2 Chronicles 23:18

KJV

Also Jehoiada appointed the offices of the house of the LORD by the hand of the priests the Levites, whom David had distributed in the house of the LORD, to offer the burnt offerings of the LORD, as [it is] written in the law of Moses, with rejoicing and with singing, [as it was ordained] by David.

KJV (with Strong's)

Also Jehoiada {H3077} appointed {H7760} the offices {H6486} of the house {H1004} of the LORD {H3068} by the hand {H3027} of the priests {H3548} the Levites {H3881}, whom David {H1732} had distributed {H2505} in the house {H1004} of the LORD {H3068}, to offer {H5927} the burnt offerings {H5930} of the LORD {H3068}, as it is written {H3789} in the law {H8451} of Moses {H4872}, with rejoicing {H8057} and with singing {H7892}, as it was ordained by {H3027} David {H1732}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Y'hoyada appointed officers for the house of ADONAI under the supervision of the cohanim and L'vi'im, whom David had assigned turns of duty in the house of ADONAI, to offer the burnt offerings of ADONAI, as written in the Torah of Moshe, with rejoicing and singing in keeping with David's orders.

Berean Standard Bible

Moreover, Jehoiada put the oversight of the house of the LORD into the hands of the Levitical priests, whom David had appointed over the house of the LORD, to offer burnt offerings to the LORD as is written in the Law of Moses, with rejoicing and song, as ordained by David.

