2 Chronicles 30:24

KJV

For Hezekiah king of Judah did give to the congregation a thousand bullocks and seven thousand sheep; and the princes gave to the congregation a thousand bullocks and ten thousand sheep: and a great number of priests sanctified themselves.

KJV (with Strong's)

For Hezekiah {H2396} king {H4428} of Judah {H3063} did give {H7311} to the congregation {H6951} a thousand {H505} bullocks {H6499} and seven {H7651} thousand {H505} sheep {H6629}; and the princes {H8269} gave {H7311} to the congregation {H6951} a thousand {H505} bullocks {H6499} and ten {H6235} thousand {H505} sheep {H6629}: and a great number {H7230} of priests {H3548} sanctified {H6942} themselves.

Complete Jewish Bible

For Hizkiyahu king of Y'hudah gave the assembly a thousand bulls and seven thousand sheep for offerings, while the leaders gave the assembly a thousand bulls and ten thousand sheep; and great numbers of cohanim consecrated themselves.

Berean Standard Bible

For Hezekiah king of Judah contributed a thousand bulls and seven thousand sheep for the assembly, and the officials contributed a thousand bulls and ten thousand sheep for the assembly, and a great number of priests consecrated themselves.

American Standard Version

For Hezekiah king of Judah did give to the assembly for offerings a thousand bullocks and seven thousand sheep; and the princes gave to the assembly a thousand bullocks and ten thousand sheep: and a great number of priests sanctified themselves.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Second Chronicles 30:24 vividly portrays the extraordinary generosity of King Hezekiah and his princes during the extended Passover celebration, providing a vast number of animals for offerings and communal feasting. This lavish provision facilitated the unprecedented seven-day extension of the feast, underscoring the depth of the spiritual revival sweeping through Judah and Israel. Crucially, the verse also highlights the essential act of consecration by "a great number of priests," signifying a renewed commitment to ritual purity and readiness for service, vital for the legitimate performance of the Temple rites.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is nestled within the triumphant narrative of King Hezekiah's Passover revival, a pivotal moment in the history of Judah. Immediately preceding it, [the narrative in 2 Chronicles 30:23](/2_chronicles/30-23 "2 Chronicles 30:23 - Extension of the Feast") records the congregation's unanimous decision to extend the Passover feast for an additional seven days, an unprecedented act demonstrating their profound spiritual hunger and joy. Verse 24 provides the practical means by which this extension was made possible, detailing the immense material provision from the king and his leaders. Following this verse, [2 Chronicles 30:25-27](/2_chronicles/30-25-27 "2 Chronicles 30:25-27 - Continued Celebration and Blessing") describes the continued celebration, the participation of the entire assembly, and the great joy that filled Jerusalem, culminating in the priests and Levites blessing the people, with their prayer reaching heaven. This verse, therefore, serves as a crucial bridge, explaining the logistical support for the prolonged spiritual outpouring and highlighting the renewed commitment to proper worship.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Hezekiah's reign (c. 715–686 BC) marked a dramatic departure from the idolatry and spiritual decline prevalent during his father Ahaz's rule. Ahaz had closed the Temple, promoted pagan worship, and even sacrificed his own son, as recorded in [2 Kings 16:3](/2_kings/16-3 "2 Kings 16:3 - Ahaz's Idolatry"). Hezekiah, upon ascending the throne, immediately initiated sweeping religious reforms, cleansing and reopening the Temple, detailed in [2 Chronicles 29](/2_chronicles/29 "2 Chronicles 29 - Hezekiah Cleanses the Temple"), and restoring Levitical service. The call for Passover was particularly significant because it invited not only Judah but also the remnants of the northern kingdom of Israel, many of whom had apostatized or been scattered by Assyria. The large number of animals provided for sacrifices and communal meals was culturally essential, as offerings were central to Israelite worship and the communal consumption of peace offerings fostered fellowship and shared joy. The need for priests to "sanctify themselves" highlights the widespread ritual impurity that had accumulated during generations of neglect, making many ineligible for Temple service according to Mosaic Law, as seen in [Leviticus 10:10](/leviticus/10-10 "Leviticus 10:10 - Priestly Purity Requirements").
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in 2 Chronicles and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it exemplifies **Generosity and Sacrificial Giving**, demonstrating that true worship often involves substantial material commitment from leaders and people alike, enabling corporate spiritual activities. This echoes the principles of giving found throughout the Old Testament, such as the voluntary offerings for the Tabernacle in [Exodus 35](/exodus/35 "Exodus 35 - Offerings for the Tabernacle"). Secondly, it underscores the theme of **Revival and Restoration**, as the abundance of offerings and the renewed consecration of priests signify a profound return to God's covenant and the proper order of worship after a long period of spiritual dormancy. This mirrors the calls for repentance and renewal found throughout the prophetic books. Thirdly, the verse highlights the critical importance of **Priestly Consecration and Holiness in Service**. The fact that "a great number of priests sanctified themselves" points to the necessity of personal purity and readiness for those who serve in sacred capacities, a principle foundational to the Mosaic Law and reiterated in later biblical texts concerning spiritual leadership. Finally, it showcases **Godly Leadership by Example**, as Hezekiah and his princes set the standard for devotion and liberality, inspiring the entire congregation to participate wholeheartedly in the spiritual renewal.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Hezekiah (Hebrew, _Chizqîyâh'_):** From the root meaning "strengthened of Jah (Yahweh)," this name signifies "Yahweh strengthens" or "Yahweh is my strength." King Hezekiah lived up to his name by demonstrating remarkable strength and resolve in leading Judah back to the Lord. His personal commitment and leadership were instrumental in initiating and sustaining the spiritual revival, providing the necessary resources for the extended Passover celebration.
