2 Chronicles 29:21

KJV

And they brought seven bullocks, and seven rams, and seven lambs, and seven he goats, for a sin offering for the kingdom, and for the sanctuary, and for Judah. And he commanded the priests the sons of Aaron to offer [them] on the altar of the LORD.

KJV (with Strong's)

And they brought {H935} seven {H7651} bullocks {H6499}, and seven {H7651} rams {H352}, and seven {H7651} lambs {H3532}, and seven {H7651} he {H6842} goats {H5795}, for a sin offering {H2403} for the kingdom {H4467}, and for the sanctuary {H4720}, and for Judah {H3063}. And he commanded {H559} the priests {H3548} the sons {H1121} of Aaron {H175} to offer {H5927} them on the altar {H4196} of the LORD {H3068}.

Complete Jewish Bible

They brought seven bulls, seven rams, seven lambs and seven male goats as a sin offering for the kingdom, for the sanctuary and for Y'hudah; and he ordered the cohanim to offer them on the altar of ADONAI.

Berean Standard Bible

They brought seven bulls, seven rams, seven lambs, and seven male goats as a sin offering for the kingdom, for the sanctuary, and for Judah. And the king commanded the priests, the descendants of Aaron, to offer them on the altar of the LORD.

American Standard Version

And they brought seven bullocks, and seven rams, and seven lambs, and seven he-goats, for a sin-offering for the kingdom and for the sanctuary and for Judah. And he commanded the priests the sons of Aaron to offer them on the altar of Jehovah.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
King Hezekiah, in the very first month of his reign, initiated a profound spiritual reformation in Judah, moving decisively away from the idolatry and neglect of his father, Ahaz. This verse details a crucial preliminary step in that restoration: the preparation of a comprehensive sin offering. Hezekiah commanded the priests to bring a specific and numerically symbolic array of animals—seven bullocks, seven rams, seven lambs, and seven he-goats—intended to make atonement for the kingdom, the defiled sanctuary, and the people of Judah, signifying a deep understanding of the pervasive nature of national sin and the urgent need for divine cleansing and covenant renewal.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is deeply embedded within the narrative of King Hezekiah's immediate and zealous efforts to restore the worship of Yahweh in Judah. Following the apostasy of King Ahaz, who had not only closed the doors of the Temple but also erected pagan altars throughout Jerusalem ([2 Chronicles 28:24](/2_chronicles/28-24 "2 Chronicles 28:24 - Ahaz's Idolatry")), Hezekiah's reign begins with an unprecedented focus on spiritual revival. Chapters [2 Chronicles 29](/2_chronicles/29 "2 Chronicles 29 - Hezekiah's Temple Cleansing and Restoration") through [2 Chronicles 31](/2_chronicles/31 "2 Chronicles 31 - Hezekiah's Reforms and Offerings") meticulously chronicle this reform. Specifically, [2 Chronicles 29:3](/2_chronicles/29-3 "2 Chronicles 29:3 - Hezekiah Opens Temple Doors") records Hezekiah's command to reopen the Temple doors, followed by the Levites' extensive work of cleansing and consecrating the sanctuary ([2 Chronicles 29:5-19](/2_chronicles/29-5 "2 Chronicles 29:5-19 - Levites Cleanse the Temple")). Verse [2 Chronicles 29:20](/2_chronicles/29-20 "2 Chronicles 29:20 - Hezekiah Gathers Officials") details Hezekiah gathering the city officials, indicating a corporate, national commitment to this act of repentance. Thus, [2 Chronicles 29:21](/2_chronicles/29-21 "2 Chronicles 29:21 - The Sin Offering") describes the specific animals brought for the sin offering, setting the stage for the actual sacrifices and subsequent joyful worship that follow in [2 Chronicles 29:22-36](/2_chronicles/29-22 "2 Chronicles 29:22-36 - The Sacrifices and Worship").

