TRV
Translation
King James Version
And Azariah the chief priest of the house of Zadok answered him, and said, Since the people began to bring the offerings into the house of the LORD, we have had enough to eat, and have left plenty: for the LORD hath blessed his people; and that which is left is this great store.
KJV (with Strong's)
And Azariah H5838 the chief H7218 priest H3548 of the house H1004 of Zadok H6659 answered H559 him, and said H559, Since the people began H2490 to bring H935 the offerings H8641 into the house H1004 of the LORD H3068, we have had enough H7646 to eat H398, and have left H3498 plenty H7230: for the LORD H3068 hath blessed H1288 his people H5971; and that which is left H3498 is this great store H1995.
Complete Jewish Bible
'Azaryahu the chief cohen, from the house of Tzadok, answered him, "Ever since the people began bringing offerings into the house of ADONAI, we have had enough to eat and plenty left over; for ADONAI has blessed his people, and what is left over is this massive supply."
Berean Standard Bible
and Azariah, the chief priest of the household of Zadok, answered him, “Since the people began to bring their contributions into the house of the LORD, we have had enough to eat and there is plenty left over, because the LORD has blessed His people; this great abundance is what is left over.”
American Standard Version
And Azariah the chief priest, of the house of Zadok, answered him and said, Since the people began to bring the oblations into the house of Jehovah, we have eaten and had enough, and have left plenty: for Jehovah hath blessed his people; and that which is left is this great store.
World English Bible Messianic
Azariah the chief priest, of the house of Zadok, answered him and said, “Since people began to bring the offerings into the LORD’s house, we have eaten and had enough, and have left plenty: for the LORD has blessed his people; and that which is left is this great store.”
Geneva Bible (1599)
And Azariah the chiefe Priest of the house of Zadok answered him, and sayde, Since the people beganne to bring the offrings into the house of the Lord, we haue eaten and haue bene satisfied, and there is left in abundance: for the Lord hath blessed his people, and this abundance that is left.
Young's Literal Translation
and Azariah the head priest, of the house of Zadok, speaketh unto him, and saith, `From the beginning of the bringing of the heave-offering to the house of Jehovah, there is to eat, and to be satisfied, and to leave abundantly, for Jehovah hath blessed His people, and that left is this store.'
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In the KJVVerse 11,865 of 31,102
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Commentary on 2 Chronicles 31 verses 1–10
1 ¶ Now when all this was finished, all Israel that were present went out to the cities of Judah, and brake the images in pieces, and cut down the groves, and threw down the high places and the altars out of all Judah and Benjamin, in Ephraim also and Manasseh, until they had utterly destroyed them all. Then all the children of Israel returned, every man to his possession, into their own cities.
2 And Hezekiah appointed the courses of the priests and the Levites after their courses, every man according to his service, the priests and Levites for burnt offerings and for peace offerings, to minister, and to give thanks, and to praise in the gates of the tents of the LORD.
3 He appointed also the king's portion of his substance for the burnt offerings, to wit, for the morning and evening burnt offerings, and the burnt offerings for the sabbaths, and for the new moons, and for the set feasts, as it is written in the law of the LORD.
4 Moreover he commanded the people that dwelt in Jerusalem to give the portion of the priests and the Levites, that they might be encouraged in the law of the LORD.
5 And as soon as the commandment came abroad, the children of Israel brought in abundance the firstfruits of corn, wine, and oil, and honey, and of all the increase of the field; and the tithe of all things brought they in abundantly.
6 And concerning the children of Israel and Judah, that dwelt in the cities of Judah, they also brought in the tithe of oxen and sheep, and the tithe of holy things which were consecrated unto the LORD their God, and laid them by heaps.
7 In the third month they began to lay the foundation of the heaps, and finished them in the seventh month.
8 And when Hezekiah and the princes came and saw the heaps, they blessed the LORD, and his people Israel.
9 Then Hezekiah questioned with the priests and the Levites concerning the heaps.
10 And Azariah the chief priest of the house of Zadok answered him, and said, Since the people began to bring the offerings into the house of the LORD, we have had enough to eat, and have left plenty: for the LORD hath blessed his people; and that which is left is this great store.
