2 Chronicles 30:21

KJV

¶ And the children of Israel that were present at Jerusalem kept the feast of unleavened bread seven days with great gladness: and the Levites and the priests praised the LORD day by day, [singing] with loud instruments unto the LORD.

KJV (with Strong's)

And the children {H1121} of Israel {H3478} that were present {H4672} at Jerusalem {H3389} kept {H6213} the feast {H2282} of unleavened bread {H4682} seven {H7651} days {H3117} with great {H1419} gladness {H8057}: and the Levites {H3881} and the priests {H3548} praised {H1984} the LORD {H3068} day {H3117} by day {H3117}, singing with loud {H5797} instruments {H3627} unto the LORD {H3068}.

Complete Jewish Bible

The people of Isra'el there in Yerushalayim observed the festival of Matzot for seven days with great joy; while every day the L'vi'im and cohanim praised ADONAI, singing to ADONAI with the accompaniment of loud instruments.

Berean Standard Bible

The Israelites who were present in Jerusalem celebrated the Feast of Unleavened Bread for seven days with great joy, and the Levites and priests praised the LORD day after day, accompanied by loud instruments of praise to the LORD.

American Standard Version

And the children of Israel that were present at Jerusalem kept the feast of unleavened bread seven days with great gladness; and the Levites and the priests praised Jehovah day by day, singing with loud instruments unto Jehovah.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
2 Chronicles 30:21 presents a powerful tableau of spiritual renewal and national unity during King Hezekiah's reign, capturing the fervent observance of the Feast of Unleavened Bread in Jerusalem. It vividly depicts the children of Israel, alongside the Levites and priests, engaged in seven days of profound joy and continuous, vibrant praise to the LORD, utilizing loud instruments to express their deep gladness. This passage serves as a testament to a remarkable spiritual revival and a renewed commitment to God's covenant worship.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is deeply embedded within the narrative of King Hezekiah's extensive religious reforms, which commenced with the purification and consecration of the temple in [2 Chronicles 29](/2_chronicles/29 "2 Chronicles 29 - Hezekiah's Temple Cleansing"). Following generations of neglect and idolatry under previous kings, particularly his father Ahaz, Hezekiah initiated a radical return to Yahweh worship. The immediate context of [2 Chronicles 30](/2_chronicles/30 "2 Chronicles 30 - Hezekiah's Passover Celebration") details Hezekiah's unprecedented invitation to all Israel, including the remnants of the northern kingdom, to celebrate the Passover and the subsequent Feast of Unleavened Bread in Jerusalem. This was an extraordinary event, as such a unified and comprehensive Passover had not been observed for centuries. The preceding verses describe the initial, somewhat irregular, Passover celebration, and the overwhelming joy that led the assembly to unanimously decide to extend the Feast of Unleavened Bread for an additional seven days, effectively making it a fourteen-day festival of rejoicing, as noted in [2 Chronicles 30:23](/2_chronicles/30-23 "2 Chronicles 30:23 - The Extended Feast"). Verse 21 specifically focuses on the first seven days of this extended, jubilant observance.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** King Hezekiah ruled Judah from approximately 715 to 686 BC, a tumultuous era marked by the encroaching threat of the Assyrian Empire and profound spiritual decline within Judah. His father, Ahaz, had actively promoted idolatry, even closing the temple doors. Hezekiah's reforms were a direct and courageous reversal of this apostasy, demonstrating a resolute commitment to restoring the worship of Yahweh. The Feast of Unleavened Bread, immediately following the Passover, was one of the three annual pilgrimage festivals commanded by the Mosaic Law, as stipulated in [Exodus 23:15](/exodus/23-15 "Exodus 23:15 - Command for the Feast of Unleavened Bread"). Its observance symbolized purification from sin and a renewed dedication to God's covenant, where all leaven (symbolizing sin and corruption) was removed from homes. The inclusion of "the children of Israel" from the northern kingdom, which had largely abandoned Yahweh worship and was on the brink of Assyrian conquest, was culturally and politically audacious, signifying a rare moment of spiritual unity across the long-divided kingdoms. The Levites and priests, as the divinely appointed ministers of the temple, were central to all aspects of worship, including sacrifices, teaching, and leading musical praise, making their active and continuous participation vital to the re-establishment of proper religious practice.
* **Key Themes:** This verse and its broader narrative illuminate several profound theological and narrative themes. Foremost is **Revival and Restoration**, as Hezekiah's reign signals a dramatic turning point from national apostasy to renewed covenant faithfulness, with the feast serving as a tangible manifestation of this spiritual awakening. Secondly, **Joyful Obedience** shines brightly, emphasized by the phrase "with great gladness." This highlights that sincere obedience to God's commands, especially when accompanied by genuine repentance and restored fellowship, is not a burden but a profound source of delight, echoing sentiments found in [Psalm 100:2](/psalms/100-2 "Psalm 100:2 - Serve the LORD with Gladness"). Thirdly, the passage underscores the **Importance of Corporate Worship**, as the entire community, under the leadership of the Levites and priests, unites in sustained and vibrant praise. This collective, uninhibited worship signifies the successful re-establishment of the temple as the spiritual heart of the nation. Finally, an implicit theme of **Divine Forgiveness and Presence** pervades the account; the "great gladness" is a direct result of experiencing God's mercy and His manifest presence among His people, who have returned to Him, reminiscent of the overflowing joy described in [Nehemiah 8:17](/nehemiah/8-17 "Nehemiah 8:17 - Great Joy at the Feast of Booths").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Gladness (Hebrew, _simchâh'_):** From H8057 (simchâh), this term denotes blithesomeness or glee, often specifically associated with religious or festival joy. It signifies a deep, inner rejoicing, a profound and exuberant delight that stems from the experience of God's presence, His blessings, and obedience to His commands. In this context, it indicates that the worship was not a mere ritualistic duty but a heartfelt, Spirit-infused response to God's grace and the restoration of their relationship with Him.