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Hezekiah ascended to the throne of Judah during a tumultuous period. His father, Ahaz, had not only promoted syncretistic worship but had also made Judah a vassal state to Assyria, further compromising its spiritual and political independence. The nation was steeped in idolatry, and the Temple, the very heart of their covenant relationship with God, had been defiled and neglected. The concept of a "sin offering" (Hebrew: *chattath*) was central to Israelite worship, as detailed in the Mosaic Law, particularly in [Leviticus 4](/leviticus/4 "Leviticus 4 - The Sin Offering"). These offerings were not merely about guilt but primarily about purification and cleansing from defilement that rendered an individual or the community ritually unclean and alienated from God's presence. The act of bringing specific animals for sacrifice, overseen by the priests, was a deeply ingrained cultural and religious practice, signifying a return to covenant stipulations and a desperate plea for divine favor and restoration. The comprehensive nature of the offering—for the "kingdom," "sanctuary," and "Judah"—underscores the understanding that sin had permeated every level of national life, requiring a holistic act of atonement.

* **Key Themes:** The immediate context of [2 Chronicles 29:21](/2_chronicles/29-21 "2 Chronicles 29:21 - The Sin Offering") highlights several profound themes. **Atonement and Purification** are paramount, as the "sin offering" was designed to cleanse from defilement and restore a right relationship with God after sin had broken the covenant. This act was a **Comprehensive Forgiveness** initiative, recognizing that sin had affected the entire nation—its leadership (kingdom), its sacred space (sanctuary), and its people (Judah)—necessitating a holistic approach to reconciliation. The verse also powerfully illustrates the **Restoration of Right Worship**, as Hezekiah meticulously followed Mosaic Law concerning sacrifices, deliberately reversing the idolatrous practices of his predecessor and guiding Judah back to its covenant obligations. Furthermore, the **Symbolism of Numbers**, particularly the repeated use of "seven," points to completeness, perfection, and divine fullness, suggesting a thorough and divinely sanctioned act of purification and dedication. Finally, Hezekiah's decisive action underscores the vital role of **Godly Leadership in Repentance**, demonstrating how a leader's spiritual initiative can galvanize a nation toward spiritual revival and a renewed commitment to God.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Sin Offering (Hebrew, _chattath'_):** This term (חַטָּאת) is central to understanding the purpose of the sacrifices. While it often translates to "sin," in the context of offerings, *chattath* primarily denotes the *purification* from defilement caused by sin, rather than solely punishment for transgression. It addresses the ritual impurity that separates a person or community from God's holy presence. The blood of these animals, specifically applied to the altar and sanctuary, served to cleanse and consecrate these spaces, making them fit for divine interaction once more. It speaks to the restoration of fellowship and the removal of obstacles to worship.
* **Seven (Hebrew, _sheva'_):** The repeated use of "seven" (seven bullocks, seven rams, seven lambs, seven he-goats) is highly significant in biblical numerology. Seven often symbolizes completeness, perfection, or divine fullness and covenant. In this context, it emphasizes the thoroughness, adequacy, and divine approval of the purification and atonement being sought. It suggests that Hezekiah's actions were not superficial but a comprehensive and divinely ordained effort to cleanse the nation entirely.
* **Kingdom, Sanctuary, Judah:** These three categories delineate the comprehensive scope of the sin offering. "Kingdom" refers to the royal house, the leadership, and the political entity of Judah, acknowledging the corporate sin of its rulers and government. "Sanctuary" refers to the Temple itself, which had been defiled by Ahaz's idolatry and neglect, requiring ritual purification. "Judah" encompasses the entire populace, recognizing the pervasive sin and spiritual defilement among the people. This tripartite focus highlights the holistic nature of the national repentance and the need for atonement across all societal strata.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And they brought seven bullocks, and seven rams, and seven lambs, and seven he goats,"**: This clause details the specific animals and their quantities. The types of animals (bullocks, rams, lambs, he-goats) were standard for various sin and burnt offerings, indicating a comprehensive sacrificial act. The meticulous enumeration, especially the repeated "seven," underscores the deliberate and complete nature of the offering, designed to address a profound level of national defilement.
* **"for a sin offering"**: This phrase explicitly states the purpose of the animals. It was not merely a burnt offering for general devotion, but specifically a *chattath* offering, focused on purification from sin and ritual defilement that had accumulated during Ahaz's reign. This highlights the recognition of national guilt and impurity before God.
* **"for the kingdom, and for the sanctuary, and for Judah."**: This crucial part defines the beneficiaries and scope of the atonement. It reveals Hezekiah's understanding that sin had permeated every aspect of national life: the leadership (kingdom), the sacred space (sanctuary), and the entire populace (Judah). The offering was intended to cleanse and reconcile all three, demonstrating a holistic approach to national repentance and restoration.
* **"And he commanded the priests the sons of Aaron to offer [them] on the altar of the LORD."**: This final clause emphasizes Hezekiah's active and authoritative role as a godly king. He did not merely suggest but "commanded" the priests, who were the rightful descendants of Aaron and authorized to perform such sacred duties. The offering was to be made "on the altar of the LORD," signifying a return to proper, divinely ordained worship at the consecrated place, reversing the pagan practices of Ahaz.