We have here an account of what was done after the passover. What was wanting in the solemnities of preparation for it before was made up in that which is better, a due improvement of it after. When the religious exercises of a Lord's day or a communion are finished we must not think that then the work is done. No, then the hardest part of our work begins, which is to exemplify the impressions of the ordinance upon our minds in all the instances of a holy conversation. So it was here; when all this was finished there was more to be done.
I. They applied themselves with vigour to destroy all the monuments of idolatry, Ch2 31:1. The king had done what he could of this kind (Kg2 18:4), but the people could discover those profane relics which escaped the eye of the king's officers, and therefore they went out to see what they could do, Ch2 31:1. This was done immediately after the passover. Note, The comfort of communion with God should kindle in us a holy zeal and indignation against sin, against every thing that is offensive to God. If our hearts have been made to burn within us at an ordinance, that spirit of burning will consume the dross of corruption. What have I now to do any more with idols? Their zeal here in destroying the images and groves, the high places and altars, appeared, 1. In that they did this, not only in the cities of Judah and Benjamin, but in those of Ephraim and Manasseh. Some think that those cities are meant which had come under the protection and the jurisdiction of the kings of Judah. Others think that, Hoshea king of Israel not forbidding it, their zeal carried them out to the destruction of idolatry even in many parts of his kingdom. At least those that came out of Ephraim and Manasseh to keep the passover (as many did, Ch2 30:18) destroyed all their own images and groves, and did the like for as many more as they had influence upon or could make interest in for leave to do it. We should not only reform ourselves, but do all we can to reform others too. 2. They destroyed all: they utterly destroyed all; they spared none through favour or affection either to the images or to their worshippers; though ever so ancient, ever so costly, ever so beautiful, and ever so well patronised, yet they must all be destroyed. Note, Those that sincerely set themselves against sin will set themselves against all sin. 3. They would not return to their houses, though they had been long absent, till this was done. They could not be easy, nor think themselves safe, in their cities, as long as the images and groves, those betrayers and destroyers of their country, were left standing. Perhaps the prophet Isaiah pointed to this when, a little before, he spoke of a day in which men should cast away the very idols that they themselves had made. So surprising was this blessed change, Isa 2:20; Isa 31:6, Isa 31:7.
II. Hezekiah revived and restored the courses of the priests and Levites, which David had appointed and which had of late been put out of course, Ch2 31:2. The temple service was put into its proper method again, to run in the old channel. Every man was made to know his work, his place, his time, and what was expected from him. Note, Good order contributes much to the carrying on of a good work. The priests were appointed in their courses for burnt-offerings and peace-offerings; the Levites in their courses were some to minister to the priests, others to give thanks and praise. See Ch1 23:4, Ch1 23:5. And all this in the gates or courts of the tents of the Lord. The temple is here called a tent because the temple privileges are movable things and this temple was shortly to be removed.
III. He appropriated a branch of the revenue of his crown to the maintenance and support of the altar. Though the people were to be at the charge of the daily offerings, and those on the sabbaths, new moons, and feasts, yet, rather than they should be burdened with the expense, he allowed out of his own estate, or out of his exchequer, for all those offerings, Ch2 31:3. It was a generous act of piety, wherein he consulted both God's honour and his people's ease, as a faithful servant to him and a tender father to them. Let princes and great men reckon that well bestowed, and set out to the best interest, which they give for the support and encouragement of religion in their country.
