2 Chronicles 31:12

KJV

And brought in the offerings and the tithes and the dedicated [things] faithfully: over which Cononiah the Levite [was] ruler, and Shimei his brother [was] the next.

KJV (with Strong's)

And brought in {H935} the offerings {H8641} and the tithes {H4643} and the dedicated {H6944} things faithfully {H530}: over which Cononiah {H3562} the Levite {H3881} was ruler {H5057}, and Shimei {H8096} his brother {H251} was the next {H4932}.

Complete Jewish Bible

they faithfully brought in the offerings, the required tenths and the consecrated things. Konanyahu the Levi was put in charge of them, with Shim'i his brother as his assistant.

Berean Standard Bible

And they faithfully brought in the contributions, tithes, and dedicated gifts. Conaniah the Levite was the officer in charge of them, and his brother Shimei was second.

American Standard Version

and they brought in the oblations and the tithes and the dedicated things faithfully. And over them Conaniah the Levite was ruler, and Shimei his brother was second;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
2 Chronicles 31:12 provides a snapshot of the meticulous and faithful administration of the temple's resources during King Hezekiah's extensive religious reforms. Following a period of national apostasy, the people of Judah responded with overwhelming generosity, bringing abundant offerings, tithes, and dedicated items. This verse specifically details the establishment of a robust and accountable system for managing these sacred contributions, appointing Cononiah the Levite as the chief overseer and his brother Shimei as his principal assistant, thereby ensuring the proper support and functioning of the Levitical priesthood and temple service.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is deeply embedded within the narrative of King Hezekiah's profound spiritual revival and temple reformation, which commences in [2 Chronicles 29](/2_chronicles/29 "2 Chronicles 29 - Hezekiah Cleanses and Rededicates the Temple"). After cleansing and reconsecrating the temple, restoring proper worship, and reinstituting the long-neglected Passover celebration in [2 Chronicles 30](/2_chronicles/30 "2 Chronicles 30 - The Restoration of Passover"), Hezekiah turned his attention to the practical and financial support of the temple personnel. [2 Chronicles 31:2-11](/2_chronicles/31-2-11 "2 Chronicles 31:2-11 - Hezekiah Organizes Priests and Levites, People Bring Offerings") records the king's command for the people to bring their contributions, and the subsequent overwhelming response, which led to such an abundance that special chambers had to be prepared to store the provisions. Verse 12, therefore, serves as a crucial administrative follow-up, detailing the structured oversight put in place to manage these vast resources, ensuring order, accountability, and equitable distribution to those serving in the house of God. It highlights the practical implementation of Hezekiah's vision for a fully supported and functioning temple ministry.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** King Hezekiah's reign (c. 715–686 BC) marked a pivotal moment in Judah's history, succeeding the deeply idolatrous and apostate rule of his father, King Ahaz, who had even closed the temple doors and promoted pagan worship ([2 Chronicles 28:24-25](/2_chronicles/28-24-25 "2 Chronicles 28:24-25 - Ahaz's Idolatry and Temple Closure")). Hezekiah initiated a radical return to Yahweh worship, driven by a profound commitment to restore the covenant relationship between God and His people. Central to this restoration was the re-establishment of the Mosaic Law's provisions concerning the support of the Levitical priesthood. In ancient Israel, the Levites and priests, having no tribal land inheritance, were divinely ordained to be supported by the tithes and offerings of the other tribes ([Numbers 18:21-24](/numbers/18-21-24 "Numbers 18:21-24 - Provision for the Levites and Priests")). The faithful bringing of these contributions, along with their meticulous management, was not merely a civic duty or financial transaction but a profound act of national obedience, worship, and covenant faithfulness, ensuring the continuity of the divinely appointed temple service and the spiritual vitality of the nation.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully illustrates several key themes prevalent in the Books of Chronicles and broader biblical theology. Firstly, it emphasizes **Faithful Stewardship**, demonstrating that the handling of sacred resources must be conducted with the utmost integrity and trustworthiness. This principle extends beyond ancient Israel, echoing the New Testament's call for believers to be [faithful stewards of all that God entrusts to them](/1_corinthians/4-2 "1 Corinthians 4:2 - Stewards of God's Mysteries"). Secondly, the appointment of specific individuals like Cononiah and Shimei, along with their defined roles, underscores the importance of **Organized Administration** and accountability in religious affairs. Divine work is not to be conducted haphazardly but with order and structure, ensuring efficient management and proper distribution, a principle vital for any large-scale endeavor, especially one involving sacred trusts. Finally, the verse speaks directly to the theme of **Support for Ministry**. The primary purpose of these offerings and tithes was to provide for the priests and Levites, enabling them to devote themselves fully to their sacred duties without the burden of secular labor for sustenance, a principle reinforced in the New Testament concerning the [support of those who preach the gospel](/1_corinthians/9-14 "1 Corinthians 9:14 - Support for Gospel Workers").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **faithfully (Hebrew, _ʼĕmûwnâh'_):** This adverb, derived from the root _ʾāman_ (meaning "to be firm, reliable, trustworthy"), signifies that the offerings were brought and, crucially, administered with integrity, reliability, and trustworthiness. It speaks to the moral character and diligence of the administrators, emphasizing that the handling of sacred financial matters must be characterized by unwavering rectitude and adherence to divine standards. This word elevates the administrative task to a spiritual act of devotion.
* **dedicated [things] (Hebrew, _qôdesh'_):** This noun refers to anything considered holy, consecrated, or set apart for sacred use. Unlike regular tithes or general offerings, these were items, portions of property, or even individuals specifically devoted to God or the temple, often as a result of a vow or a special act of devotion. Their inclusion alongside "offerings" and "tithes" highlights the comprehensive nature of the contributions and the exceptionally high standard of care and reverence required for anything designated as holy to the Lord.
* **ruler (Hebrew, _nâgîyd'_):** This term denotes a leader, prince, or chief official, indicating a position of significant authority and responsibility. Cononiah was not merely a manager but held a prominent leadership role in overseeing the temple treasury and its vast resources. His appointment by King Hezekiah signifies the king's commitment to entrusting this vital administrative function to an individual of proven capability and high standing, underscoring the importance of competent and trustworthy leadership in sacred stewardship.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And brought in the offerings and the tithes and the dedicated [things] faithfully:"** This opening clause describes the generous and obedient response of the people of Judah to King Hezekiah's call for contributions. The enumeration of "offerings" (general freewill gifts), "tithes" (the divinely mandated tenth of produce or livestock), and "dedicated [things]" (vowed or consecrated items) demonstrates the comprehensive and abundant nature of their giving. The crucial adverb "faithfully" modifies both the act of bringing and, by implication, the subsequent handling of these sacred resources, emphasizing the integrity and diligence required in all aspects of this sacred transaction.
* **"over which Cononiah the Levite [was] ruler,"** This phrase introduces the principal figure appointed to oversee the vast influx of contributions. Cononiah, explicitly identified as a Levite, was entrusted by King Hezekiah with a position of significant authority, functioning as the chief administrator or overseer of the temple treasury. This highlights the importance of skilled, reliable, and spiritually qualified leadership in managing the material resources dedicated to God's house and ministry.
* **"and Shimei his brother [was] the next."** This final clause specifies the hierarchical structure established for the administration. Shimei, identified as Cononiah's brother, served as his second-in-command or principal assistant. This detail underscores the organized, systematic, and accountable nature of the system implemented by Hezekiah, ensuring proper oversight, delegation, and continuity in the management and distribution of the temple's substantial provisions.