* **Praised (Hebrew, _hâlal'_):** From H1984 (hâlal), this primitive root means to be clear (originally of sound, but usually of color), to shine, and hence, to make a show or to boast. In the context of praising God, it implies a public, enthusiastic, and often clamorous declaration of His worth, glory, and mighty acts. It suggests an uninhibited, outward expression of adoration, contrasting sharply with any previous apathy or neglect of worship. This verb is famously the root of "Hallelujah" (Praise Yah!).
* **Instruments (Hebrew, _kᵉlîy'_):** From H3627 (kᵉlîy), this word refers to something prepared, any apparatus such as an implement, utensil, or vessel. In this context, it specifically refers to musical instruments designated for temple worship. While the KJV adds "loud," the Hebrew word H5797 ('ôz) from which "loud" is derived, means "strength" or "might," suggesting the instruments were played with force and vigor, producing a powerful and audible sound that would fill the temple courts and accompany the singing of praises. Their use underscores the vibrant, public, and uninhibited nature of the worship during this revival.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And the children of Israel that were present at Jerusalem":** This opening phrase emphasizes the widespread participation in the feast. "Children of Israel" here encompasses not only the people of Judah but notably also those from the northern kingdom who responded to Hezekiah's invitation. This signifies a rare and profoundly significant moment of national unity, transcending political division, and reflecting a collective longing for spiritual restoration across all twelve tribes.
* **"kept the feast of unleavened bread seven days":** This clause highlights their faithful adherence to the Mosaic Law regarding the duration of the feast, as prescribed in [Exodus 12:15](/exodus/12-15 "Exodus 12:15 - Command for Unleavened Bread"). The fact that they observed it for the full prescribed period (and subsequently extended it, as noted in [2 Chronicles 30:23](/2_chronicles/30-23 "2 Chronicles 30:23 - Decision to Extend the Feast")) demonstrates their deep commitment to fulfilling God's commands and their earnest engagement with the spiritual significance of the feast.
* **"with great gladness":** This is a pivotal descriptor of the emotional and spiritual state of the participants. Their obedience was not grudging or perfunctory but filled with profound, overflowing joy. This "gladness" stemmed directly from their experience of God's forgiveness, the purification of the temple, and the restoration of proper worship, indicating a genuine and widespread spiritual revival within the populace.
* **"and the Levites and the priests praised the LORD day by day":** This clause underscores the consistent, organized, and dedicated nature of the worship. The Levites and priests, as the divinely appointed ministers of the temple, led the people in continuous praise throughout the entire seven-day period. The phrase "day by day" emphasizes the sustained and unwavering devotion, signifying that this was not merely a one-time event but an ongoing, daily expression of worship and commitment.
* **"[singing] with loud instruments unto the LORD":** This describes the specific, vibrant manner of their praise. The bracketed "singing" is an accurate contextual inference, as musical instruments were primarily used to accompany vocal praise. The "loud instruments" (referring to instruments played with "strength" or "might") signify the enthusiastic, public, and uninhibited nature of their worship, designed to make a powerful declaration of God's glory and fill the atmosphere with adoration.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several literary devices to convey the profound nature and emotional intensity of this spiritual event. The use of **Hyperbole** is evident in the phrase "great gladness," which emphasizes the overwhelming and extraordinary joy experienced by the participants, suggesting a level of emotional intensity far beyond the ordinary. This is further amplified by the description of "loud instruments," painting a vivid auditory picture of uninhibited and powerful praise that would have filled the temple courts. **Repetition** is subtly utilized through the temporal markers "seven days" and "day by day," which underscore the sustained, continuous, and unwavering nature of the worship, highlighting the deep commitment and endurance of the people, Levites, and priests in their devotion. Furthermore, there is an implicit **Contrast** between the vibrant, joyful, and unified worship described here and the preceding decades of spiritual apathy, widespread idolatry, and neglect of the temple under previous kings, particularly Ahaz. This contrast powerfully highlights the dramatic transformation and profound spiritual revival that Hezekiah's reforms brought about. Finally, the entire observance of the Feast of Unleavened Bread functions as rich **Symbolism**, representing purification from sin, new beginnings, and a renewed covenant relationship with God, as the people ritually cleansed themselves of "leaven" (symbolizing sin and corruption) and committed to a life of holiness and devotion.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse powerfully illustrates the theological truth that genuine worship is characterized by joy and wholeheartedness. The "great gladness" of the people is not merely an emotional byproduct but a spiritual fruit of repentance, divine forgiveness, and restored fellowship with God. It demonstrates that when God's people sincerely turn back to Him, His manifest presence brings an overflowing joy that transforms obedience from a burdensome duty into a profound delight. The sustained, "day by day" praise led by the Levites and priests signifies the importance of continuous devotion and the re-establishment of proper, organized worship as central to the life of God's covenant community. This remarkable revival serves as a testament to God's enduring faithfulness in drawing His people back to Himself and His deep desire for their sincere, joyful adoration.