IV. He issued out an order to the inhabitants of Jerusalem first, Ch2 31:4 (that those who were nearest the temple, and both saved and got by being so, might give a good example to others), but which was afterwards extended to, or at least admitted by, the cities of Judah, that they should carefully pay in their dues, according to the law, to the priests and Levites. This had been long neglected, which made the work to be neglected (for a scandalous maintenance makes a scandalous ministry); but Hezekiah, having himself been liberal, might with a good grace require his subjects to be just to the temple service. And observe the end he aims at in recovering and restoring to the priests and Levites their portion, that they might be encouraged in the law of the Lord, in the study of it, and in doing their duty according to it. Observe here, 1. It is fit that ministers should be not only maintained, but encouraged, that they should not only be kept to do their work, but that they should also have wherewith to live comfortably, that they may do it with cheerfulness. 2. Yet they are to be maintained, not in idleness, pride, and luxury, but in the law of the Lord, in their observance of it themselves and in teaching others the good knowledge of it.
V. The people thereupon brought in their tithes very readily. They wanted nothing but to be called upon; and therefore, as soon as the commandment came abroad, the first-fruits and all the holy things were duly brought in, Ch2 31:5, Ch2 31:6. What the priests had occasion for, for themselves and their families, they made use of, and the overplus was laid in heaps, Ch2 31:6. All harvest-time they were increasing these heaps, as the fruits of the earth were gathered in; for God was to have his dues out of them all. Though a prescription may be pleaded for a modus decimandi - tenth proportion, yet it cannot be pleaded pro non decminado - for the omission of the tenth. When harvest ended they finished their heaps, Ch2 31:7. Now here we have, 1. The account given to Hezekiah concerning those heaps. He questioned the priests and Levites concerning them, why they did not use what was paid in, but hoarded it up thus, (Ch2 31:9), to which it was answered that they had made use of all they had occasion for, for the maintenance of themselves and their families and for their winter store, and that this was that which was left over and above, Ch2 31:10. They did not hoard these heaps for covetousness, but to show what plentiful provision God by his law had made for them, if they could but have it collected and brought in, and that those who conscientiously give God his dues out of their estates bring a blessing upon all they have: Since they began to bring in the offerings the Lord has blessed his people. See for this Hag 2:19. "Try me," says God, "if you will not otherwise trust me, whether, upon your bringing the tithes into the store-house, you have not a blessing poured out upon you," Mal 3:10, Mal 3:11; Eze 44:30. 2. The acknowledgment which the king and princes made of it, Ch2 31:8. They gave thanks to God for his good providence, which gave them something to bring, and his good grace, which gave them hearts to bring it. And they also blessed the people, that is, commended them for their doing well now, without reproaching them for their former neglects. It is observable that after they had tasted the sweetness of God's ordinance, in the late comfortable passover, they were thus free in maintaining the temple service. Those that experience the benefit of a settled ministry will not grudge the expense of it.
Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 1–10. Public domain.
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Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.
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SUMMARY
Second Chronicles 31:10 captures a pivotal moment during King Hezekiah's extensive spiritual reformation, as Azariah, the chief priest, reports an overwhelming surplus of provisions brought into the Temple. His declaration confirms that the people's renewed obedience in faithfully bringing their tithes and offerings resulted in a miraculous overflow, far exceeding the needs of the priests and Levites. This abundance serves as undeniable evidence of the Lord's tangible blessing upon His faithful people and powerfully underscores the divine principle that God honors and multiplies the generosity of those who sacrificially support His work.
CONTEXT
Literary Context: This verse is strategically placed within the Chronicler's detailed account of King Hezekiah's sweeping religious reforms, spanning from 2 Chronicles 29 through 2 Chronicles 31. Following the profound spiritual decline and idolatry under his father, King Ahaz, Hezekiah initiated a radical return to Yahweh worship. This revival began with the cleansing and rededication of the Temple (as seen in 2 Chronicles 29), followed by the restoration of the long-neglected Passover celebration (2 Chronicles 30). Crucially, Hezekiah then commanded the people to bring their prescribed portions for the priests and Levites, as mandated by the Mosaic Law (2 Chronicles 31:4). The people responded with extraordinary zeal, bringing in vast quantities of grain, wine, oil, honey, and tithes of everything they produced (2 Chronicles 31:5-6). Azariah's statement in 2 Chronicles 31:10 is a direct and authoritative answer to Hezekiah's inquiry in 2 Chronicles 31:9, where the king asks about the immense, overflowing piles of offerings. Azariah's response unequivocally confirms that this superabundance is a direct, divinely orchestrated result of the people's faithful and generous giving, serving as tangible proof of God's immediate blessing.