#### Literary Devices
The verse primarily employs **Narrative Detail** to convey the meticulous organization of Hezekiah's reforms. By precisely naming specific individuals (Cononiah and Shimei) and clearly defining their hierarchical roles ("ruler" and "the next"), the text lends historical authenticity and specificity to the account, emphasizing the practical and systematic implementation of the king's vision. The comprehensive listing of various categories of contributions—"offerings," "tithes," and "dedicated [things]"—functions as a form of **Enumeration**, highlighting both the abundance and the diverse nature of the resources brought in by the people. Furthermore, the adverb "faithfully" acts as a potent **Qualifying Adverb**, not merely describing the action but setting a profound moral and spiritual standard for the entire process, implying that the integrity and trustworthiness of the administration were as crucial as the generosity of the giving itself. This detail elevates the administrative act to a spiritual discipline.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
2 Chronicles 31:12 offers a profound theological statement on the necessity of order, integrity, and accountability in the administration of God's resources within His worship. It illustrates that genuine spiritual revival is not solely about fervent worship and ritual but also about the practical, faithful stewardship of all that is entrusted to God's people. The meticulous organization of the temple treasury reflects God's own character of order and His expectation that His people manage His provisions with the utmost care, transparency, and honor. This verse underscores the divine principle that those who minister in spiritual things should be adequately supported by the community, enabling them to devote themselves fully to their sacred calling without the burden of secular labor for sustenance. It also serves as a timeless historical precedent for the critical importance of proper financial oversight within religious institutions, ensuring that contributions are handled honorably and used for their intended sacred purposes, fostering trust and glorifying God.

* [Malachi 3:10](/malachi/3-10 "Malachi 3:10 - Bring the Whole Tithe to the Storehouse")
* [1 Corinthians 9:13-14](/1_corinthians/9-13-14 "1 Corinthians 9:13-14 - Supporting Gospel Workers")
* [Luke 16:10](/luke/16-10 "Luke 16:10 - Faithfulness in Little Things")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
This ancient account from 2 Chronicles 31:12 offers timeless and profound principles for believers and religious organizations today. It serves as a powerful reminder that our worship of God extends beyond liturgical acts to encompass the faithful and diligent management of our material possessions and the collective resources of the church. Just as the people of Judah gave generously and the Levites administered faithfully, we are called to be diligent stewards of all that God has entrusted to us—our time, talents, and finances. For individuals, this means cultivating a heart of intentional generosity and managing personal resources with integrity, recognizing that all we possess ultimately belongs to God and is to be used for His glory. For churches, ministries, and non-profit organizations, this verse emphasizes the critical importance of transparent and accountable financial administration, appointing trustworthy individuals to oversee contributions, and ensuring that funds are used effectively and ethically to support ministry and mission. Such practices not only foster trust within the community but, more importantly, honor God, whose abundant provisions enable His work to flourish on earth.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the principle of "faithfulness" in 2 Chronicles 31:12 challenge and inform your personal approach to financial stewardship and generosity?**
* **In what specific ways can modern churches and ministries emulate the organized administration and accountability demonstrated by Cononiah and Shimei in their financial practices?**
* **Considering the provision made for the Levites, how can you practically contribute to the well-being and effectiveness of those in full-time ministry today, ensuring they are free to devote themselves to their calling?**

