2 Chronicles 24:6

KJV

And the king called for Jehoiada the chief, and said unto him, Why hast thou not required of the Levites to bring in out of Judah and out of Jerusalem the collection, [according to the commandment] of Moses the servant of the LORD, and of the congregation of Israel, for the tabernacle of witness?

KJV (with Strong's)

And the king {H4428} called {H7121} for Jehoiada {H3077} the chief {H7218}, and said {H559} unto him, Why hast thou not required {H1875} of the Levites {H3881} to bring in {H935} out of Judah {H3063} and out of Jerusalem {H3389} the collection {H4864}, according to the commandment of Moses {H4872} the servant {H5650} of the LORD {H3068}, and of the congregation {H6951} of Israel {H3478}, for the tabernacle {H168} of witness {H5715}?

Complete Jewish Bible

the king summoned Y'hoyada the chief and said to him, "Why haven't you demanded that the L'vi'im bring in from Y'hudah and Yerushalayim the tax prescribed by Moshe the servant of ADONAI and by the community of Isra'el, for the tent of the testimony?"

Berean Standard Bible

So the king called Jehoiada the high priest and said, “Why have you not required the Levites to bring from Judah and Jerusalem the tax imposed by Moses the servant of the LORD and by the assembly of Israel for the Tent of the Testimony?”

American Standard Version

And the king called for Jehoiada the chief, and said unto him, Why hast thou not required of the Levites to bring in out of Judah and out of Jerusalem the tax of Moses the servant of Jehovah, and of the assembly of Israel, for the tent of the testimony?