* **Give (Hebrew, _rûwm'_):** This verb, often translated "to give," literally means "to lift up," "to raise," or "to offer." In this context, it conveys the sense of setting apart or exalting the offerings by presenting them. Hezekiah and his princes "lifted up" or "offered" these vast quantities of animals, signifying not merely a transfer of possession but an act of worship and dedication. Their giving was an elevation of resources for a sacred purpose, demonstrating their devotion and enabling the extended feast.
* **Sanctified (Hebrew, _qâdash'_):** The verb "sanctified" (וַיִּתְקַדְּשׁוּ, _wayyitqaddeshu_) comes from the Hebrew root קָדַשׁ (_qâdash_), meaning "to be holy," "to be set apart," or "to be consecrated." In this Hithpael stem, it signifies a reflexive action: "they made themselves holy" or "they consecrated themselves." This involved specific ritual actions—such as washing, changing clothes, and abstaining from certain things—to achieve the ritual purity required for ministering in the Temple. Given the long period of apostasy under Ahaz, many priests would have been ritually defiled and thus ineligible to perform their duties. Their act of sanctification here signifies a profound commitment to return to God's prescribed order and a personal readiness to serve Him appropriately.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For Hezekiah king of Judah did give to the congregation a thousand bullocks and seven thousand sheep":** This clause highlights the king's immense personal generosity and leadership in the revival. In ancient Near Eastern societies, a king's liberality was a sign of his wealth, power, and devotion. Hezekiah's provision of 1,000 bullocks (cattle) and 7,000 sheep was an extraordinary act, far exceeding typical royal contributions. These animals would have served both as burnt offerings (wholly consumed) and peace offerings (shared by priests, offerers, and the community), facilitating both atonement and communal feasting, which was integral to the joy of the Passover. His giving set a powerful example for the entire nation.
* **"and the princes gave to the congregation a thousand bullocks and ten thousand sheep":** This demonstrates that Hezekiah's example was contagious and effective, inspiring the nation's leaders. The princes, who were likely influential leaders and wealthy individuals, followed suit, contributing an even larger number of sheep than the king. Their collective generosity amplified the resources available, ensuring that the extended feast could be sustained and that all participants, including the less affluent, could partake in the communal meals and offerings without financial burden. This collective effort underscores the unity and shared commitment to the revival.
* **"and a great number of priests sanctified themselves":** This crucial phrase reveals a significant logistical and spiritual challenge overcome during the revival. Due to generations of neglect and idolatry, many priests had become ritually impure, rendering them unfit for Temple service according to Mosaic Law. Their willingness and action to "sanctify themselves" (perform the necessary purification rites) indicates a widespread spiritual awakening among the priestly class. This was essential for the legitimate and orderly performance of the numerous sacrifices and rites required for such a large and extended Passover celebration, ensuring that the worship was acceptable to God and performed according to divine command.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several **Literary Devices** to convey its message with impact. The use of large, specific numbers ("a thousand bullocks," "seven thousand sheep," "ten thousand sheep") functions as **Hyperbole** or **Exaggeration** to emphasize the sheer scale and unprecedented nature of the generosity and the celebration. While likely literal, these numbers also serve to impress upon the reader the magnitude of the resources poured into this revival, highlighting the extraordinary commitment of the king and princes. The act of giving itself is a form of **Symbolism**, where the material offerings symbolize the spiritual devotion and renewed covenant relationship of the leaders and the people with God. Furthermore, the phrase "a great number of priests sanctified themselves" serves as a powerful **Metonymy** or **Synecdoche**, where the act of purification stands for the broader spiritual renewal and restoration of order within the Levitical priesthood, essential for the proper functioning of the Temple and the nation's worship life. The contrast between this abundance and order and the previous reign's desolation is an implicit **Juxtaposition**, underscoring the dramatic turnaround under Hezekiah.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
2 Chronicles 30:24 beautifully illustrates the theological principle that genuine spiritual revival is often accompanied by tangible acts of generosity and a renewed commitment to holiness in service. The lavish giving of Hezekiah and his princes demonstrates that true devotion is not merely internal but expresses itself in sacrificial provision for the work of God. This liberality enabled the community to extend their worship and deepen their fellowship with God and one another, underscoring that material resources, when consecrated, can be powerful instruments for spiritual flourishing. The sanctification of the priests reinforces the enduring biblical truth that those who serve God must be set apart and pure, reflecting His own holiness. This act was not merely ritualistic but signified a profound internal commitment to their sacred calling, ensuring that the worship offered was acceptable to the Lord.

