadiah, and Asahel, and Shemiramoth, and Jehonathan, and Adonijah, and Tobijah, and Tobadonijah, Levites; and with them Elishama and Jehoram, priests.

  • 2 Chronicles 17:9

    And they taught in Judah, and [had] the book of the law of the LORD with them, and went about throughout all the cities of Judah, and taught the people.

  • Exodus 18:19

    Hearken now unto my voice, I will give thee counsel, and God shall be with thee: Be thou for the people to God-ward, that thou mayest bring the causes unto God:

  • Exodus 18:26

    And they judged the people at all seasons: the hard causes they brought unto Moses, but every small matter they judged themselves.

  • 1 Chronicles 23:4

    Of which, twenty and four thousand [were] to set forward the work of the house of the LORD; and six thousand [were] officers and judges:

  • 1 Chronicles 26:29

    ยถ Of the Izharites, Chenaniah and his sons [were] for the outward business over Israel, for officers and judges.

  • Deuteronomy 25:1

    ยถ If there be a controversy between men, and they come unto judgment, that [the judges] may judge them; then they shall justify the righteous, and condemn the wicked.
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