Commentary

### SUMMARY
King Joash of Judah confronts Jehoiada, the chief priest, regarding the significant delay in collecting the designated funds from the people of Judah and Jerusalem for the repair and maintenance of the Temple. This collection was not an arbitrary levy but was explicitly mandated by the Mosaic Law, underscoring the king's concern for adherence to divine command and diligent stewardship of God's dwelling place, referred to here by its ancient designation as the "tabernacle of witness." The verse highlights the king's accountability for the spiritual well-being of the nation and the priest's responsibility to execute God's ordinances.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically placed within the narrative of King Joash's reign, specifically after an initial period of righteousness and a command for Temple repair. [2 Chronicles 24:1-3](/2_chronicles/24-1 "2 Chronicles 24:1-3 - Joash's Early Reign and Jehoiada's Influence") establishes Joash's young age at ascension and the profound influence of Jehoiada, who had hidden and protected him from Athaliah's murderous purge ([2 Chronicles 22:10-12](/2_chronicles/22-10 "2 Chronicles 22:10-12 - Athaliah's Usurpation and Joash's Rescue")). Joash's early reign is characterized by a desire to restore the Temple, which had suffered neglect and desecration during Athaliah's idolatrous rule ([2 Chronicles 24:7](/2_chronicles/24-7 "2 Chronicles 24:7 - Temple Desecration by Athaliah")). [2 Chronicles 24:5](/2_chronicles/24-5 "2 Chronicles 24:5 - Joash's Initial Command for Temple Repair") records Joash's direct command to the Levites to collect funds for the Temple's restoration. Verse 6, however, reveals a significant lapse in execution, prompting the king's direct inquiry and challenge to Jehoiada, setting the stage for the revised collection method described in [2 Chronicles 24:8-14](/2_chronicles/24-8 "2 Chronicles 24:8-14 - The New Collection Method and Temple Restoration").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The historical backdrop is the early reign of King Joash (c. 835-796 BC) in Judah. The Temple in Jerusalem, originally built by Solomon, was the central place of worship and national identity for the kingdom of Judah. Its upkeep was not merely a matter of maintenance but a theological imperative, reflecting the nation's commitment to the covenant with Yahweh. The "commandment of Moses" likely refers to the half-shekel temple tax (Exodus 30:11-16), a perpetual offering for the service of the Tabernacle, which was later applied to the Temple. This tax was a communal responsibility, ensuring the sanctuary's upkeep and atonement for the people. The cultural expectation was that the religious leadership, particularly the Levites and priests, would diligently oversee such matters, especially given the Temple's significance. Joash's confrontation highlights a breakdown in this expected diligence.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes to several overarching themes in 2 Chronicles. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **accountability in leadership**, demonstrating that even righteous leaders like Jehoiada are not exempt from scrutiny regarding their duties, particularly when it pertains to God's house. Secondly, it emphasizes **obedience to divine law**, as the collection was "according to the commandment of Moses," highlighting the Chronicler's consistent focus on adherence to the Torah as the basis for national blessing and well-being. Thirdly, the verse reinforces the theme of **stewardship of God's house**, portraying the Temple not just as a building but as a sacred trust that requires diligent care and financial support from both leadership and the populace. Finally, the reference to the "tabernacle of witness" connects the Temple's function to the foundational covenant relationship established in the wilderness, emphasizing the **continuity of God's presence and covenant testimony** among His people, a recurring motif throughout the historical books.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Required (Hebrew, _darash'_):** The verb דָּרַשׁ (_darash_) means to "seek," "inquire," "demand," or "require." In this context, it carries the force of a strong expectation or even a demand for accountability. It's not merely a suggestion but a royal directive that Joash expected Jehoiada to enforce. The king is actively seeking an explanation for the failure to fulfill a commanded duty, underscoring his authority and his commitment to the Temple's restoration.
* **Collection (Hebrew, _mas'et'_):** The noun מַשְׂאֵת (_mas'et_) refers to a "lifting up," "tribute," "offering," or "contribution." While it can denote a voluntary gift, here, in conjunction with "according to the commandment of Moses," it specifically refers to a mandated, regular contribution for the upkeep of the sanctuary. This was not a one-time appeal but an ongoing obligation, likely the half-shekel temple tax (Exodus 30:13-16), which was a perpetual and required offering for the service of the Tabernacle and later the Temple.
* **Tabernacle of Witness (Hebrew, _mishkan ha'edut'_):** The phrase מִשְׁכַּן הָעֵדוּת (_mishkan ha'edut_) literally means "dwelling of the testimony" or "tabernacle of witness." This term was primarily used for the wilderness Tabernacle (e.g., Numbers 17:7; 18:2) because it housed the Ark of the Covenant, which contained the "testimony" (the tablets of the Law). Its application to the Temple in Jerusalem here emphasizes the continuity of divine presence and covenantal function. The Temple, like the Tabernacle, served as God's dwelling place among His people, a place where His covenant was preserved, and His presence testified to His relationship with Israel.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And the king called for Jehoiada the chief, and said unto him,"**: This opening clause establishes the direct and authoritative nature of the king's intervention. Joash, though young, is exercising his royal prerogative to address a critical issue concerning the national sanctuary. The "chief" (הָרֹאשׁ, _ha-rosh_) emphasizes Jehoiada's preeminent position as high priest and the primary figure responsible for the Temple's administration.
* **"Why hast thou not required of the Levites to bring in out of Judah and out of Jerusalem the collection,"**: This is a rhetorical question expressing the king's frustration and demanding an explanation for the delay. It highlights a failure in the chain of command: Jehoiada, as the chief priest, was responsible for overseeing the Levites, who were tasked with collecting the funds from the entire kingdom. The specification "out of Judah and out of Jerusalem" emphasizes the comprehensive nature of the required contribution, encompassing all the people.
* **"[according to the commandment] of Moses the servant of the LORD, and of the congregation of Israel, for the tabernacle of witness?"**: This final clause provides the theological and legal justification for the collection, elevating it beyond a mere administrative task. The KJV's bracketed phrase "according to the commandment" accurately captures the sense that this was a divinely mandated obligation, rooted in the Mosaic Law (e.g., Exodus 30:11-16). The "congregation of Israel" implies that this was a long-standing, communal responsibility, not a new or optional levy. The purpose "for the tabernacle of witness" underscores the sacred nature of the funds, intended for the upkeep of God's holy dwelling place, which served as a perpetual testimony to His covenant with His people.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several significant **literary devices**. The most prominent is the **rhetorical question** posed by King Joash ("Why hast thou not required...?"). This is not a question seeking information but expressing dismay, disappointment, and a demand for accountability. It serves to highlight the urgency of the situation and the king's firm resolve. There is also a strong element of **direct address**, as the king confronts Jehoiada personally, emphasizing the gravity of the oversight. Furthermore, the phrase "according to the commandment of Moses the servant of the LORD" functions as an **appeal to authority**, grounding the king's expectation in divine law and the revered figure of Moses, thereby lending immense weight to the demand for the collection. This also serves as **emphasis** on the sacred nature of the duty and the seriousness of its neglect.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse powerfully connects to the broader biblical narrative by underscoring the enduring principles of divine expectation regarding the care of sacred spaces and the accountability of spiritual leadership. The collection for the "tabernacle of witness" (Temple) was not merely for structural maintenance but for the preservation of a physical symbol of God's covenant presence among His people. It reflects the truth that God's people are called to be diligent stewards of His resources and His work, whether that work involves physical structures or the spiritual health of the community. The king's righteous indignation at the delay highlights the seriousness of neglecting divinely mandated responsibilities, especially those pertaining to worship and the perpetuation of God's testimony.

