2 Chronicles 30:5

KJV

So they established a decree to make proclamation throughout all Israel, from Beersheba even to Dan, that they should come to keep the passover unto the LORD God of Israel at Jerusalem: for they had not done [it] of a long [time in such sort] as it was written.

KJV (with Strong's)

So they established {H5975} a decree {H1697} to make proclamation {H5674}{H6963} throughout all Israel {H3478}, from Beersheba {H884} even to Dan {H1835}, that they should come {H935} to keep {H6213} the passover {H6453} unto the LORD {H3068} God {H430} of Israel {H3478} at Jerusalem {H3389}: for they had not done {H6213} it of a long {H7230} time in such sort as it was written {H3789}.

Complete Jewish Bible

so they issued a decree that it should be proclaimed throughout all Isra'el, from Be'er-Sheva to Dan, that they should come to keep the Pesach to ADONAI the God of Isra'el at Yerushalayim; for only a few had been observing it as prescribed.

Berean Standard Bible

So they established a decree to circulate a proclamation throughout Israel, from Beersheba to Dan, that the people should come to keep the Passover of the LORD, the God of Israel, in Jerusalem. For they had not observed it as a nation as prescribed.

American Standard Version

So they established a decree to make proclamation throughout all Israel, from Beer-sheba even to Dan, that they should come to keep the passover unto Jehovah, the God of Israel, at Jerusalem: for they had not kept it in great numbers in such sort as it is written.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
King Hezekiah, in the early years of his reign, issued a momentous decree to celebrate the Passover in Jerusalem, inviting not only the kingdom of Judah but also the long-separated northern kingdom of Israel. This unprecedented proclamation, extending "from Beersheba even to Dan," aimed to reunite the entire nation in worship of the LORD, rectifying generations of neglect and improper observance of this foundational covenant feast, ensuring it was performed precisely "as it was written" in the Mosaic Law.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within the narrative of King Hezekiah's radical spiritual reforms. The preceding chapter, [2 Chronicles 29](/2_chronicles/29 "2 Chronicles 29 - Hezekiah's Temple Cleansing and Restoration of Worship"), details Hezekiah's immediate actions upon ascending the throne: cleansing and reconsecrating the Temple, restoring the Levitical service, and re-establishing the daily sacrifices. Having completed the Temple's purification and the initial acts of atonement, [2 Chronicles 30:1-4](/2_chronicles/30-1 "2 Chronicles 30:1-4 - Hezekiah's Plan for Passover") describes Hezekiah's consultation with his officials and the assembly to celebrate the Passover, albeit a month later than prescribed due to the uncleanness of the priests and people. [2 Chronicles 30:5](/2_chronicles/30-5 "2 Chronicles 30:5 - The Decree for a Nationwide Passover") then marks the official promulgation of this decree, setting the stage for the widespread invitation and the subsequent celebration described in the remainder of the chapter.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Hezekiah's reign followed that of his idolatrous father, Ahaz, who had plunged Judah into deep spiritual apostasy, even closing the doors of the Temple ([2 Chronicles 28:24](/2_chronicles/28-24 "2 Chronicles 28:24 - Ahaz's Idolatry and Temple Closure")). The Northern Kingdom of Israel had been separated from Judah for over two centuries and had largely abandoned the worship of the LORD, instead embracing calf worship and other pagan practices ([1 Kings 12:28-30](/1_kings/12-28 "1 Kings 12:28-30 - Jeroboam's Idolatry")). Furthermore, the Northern Kingdom was on the brink of Assyrian conquest, which would culminate in their exile shortly after this event. The Passover, a central feast commemorating Israel's deliverance from Egypt ([Exodus 12](/exodus/12 "Exodus 12 - Institution of the Passover")), was meant to be observed annually in Jerusalem. Its long neglect and improper observance underscored the severe spiritual decline across both kingdoms. Hezekiah's invitation to "all Israel, from Beersheba even to Dan" was a bold and unprecedented act of national reconciliation and spiritual reunification, transcending political boundaries for the sake of true worship.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully encapsulates several critical themes. Firstly, it highlights **Spiritual Revival and Restoration**, demonstrating a fervent return from generations of apostasy and neglect to zealous obedience to God's covenant commands. Hezekiah's initiative signifies a passionate commitment to bring the nation back into alignment with divine will. Secondly, it underscores **National Unity and Reconciliation in Worship**. The proclamation "from Beersheba even to Dan" represents the entire geographical and tribal extent of Israel, emphasizing a profound desire to bridge the long-standing political and religious chasm between Judah and Israel. This was a call for all twelve tribes to unite under the banner of the LORD in Jerusalem, foreshadowing a spiritual unity beyond political division. Lastly, the phrase "as it was written" emphasizes **Obedience to God's Revealed Word**. It highlights the paramount importance of adhering to the precise instructions of the Mosaic Law concerning the Passover, contrasting sharply with the previous laxity and disobedience. This commitment to the divine standard is a foundational principle for true worship and national blessing, echoing the importance of following God's commands as seen in [Deuteronomy 28:1-14](/deuteronomy/28-1 "Deuteronomy 28:1-14 - Blessings for Obedience").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **established (Hebrew, _yakhin'_):** This verb, derived from the root `כון` (kun), means "to be firm, to be established, to prepare, to make ready." Here, it signifies a deliberate, authoritative, and firm decision. It's not a casual suggestion but a decree that is fixed and binding, indicating Hezekiah's resolve and the seriousness of the undertaking.
