2 Chronicles 20:19

KJV

And the Levites, of the children of the Kohathites, and of the children of the Korhites, stood up to praise the LORD God of Israel with a loud voice on high.

KJV (with Strong's)

And the Levites {H3881}, of the children {H1121} of the Kohathites {H6956}, and of the children {H1121} of the Korhites {H7145}, stood up {H6965} to praise {H1984} the LORD {H3068} God {H430} of Israel {H3478} with a loud {H1419} voice {H6963} on high {H4605}.

Complete Jewish Bible

and the L'vi'im from the descendants of the K'hati and the descendants of the Korchi, stood up and praised ADONAI the God of Isra'el at the top of their voices.

Berean Standard Bible

And the Levites from the Kohathites and Korahites stood up to praise the LORD, the God of Israel, shouting in a very loud voice.

American Standard Version

And the Levites, of the children of the Kohathites and of the children of the Korahites, stood up to praise Jehovah, the God of Israel, with an exceeding loud voice.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
This verse captures a pivotal moment of corporate worship where specific Levitical clans, the Kohathites and Korhites, respond to a divine promise of deliverance by offering fervent, unified praise to the LORD God of Israel. Their act of standing and praising with a loud voice on high signifies a profound declaration of faith and trust in God's sovereignty *before* the miraculous victory over their formidable enemies was realized. It highlights the power and significance of worship as a response to divine assurance and a precursor to God's intervention.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately follows King Jehoshaphat and all Judah bowing in worship after the prophet Jahaziel delivered God's word in [2 Chronicles 20:18](/2_chronicles/20-18 "2 Chronicles 20:18 - Jehoshaphat's Worship"). This divine message, found in [2 Chronicles 20:15-17](/2_chronicles/20-15 "2 Chronicles 20:15-17 - God's Promise of Deliverance"), assured them that the battle was not theirs but God's, and they would not need to fight. The Levites' praise in [2 Chronicles 20:19](/2_chronicles/20-19 "2 Chronicles 20:19 - The Levites' Praise") is thus a direct, faith-filled response to this prophetic word, setting the stage for the miraculous intervention described in [2 Chronicles 20:20-23](/2_chronicles/20-20 "2 Chronicles 20:20-23 - The Ambush and Victory"). It's a progression from initial fear and seeking God ([2 Chronicles 20:3-4](/2_chronicles/20-3 "2 Chronicles 20:3-4 - Jehoshaphat Proclaims a Fast")), to fervent prayer ([2 Chronicles 20:6-12](/2_chronicles/20-6 "2 Chronicles 20:6-12 - Jehoshaphat's Prayer")), to divine promise, to worship, and finally to miraculous deliverance.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The setting is the kingdom of Judah during the reign of King Jehoshaphat (c. 870-845 BC). Judah was a relatively small kingdom, and the threat from the combined forces of Moab, Ammon, and Mount Seir (Edom), as detailed in [2 Chronicles 20:1](/2_chronicles/20-1 "2 Chronicles 20:1 - Invasion of Judah"), was existential. In ancient Near Eastern warfare, such a formidable coalition would typically overwhelm a smaller nation. The Levites, as a tribe set apart for priestly and temple service, held a crucial role in Israelite worship. The Kohathites and Korhites were specific Levitical families known for their responsibilities related to the Ark of the Covenant and temple music, respectively (cf. [Numbers 3:27-31](/numbers/3-27 "Numbers 3:27-31 - Duties of the Kohathites") and [1 Chronicles 6:31-33](/1_chronicles/6-31 "1 Chronicles 6:31-33 - Korahite Musicians")). Their public, loud praise was not merely an emotional outburst but a structured, communal act of faith, deeply embedded in the worship practices of the time, often involving musical instruments and singing.

* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in [2 Chronicles 20](/2_chronicles/20 "2 Chronicles 20 - Jehoshaphat's Prayer and Victory") and the broader Deuteronomistic history. Foremost is the theme of **Divine Sovereignty and Deliverance**, emphasizing that God fights for His people when they trust Him, as explicitly stated in [2 Chronicles 20:15](/2_chronicles/20-15 "2 Chronicles 20:15 - The Battle is the LORD's"). The Levites' action exemplifies **Faithful Worship**, showcasing worship as an act of profound trust and obedience *before* the visible manifestation of God's power. It also highlights **Corporate Unity and Response**, demonstrating how the collective faith and praise of the community can precede and facilitate God's miraculous intervention, contrasting with the initial fear described in [2 Chronicles 20:3](/2_chronicles/20-3 "2 Chronicles 20:3 - Jehoshaphat's Fear").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Praise (Hebrew, _hillel'_):** This verb (הָלַל, _hillel'_) means "to praise, to boast, to celebrate, to shine." It often implies a public, enthusiastic, and even boisterous expression of adoration, not a quiet contemplation. In this context, it conveys an uninhibited, joyful, and fervent acclamation of God's character and power, reflecting a profound shift from fear to triumphant confidence.
* **Loud voice (Hebrew, _qol gadol'_):** The phrase (קוֹל גָּדוֹל, _qol gadol'_) literally means "great voice" or "loud sound." It emphasizes the intensity, conviction, and public nature of their worship. This was not a hesitant whisper but a powerful, united shout of praise, intended to be heard and to declare God's greatness boldly.
* **On high (Hebrew, _lamarōm'_):** This adverbial phrase (לַמָּרוֹם, _lamarōm'_) means "upward, on high, to the height." It signifies that their praise was directed heavenward, reaching God Himself. It also suggests a sense of exultation and elevation, lifting their voices and spirits above their dire circumstances in an act of profound faith and reverence.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And the Levites, of the children of the Kohathites, and of the children of the Korhites":** This specifies the particular groups of Levites involved. The Levites were the tribe designated for temple service, and these two clans, the Kohathites and Korhites, had specific responsibilities related to the Ark and musical worship, respectively. Their inclusion underscores the official, organized, and deeply spiritual nature of this corporate act of worship, performed by those consecrated for such duties.
* **"stood up to praise the LORD God of Israel":** The act of "standing up" denotes intentionality, readiness, and a posture of respect and engagement. It signifies an active, deliberate choice to worship. Their praise was directed specifically to "the LORD God of Israel," emphasizing His covenant relationship with His people and His unique identity as their deliverer.
* **"with a loud voice on high":** This phrase describes the manner and intensity of their praise. It was not a quiet, private devotion but a powerful, unified, and public acclamation. "Loud voice" conveys fervor and conviction, while "on high" suggests that their praise was directed heavenward, reaching God and proclaiming His greatness for all to hear, transcending their earthly predicament.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several effective literary devices. **Emphasis** is achieved through the specific mention of the "Kohathites, and... Korhites," highlighting the organized and consecrated nature of this worship. The phrase "stood up" acts as a powerful **Action Verb**, conveying a sense of readiness, intentionality, and active participation in worship, rather than passive observation. **Hyperbole** or strong **Emphasis** is present in "loud voice on high," which vividly portrays the fervor, unity, and uninhibited nature of their praise, suggesting a sound that fills the air and ascends to heaven. This collective, soaring praise also serves as a form of **Anticipation**, building tension and expectation for God's promised deliverance, as their worship precedes the actual victory.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This passage profoundly illustrates the theological principle that authentic worship is not merely a response to blessings received, but an act of faith and trust in God's character and promises, even in the face of overwhelming adversity. The Levites' praise, offered *before* the battle, demonstrates a deep conviction in God's sovereignty and His word, transforming fear into fervent adoration. It underscores that God's power is unleashed not necessarily through human might, but through humble reliance and worship. This pre-emptive praise serves as a declaration of God's victory before it is physically manifested, aligning human will with divine purpose.

* [Psalm 8:1](/psalm/8-1 "Psalm 8:1 - God's Majesty and Humanity's Place")
* [Psalm 149:6](/psalm/149-6 "Psalm 149:6 - Praise and Victory")
* [Philippians 4:6-7](/philippians/4-6 "Philippians 4:6-7 - Peace Through Prayer and Supplication")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The Levites' bold act of worship in 2 Chronicles 20:19 serves as a timeless paradigm for believers facing their own "impossible" situations. It challenges us to shift our focus from the magnitude of our problems to the infinitude of God's power and faithfulness. This passage encourages a proactive, faith-filled response to adversity, where praise becomes an act of spiritual warfare and a declaration of trust in God's promised deliverance, even when circumstances seem bleak. It reminds us that our worship is not just an emotional outlet but a powerful spiritual discipline that aligns our hearts with God's will, strengthens our resolve, and prepares the way for His miraculous intervention. By choosing to praise God with conviction and unity, we emulate the Levites, acknowledging that the battle truly belongs to the LORD and inviting His presence into our struggles.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the Levites' "pre-emptive" praise challenge your typical response to fear or overwhelming circumstances?**
* **In what ways can your personal or corporate worship become a more active declaration of faith rather than merely a reaction to positive outcomes?**
* **What "loud voice on high" might God be calling you to raise in your current season of life, even before you see the victory?**