Historical & Cultural Context: Hezekiah's reign (c. 715-686 BC) marked a critical turning point after a period of intense spiritual apostasy under King Ahaz, who had not only closed the Temple but actively promoted pagan worship and idolatry throughout Judah. Hezekiah's reforms represented a profound national repentance and a radical return to the covenant stipulations of Yahweh worship. Culturally, the systematic support of the Levitical priesthood through tithes and offerings was not merely a religious custom but a foundational pillar of Israelite society. This system, outlined in the Mosaic Law (e.g., Numbers 18:21-24), ensured the proper functioning of the Temple, the maintenance of its services, and the spiritual instruction of the people, as the Levites had no tribal land inheritance and were wholly dedicated to sacred service. The overwhelming and prolonged response described in 2 Chronicles 31:7-8 indicates a deep societal repentance and a renewed, widespread commitment to God's commands, standing in stark contrast to the neglect of these duties in previous generations. The mention of "storehouses" reflects the practical necessity of gathering, organizing, and managing these vast contributions to sustain the large number of priests and Levites serving in Jerusalem and throughout the land of Judah.
Key Themes: This verse powerfully encapsulates several key theological themes central to the Chronicler's narrative and Hezekiah's reformation. Foremost is the theme of Divine Blessing in Response to Obedience. The extraordinary abundance described is not merely a natural outcome of a good harvest but is explicitly declared by Azariah as a direct, supernatural outpouring of God's favor: "for the LORD hath blessed his people." This resonates deeply with the Deuteronomic principle that faithful obedience to God's covenant commands invariably leads to blessing and prosperity (e.g., Deuteronomy 28:1-14). Another significant theme is the Power of Generosity and Faithfulness. The people's willing hearts and sacrificial giving, motivated by Hezekiah's righteous leadership, served as the catalyst for this divine provision. This demonstrates that human faithfulness in stewardship opens the channels for God's overflowing supply, a principle consistently affirmed throughout Scripture, notably in later prophetic appeals like Malachi 3:10. Finally, the verse highlights God's Abundant Provision, emphasizing that His supply is not merely sufficient but often superabundant ("we have had enough to eat, and have left plenty," "this great store"), demonstrating His boundless goodness and His ability to provide far beyond human expectation when His people honor Him with their substance.
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
The verse employs several potent literary devices to convey its profound message. Testimony is central, as Azariah's statement functions as a direct, authoritative, and divinely inspired witness to God's faithfulness and provision. His words are not a mere observation but a declarative affirmation of divine action. The strategic repetition of terms related to abundance—"enough," "plenty," and "great store"—creates a powerful sense of Emphasis and underscores the overwhelming, superabundant nature of God's provision. This cumulative effect highlights the extraordinary and undeniable blessing. There is a clear Cause and Effect relationship meticulously established: the people's obedience in faithfully bringing offerings (the cause) directly leads to God's blessing and abundant provision (the effect). This reinforces the Deuteronomic theology of blessings for covenant faithfulness. Finally, the verse contains an explicit Attribution of Agency, directly naming "the LORD" as the one who "hath blessed his people," leaving no ambiguity about the divine source of the prosperity and ensuring all glory is directed to God.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse is a profound testament to the enduring biblical principle that God responds to the obedience, faithfulness, and generosity of His people with abundant blessing. It vividly illustrates the covenant faithfulness of God, who delights in providing for those who honor Him with their substance and prioritize His kingdom. The overflowing storehouses are not merely a physical phenomenon but a visible, tangible sign of an invisible divine hand at work, affirming that God is never outdone in generosity. This narrative serves as a powerful reminder that true security, provision, and prosperity come from trusting in God's promises and actively participating in His work, rather than relying solely on human effort, ingenuity, or limited resources. It emphasizes that when God's people are faithful in their stewardship, He ensures that His work is sustained and His servants are well-provided for, often beyond their expectations.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
