2 Chronicles 29:22

KJV

So they killed the bullocks, and the priests received the blood, and sprinkled [it] on the altar: likewise, when they had killed the rams, they sprinkled the blood upon the altar: they killed also the lambs, and they sprinkled the blood upon the altar.

KJV (with Strong's)

So they killed {H7819} the bullocks {H1241}, and the priests {H3548} received {H6901} the blood {H1818}, and sprinkled {H2236} it on the altar {H4196}: likewise, when they had killed {H7819} the rams {H352}, they sprinkled {H2236} the blood {H1818} upon the altar {H4196}: they killed {H7819} also the lambs {H3532}, and they sprinkled {H2236} the blood {H1818} upon the altar {H4196}.

Complete Jewish Bible

After slaughtering the bulls, the cohanim took the blood and splashed it against the altar. Next, they slaughtered the rams and splashed the blood against the altar and also slaughtered the lambs and splashed the blood against the altar.

Berean Standard Bible

So they slaughtered the bulls, and the priests took the blood and sprinkled it on the altar. They slaughtered the rams and sprinkled the blood on the altar. And they slaughtered the lambs and sprinkled the blood on the altar.

American Standard Version

So they killed the bullocks, and the priests received the blood, and sprinkled it on the altar: and they killed the rams, and sprinkled the blood upon the altar: they killed also the lambs, and sprinkled the blood upon the altar.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Second Chronicles 29:22 details the initial phase of King Hezekiah's comprehensive Temple purification and re-consecration, specifically focusing on the sin offerings. It describes the methodical slaughter of bullocks, rams, and lambs, and the subsequent ritualistic sprinkling of their blood upon the altar by the priests. This act was central to the Old Covenant sacrificial system, signifying atonement for sin and the purification of the sacred space, thereby restoring proper worship after a period of profound national apostasy under King Ahaz.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is embedded within the detailed account of King Hezekiah's radical religious reforms at the beginning of his reign (2 Chronicles 29). Following the spiritual decline and idolatry rampant during his father Ahaz's rule, Hezekiah immediately prioritized the restoration of proper worship. The preceding verses (2 Chronicles 29:3-19) describe the cleansing and sanctification of the Temple and the Levites and priests, who had been defiled and neglected their duties. Verses 20-21 detail Hezekiah's command for specific sin offerings (seven bullocks, seven rams, seven lambs, and seven he-goats) to atone for the kingdom, the sanctuary, and Judah. Verse 22 then initiates the practical execution of these sacrifices, focusing on the bullocks, rams, and lambs, establishing the ritualistic pattern that continues through the subsequent verses, leading to the burnt offerings and the joyful celebration of the people (2 Chronicles 29:27-36). The meticulous description underscores the gravity of the defilement and the thoroughness required for reconciliation with God.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** King Hezekiah ascended the throne of Judah around 715 BC, inheriting a kingdom deeply scarred by the apostasy of his father, Ahaz. Ahaz had not only tolerated but actively promoted pagan worship, even closing the doors of the Temple and cutting up its articles (2 Chronicles 28:24). This period was marked by Assyrian dominance, which often influenced religious practices in vassal states. In this context, Hezekiah's reforms were a bold act of national repentance and a reassertion of Judah's covenant relationship with Yahweh. The sacrificial system described in 2 Chronicles 29:22 was central to ancient Israelite worship, as prescribed in the Mosaic Law (e.g., [Leviticus 4](/leviticus/4 "Leviticus 4 - The Sin Offering")). The sprinkling of blood on the altar was a critical component of the sin offering, symbolizing the life given in exchange for sin and the purification of the sacred space, making it fit for God's presence. This ritual was not merely symbolic but was believed to effect genuine atonement and cleansing, essential for a people who understood God's holiness and their own sinfulness.
* **Key Themes:** The primary theme highlighted in 2 Chronicles 29:22 is **Atonement and Purification**. The repeated act of sacrificing animals and sprinkling their blood underscores the Old Covenant principle that "without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness of sins" ([Hebrews 9:22](/hebrews/9-22 "Hebrews 9:22 - The Necessity of Blood")). This verse vividly illustrates the seriousness of sin and the divine provision required to bridge the gap between a holy God and sinful humanity. Closely related is the theme of **Restoration and Obedience**. Hezekiah's meticulous adherence to the Mosaic Law's sacrificial rituals signifies a national return to God's commands after widespread disobedience. This act of obedience was foundational to the spiritual renewal of Judah and the re-establishment of proper worship in the Temple. Finally, the verse highlights the **Indispensable Role of the Priesthood**. The priests were divinely appointed mediators, uniquely tasked with handling the sacred blood and performing the intricate rituals of atonement, emphasizing the necessity of proper spiritual leadership and adherence to divine protocol in approaching God.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Sprinkled (Hebrew, _zaraq_):** The Hebrew verb זָרַק (_zaraq_) implies a forceful, energetic casting or splashing of the blood, rather than a gentle drizzle or mere dabbing. This suggests a deliberate, thorough, and decisive application of the blood, emphasizing the complete and comprehensive nature of the purification ritual. It conveys the seriousness and efficacy of the atonement being performed, ensuring that the altar and, by extension, the people, were fully cleansed. This action was not casual but a vital, powerful component of the sacrificial rite.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"So they killed the bullocks, and the priests received the blood, and sprinkled [it] on the altar:"** This initial clause describes the first step in the sin offering for the nation. The bullocks, being the largest and most valuable animals, were typically offered for the high priest or the whole congregation, signifying a significant sin offering. The act of killing them initiated the process of atonement. Crucially, the priests then "received the blood," highlighting their unique, divinely appointed role as mediators. The immediate sprinkling of this blood on the altar was the central act of purification and expiation, making atonement for the sins of the people and cleansing the sacred space.
* **"likewise, when they had killed the rams, they sprinkled the blood upon the altar:"** This clause demonstrates the systematic and comprehensive nature of the atonement. Rams were typically offered for leaders or for specific communal sins. The repetition of the killing and sprinkling action for the rams underscores the thoroughness of Hezekiah's reform and the need for multiple levels of atonement to cover the breadth of national sin. It reinforces the idea that the same vital principle of blood atonement applied across different categories of offerings.
* **"they killed also the lambs, and they sprinkled the blood upon the altar."** The inclusion of lambs, often associated with individual or less severe sins, further emphasizes the all-encompassing scope of the purification. This triple repetition—bullocks, rams, and lambs—illustrates the meticulous adherence to the prescribed rituals and the intent to cover every aspect of defilement and sin within the kingdom. The consistent act of sprinkling blood on the altar reiterates the singular means of purification and reconciliation with God under the Old Covenant.