* [Exodus 35:21](/exodus/35-21 "Exodus 35:21 - Generosity for the Tabernacle")
* [Malachi 3:10](/malachi/3-10 "Malachi 3:10 - Bring the Whole Tithe")
* [1 Peter 1:15-16](/1_peter/1-15-16 "1 Peter 1:15-16 - Be Holy in All Your Conduct")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
This verse offers profound lessons for contemporary believers and the church. The generosity of Hezekiah and the princes challenges us to consider our own stewardship and willingness to sacrificially give towards the work of God's kingdom. Their giving was not out of obligation but out of the overflow of revived hearts, enabling an extended period of joyful worship and communal blessing. This reminds us that our resources, whether financial, time, or talent, are meant to be used to facilitate God's purposes and bless His people. Furthermore, the necessity for a "great number of priests" to sanctify themselves speaks directly to the ongoing call for personal holiness and spiritual readiness, especially for those in leadership or service within the church. Our outward service must flow from an inward state of purity and consecration, ensuring that our worship and ministry are acceptable to God and effective for His glory. This verse encourages us to pursue both corporate generosity and individual holiness as integral components of genuine spiritual renewal, fostering an environment where God's presence can be fully experienced and His purposes advanced.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways can I, like Hezekiah and the princes, demonstrate sacrificial generosity to support the spiritual life and mission of my community or church?**
* **What does "sanctifying myself" look like in my daily life and service, ensuring my heart and actions are pure before God?**
* **How does the joy and unity of this Passover celebration inspire me to seek deeper fellowship and shared worship with other believers?**