#### Literary Devices
The verse effectively employs several **Literary Devices** to convey its profound message. **Numerology** is prominently featured with the repeated use of "seven," symbolizing completeness, perfection, and divine fullness, underscoring the thoroughness of the purification. This **Repetition** of "seven" also creates a rhythmic emphasis, drawing attention to the comprehensive nature of the offering. Furthermore, **Symbolism** is rich throughout the verse: the specific animals themselves symbolize the sacrificial system and the cost of atonement, while the "sin offering" (chattath) symbolizes purification from defilement. The tripartite designation of "kingdom, sanctuary, and Judah" symbolically represents the entire national entity, from its governance to its sacred spaces and its people, all requiring cleansing. This meticulous detail and symbolic language highlight the gravity of the nation's spiritual state and the profound nature of Hezekiah's reform.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The act described in [2 Chronicles 29:21](/2_chronicles/29-21 "2 Chronicles 29:21 - The Sin Offering") is deeply rooted in the Old Testament sacrificial system, which taught Israel the gravity of sin and the necessity of atonement for reconciliation with a holy God. The sin offering (chattath) specifically addressed defilement and impurity, emphasizing that sin not only incurs guilt but also renders individuals and communities ritually unclean, separating them from God's presence. Hezekiah's comprehensive offering for the "kingdom, sanctuary, and Judah" powerfully illustrates the corporate nature of sin and the need for corporate repentance and purification. This act foreshadows the ultimate, perfect sacrifice required to truly cleanse humanity from all sin and defilement, pointing forward to a greater High Priest and a more effective offering.

* [Leviticus 4:13-21](/leviticus/4-13 "Leviticus 4:13-21 - Corporate Sin Offering")
* [Numbers 19:1-10](/numbers/19-1 "Numbers 19:1-10 - The Red Heifer for Purification")
* [Hebrews 9:22](/hebrews/9-22 "Hebrews 9:22 - Necessity of Blood for Atonement")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Hezekiah's immediate and comprehensive response to Judah's spiritual decay serves as a powerful model for believers today. Just as the nation required a thorough cleansing from the pervasive defilement of idolatry, so too do individuals and communities continually need to acknowledge sin, repent, and seek purification. This passage reminds us that spiritual health is not a passive state but requires active, intentional steps of confession and turning back to God. It challenges us to examine our own lives and our communities for any "defilement" that hinders our relationship with God, whether it be personal idols, neglected spiritual disciplines, or corporate compromises. Hezekiah's leadership further emphasizes the responsibility of those in authority to guide others toward repentance and restoration, prioritizing spiritual renewal above all else. His actions call us to a renewed commitment to pure and sincere worship, free from distractions or compromises that dilute our devotion to the Lord.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "defilements" or "idols" in my personal life or community might be hindering a deeper relationship with God, similar to the defilement of Judah's sanctuary?**
* **How does Hezekiah's immediate and comprehensive action challenge my own approach to dealing with sin and spiritual neglect?**
* **In what ways can I, as an individual or part of a community, actively participate in a "restoration of right worship" in my sphere of influence?**

### FAQ
**Why was the number "seven" used for each type of animal in the sin offering?**

Answer: The number seven holds significant symbolic meaning in the Bible, often representing completeness, perfection, or divine fullness. In the context of [2 Chronicles 29:21](/2_chronicles/29-21 "2 Chronicles 29:21 - The Sin Offering"), the use of seven bullocks, seven rams, seven lambs, and seven he-goats emphasizes the thoroughness and comprehensive nature of the purification and atonement being sought. It signifies that Hezekiah intended a complete and divinely acceptable cleansing of the kingdom, the sanctuary, and the people of Judah from the pervasive sin and defilement that had accumulated during the reign of his father, Ahaz. It suggests a perfect and sufficient offering in the eyes of God, reflecting a deep commitment to full restoration.