American Standard Version

And Jehoiada appointed the officers of the house of Jehovah under the hand of the priests the Levites, whom David had distributed in the house of Jehovah, to offer the burnt-offerings of Jehovah, as it is written in the law of Moses, with rejoicing and with singing, according to the order of David.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Following the dramatic overthrow of the idolatrous Queen Athaliah and the rightful enthronement of young King Joash, 2 Chronicles 23:18 details the immediate and pivotal actions taken by Jehoiada the High Priest to restore proper, divinely ordained worship in the house of the LORD. This verse highlights Jehoiada’s diligent re-establishment of the Temple’s services, meticulously aligning them with the ancient Mosaic Law concerning burnt offerings and the organizational structures for priests and Levites first established by King David, all to be performed with an attitude of rejoicing and singing.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated at a crucial turning point in the history of Judah, immediately following the seven-year usurpation of the throne by Queen Athaliah, the wicked daughter of Ahab and Jezebel. The preceding verses (2 Chronicles 23:1-15) describe Jehoiada's meticulous and courageous coup, which culminated in the execution of Athaliah and the coronation of the rightful heir, Joash, who had been hidden in the Temple for six years. With the political and royal order restored, 2 Chronicles 23:16-17 records Jehoiada leading the people in a covenant renewal, tearing down the altars of Baal, and cleansing the Temple. Verse 18, therefore, marks the immediate and logical next step in this restoration: the re-establishment of the Temple's spiritual functions and daily worship, signifying a return to covenant faithfulness and divine order after a period of severe apostasy and neglect. It sets the stage for Joash's reign and the subsequent Temple repairs detailed in [2 Chronicles 24](/2_chronicles/24 "2 Chronicles 24 - Joash Repairs the Temple").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The period preceding this verse was one of profound spiritual and political crisis for Judah. Queen Athaliah, through her lineage and actions, introduced and aggressively promoted Baal worship, desecrating the Temple and neglecting the Levitical services (as seen in [2 Chronicles 24:7](/2_chronicles/24-7 "2 Chronicles 24:7 - Athaliah's Sons Broke into the Temple")). This was a direct assault on the covenant between God and Israel, threatening the very spiritual identity of the nation. Jehoiada's actions in this chapter represent a bold counter-reformation, reasserting the supremacy of Yahweh and the Davidic covenant. The Temple was not merely a building but the symbolic center of God's presence among His people, the place where atonement was made and communion with God was maintained. Re-establishing its "offices" and the sacrificial system was paramount for national purification and spiritual renewal, signifying a return to the foundational laws given through [Moses](/exodus/24-12 "Exodus 24:12 - Moses Receives the Law") and the liturgical order established by [King David](/1_chronicles/23 "1 Chronicles 23 - David Organizes the Levites"), which provided structure and continuity for Israelite worship.
* **Key Themes:** The verse powerfully encapsulates several key themes central to the Chronicler's theology. Firstly, it emphasizes the **restoration of legitimate and pure worship** as the highest priority after a period of apostasy. Jehoiada's immediate focus on the Temple underscores its centrality to Israel's covenant relationship with God. Secondly, it highlights the **importance of divine authority and tradition** in guiding worship, stressing adherence to both "the law of Moses" (the foundational legal and spiritual framework) and the "ordinances by David" (the practical, divinely inspired organization of Temple service). This dual emphasis validates both the ancient commands and the wise, God-given structures for their implementation. Thirdly, the verse affirms the **indispensable role of the priesthood** (the "priests the Levites") in mediating worship and maintaining the sacrificial system. Finally, the inclusion of "rejoicing and with singing" introduces the theme of **joyful and heartfelt worship**, indicating that devotion to God is not merely a ritualistic obligation but a vibrant, expressive response of gratitude and praise, a theme echoed throughout the [Psalms](/psalms/100-2 "Psalm 100:2 - Serve the LORD with Gladness").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Offices (Hebrew, _pekuddot_):** This term refers to the "charges," "oversight," "appointments," or "responsibilities" within the Temple. It signifies the structured, organized duties and functions of the priests and Levites. Jehoiada's action was not merely to resume sacrifices but to re-establish the entire administrative and operational framework of the Temple service, ensuring that every aspect of worship was conducted according to its proper order and divine mandate. This implies a comprehensive restoration of the Temple's daily operations, from the preparation of offerings to the performance of music.
* **Burnt Offerings (Hebrew, _'olah_):** Derived from a root meaning "to ascend," the *'olah* was a "whole burnt offering" in which the entire animal (except the hide) was consumed by fire on the altar. It was a primary form of sacrifice in ancient Israel, symbolizing complete dedication, atonement for sin, and a pleasing aroma to the LORD. Its restoration was crucial because it represented the most fundamental act of propitiation and consecration, essential for maintaining the covenant relationship between God and His people.
* **Rejoicing (Hebrew, _simchah_):** This word denotes deep joy, gladness, and mirth. Its inclusion alongside "singing" is significant. It indicates that the worship being restored was not to be a somber, burdensome ritual, but a vibrant, heartfelt expression of delight in God. This spiritual attitude was an integral part of the divinely ordained worship, reflecting the goodness of God and the privilege of His presence.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Also Jehoiada appointed the offices of the house of the LORD by the hand of the priests the Levites":** This clause highlights Jehoiada's proactive and authoritative leadership. As High Priest, he took immediate responsibility for re-establishing the proper functions and responsibilities ("offices") within the Temple. This was not a passive return to old ways but an active, deliberate re-institution, carried out through the designated religious leaders, the "priests the Levites," who were the authorized ministers of the sanctuary.
* **"whom David had distributed in the house of the LORD":** This phrase emphasizes the historical precedent and divine authorization for the organizational structure of the Temple. It refers to King David's meticulous arrangement of the Levitical courses and priestly divisions, ensuring an orderly and continuous service in the Temple (as detailed in [1 Chronicles 23-26](/1_chronicles/23 "1 Chronicles 23 - David Organizes the Levites") and [1 Chronicles 28:13](/1_chronicles/28-13 "1 Chronicles 28:13 - David's Plans for the Priests and Levites")). Jehoiada's restoration was therefore not an innovation but a return to a divinely inspired and historically established order.
* **"to offer the burnt offerings of the LORD":** This specifies the core activity of the restored Temple service. The primary function of the priests and Levites was to facilitate the sacrificial system, particularly the "burnt offerings," which were central to atonement, consecration, and communion with God. This act was essential for the spiritual health and purity of the nation.
* **"as [it is] written in the law of Moses":** This clause underscores the ultimate divine authority for the sacrificial system. The "law of Moses" (Torah) was the foundational legal and spiritual blueprint for Israel's worship and life, particularly concerning the types and procedures for sacrifices (e.g., [Leviticus 1](/leviticus/1 "Leviticus 1 - The Law of Burnt Offerings")). Jehoiada's actions were thus rooted in strict obedience to God's revealed word, not human invention.
* **"with rejoicing and with singing":** This vital addition describes the prescribed *manner* of worship. It indicates that the performance of sacred duties, even the solemn act of offering burnt sacrifices, was to be accompanied by an attitude of gladness and vocal praise. This element transforms ritual into heartfelt devotion, reflecting the covenant joy that God desired from His people.
* **"[as it was ordained] by David":** This final phrase reiterates David's role in establishing the liturgical and musical aspects of Temple worship. David not only organized the Levites but also instituted the choirs and musicians who would lead the people in praise and singing (e.g., [1 Chronicles 25](/1_chronicles/25 "1 Chronicles 25 - David Organizes the Musicians")). This again highlights the importance of adhering to the wise, God-given traditions that shaped Israel's corporate worship.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several significant literary devices. **Repetition** is evident in the dual emphasis on David's role ("whom David had distributed" and "as it was ordained by David"), which serves to underscore the legitimacy and historical depth of the restored Temple order, rooting it firmly in the revered legacy of Israel's greatest king. This also creates a sense of **Parallelism**, linking David's initial establishment of order with Jehoiada's restoration. The phrase "as [it is] written in the law of Moses" functions as an **Appeal to Authority**, grounding the entire re-establishment in the ultimate divine revelation, lending unassailable legitimacy to Jehoiada's reforms. There is also a strong sense of **Contrast** implied within the broader narrative: the meticulous, joyful, and ordered worship described here stands in stark opposition to the chaotic, idolatrous, and neglected state of the Temple under Athaliah's reign. Finally, the "burnt offerings" themselves serve as **Symbolism**, representing complete dedication and atonement, while the "rejoicing and singing" symbolize the desired spiritual attitude of a people renewed in their covenant relationship with God.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
2 Chronicles 23:18 powerfully articulates the biblical emphasis on the necessity of proper, ordered, and joyful worship as central to a nation's spiritual health and its covenant relationship with God. It demonstrates that true reform involves not only removing evil but actively re-instituting righteousness according to divine standards. The dual appeal to the "law of Moses" and the "ordinances by David" highlights a crucial theological principle: God's revealed will (Torah) provides the foundational principles, while wise, Spirit-inspired leadership (David's organization) provides the practical structure for their implementation. This verse teaches that worship is not merely a human invention but a divinely prescribed activity, meant to be conducted with both reverence for God's holiness and exuberance for His goodness. It foreshadows the New Testament understanding that true worship is both "in spirit and truth" ([John 4:24](/john/4-24 "John 4:24 - God is Spirit")) and a joyful offering of praise.