#### Literary Devices
The verse primarily employs **Repetition** to emphasize the systematic and comprehensive nature of the sacrificial atonement. The phrase "they killed... and they sprinkled the blood upon the altar" is repeated for bullocks, rams, and lambs, creating a rhythmic, ritualistic cadence that highlights the thoroughness of the purification process. This repetition underscores the gravity of sin and the meticulous effort required for reconciliation. Furthermore, **Ritualistic Language** is evident in the precise description of the actions ("killed," "received the blood," "sprinkled"). This language serves to validate the authenticity and divine authorization of the ceremony, reinforcing its spiritual efficacy. Finally, **Symbolism** is paramount, with the blood itself symbolizing life and serving as the divinely appointed means of atonement, pointing to the profound theological truth that life must be given for sin.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
2 Chronicles 29:22 stands as a powerful testament to the Old Covenant's foundational principle of atonement through blood. The repeated, methodical sprinkling of blood on the altar underscores humanity's profound need for cleansing from sin and God's gracious provision for it. This ritualistic act was not an end in itself but a divinely ordained pointer to a greater, ultimate sacrifice. It teaches us about the holiness of God, the seriousness of sin, and the absolute necessity of a substitutionary offering to bridge the chasm between a righteous God and sinful humanity. The meticulous adherence to these rituals also highlights the importance of obedience to God's revealed will in the process of spiritual restoration and reconciliation.

* [Leviticus 17:11](/leviticus/17-11 "Leviticus 17:11 - The Life is in the Blood")
* [Hebrews 9:22](/hebrews/9-22 "Hebrews 9:22 - Without Shedding of Blood There is No Forgiveness")
* [Romans 3:25](/romans/3-25 "Romans 3:25 - Christ as a Propitiation by His Blood")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The ancient ritual described in 2 Chronicles 29:22, though fulfilled in Christ, continues to offer profound insights into the nature of sin, the holiness of God, and the pathway to reconciliation. It vividly portrays the painstaking effort and repeated sacrifices required under the Old Covenant to deal with sin, impressing upon us the immense cost of atonement. For believers today, this passage serves as a stark reminder of the gravity of our own sin and deepens our appreciation for the singular, perfect, and eternally effective sacrifice of Jesus Christ. We are invited to reflect on the contrast between the multitude of animal sacrifices and the "once for all" offering of Christ, which provides complete and lasting forgiveness. This understanding should cultivate a spirit of profound gratitude, humility, and a renewed commitment to living lives that honor the immense price paid for our redemption, motivating us to pursue holiness and to walk in the freedom of Christ's finished work.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the repeated action of sprinkling blood in this verse deepen your understanding of the seriousness of sin and the cost of atonement?**
* **What does Hezekiah's diligent restoration of proper worship teach us about the importance of obedience and reverence in our own spiritual lives?**
* **How does understanding the Old Testament sacrificial system enhance your appreciation for the "once for all" sacrifice of Jesus Christ?**