### FAQ
**Why were the Kohathites and Korhites specifically mentioned?**

Answer: The mention of the Kohathites and Korhites is significant because these were specific Levitical families with distinct roles in Israelite worship. The Kohathites were responsible for carrying the sacred articles of the tabernacle, including the Ark of the Covenant ([Numbers 3:27-31](/numbers/3-27 "Numbers 3:27-31 - Duties of the Kohathites")), while the Korhites (descendants of Korah, but distinct from the rebellious Korah in Numbers 16) were prominent temple musicians and gatekeepers ([1 Chronicles 6:31-33](/1_chronicles/6-31 "1 Chronicles 6:31-33 - Korahite Musicians")). Their specific involvement underscores that this was not a spontaneous, disorganized outburst but a structured, consecrated act of worship led by those designated for such sacred service, highlighting the depth and intentionality of their praise.

**What does "with a loud voice on high" signify?**

Answer: "With a loud voice on high" emphasizes the intensity, unity, and direction of their praise. "Loud voice" (Hebrew _qol gadol_) denotes a powerful, uninhibited, and public acclamation, suggesting a sound that fills the air and is heard by all. "On high" (Hebrew _lamarōm_) indicates that their praise was directed heavenward, towards God Himself. It signifies that their worship transcended their earthly predicament, reaching up to the divine realm, and proclaiming God's greatness and sovereignty above their circumstances. This phrase underscores the fervor and conviction of their faith in God's imminent deliverance, despite the visible threat.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The pre-emptive praise of the Levites in 2 Chronicles 20:19 powerfully foreshadows the ultimate victory secured through Christ. Just as the Levites praised before the physical battle, believers in Christ are called to live in the victory already won on the cross. Our worship is not merely a response to present circumstances but a declaration of the finished work of Christ, who has triumphed over sin, death, and the powers of darkness ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Triumph Over Principalities")). The "loud voice on high" of the Levites anticipates the cosmic praise directed to the [Lamb of God](/revelation/5-12 "Revelation 5:12 - Worthy is the Lamb"), who through His sacrifice has secured eternal deliverance for all who believe. Our worship, empowered by the Holy Spirit, is a participation in the heavenly chorus that continually praises God for His redemptive plan, reminding us that though we face earthly battles, our ultimate victory is assured in Christ Jesus, who is our [peace](/ephesians/2-14 "Ephesians 2:14 - Christ Our Peace") and our [deliverer](/romans/11-26 "Romans 11:26 - The Deliverer from Zion"). His resurrection is the ultimate "loud voice on high," proclaiming God's triumph over all enemies, inviting us to praise Him with unwavering faith, knowing that in Him, the battle is already won.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

1 Chronicles 23:5

Moreover four thousand [were] porters; and four thousand praised the LORD with the instruments which I made, [said David], to praise [therewith].

1 Chronicles 16:5

Asaph the chief, and next to him Zechariah, Jeiel, and Shemiramoth, and Jehiel, and Mattithiah, and Eliab, and Benaiah, and Obededom: and Jeiel with psalteries and with harps; but Asaph made a sound with cymbals;

1 Chronicles 15:16

And David spake to the chief of the Levites to appoint their brethren [to be] the singers with instruments of musick, psalteries and harps and cymbals, sounding, by lifting up the voice with joy.

1 Chronicles 15:22

And Chenaniah, chief of the Levites, [was] for song: he instructed about the song, because he [was] skilful.

1 Chronicles 16:42

And with them Heman and Jeduthun with trumpets and cymbals for those that should make a sound, and with musical instruments of God. And the sons of Jeduthun [were] porters.

Ezra 3:12

But many of the priests and Levites and chief of the fathers, [who were] ancient men, that had seen the first house, when the foundation of this house was laid before their eyes, wept with a loud voice; and many shouted aloud for joy:

Ezra 3:13

So that the people could not discern the noise of the shout of joy from the noise of the weeping of the people: for the people shouted with a loud shout, and the noise was heard afar off.