2 Chronicles 30:14

KJV

And they arose and took away the altars that [were] in Jerusalem, and all the altars for incense took they away, and cast [them] into the brook Kidron.

KJV (with Strong's)

And they arose {H6965} and took away {H5493} the altars {H4196} that were in Jerusalem {H3389}, and all the altars for incense {H6999} took they away {H5493}, and cast {H7993} them into the brook {H5158} Kidron {H6939}.

Complete Jewish Bible

First they set about removing the altars that were in Yerushalayim, and they also removed all the altars for incense and threw them in Vadi Kidron.

Berean Standard Bible

They proceeded to remove the altars in Jerusalem and to take away the incense altars and throw them into the Kidron Valley.

American Standard Version

And they arose and took away the altars that were in Jerusalem, and all the altars for incense took they away, and cast them into the brook Kidron.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Second Chronicles 30:14 captures a pivotal moment in King Hezekiah's sweeping religious reforms, depicting the zealous and collective action of the people of Jerusalem. With renewed spiritual fervor, they actively purged the city of all unauthorized altars, including those specifically used for incense, which represented a pervasive spiritual defilement. This comprehensive purification was an indispensable step for the nation to properly observe the Passover, symbolizing a profound communal commitment to eradicating idolatry and restoring exclusive, pure worship to the Lord, as these defiled objects were ritually cast into the symbolic dumping ground of the Kidron Valley.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically placed within the narrative of King Hezekiah's reign, specifically detailing the practical implementation of his extensive religious reforms and the subsequent spiritual revival in Judah. The preceding chapter, [2 Chronicles 29](/2_chronicles/29 "2 Chronicles 29 - Hezekiah Cleanses the Temple"), meticulously recounts the cleansing and reconsecration of the Temple, which had been desecrated under the reign of his wicked father, Ahaz. Following this, [2 Chronicles 30](/2_chronicles/30 "2 Chronicles 30 - Hezekiah Celebrates Passover") describes Hezekiah's bold and unprecedented initiative to invite all Israel and Judah to Jerusalem for a unified celebration of the Passover, an event that had not been observed collectively for centuries. The removal of the altars in [2 Chronicles 30:14](/2_chronicles/30-14 "2 Chronicles 30:14 - Purification of Jerusalem") is presented as an essential act of purification of the city itself, preparing both the people and the physical space for the sacred Passover observance. It demonstrates the thoroughness of the reform, extending beyond the Temple walls to the entire capital, ensuring that the nation could approach God in a manner consistent with His covenant demands.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Hezekiah ascended to the throne of Judah after the reign of his father Ahaz, who had actively promoted idolatry and syncretistic worship practices, even installing pagan altars within the Temple precincts and closing its doors (compare [2 Chronicles 28:24-25](/2_chronicles/28-24-25 "2 Chronicles 28:24-25 - Ahaz's Idolatry and Temple Desecration")). Jerusalem, as the capital and the designated center of Yahweh worship, had become deeply polluted with unauthorized altars, likely for foreign gods or for the worship of Yahweh in ways not prescribed by the Mosaic Law. The act of "taking away" these altars was a direct reversal of Ahaz's policies and a zealous return to the covenant stipulations of exclusive worship to Yahweh. The casting of these defiled objects into the brook Kidron was a profoundly significant cultural act. The Kidron Valley, located east of Jerusalem, served historically as a refuse dump and a place of ritual defilement, often associated with the disposal of idolatrous objects (see [1 Kings 15:13](/1_kings/15-13 "1 Kings 15:13 - Asa's Reforms and Idol Removal") and [2 Kings 23:6](/2_kings/23-6 "2 Kings 23:6 - Josiah's Cleansing of the Kidron Valley")). This act was not merely disposal but a symbolic declaration of utter rejection and spiritual purification, rendering the altars unusable and signifying the nation's decisive break from idolatry.