* [Exodus 30:13-16](/exodus/30-13 "Exodus 30:13-16 - The Half-Shekel Atonement Money")
* [Nehemiah 10:32-33](/nehemiah/10-32 "Nehemiah 10:32-33 - Covenant to Support Temple Service")
* [Malachi 3:8-10](/malachi/3-8 "Malachi 3:8-10 - Robbing God in Tithes and Offerings")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The confrontation between King Joash and Jehoiada serves as a potent reminder that spiritual diligence and accountability are paramount for all who serve God, regardless of their position or past faithfulness. Even the most revered leaders can fall short in executing their duties, and it is the responsibility of those in authority to ensure God's work is not hindered by negligence or procrastination. For believers today, this translates into a call for active and intentional participation in the support and mission of the Church, which is the contemporary "house of God" (1 Timothy 3:15) and the body of Christ. Our resources, time, and talents are to be stewarded diligently for the advancement of God's kingdom, ensuring that the "witness" of Christ is effectively proclaimed and His people are nourished. This verse challenges us to examine our own commitment to God's work, asking if we are fulfilling our commanded responsibilities with the urgency and faithfulness that God expects.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **Where might I be procrastinating or neglecting a responsibility that God has entrusted to me, especially concerning His work or His people?**
* **How does my stewardship of financial resources reflect my commitment to God's "house" (the Church) and its mission in the world?**
* **In what ways can I hold myself and others accountable for spiritual duties, fostering diligence and faithfulness?**
* **What does it mean for the Church today to be a "tabernacle of witness," and how can I contribute to its effective testimony?**

### FAQ
**Was the collection for the Temple a voluntary offering or a mandatory tax?**

Answer: The context of 2 Chronicles 24:6, particularly the phrase "according to the commandment of Moses the servant of the LORD," strongly indicates that this was a mandatory, commanded contribution rather than a voluntary offering. This likely refers to the half-shekel temple tax described in [Exodus 30:11-16](/exodus/30-11 "Exodus 30:11-16 - The Half-Shekel Atonement Money"), which was a perpetual and required offering for the service of the Tabernacle (and later the Temple). It was a communal responsibility for atonement and the upkeep of the sanctuary, not an optional donation.

**Why is the Temple referred to as the "tabernacle of witness" in this verse?**

Answer: The term "tabernacle of witness" (or "tent of meeting" / "tent of testimony") was primarily used for the wilderness Tabernacle, which housed the Ark of the Covenant containing the "testimony" (the tablets of the Law). By applying this ancient designation to the Temple in Jerusalem, the Chronicler emphasizes the continuity of its function. The Temple, like the Tabernacle, was the central place where God's presence dwelt among His people, where His covenant was preserved, and where His laws served as a constant "witness" to His relationship with Israel. It highlighted that the Temple was not just a building, but a perpetual sign and reminder of God's covenant faithfulness and His dwelling among His people.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The earthly Temple, whether called the "tabernacle of witness" or the "house of the LORD," ultimately pointed to a greater reality fulfilled in Jesus Christ. While the physical Temple required constant maintenance and offerings, Jesus declared Himself to be the true Temple, stating, "Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up" ([John 2:19](/john/2-19 "John 2:19 - Jesus Predicts His Resurrection")). His body became the ultimate dwelling place of God among humanity, fulfilling the very essence of the "tabernacle of witness" – the presence of God testifying to His covenant with His people. The "collection" for the Temple's upkeep foreshadows the immeasurable cost of our redemption, paid not with silver or gold, but with the precious blood of Christ ([1 Peter 1:18-19](/1_peter/1-18 "1 Peter 1:18-19 - Redemption Through Christ's Blood")). Moreover, just as the Temple was a place of witness, Jesus commanded His followers to be His witnesses "to the ends of the earth" ([Acts 1:8](/acts/1-8 "Acts 1:8 - The Great Commission")). The Church, as the body of Christ and the new spiritual Temple ([Ephesians 2:19-22](/ephesians/2-19 "Ephesians 2:19-22 - The Church as God's Dwelling Place")), is now called to be the living "tabernacle of witness," proclaiming the good news of the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")), and diligently stewarding the resources entrusted to us for the advancement of His eternal kingdom.

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

Exodus 30:12

When thou takest the sum of the children of Israel after their number, then shall they give every man a ransom for his soul unto the LORD, when thou numberest them; that there be no plague among them, when [thou] numberest them.

Exodus 30:16

And thou shalt take the atonement money of the children of Israel, and shalt appoint it for the service of the tabernacle of the congregation; that it may be a memorial unto the children of Israel before the LORD, to make an atonement for your souls.

Numbers 1:50

But thou shalt appoint the Levites over the tabernacle of testimony, and over all the vessels thereof, and over all things that [belong] to it: they shall bear the tabernacle, and all the vessels thereof; and they shall minister unto it, and shall encamp round about the tabernacle.

Numbers 17:7

And Moses laid up the rods before the LORD in the tabernacle of witness.

Numbers 17:8

¶ And it came to pass, that on the morrow Moses went into the tabernacle of witness; and, behold, the rod of Aaron for the house of Levi was budded, and brought forth buds, and bloomed blossoms, and yielded almonds.

Acts 7:44

Our fathers had the tabernacle of witness in the wilderness, as he had appointed, speaking unto Moses, that he should make it according to the fashion that he had seen.

2 Samuel 24:3

And Joab said unto the king, Now the LORD thy God add unto the people, how many soever they be, an hundredfold, and that the eyes of my lord the king may see [it]: but why doth my lord the king delight in this thing?