* [Deuteronomy 12:5-7](/deuteronomy/12-5-7 "Deuteronomy 12:5-7 - Worship at the Chosen Place with Rejoicing")
* [1 Chronicles 16:29](/1_chronicles/16-29 "1 Chronicles 16:29 - Worship the LORD in the Beauty of Holiness")
* [Nehemiah 8:1-8](/nehemiah/8-1-8 "Nehemiah 8:1-8 - Ezra Reads the Law and the People Rejoice")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
2 Chronicles 23:18 offers profound lessons for believers and the church today. It reminds us that spiritual renewal often begins with a return to foundational truths and practices, particularly in our corporate worship. Just as Jehoiada meticulously restored the Temple services according to God's law and David's order, so too should our churches strive for worship that is biblically faithful, orderly, and intentional. This verse challenges us to consider if our worship is merely routine or if it is characterized by genuine "rejoicing and singing," reflecting a heartfelt gratitude for God's grace and a delight in His presence. It underscores the vital role of spiritual leadership in guiding the community back to faithful practices and ensuring that worship remains pure and vibrant. Ultimately, it calls us to prioritize God-centered worship, understanding that it is not just an activity we perform, but a vital expression of our identity as His people and a means by which we draw near to Him.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the emphasis on "rejoicing and singing" in the context of burnt offerings challenge or affirm your understanding of corporate worship today?**
* **In what ways might our personal or corporate worship practices drift from "the law of Moses" (biblical truth) or the "ordinances by David" (wise, established order), and what steps can be taken to realign them?**
* **What is the role of spiritual leadership in restoring and maintaining faithful worship within a community, and how can we support such leadership?**

### FAQ

**Why was Jehoiada's action in 2 Chronicles 23:18 so significant for Judah?**

Answer: Jehoiada's actions were profoundly significant because they represented a complete spiritual and political reversal after six years of severe apostasy under Queen Athaliah. Athaliah, a devotee of Baal, had actively suppressed the worship of Yahweh and even allowed the Temple to be plundered ([2 Chronicles 24:7](/2_chronicles/24-7 "2 Chronicles 24:7 - Athaliah's Sons Broke into the Temple")). By immediately re-establishing the Temple "offices" and the sacrificial system according to Mosaic Law and Davidic order, Jehoiada was not just restoring ritual; he was re-establishing the covenant relationship between God and Judah, purifying the nation from idolatry, and reaffirming Yahweh as the true King and God of Israel. This act was foundational for the subsequent spiritual and national recovery under King Joash.

