2 Chronicles 29:19

Moreover all the vessels, which king Ahaz in his reign did cast away in his transgression, have we prepared and sanctified, and, behold, they [are] before the altar of the LORD.

Moreover all the vessels ^{H3627}, which king ^{H4428} Ahaz ^{H271} in his reign ^{H4438} did cast away ^{H2186} in his transgression ^{H4604}, have we prepared ^{H3559} and sanctified ^{H6942}, and, behold, they are before ^{H6440} the altar ^{H4196} of the LORD ^{H3068}.

Moreover, we have reconditioned and consecrated all the articles that King Achaz threw out during his reign, when he was sinning; and they are there, in front of the altar of ADONAI."

Moreover, we have prepared and consecrated all the articles that King Ahaz in his unfaithfulness cast aside during his reign. They are now in front of the altar of the LORD.”

Moreover all the vessels, which king Ahaz in his reign did cast away when he trespassed, have we prepared and sanctified; and, behold, they are before the altar of Jehovah.

Commentary

Context

This verse is found within the narrative of King Hezekiah's righteous reign, which began in stark contrast to the idolatrous and rebellious rule of his father, King Ahaz. Hezekiah's first act as king was to open and repair the doors of the temple, which Ahaz had shut up, and to call for its purification. King Ahaz had not only closed the temple but also cast away the sacred vessels in his transgression, replacing pure worship with pagan altars and practices. Here, Hezekiah's officials report the successful completion of the temple cleansing and the restoration of these very vessels, signifying a profound return to the worship of the LORD.

Key Themes

Restoration and Renewal: The verse highlights Hezekiah's commitment to reversing the spiritual decay of his father's reign. It speaks to the power of divine grace and human initiative in bringing about spiritual revival. The recovery and preparation of the vessels symbolize the restoration of proper worship and the reclaiming of what was lost or defiled.
Holiness and Sanctification: The act of "preparing and sanctifying" the vessels underscores the importance of holiness in divine service. These items, once defiled by Ahaz's sin, were made fit for God's presence again, emphasizing that God requires purity and consecration for anything used in His worship. This aligns with the broader biblical principle of setting apart things for sacred use.
Reverence for God's House: Hezekiah's immediate attention to the temple and its instruments demonstrates a deep reverence for God's dwelling place and the means of worship. The presence of the vessels "before the altar of the LORD" signifies readiness for renewed, acceptable worship.
Consequences of Sin vs. Blessings of Obedience: The contrast between Ahaz's destructive transgression and Hezekiah's obedient restoration serves as a powerful reminder of the differing outcomes of disobedience and faithfulness.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew term for "cast away" (*zānah*) used in reference to King Ahaz's actions can imply abandonment, neglect, or even prostitution in a spiritual sense, indicating a profound rejection of God's ways. In contrast, "prepared" (*kûn*) signifies establishing or making ready, while "sanctified" (*qādash*) means to set apart, make holy, or consecrate. This linguistic pairing emphasizes the deliberate and sacred process undertaken to return the vessels to their rightful, holy purpose.

Practical Application

This verse offers powerful lessons for believers today:

Spiritual Housekeeping: Just as Hezekiah cleansed the physical temple, we are called to examine our own lives—our "temples" (see 1 Corinthians 6:19)—and remove anything that defiles or hinders our worship of God. This involves cleansing ourselves from impurities and consecrating ourselves anew to Him.
Restoration is Possible: The story of these vessels reminds us that no matter how far we or our spiritual lives may have strayed or been defiled by sin, God's grace allows for restoration and renewal. What was "cast away" can be reclaimed, purified, and used for His glory once more.
Valuing the Sacred: We should hold in high esteem all that pertains to God's worship and His presence, whether it's our personal devotion, corporate worship, or the instruments we use in service to Him.
Leadership in Revival: Hezekiah's example shows the profound impact that righteous leadership can have in initiating spiritual revival and guiding people back to God.

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Cross-References

2 Chronicles 28:24

And Ahaz gathered together the vessels of the house of God, and cut in pieces the vessels of the house of God, and shut up the doors of the house of the LORD, and he made him altars in every corner of Jerusalem.