* **proclamation (Hebrew, _qol'_):** Literally "voice" or "sound," in this context, it refers to the public announcement or message. The use of `קֹול` (qol) emphasizes the widespread, audible nature of the decree, indicating that messengers were dispatched throughout the land to ensure the invitation reached every corner of Israel.
* **as it was written (Hebrew, _kakkathuv'_):** This crucial phrase, `כַּכָּתוּב` (kakkathuv), means "according to that which is written" or "as prescribed." It is a direct reference to the Torah, specifically the Mosaic Law concerning the Passover observance found in books like [Exodus 12](/exodus/12 "Exodus 12 - Institution of the Passover") and [Numbers 9](/numbers/9 "Numbers 9 - The Second Passover"). This phrase highlights the core motivation for the revival: a return to the divine standard and a rejection of human traditions or neglect.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"So they established a decree to make proclamation throughout all Israel, from Beersheba even to Dan,"**: This clause describes the decisive action taken by Hezekiah and his officials. "They" refers to the king, his officials, and the assembly mentioned in [2 Chronicles 30:2-4](/2_chronicles/30-2 "2 Chronicles 30:2-4 - The Counsel to Celebrate Passover"). The "decree" signifies a formal, authoritative command. The phrase "from Beersheba even to Dan" is a well-known **merism** in biblical literature, signifying the entire geographical extent of the Israelite territory, from its southernmost point (Beersheba in Judah) to its northernmost (Dan in Israel). This emphasizes the unprecedented scope of the invitation, extending beyond the kingdom of Judah to include the long-separated Northern Kingdom, highlighting a desire for national spiritual unity.
* **"that they should come to keep the passover unto the LORD God of Israel at Jerusalem:"**: This clause states the explicit purpose and designated location for the gathering. The "passover" was a central annual feast, commemorating God's deliverance of Israel from slavery in Egypt. The command to "keep" it implies a full and proper observance. The phrase "unto the LORD God of Israel at Jerusalem" underscores the theological significance: the Passover was an act of worship directed to Yahweh, the covenant God of Israel, and Jerusalem was the divinely appointed, central sanctuary for such celebrations, as stipulated in the Law ([Deuteronomy 16:5-6](/deuteronomy/16-5 "Deuteronomy 16:5-6 - Passover at the Chosen Place")).
* **"for they had not done [it] of a long [time in such sort] as it was written."**: This final clause provides the crucial justification for Hezekiah's bold initiative. The "long time" refers to generations of neglect, either by not observing the Passover at all or by observing it improperly, not "in such sort as it was written." This highlights the severity of the spiritual decline and the profound need for repentance and a return to the precise instructions of God's Word. It underscores that the previous practices were not merely informal but fundamentally out of alignment with God's explicit commands, necessitating a radical restoration.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several significant literary devices. The most prominent is **Merism** in the phrase "from Beersheba even to Dan," which functions to represent the totality of the Israelite land and people, emphasizing the comprehensive and unifying nature of Hezekiah's invitation. This geographical sweep highlights the king's vision for a spiritual reunion of all twelve tribes. There is also a clear **Contrast** established between the past state of neglect and improper observance ("they had not done it of a long time in such sort") and the present zealous commitment to obedience ("as it was written"). This contrast underscores the urgency and significance of Hezekiah's reform. Furthermore, the narrative employs **Emphasis** through the repeated notion of adhering to God's written law throughout 2 Chronicles, particularly in the context of Hezekiah's reforms, reinforcing the idea that true worship is rooted in divine instruction, not human custom or convenience.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse stands as a powerful testament to the principles of covenant renewal and the sovereign initiative of God in restoring His people. Hezekiah's decree is not merely a political act but a profound spiritual undertaking, driven by a desire to see Israel return to its covenant obligations. It demonstrates that true revival begins with a recognition of past disobedience and a zealous commitment to align with God's revealed will. The call for national unity in worship, extending beyond political divisions, reflects God's enduring desire for His people to be one and to worship Him in truth and according to His prescribed ways. It underscores the importance of corporate worship as a means of national repentance and blessing, reminding us that God's standards are timeless and essential for genuine faith.