* **Key Themes:** The cleansing described in [2 Chronicles 30:14](/2_chronicles/30-14 "2 Chronicles 30:14 - Purification of Jerusalem") powerfully underscores several key themes central to the book of Chronicles and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, **Religious Purity and Reformation** is paramount; Hezekiah's reign exemplifies a zealous commitment to restoring pure worship, emphasizing adherence to God's prescribed ways as outlined in the [Mosaic Law](/exodus/20 "Exodus 20 - The Ten Commandments"). The removal of altars, whether for foreign gods or unauthorized Yahweh worship, was a direct confrontation with the pervasive **Idolatry and Syncretism** that had plagued both Judah and Israel, highlighting God's demand for exclusive devotion (compare [Exodus 20:3](/exodus/20-3 "Exodus 20:3 - The First Commandment")). Secondly, the phrase "they arose and took away" emphasizes the **Zeal for God and Active Obedience** demonstrated by the people. This was not merely a top-down decree but a communal, enthusiastic participation in the reform, signifying a genuine spiritual awakening and a renewed **Covenant Faithfulness**. This collective action was a vital step towards national **Spiritual Restoration and Revival**, demonstrating that true worship requires both internal commitment and the removal of external hindrances to God's glory.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Altars (Hebrew, _mizbêach'_):** The term _mizbêach_ (H4196) refers to a structure upon which sacrifices or offerings were made. In this context, the plural form "altars" refers not to the legitimate altar within the Temple, but rather to the numerous unauthorized altars scattered throughout Jerusalem. These could have been altars dedicated to foreign deities (e.g., Baal, Molech) or illicit altars for Yahweh worship outside of the central sanctuary in Jerusalem, which was forbidden by Mosaic Law (compare [Deuteronomy 12:5-6](/deuteronomy/12-5-6 "Deuteronomy 12:5-6 - The Chosen Place of Worship")). Their removal signifies a comprehensive purging of all forms of idolatry and improper worship.
* **Incense (Hebrew, _qâṭar'_):** The specific mention of "altars for incense" (H6999) is highly significant. While the burning of incense was a legitimate part of worship in the Temple (on the golden altar of incense), it was also frequently used in pagan rituals and idolatrous worship (compare [Jeremiah 1:16](/jeremiah/1-16 "Jeremiah 1:16 - Idolatry and Incense")). The removal of these particular altars indicates a meticulous cleansing, targeting even those elements that might appear innocuous but were associated with defiled or unauthorized worship practices. It highlights the pervasive nature of the spiritual corruption that needed to be eradicated.
* **Kidron (Hebrew, _Qidrôwn'_):** The Kidron Valley (H6939), often referred to as the brook Kidron, is a valley east of Jerusalem, separating the city from the Mount of Olives. Historically, it served as a dumping ground for refuse and defiled objects. Its name possibly derives from a root meaning "dark" or "dusky," reflecting its role as a place of defilement. Casting the altars into the Kidron was not merely disposal but a symbolic act of utter defilement, rejection, and rendering them unusable for any future illicit worship. It underscored the impurity associated with these altars and the worship conducted on them, physically manifesting the spiritual cleansing of the land.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And they arose and took away the altars that [were] in Jerusalem":** This opening phrase emphasizes the active, unified, and decisive response of the people. "They arose" suggests immediate action and zeal, reflecting a communal commitment to Hezekiah's reform. The target, "the altars that were in Jerusalem," indicates a widespread cleansing throughout the capital city, not just within the Temple precincts, demonstrating the comprehensive nature of the purification effort.
* **"and all the altars for incense took they away":** This clause highlights a specific category of altars, those used for incense. The repetition of "took they away" reinforces the thoroughness of the removal. The particular mention of incense altars suggests a deliberate targeting of practices that, while sometimes legitimate in the Temple, were often perverted for idolatry or unauthorized worship outside the Temple, indicating a meticulous effort to eradicate all forms of spiritual compromise.
* **"and cast [them] into the brook Kidron":** This final action signifies the ultimate defilement and rejection of these altars. The brook Kidron, known as a place for disposing of unclean and idolatrous items, served as a symbolic grave for these objects. This act was a public declaration that these altars, and the worship associated with them, were anathema to God and had no place in the purified city or the lives of His people. It was a physical manifestation of spiritual purging and a commitment to exclusive worship of Yahweh.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several potent literary devices to convey its message with impactful clarity. **Action/Movement** is prominently featured, with dynamic verbs and phrases like "arose and took away" and "cast them," which vividly portray the people's zealous, decisive, and collective participation in the reform. This active language underscores the urgency and profound commitment of the cleansing process. **Repetition** is also skillfully utilized for emphasis, as the phrase "took they away" is repeated, highlighting the thoroughness and completeness of the removal of *all* altars, reinforcing the comprehensive nature of the purification. Furthermore, **Symbolism** is central to the verse's profound meaning. The "altars" themselves powerfully symbolize the pervasive idolatry and spiritual defilement that had gripped Jerusalem, representing a direct affront to God's holiness. Conversely, the "brook Kidron" serves as a potent symbol of utter rejection, defilement, and the complete eradication of these unholy practices from the land. The act of casting the altars into the Kidron is a symbolic ritual of purification, transforming a physical act into a profound spiritual statement of breaking with the past and embracing purity.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The cleansing of Jerusalem's altars in [2 Chronicles 30:14](/2_chronicles/30-14 "2 Chronicles 30:14 - Purification of Jerusalem") is a profound theological statement about God's unwavering demand for exclusive worship and the absolute necessity of purity in approaching Him. It underscores the biblical principle that true communion with a holy God requires the radical removal of anything that competes for His rightful place in our lives and communities. The physical act of purging the altars reflects a spiritual truth: idolatry, in any form, defiles both the worshiper and the worship itself, thereby hindering genuine relationship with a holy God. This event serves as a powerful reminder that God's covenant people are called to be distinct, set apart from the practices of the surrounding nations, and wholly devoted to Him alone. The people's zealous participation demonstrates that national revival often stems from a collective commitment to repentance and obedient adherence to divine law, leading to a restoration of God's blessing and presence.

