2 Chronicles 29:35

KJV

And also the burnt offerings [were] in abundance, with the fat of the peace offerings, and the drink offerings for [every] burnt offering. So the service of the house of the LORD was set in order.

KJV (with Strong's)

And also the burnt offerings {H5930} were in abundance {H7230}, with the fat {H2459} of the peace offerings {H8002}, and the drink offerings {H5262} for every burnt offering {H5930}. So the service {H5656} of the house {H1004} of the LORD {H3068} was set in order {H3559}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Besides the abundance of burnt offerings, there was the fat of the peace offerings and drink offerings for each burnt offering. Thus the service of the house of ADONAI was restored.

Berean Standard Bible

Furthermore, the burnt offerings were abundant, along with the fat of the peace offerings and the drink offerings for the burnt offerings. So the service of the house of the LORD was established.

American Standard Version

And also the burnt-offerings were in abundance, with the fat of the peace-offerings, and with the drink-offerings for every burnt-offering. So the service of the house of Jehovah was set in order.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Second Chronicles 29:35 encapsulates the triumphant culmination of King Hezekiah's initial efforts to restore pure worship in the Jerusalem Temple. Following a period of profound apostasy and neglect under his father, Ahaz, Hezekiah spearheaded a national spiritual revival. This verse vividly portrays the sheer scale and meticulous order of the sacrificial offerings—burnt offerings, peace offerings, and drink offerings—signifying a complete and joyous return to covenant faithfulness and the re-establishment of acceptable worship before the Lord.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse concludes the detailed account of the temple's purification and the re-inauguration of priestly and Levitical service in 2 Chronicles 29. The preceding verses (29:20-34) describe Hezekiah's command for the priests and Levites to consecrate themselves, the cleansing of the temple, and the subsequent offering of specific sacrifices for sin and atonement, including seven bulls, seven rams, seven lambs, and seven male goats. The people's enthusiastic response and the Levites' greater diligence in consecrating themselves than the priests are also highlighted. Verse 35, therefore, serves as a summary statement, emphasizing the abundance and order of the offerings that followed the initial purification and the people's joyful participation, setting the stage for the celebration of the Passover in the next chapter.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** King Hezekiah ascended the throne of Judah in approximately 715 BC, inheriting a kingdom deeply steeped in idolatry and spiritual decay due to the policies of his father, King Ahaz. Ahaz had not only closed the doors of the Lord's house but had also erected altars to foreign gods throughout Jerusalem and Judah, even sacrificing his own son in the fire ([2 Chronicles 28:2-4](/2_chronicles/28-2 "2 Chronicles 28:2-4 - Ahaz's Idolatry")). Hezekiah's immediate action upon becoming king was to reopen and purify the Temple ([2 Chronicles 29:3](/2_chronicles/29-3 "2 Chronicles 29:3 - Hezekiah Reopens the Temple")), demonstrating a radical commitment to reversing the spiritual decline. The offerings mentioned—burnt offerings (עֹלָה, *‘olah*), peace offerings (שְׁלָמִים, *shelem*), and drink offerings (נֶסֶךְ, *nesek*)—were central to Israelite worship, each carrying distinct theological significance related to atonement, fellowship, and devotion. Their abundance here underscores the depth of national repentance and the people's desire to fully restore their covenant relationship with God.

* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within 2 Chronicles and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it highlights the theme of **Restoration of Proper Worship**, emphasizing that true revival involves a return to God's prescribed ways of honoring Him, not merely abandoning sin. The "abundance" and "order" signify a worship that is both heartfelt and obedient. Secondly, the sheer volume of offerings speaks to **Generosity and Wholehearted Devotion**, illustrating that genuine repentance is often accompanied by a lavish outpouring of gratitude and commitment, going beyond mere obligation. Thirdly, the combination of different offerings underscores the **Completeness of Atonement and Fellowship**; the burnt offerings covered sin and expressed total dedication, while the peace offerings symbolized restored communion and thanksgiving, demonstrating a holistic approach to reconciliation with God. Finally, the concluding phrase, "So the service of the house of the LORD was set in order," reinforces the theme of **Divine Order and Approval**, indicating that the worship was now acceptable to God, reflecting the principle that God desires worship that is both passionate and orderly ([1 Corinthians 14:40](/1_corinthians/14-40 "1 Corinthians 14:40 - Order in Worship")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Abundance (Hebrew, _marbeh'_):** This term signifies a great quantity or multitude. In the context of offerings, it denotes not just sufficiency but an overflowing, lavish outpouring of sacrifices. This "abundance" reflects the depth of the people's repentance, their renewed zeal, and their profound joy in returning to God. It contrasts sharply with the spiritual scarcity and neglect that characterized Ahaz's reign, emphasizing a generous and unreserved devotion.
* **Fat (Hebrew, _chelev'_):** The fat of the peace offerings refers to the choicest and richest parts of the animal, specifically designated for God in many sacrificial laws (e.g., [Leviticus 3:16](/leviticus/3-16 "Leviticus 3:16 - Fat for the Lord")). Offering the fat symbolized giving the very best to the Lord, acknowledging His supreme worth and sovereignty. It was considered the Lord's portion, indicating the sacredness and preciousness of the offering, and by extension, the sincere devotion of the worshipper.
* **Set in order (Hebrew, _kun'_):** This verb, often translated as "established," "prepared," or "made ready," conveys a sense of stability, proper arrangement, and divine approval. It implies that the chaotic and idolatrous state of worship under Ahaz had been completely rectified. The service was not merely resumed but was properly constituted and functioning according to God's precise instructions, signifying a return to divine standards and a state of acceptability before God.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And also the burnt offerings [were] in abundance,"**: This clause highlights the sheer volume and generosity of the `burnt offerings` (עֹלָה, *‘olah*), which were entirely consumed on the altar, symbolizing complete dedication to God and atonement for sin. The "abundance" signifies a national outpouring of repentance and devotion, far exceeding a mere token gesture. It speaks to the people's fervent desire to make things right with God after a period of profound spiritual neglect.
* **"with the fat of the peace offerings,"**: This phrase specifies another type of offering, the `peace offerings` (שְׁלָמִים, *shelem*), which were associated with fellowship, thanksgiving, and vows. The emphasis on "the fat" indicates that the most valuable and sacred portion of these offerings was given to the Lord, underscoring the sincerity and quality of the people's worship. Peace offerings often involved a communal meal, symbolizing renewed communion between God, the priests, and the worshippers.
* **"and the drink offerings for [every] burnt offering."**: `Drink offerings` (נֶסֶךְ, *nesek*), typically of wine, were often poured out as an accompaniment to other sacrifices, symbolizing praise, devotion, and the sealing of a covenant. Their inclusion "for every burnt offering" emphasizes the completeness and meticulousness of the restored worship. It shows that no detail was overlooked, and every aspect of the prescribed ritual was faithfully observed.
* **"So the service of the house of the LORD was set in order."**: This concluding statement serves as a powerful summary and declaration of success. The phrase "set in order" (כּוּן, *kun*) denotes that the entire system of worship in the Temple was not merely resumed but was properly established, functioning according to divine standards, and restored to its intended purpose. This signifies divine approval and the successful completion of Hezekiah's reform efforts, bringing spiritual stability and right relationship back to the nation.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several significant literary devices to convey its powerful message. The most prominent is **Hyperbole** or **Exaggeration**, seen in the phrase "burnt offerings were in abundance." While likely a large number, "abundance" emphasizes the overwhelming quantity and the people's zealous, overflowing generosity, contrasting with the previous spiritual famine. This creates a sense of awe and magnitude around the restoration. **Symbolism** is also central, as each type of offering—burnt, peace, and drink—carries deep theological meaning: burnt offerings symbolize total dedication and atonement; peace offerings represent fellowship and thanksgiving; and drink offerings signify devotion and praise. Together, they symbolize a holistic and complete reconciliation with God. Finally, the concluding statement, "So the service of the house of the LORD was set in order," functions as a **Summary Statement** that provides a definitive resolution to the preceding narrative of purification and re-inauguration, affirming the success and divine approval of Hezekiah's reforms.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse powerfully articulates the essence of true spiritual restoration: it is not merely the cessation of sin but the active, abundant, and orderly re-engagement with God in worship according to His revealed will. The "abundance" of offerings speaks to a heart of generosity and wholehearted devotion, demonstrating that genuine repentance leads to lavish gratitude and commitment. The meticulous "setting in order" of the service underscores God's desire for worship that is not only passionate but also reverent, obedient, and aligned with His divine standards. This restoration of proper worship was foundational to the renewal of the covenant relationship between God and His people, demonstrating that when His people turn back to Him in sincerity and obedience, He responds with His presence and blessing.