### FAQ

**Why was it necessary for so many priests to "sanctify themselves"?**

Answer: During the reign of Hezekiah's father, King Ahaz, there was widespread idolatry and neglect of the Temple and its services. Many priests would have become ritually impure through contact with dead bodies, forbidden foods, or participation in pagan practices, or simply by neglecting the prescribed purification rites. According to Mosaic Law, priests had strict requirements for ritual purity to serve in the Temple and handle sacred objects or offerings, as detailed in [Leviticus 21:1-8](/leviticus/21-1-8 "Leviticus 21:1-8 - Priestly Purity Rules"). Their act of "sanctifying themselves" involved specific purification rituals (washing, changing clothes, etc.) to make them ceremonially clean and fit to minister before God. This was a crucial step for the legitimate and orderly performance of the massive number of sacrifices required for the extended Passover celebration, signifying a return to God's commands and a renewed commitment to holiness in their service.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The lavish generosity and priestly sanctification in 2 Chronicles 30:24 find their ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ. Hezekiah's provision of animals, though immense, was a temporary measure, pointing to the need for a perfect, once-for-all sacrifice. Jesus 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 single offering on the cross, as described in [Hebrews 10:10](/hebrews/10-10 "Hebrews 10:10 - Christ's Sacrifice"), infinitely surpasses the thousands of bullocks and sheep. His sacrifice not only atones for sin but also provides the spiritual nourishment for an eternal feast, a communion with God that far exceeds the joy of any earthly Passover. Furthermore, the priests' need to "sanctify themselves" foreshadows Christ's perfect purity and His role as our [Great High Priest](/hebrews/4-14 "Hebrews 4:14 - Jesus, Our Great High Priest"), who required no purification for Himself, being without sin, as affirmed in [Hebrews 7:26-27](/hebrews/7-26-27 "Hebrews 7:26-27 - Christ's Sinless Priesthood"). Through His perfect sacrifice and intercession, He not only makes us clean but also consecrates us, His followers, as a "royal priesthood," as declared in [1 Peter 2:9](/1_peter/2-9 "1 Peter 2:9 - A Royal Priesthood"), enabling us to draw near to God with confidence, as encouraged in [Hebrews 10:19-22](/hebrews/10-19-22 "Hebrews 10:19-22 - Access to God Through Christ"). Thus, the generosity and sanctification seen in Hezekiah's revival are but shadows of the infinitely greater provision and purification accomplished through Christ, making possible our eternal worship and fellowship with God.

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 29:34

But the priests were too few, so that they could not flay all the burnt offerings: wherefore their brethren the Levites did help them, till the work was ended, and until the [other] priests had sanctified themselves: for the Levites [were] more upright in heart to sanctify themselves than the priests.

2 Chronicles 35:7

And Josiah gave to the people, of the flock, lambs and kids, all for the passover offerings, for all that were present, to the number of thirty thousand, and three thousand bullocks: these [were] of the king's substance.

2 Chronicles 35:8

And his princes gave willingly unto the people, to the priests, and to the Levites: Hilkiah and Zechariah and Jehiel, rulers of the house of God, gave unto the priests for the passover offerings two thousand and six hundred [small cattle], and three hundred oxen.

1 Chronicles 29:3

Moreover, because I have set my affection to the house of my God, I have of mine own proper good, of gold and silver, [which] I have given to the house of my God, over and above all that I have prepared for the holy house,

1 Chronicles 29:9

Then the people rejoiced, for that they offered willingly, because with perfect heart they offered willingly to the LORD: and David the king also rejoiced with great joy.

2 Chronicles 30:3

For they could not keep it at that time, because the priests had not sanctified themselves sufficiently, neither had the people gathered themselves together to Jerusalem.

Ephesians 4:8

Wherefore he saith, When he ascended up on high, he led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men.