2 Chronicles 31:10 offers a timeless and profoundly encouraging message for believers today, powerfully underscoring the vital connection between faithful stewardship and divine provision. It challenges us to deeply consider our own generosity and obedience, reminding us that our giving is not merely a financial transaction but a profound act of worship, trust, and partnership with God that He honors. When we faithfully contribute to the work of God's kingdom—whether through our tithes, offerings, time, talents, or spiritual gifts—we are actively creating channels for His blessings to flow, not only into our own lives but also into the ministries, communities, and people we support. This verse encourages us to give cheerfully, sacrificially, and expectantly, knowing with certainty that God is able to provide "exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think" (Ephesians 3:20). It calls us to trust that God's economy operates on principles of radical generosity and divine multiplication, ensuring that His work never lacks resources when His people are obedient. Ultimately, it invites us to experience the profound joy, peace, and security of living under the open windows of heaven, where God's provision is not just sufficient, but gloriously overflowing.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
What does 2 Chronicles 31:10 teach us about God's character?
Answer: 2 Chronicles 31:10 profoundly reveals several key aspects of God's character. First, it demonstrates His unwavering faithfulness to His covenant promises, particularly those related to blessing obedience (as seen throughout Deuteronomy 28). Second, it showcases His boundless generosity and abundance, as He provides not just "enough" but "plenty" and a "great store," far exceeding human needs and expectations. Third, it highlights His divine responsiveness to His people's sincere repentance, renewed commitment, and obedience. The overflow is presented as a direct, tangible, and immediate result of the people's renewed dedication to Him. Finally, it underscores His ultimate sovereignty as the singular, ultimate source of all true blessing, explicitly stated by Azariah: "for the LORD hath blessed his people."
How does this verse relate to the concept of tithing today?
Answer: While 2 Chronicles 31:10 describes the specific context of Old Testament offerings for the Temple and its ministers, it powerfully illustrates the underlying, enduring principle of tithing and generous giving: that God blesses His people when they faithfully support His work and honor Him with their firstfruits. Just as the offerings sustained the priests and Levites then, our giving today supports the church, its ministries, and various missions that carry out God's redemptive work in the world. The verse affirms that God is not dependent on our resources, but He graciously chooses to involve us in His divine provision, and in doing so, He demonstrates His faithfulness to provide for us in return. It echoes the challenge found in Malachi 3:10, where God invites His people to "test me in this... and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it." It encourages a spirit of cheerful, trusting, and proactive generosity, rooted in the confidence that God will ensure His work is sustained and His people are abundantly cared for.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While 2 Chronicles 31:10 describes a remarkable physical blessing under the Old Covenant, it powerfully foreshadows and finds its ultimate, spiritual fulfillment in Christ. Jesus is the ultimate "offering" and "heave offering" (Hebrews 10:10) who, through His perfect, once-for-all sacrifice on the cross, provided an immeasurable and eternal "great store" of spiritual blessings for His people, far exceeding any temporal or earthly provision. Just as the people's obedience unlocked physical abundance, faith in Christ unlocks an infinitely greater spiritual abundance—complete salvation, radical forgiveness, eternal life, and "every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places" (Ephesians 1:3). The New Covenant principle of giving, rooted in grace, love, and the Spirit rather than law, leads to a different kind of "plenty" – an abundance of grace that enables us to be generous in turn, as 2 Corinthians 9:8 declares, "And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work." Christ Himself is our ultimate provision, the true bread of life who ensures we will never spiritually hunger (John 6:35), and the living water who ensures we will never spiritually thirst (John 4:14). In Him, the promise of God's abundant blessing for His people is fully and eternally realized, not merely in temporal provision, but in eternal life and spiritual riches beyond all measure.