* [Leviticus 1:3-9](/leviticus/1-3 "Leviticus 1:3-9 - The Law of Burnt Offerings")
* [Psalm 51:17](/psalm/51-17 "Psalm 51:17 - The Sacrifice God Desires")
* [Malachi 3:3-4](/malachi/3-3 "Malachi 3:3-4 - Purification of the Priests and Acceptable Offerings")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The account in 2 Chronicles 29:35 serves as a profound blueprint for spiritual renewal, both individually and corporately. Just as King Hezekiah meticulously restored the physical temple and its services, we are called to examine the "temples" of our own lives and our churches, ensuring they are consecrated and dedicated to God. The "abundance" of offerings challenges us to move beyond mere obligation in our worship and service, inspiring us to give generously and joyfully out of a heart overflowing with gratitude for God's grace. This means offering our time, talents, resources, and indeed our very selves as living sacrifices ([Romans 12:1](/romans/12-1 "Romans 12:1 - Living Sacrifices")), marked by sincerity, intentionality, and a desire to honor God fully. The emphasis on the service being "set in order" reminds us that while passion is vital, worship must also be reverent, thoughtful, and aligned with biblical truth, fostering an environment where God is truly glorified and His presence can be experienced. Our aim should be to conduct our spiritual lives and corporate gatherings in a way that is acceptable and pleasing to the Lord, reflecting His holiness and order.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life or our church's ministry has "service to the Lord" become disordered or neglected, and what steps can be taken to "set it in order"?**
* **How does the "abundance" of offerings in this verse challenge my own generosity and the depth of my devotion in worship, prayer, and service?**
* **What does it mean for me to offer the "fat"—the best and choicest parts—of my life to God, rather than what is left over?**
* **How can I cultivate a more holistic approach to worship that encompasses atonement, fellowship, and praise, similar to the combined offerings in this passage?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of the different types of offerings mentioned in 2 Chronicles 29:35?**

Answer: The verse mentions three primary types of offerings, each with distinct theological significance crucial to Israelite worship. The `burnt offerings` (עֹלָה, *‘olah*) symbolized complete dedication to God and provided atonement for sin, as the entire animal was consumed on the altar. The `peace offerings` (שְׁלָמִים, *shelem*) were associated with fellowship, thanksgiving, and the fulfillment of vows. They often involved a communal meal, symbolizing restored communion and peace between God and the worshipper ([Leviticus 7:11-21](/leviticus/7-11 "Leviticus 7:11-21 - Law of Peace Offerings")). The `drink offerings` (נֶסֶךְ, *nesek*), typically of wine, were poured out as an accompaniment to other sacrifices, representing praise, devotion, and the sealing of a covenant. Together, these offerings provided a comprehensive framework for reconciliation, communion, and adoration, demonstrating a holistic approach to worship and a full restoration of the covenant relationship with God.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While 2 Chronicles 29:35 describes the restoration of the Old Covenant sacrificial system, its ultimate fulfillment and deeper meaning are found in Jesus Christ. The "abundance" of burnt offerings, aimed at atonement and complete dedication, foreshadows the singular, perfect, and all-sufficient sacrifice of Jesus on the cross. He is the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), whose one offering provides eternal redemption, making any further animal sacrifices obsolete ([Hebrews 10:10-14](/hebrews/10-10 "Hebrews 10:10-14 - Christ's Perfect Sacrifice")). The "fat of the peace offerings," symbolizing the best given to God and leading to fellowship, points to Christ as our ultimate peace offering, by whom we have [peace with God through faith](/romans/5-1 "Romans 5:1 - Peace with God Through Christ"). His sacrifice not only atones for sin but also restores broken communion, allowing believers to enter into intimate fellowship with the Father. Finally, the "service of the house of the LORD set in order" finds its ultimate expression in Christ, who is the true Temple ([John 2:19-21](/john/2-19 "John 2:19-21 - Jesus the Temple")), through whom God's presence dwells among His people in a new and living way. Believers, indwelt by the Holy Spirit, become [living temples](/1_corinthians/6-19 "1 Corinthians 6:19 - Our Bodies as Temples"), called to offer spiritual sacrifices of praise and good deeds ([Hebrews 13:15-16](/hebrews/13-15 "Hebrews 13:15-16 - Sacrifices Pleasing to God")) in an orderly and Spirit-led manner, fulfilling the spirit of the Old Testament's call to ordered and abundant worship.

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 29:13

And thou shalt take all the fat that covereth the inwards, and the caul [that is] above the liver, and the two kidneys, and the fat that [is] upon them, and burn [them] upon the altar.

Numbers 15:5

And the fourth [part] of an hin of wine for a drink offering shalt thou prepare with the burnt offering or sacrifice, for one lamb.

Numbers 15:10

And thou shalt bring for a drink offering half an hin of wine, [for] an offering made by fire, of a sweet savour unto the LORD.

Genesis 35:14

And Jacob set up a pillar in the place where he talked with him, [even] a pillar of stone: and he poured a drink offering thereon, and he poured oil thereon.

Leviticus 3:15

And the two kidneys, and the fat that [is] upon them, which [is] by the flanks, and the caul above the liver, with the kidneys, it shall he take away.

Leviticus 3:16

And the priest shall burn them upon the altar: [it is] the food of the offering made by fire for a sweet savour: all the fat [is] the LORD'S.

Leviticus 23:13

And the meat offering thereof [shall be] two tenth deals of fine flour mingled with oil, an offering made by fire unto the LORD [for] a sweet savour: and the drink offering thereof [shall be] of wine, the fourth [part] of an hin.