**What is the difference between a "sin offering" and other types of sacrifices in the Old Testament?**

Answer: The "sin offering" (Hebrew: *chattath*) was one of several types of sacrifices in the Mosaic Law, each with a distinct purpose. While burnt offerings (holocausts) were typically for general atonement and devotion, and peace offerings were for fellowship and thanksgiving, the sin offering specifically addressed purification from ritual impurity and unintentional sins that defiled the individual or community and separated them from God's holy presence. It was not primarily about guilt for specific transgressions but about cleansing from the contaminating effect of sin. The blood of the sin offering was often applied to the altar or sanctuary to purify them, as seen in [Leviticus 4](/leviticus/4 "Leviticus 4 - The Sin Offering"). In [2 Chronicles 29:21](/2_chronicles/29-21 "2 Chronicles 29:21 - The Sin Offering"), its purpose was to cleanse the kingdom, sanctuary, and Judah from the defilement caused by widespread idolatry and neglect.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The meticulous sin offering initiated by King Hezekiah in [2 Chronicles 29:21](/2_chronicles/29-21 "2 Chronicles 29:21 - The Sin Offering"), while a crucial act of national purification and a return to covenant worship, ultimately served as a shadow pointing to the perfect and final sacrifice of Jesus Christ. The repeated "seven" animals for a comprehensive cleansing foreshadows the complete and perfect atonement achieved by Christ, whose sacrifice is "once for all" ([Hebrews 10:10](/hebrews/10-10 "Hebrews 10:10 - Christ's Once-for-All Sacrifice")). Just as the Old Testament sacrifices purified the flesh and the sanctuary, the blood of Jesus, the true [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), purifies our consciences from dead works to serve the living God ([Hebrews 9:14](/hebrews/9-14 "Hebrews 9:14 - Christ's Blood Cleanses Conscience")). His singular offering on the cross, unlike the repeated sacrifices of the Old Covenant, perfectly cleansed not just a kingdom, sanctuary, and people, but all who believe from every sin and defilement ([1 John 1:7](/1_john/1-7 "1 John 1:7 - Cleansing by Christ's Blood")). Through Christ, the ultimate High Priest ([Hebrews 4:14](/hebrews/4-14 "Hebrews 4:14 - Jesus Our Great High Priest")), we receive not merely ritual cleansing but true spiritual regeneration and eternal redemption, fulfilling the deepest longings for atonement symbolized by Hezekiah's actions.

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

Leviticus 4:3

If the priest that is anointed do sin according to the sin of the people; then let him bring for his sin, which he hath sinned, a young bullock without blemish unto the LORD for a sin offering.

Leviticus 4:14

When the sin, which they have sinned against it, is known, then the congregation shall offer a young bullock for the sin, and bring him before the tabernacle of the congregation.

Job 42:8

Therefore take unto you now seven bullocks and seven rams, and go to my servant Job, and offer up for yourselves a burnt offering; and my servant Job shall pray for you: for him will I accept: lest I deal with you [after your] folly, in that ye have not spoken of me [the thing which is] right, like my servant Job.

Ezekiel 45:23

And seven days of the feast he shall prepare a burnt offering to the LORD, seven bullocks and seven rams without blemish daily the seven days; and a kid of the goats daily [for] a sin offering.

Numbers 23:29

And Balaam said unto Balak, Build me here seven altars, and prepare me here seven bullocks and seven rams.

Ezra 8:35

[Also] the children of those that had been carried away, which were come out of the captivity, offered burnt offerings unto the God of Israel, twelve bullocks for all Israel, ninety and six rams, seventy and seven lambs, twelve he goats [for] a sin offering: all [this was] a burnt offering unto the LORD.

Numbers 23:14

And he brought him into the field of Zophim, to the top of Pisgah, and built seven altars, and offered a bullock and a ram on [every] altar.