* [Deuteronomy 12:2-4](/deuteronomy/12-2-4 "Deuteronomy 12:2-4 - Destroying Idolatrous Places")
* [Isaiah 1:16-17](/isaiah/1-16-17 "Isaiah 1:16-17 - Wash Yourselves and Make Yourselves Clean")
* [1 Corinthians 10:14](/1_corinthians/10-14 "1 Corinthians 10:14 - Flee from Idolatry")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The zealous actions of the people of Jerusalem in [2 Chronicles 30:14](/2_chronicles/30-14 "2 Chronicles 30:14 - Purification of Jerusalem") offer a timeless and profound lesson for believers today. Just as King Hezekiah led a physical cleansing of the city, we are called to engage in a continuous, active purification of our own lives and hearts from anything that competes with God's rightful supremacy. This involves a diligent self-examination to identify the "altars" we might have unwittingly erected – whether they are material possessions, career ambitions, unhealthy relationships, self-reliance, the pursuit of comfort, or even subtle forms of spiritual pride and self-righteousness. True spiritual cleansing is not passive; it requires intentional, decisive action to "take away" and "cast out" these competing loyalties, ensuring that our worship and devotion are undivided and pure. This passage reminds us that genuine worship must be offered in spirit and truth, free from the defilement of modern-day idols, and that a collective commitment to purity within the community of faith can lead to profound spiritual revival and a deeper, more authentic experience of God's transforming presence.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "altars" or competing loyalties exist in my life that need to be "taken away" and cast out, so that God alone receives my full devotion?**
* **How does my commitment to purity in worship, both individually and communally, reflect my true devotion to God?**
* **In what ways can I actively participate in the spiritual cleansing and revival of my community or church, as the people of Jerusalem did under Hezekiah?**

### FAQ

**Why were "incense altars" specifically mentioned in addition to general altars?**

Answer: The specific mention of "altars for incense" highlights the thoroughness of the cleansing and the particular danger these altars represented. While incense was a legitimate part of worship on the golden altar in the Temple (compare [Exodus 30:1-10](/exodus/30-1-10 "Exodus 30:1-10 - The Altar of Incense")), it was also widely used in pagan rituals and unauthorized worship throughout the land. The presence of incense altars outside the Temple indicated either syncretistic practices (mixing Yahweh worship with pagan rites) or unauthorized worship of Yahweh in places not designated by God, both of which were an abomination. By specifically targeting these, Hezekiah's reform ensured that even seemingly minor deviations from God's prescribed worship were eradicated, emphasizing the importance of worshipping God in the way He commanded, free from any defiling influences.