### FAQ

**Why were so many animals sacrificed, and their blood sprinkled repeatedly?**

Answer: The multiple sacrifices (bullocks, rams, lambs) and the repeated sprinkling of their blood, as seen in [2 Chronicles 29:22](/2_chronicles/29-22 "2 Chronicles 29:22 - The Sprinkling of Blood"), were necessary under the Old Covenant for several reasons. Firstly, they represented a comprehensive atonement for the sins of the entire nation, covering various levels of transgression and categories of people. Secondly, the repetition underscored the temporary and provisional nature of these sacrifices; they had to be continually offered because they could not perfectly or permanently remove sin. Each sacrifice served as a covering for sin, but not a complete eradication of its root. This constant need for new offerings highlighted humanity's persistent sinfulness and the limitations of the animal sacrifices, pointing forward to a perfect, once-for-all sacrifice that would truly cleanse and atone.

**What was the significance of "sprinkling" the blood on the altar?**

Answer: The act of "sprinkling" the blood (Hebrew: _zaraq_) on the altar was a critical and highly symbolic ritual in the Old Covenant sacrificial system, as described in passages like [Leviticus 4](/leviticus/4 "Leviticus 4 - The Sin Offering"). The altar was the place of atonement, where the sacrifice met God. Sprinkling the blood signified the application of the life of the sacrificed animal to the place where God's holiness and human sin intersected. It was an act of purification, consecration, and expiation, symbolically cleansing the altar and, by extension, the people from defilement and sin, making reconciliation with God possible. The forceful nature of the sprinkling (as implied by _zaraq_) emphasized the thoroughness and efficacy of this life-for-life exchange.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The meticulous and repeated shedding and sprinkling of blood described in [2 Chronicles 29:22](/2_chronicles/29-22 "2 Chronicles 29:22 - The Sprinkling of Blood") finds its ultimate and perfect fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. While the bullocks, rams, and lambs offered by Hezekiah's priests provided temporary covering for sin, they were merely shadows pointing to the true "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")). Jesus' sacrifice on the cross was not of animal blood but of His own precious, sinless blood, which the New Testament declares is infinitely more effective. Unlike the Old Testament priests who had to offer sacrifices repeatedly, Christ, as our great High Priest, "entered once for all into the holy places, not by means of the blood of goats and calves but by means of his own blood, thus securing an eternal redemption" ([Hebrews 9:12](/hebrews/9-12 "Hebrews 9:12 - Christ's Eternal Redemption")). His blood, shed on Calvary, provides complete, eternal, and perfect atonement, cleansing us from all sin and reconciling us fully to God ([1 John 1:7](/1_john/1-7 "1 John 1:7 - Cleansing by the Blood of Jesus")). Therefore, the ancient ritual in 2 Chronicles 29:22 serves as a profound historical and theological backdrop, deepening our appreciation for the singular, sufficient, and glorious work of Christ, who, by His one sacrifice, has perfected for all time those who are being sanctified ([Hebrews 10:14](/hebrews/10-14 "Hebrews 10:14 - Christ's One Sacrifice")).

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 4:18

And he shall put [some] of the blood upon the horns of the altar which [is] before the LORD, that [is] in the tabernacle of the congregation, and shall pour out all the blood at the bottom of the altar of the burnt offering, which [is at] the door of the tabernacle of the congregation.

Leviticus 8:19

And he killed [it]; and Moses sprinkled the blood upon the altar round about.

Leviticus 8:24

And he brought Aaron's sons, and Moses put of the blood upon the tip of their right ear, and upon the thumbs of their right hands, and upon the great toes of their right feet: and Moses sprinkled the blood upon the altar round about.

Leviticus 1:5

And he shall kill the bullock before the LORD: and the priests, Aaron's sons, shall bring the blood, and sprinkle the blood round about upon the altar that [is by] the door of the tabernacle of the congregation.

Leviticus 4:7

And the priest shall put [some] of the blood upon the horns of the altar of sweet incense before the LORD, which [is] in the tabernacle of the congregation; and shall pour all the blood of the bullock at the bottom of the altar of the burnt offering, which [is at] the door of the tabernacle of the congregation.

Leviticus 8:14

¶ And he brought the bullock for the sin offering: and Aaron and his sons laid their hands upon the head of the bullock for the sin offering.

Leviticus 8:15

And he slew [it]; and Moses took the blood, and put [it] upon the horns of the altar round about with his finger, and purified the altar, and poured the blood at the bottom of the altar, and sanctified it, to make reconciliation upon it.