### FAQ
**Why were these offerings and tithes so important in ancient Israel?**

Answer: These offerings and tithes were critically important for several profound reasons. Primarily, they constituted the divinely ordained means of supporting the Levites and priests, who, unlike the other tribes, had no tribal land inheritance and were thus entirely dependent on the contributions of the people. This system, meticulously established in the Mosaic Law ([Numbers 18:21-24](/numbers/18-21-24 "Numbers 18:21-24 - Provision for the Levites and Priests")), enabled them to dedicate themselves fully to their sacred duties in the temple—teaching the Law, offering sacrifices, leading worship, and maintaining the spiritual health of the nation—without needing to engage in secular labor for sustenance. Beyond supporting personnel, these contributions also funded the maintenance of the temple itself, the provision of sacrificial animals, and various other aspects of national worship, thereby ensuring the continuity and proper functioning of Israel's covenant relationship with God. Their faithful bringing and administration were not merely economic transactions but profound acts of obedience, worship, and national commitment to God.

**What does "the next" mean regarding Shimei, Cononiah's brother?**

Answer: In this context, "the next" (Hebrew: הַמִּשְׁנֶה, _hammishneh_) signifies that Shimei held the position of second-in-command or principal assistant to Cononiah. It indicates a clear and established hierarchical structure within the temple administration, a hallmark of Hezekiah's reforms. Cononiah was the chief "ruler" or overseer, entrusted with ultimate responsibility for the temple treasury. Shimei served directly under him, likely responsible for assisting in all aspects of managing the vast quantities of offerings, tithes, and dedicated items, including their storage, record-keeping, and distribution. This detail underscores the emphasis on organized, delegated authority and accountability within the system, ensuring that the critical task of treasury management was not left to one person alone but had a robust and reliable system of oversight and support.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The meticulous administration of offerings and tithes in 2 Chronicles 31:12, intended to support the Levitical priesthood and temple worship, beautifully points forward to the ultimate and perfect provision found in Jesus Christ. While the Old Testament system required continuous contributions and a human priesthood to mediate between God and humanity, Christ, as our [great High Priest](/hebrews/4-14 "Hebrews 4:14 - Jesus, Our Great High Priest"), offered Himself as the [perfect, once-for-all sacrifice](/hebrews/7-27 "Hebrews 7:27 - Christ's Once-for-All Sacrifice"), thereby fulfilling and superseding the need for endless offerings and a temporary priesthood. The support for the physical temple and its ministers now finds its spiritual counterpart in the New Covenant, where the "temple" is the body of believers ([1 Peter 2:5](/1_peter/2-5 "1 Peter 2:5 - Living Stones, Spiritual House")) and the "priesthood" is that of all believers ([Revelation 1:6](/revelation/1-6 "Revelation 1:6 - A Kingdom of Priests")). Our giving in the New Testament era is not merely a legal obligation but a joyful and Spirit-led response to Christ's immeasurable generosity and His completed work, supporting the spread of His Gospel and the building up of His church, which is His body on earth ([2 Corinthians 9:7](/2_corinthians/9-7 "2 Corinthians 9:7 - Cheerful Giving")). The principle of faithful stewardship remains paramount, but it is now rooted in the ultimate stewardship of Christ, who perfectly managed His divine mission, even to the point of giving His life to secure our eternal inheritance, thereby urging us to [lay up treasures in heaven](/matthew/6-19-21 "Matthew 6:19-21 - Lay Up Treasures in Heaven") where they are eternally secure.

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 35:9

Conaniah also, and Shemaiah and Nethaneel, his brethren, and Hashabiah and Jeiel and Jozabad, chief of the Levites, gave unto the Levites for passover offerings five thousand [small cattle], and five hundred oxen.

1 Chronicles 26:20

¶ And of the Levites, Ahijah [was] over the treasures of the house of God, and over the treasures of the dedicated things.

1 Chronicles 26:26

Which Shelomith and his brethren [were] over all the treasures of the dedicated things, which David the king, and the chief fathers, the captains over thousands and hundreds, and the captains of the host, had dedicated.

2 Kings 12:15

Moreover they reckoned not with the men, into whose hand they delivered the money to be bestowed on workmen: for they dealt faithfully.