**What was the significance of casting the altars into the brook Kidron?**

Answer: Casting the altars into the brook Kidron was a highly symbolic act of utter defilement and rejection, going beyond mere disposal. The Kidron Valley, located just east of Jerusalem, was historically a place associated with uncleanness and the disposal of refuse, including idolatrous objects and the ashes of burnt sacrifices (compare [2 Kings 23:6](/2_kings/23-6 "2 Kings 23:6 - Josiah's Reforms and the Kidron Valley")). By throwing the altars into this valley, the people were publicly declaring them to be utterly detestable, ritually unclean, and permanently unusable for any future illicit worship. This act underscored the complete break from idolatry and served as a powerful visual testament to Jerusalem's purification and the nation's renewed commitment to exclusive worship of Yahweh. It was a tangible expression of spiritual cleansing and a rejection of the spiritual pollution that had permeated the land.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The physical cleansing of Jerusalem from idolatrous altars under King Hezekiah profoundly foreshadows the ultimate spiritual cleansing accomplished by Jesus Christ. Hezekiah's reform, though zealous and necessary, was external and temporary, a shadow of the perfect and eternal purification to come. In the New Covenant, Jesus Himself becomes the true Temple, and His sacrifice on the cross is the ultimate act of purification, cleansing not just a city, but the hearts and consciences of all who believe (as affirmed in [Hebrews 9:14](/hebrews/9-14 "Hebrews 9:14 - Cleansing by Christ's Blood")). The "altars" that needed to be removed in Jerusalem represent the idols of our hearts—anything that competes with God for our ultimate allegiance. Christ's redemptive work enables believers to "put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry" (as exhorted in [Colossians 3:5](/colossians/3-5 "Colossians 3:5 - Put to Death Earthly Things")). Through His atoning blood, we are made new creations, freed from the power of sin and idolatry (as declared in [2 Corinthians 5:17](/2_corinthians/5-17 "2 Corinthians 5:17 - New Creation in Christ")), empowered by the Holy Spirit to live lives of true worship, where our bodies become temples of the living God, purified and set apart for His glory (as taught in [1 Corinthians 6:19-20](/1_corinthians/6-19-20 "1 Corinthians 6:19-20 - Your Body is a Temple")).

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

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.

2 Chronicles 29:16

And the priests went into the inner part of the house of the LORD, to cleanse [it], and brought out all the uncleanness that they found in the temple of the LORD into the court of the house of the LORD. And the Levites took [it], to carry [it] out abroad into the brook Kidron.

2 Chronicles 15:16

And also [concerning] Maachah the mother of Asa the king, he removed her from [being] queen, because she had made an idol in a grove: and Asa cut down her idol, and stamped [it], and burnt [it] at the brook Kidron.

2 Samuel 15:23

And all the country wept with a loud voice, and all the people passed over: the king also himself passed over the brook Kidron, and all the people passed over, toward the way of the wilderness.

2 Chronicles 34:7

And when he had broken down the altars and the groves, and had beaten the graven images into powder, and cut down all the idols throughout all the land of Israel, he returned to Jerusalem.

2 Kings 23:12

And the altars that [were] on the top of the upper chamber of Ahaz, which the kings of Judah had made, and the altars which Manasseh had made in the two courts of the house of the LORD, did the king beat down, and brake [them] down from thence, and cast the dust of them into the brook Kidron.

2 Kings 23:13

And the high places that [were] before Jerusalem, which [were] on the right hand of the mount of corruption, which Solomon the king of Israel had builded for Ashtoreth the abomination of the Zidonians, and for Chemosh the abomination of the Moabites, and for Milcom the abomination of the children of Ammon, did the king defile.