* [Exodus 12:15](/exodus/12-15 "Command for the Feast of Unleavened Bread")
* [Nehemiah 8:17](/nehemiah/8-17 "Great Joy at the Feast of Booths")
* [Psalm 100:2](/psalms/100-2 "Serve the LORD with Gladness")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
2 Chronicles 30:21 offers profound and enduring lessons for believers today, challenging us to deeply examine the posture of our own hearts in worship and obedience. We are called to consider: Is our service to God marked by "great gladness," or does it sometimes feel like a reluctant duty? The passage powerfully reminds us that genuine spiritual revival, whether experienced personally or corporately within a community, is almost invariably accompanied by an outpouring of joy as we encounter God's forgiveness, grace, and manifest presence. The "day by day" praise of the Levites and priests underscores the critical importance of consistent, sustained devotion, teaching us that worship is not confined to isolated moments or weekly gatherings. Rather, our daily lives, in their entirety, should be characterized by an ongoing attitude of gratitude and praise. Furthermore, the unity of "the children of Israel" from various tribes coming together in sincere worship highlights the profound power and beauty of the body of Christ uniting in adoration, transcending any divisions for the singular purpose of glorifying God. This historical account serves as a timeless and powerful reminder that spiritual restoration is always possible when hearts genuinely turn back to God with sincere repentance and joyful obedience.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what specific areas of your life or spiritual disciplines do you currently experience "great gladness" in your obedience to God, and where might it feel more like a burden or obligation?**
* **How can you intentionally cultivate a more consistent "day by day" attitude of praise and gratitude in your daily routine, extending beyond formal worship times?**
* **What does the description of "loud instruments" and enthusiastic praise in this verse teach us about the acceptable and authentic expression of worship today?**
* **How does the unity of the "children of Israel" for worship challenge us to actively seek and foster greater unity within the body of Christ today?**