* [Exodus 12:14](/exodus/12-14 "Exodus 12:14 - Perpetual Ordinance of Passover")
* [Deuteronomy 16:5-6](/deuteronomy/16-5 "Deuteronomy 16:5-6 - Passover at the Chosen Place")
* [Nehemiah 8:8](/nehemiah/8-8 "Nehemiah 8:8 - Reading and Explaining the Law")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Hezekiah's bold and unifying decree in 2 Chronicles 30:5 serves as a profound model for both individual believers and the corporate church today. Just as Israel had drifted from God's commands and neglected foundational practices, we too can find ourselves in seasons of spiritual apathy, allowing convenience or tradition to supersede divine instruction. This verse calls us to a radical self-assessment: where in our lives, our families, or our communities have we neglected to do things "as it was written"? It challenges us to pursue spiritual restoration with intentionality and zeal, returning to the foundational truths and practices of Scripture. Furthermore, Hezekiah's vision for a united Israel, transcending deep-seated political and social divides for the sake of shared worship, reminds us of the paramount importance of unity within the body of Christ. Our common devotion to the LORD should always outweigh our differences, compelling us to gather for worship and service in ways that glorify Him and build up His kingdom.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **Where in my personal walk with God or in my church community has there been a "long time" of neglect regarding God's written Word or prescribed practices?**
* **How does Hezekiah's bold, unifying decree challenge me to pursue spiritual restoration and unity, even across perceived divides within the Christian community?**
* **What specific steps can I take to ensure that my worship, my discipleship, and my service are truly "as it was written" in Scripture, rather than merely convenient or traditional?**

### FAQ

**Why was it significant that Hezekiah invited "all Israel" including the Northern Kingdom?**

Answer: The invitation to "all Israel, from Beersheba even to Dan" was profoundly significant because it sought to bridge a deep political and religious schism that had existed for over 200 years. Since the division of the kingdom after Solomon's reign ([1 Kings 12](/1_kings/12 "1 Kings 12 - Division of the Kingdom")), the Northern Kingdom (Israel) had established its own centers of worship in Bethel and Dan, promoting idolatry and largely abandoning the Jerusalem Temple and the true worship of Yahweh. Hezekiah's decree was an unprecedented act of spiritual statesmanship, calling for a reunification of all twelve tribes under the banner of the LORD, transcending the political boundaries and religious apostasy that had long divided them. It demonstrated a heart for the restoration of the entire covenant people, not just his own kingdom of Judah, and was an act of faith that God would respond to such a call for unity and repentance, even as the Northern Kingdom faced imminent destruction by Assyria ([2 Kings 17:5-6](/2_kings/17-5 "2 Kings 17:5-6 - Assyrian Siege and Exile of Israel")).

**What does "as it was written" imply about their previous Passover observances?**

Answer: The phrase "as it was written" (Hebrew: `כַּכָּתוּב`, _kakkathuv_) is a powerful indictment of the previous state of affairs and a declaration of the new commitment to biblical fidelity. It implies that for a "long time," the Passover had either not been observed at all, or it had been observed improperly, deviating significantly from the specific instructions laid out in the Mosaic Law. The Law stipulated precise details regarding the timing ([Numbers 9:1-5](/numbers/9-1 "Numbers 9:1-5 - Passover Observance")), the location (at the central sanctuary in Jerusalem, [Deuteronomy 16:5-6](/deuteronomy/16-5 "Deuteronomy 16:5-6 - Passover at the Chosen Place")), and the manner of sacrifice and consumption. The implication is that generations had either neglected these divine commands entirely or had performed the ritual in a way that was not pleasing to God because it did not adhere to His revealed Word. Hezekiah's reform, therefore, was not merely about resuming a tradition, but about restoring true, obedient worship according to God's precise standards.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Hezekiah's passionate pursuit of spiritual revival and national unity in 2 Chronicles 30:5 profoundly foreshadows the ultimate work of Jesus Christ. Just as Hezekiah called all Israel to return to the divinely ordained Passover in Jerusalem, Christ Himself is the true [Passover Lamb](/1_corinthians/5-7 "1 Corinthians 5:7 - Christ Our Passover Lamb"), whose sacrifice fulfills and transcends the Old Covenant ritual. His blood atones for sin, delivering not just a nation from physical bondage but all humanity from spiritual slavery to sin and death ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")). Furthermore, Hezekiah's desire to unite a divided Israel "from Beersheba even to Dan" finds its ultimate realization in Christ, who breaks down the dividing wall of hostility between Jew and Gentile, creating one new humanity in Himself ([Ephesians 2:14-16](/ephesians/2-14 "Ephesians 2:14-16 - Christ Our Peace, Breaking Down Walls")). The emphasis on doing things "as it was written" points to Christ, who perfectly fulfilled all righteousness and the entire Law ([Matthew 5:17](/matthew/5-17 "Matthew 5:17 - Christ Fulfills the Law")). Through the New Covenant, Christ writes His law not on tablets of stone, but on the hearts of His people by the Spirit ([Jeremiah 31:33](/jeremiah/31-33 "Jeremiah 31:33 - The New Covenant Written on Hearts")), enabling them to truly live "as it was written." The ultimate "Jerusalem" to which all believers are called is the heavenly one, where we gather in perfect unity and worship around the Lamb of God ([Hebrews 12:22-24](/hebrews/12-22 "Hebrews 12:22-24 - The Heavenly Jerusalem")).

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.