**What was the significance of offering burnt offerings "with rejoicing and with singing"?**

Answer: The inclusion of "rejoicing and singing" with the burnt offerings is highly significant because it elevates the act of worship beyond mere ritualistic duty. While burnt offerings were solemn acts of atonement and dedication, the accompanying joy and singing indicated that worship was to be a heartfelt, enthusiastic response to God's goodness and faithfulness, not a burdensome obligation. This reflects the deep covenant joy that God desired from His people, a joy rooted in His presence and His redemptive acts. It foreshadows the New Covenant worship where believers offer spiritual sacrifices with glad hearts, empowered by the Holy Spirit, as seen in passages like [Hebrews 13:15](/hebrews/13-15 "Hebrews 13:15 - Offering a Sacrifice of Praise").

**How had David "distributed" and "ordained" the priests and Levites for Temple service?**

Answer: King David, under divine inspiration, meticulously organized the priests and Levites into various divisions or "courses" for regular service in the Temple. This comprehensive organization, detailed extensively in [1 Chronicles 23-26](/1_chronicles/23 "1 Chronicles 23 - David Organizes the Levites"), covered all aspects of Temple ministry: the priests for sacrificial duties, the Levites for assisting priests, maintaining the Temple, acting as gatekeepers, treasurers, and, notably, as musicians and singers. David's ordinances ensured an orderly, continuous, and comprehensive system of worship, providing structure and continuity for generations. Jehoiada's act of restoring these specific arrangements demonstrated a commitment to both the divine Law and the wise, God-given traditions that facilitated its proper practice.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
2 Chronicles 23:18, with its focus on the restoration of Temple worship, the offering of burnt sacrifices, and adherence to the Law of Moses and Davidic ordinances, finds its ultimate and glorious fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The "burnt offerings" that symbolized complete dedication and atonement are perfectly and finally offered in the person of Christ, who is the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"). His single, perfect sacrifice on the cross is the ultimate and sufficient atonement, rendering the continual animal sacrifices of the Old Covenant obsolete ([Hebrews 10:10-14](/hebrews/10-10-14 "Hebrews 10:10-14 - Christ's Single Sacrifice")). Furthermore, Jesus is the true Temple, the place where God's presence dwells and where humanity truly encounters the divine ([John 2:19-21](/john/2-19-21 "John 2:19-21 - Jesus Speaks of the Temple of His Body")). The "priests the Levites" who facilitated worship are superseded by Christ, our [great High Priest](/hebrews/4-14 "Hebrews 4:14 - Jesus, Our Great High Priest"), who perpetually intercedes for us in the heavenly sanctuary. The "law of Moses" concerning sacrifices finds its perfect obedience and fulfillment in Christ's sinless life and atoning death ([Matthew 5:17](/matthew/5-17 "Matthew 5:17 - Jesus Fulfills the Law")). Finally, the "rejoicing and singing" that accompanied Old Testament worship is now fully realized in the New Covenant through the Holy Spirit, as believers offer spiritual sacrifices of praise and thanksgiving, worshipping God [in spirit and truth](/john/4-24 "John 4:24 - God is Spirit and Truth") through Christ, our Lord, who makes our access to God joyful and complete ([Romans 15:10-11](/romans/15-10-11 "Romans 15:10-11 - Rejoice with His People")).

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

Numbers 28:1

¶ And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,

Numbers 28:31

Ye shall offer [them] beside the continual burnt offering, and his meat offering, (they shall be unto you without blemish) and their drink offerings.

2 Chronicles 5:5

And they brought up the ark, and the tabernacle of the congregation, and all the holy vessels that [were] in the tabernacle, these did the priests [and] the Levites bring up.

1 Chronicles 25:1

¶ Moreover David and the captains of the host separated to the service of the sons of Asaph, and of Heman, and of Jeduthun, who should prophesy with harps, with psalteries, and with cymbals: and the number of the workmen according to their service was:

1 Chronicles 25:31

The four and twentieth to Romamtiezer, [he], his sons, and his brethren, [were] twelve.

1 Chronicles 23:1

¶ So when David was old and full of days, he made Solomon his son king over Israel.

1 Chronicles 23:24

¶ These [were] the sons of Levi after the house of their fathers; [even] the chief of the fathers, as they were counted by number of names by their polls, that did the work for the service of the house of the LORD, from the age of twenty years and upward.