### FAQ
**Why was this celebration so significant in Israel's history?**

Answer: This celebration was profoundly significant for multiple reasons. Firstly, it marked a national observance of the Passover and Feast of Unleavened Bread, an event that had not occurred in such a comprehensive and unified manner for centuries, certainly not since the division of the kingdom. Secondly, it represented a dramatic spiritual turning point under King Hezekiah, reversing decades of deep idolatry and neglect under his father, Ahaz, and signaling a widespread return to covenant faithfulness. Thirdly, the unprecedented invitation and subsequent participation of "the children of Israel" from the northern kingdom (Israel), which was largely apostate and facing imminent Assyrian conquest, symbolized a rare moment of spiritual unity and a deep longing for God's presence across the long-divided nation. The "great gladness" reported in [2 Chronicles 30:21](/2_chronicles/30-21 "2 Chronicles 30:21 - Joyful Feast of Unleavened Bread") powerfully highlights the depth and impact of this spiritual renewal.

**What does "loud instruments" imply about their worship and its relevance for us?**

Answer: The phrase "loud instruments" (Hebrew _keli shir_, "instruments of song," with "loud" from _'oz_ meaning "strength" or "might") implies that the worship was vibrant, enthusiastic, and uninhibited. It suggests a passionate and public expression of praise, designed to fill the temple courts with sound and boldly declare God's glory. This contrasts sharply with any notion of subdued or merely ritualistic worship. For believers today, it suggests that sincere worship is not always quiet or reserved; it can and often should be an outward, joyful, and even boisterous expression of adoration, using all available means to glorify God. It encourages believers to engage fully and passionately in corporate worship, allowing their praise to be heard and felt, much like the call in [Psalm 150](/psalms/150 "Psalm 150 - Praise the LORD with All Instruments") to praise God with various instruments and sounds.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The joyous and purifying Feast of Unleavened Bread described in [2 Chronicles 30:21](/2_chronicles/30-21 "2 Chronicles 30:21 - Joyful Feast of Unleavened Bread") finds its ultimate and perfect fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The Passover, which immediately precedes this feast, prefigures Christ as the true [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), whose sacrificial blood secures our eternal redemption. The Feast of Unleavened Bread, with its profound emphasis on removing leaven (a potent symbol of sin, malice, and corruption, as articulated in [1 Corinthians 5:7-8](/1_corinthians/5-7 "1 Corinthians 5:7 - Christ Our Passover Lamb")), points directly to the purity and holiness that are now ours through Christ. He is our unleavened bread, the sinless One who makes us holy and enables us to live a life free from the leaven of sin. The "great gladness" and sustained praise of the Israelites foreshadow the far greater, eternal joy and continuous worship experienced by all who are redeemed by Christ. Our spiritual revival is not merely a temporary return to ritual, but a new life in Christ, where the Holy Spirit empowers us to worship God "in spirit and truth" ([John 4:24](/john/4-24 "John 4:24 - Worship in Spirit and Truth")). The "day by day" praise of the Levites and priests finds its ultimate expression in the ongoing, unceasing worship of God's people, both now and in the heavenly realms, where we will forever praise the [Lamb who was slain](/revelation/5-12 "Revelation 5:12 - Worthy is the Lamb") and who reigns forevermore. Through Christ, we are truly cleansed, made new creations, and empowered to live lives of joyful, unceasing worship, far surpassing the temporary restoration experienced in Hezekiah's day.

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 12:15

Seven days shall ye eat unleavened bread; even the first day ye shall put away leaven out of your houses: for whosoever eateth leavened bread from the first day until the seventh day, that soul shall be cut off from Israel.

Exodus 13:6

Seven days thou shalt eat unleavened bread, and in the seventh day [shall be] a feast to the LORD.

Nehemiah 8:10

Then he said unto them, Go your way, eat the fat, and drink the sweet, and send portions unto them for whom nothing is prepared: for [this] day [is] holy unto our Lord: neither be ye sorry; for the joy of the LORD is your strength.

Leviticus 23:6

And on the fifteenth day of the same month [is] the feast of unleavened bread unto the LORD: seven days ye must eat unleavened bread.

Luke 22:7

¶ Then came the day of unleavened bread, when the passover must be killed.

Acts 2:46

And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart,

2 Chronicles 20:21

And when he had consulted with the people, he appointed singers unto the LORD, and that should praise the beauty of holiness, as they went out before the army, and to say, Praise the LORD; for his mercy [endureth] for ever.