TRV
Translation
King James Version
And Kore the son of Imnah the Levite, the porter toward the east, was over the freewill offerings of God, to distribute the oblations of the LORD, and the most holy things.
Complete Jewish Bible
Kore the son of Yimnah the Levi, gatekeeper at the East Gate, was responsible for the voluntary offerings to God; he had to distribute the offerings made to ADONAI and the especially holy gifts.
Berean Standard Bible
Kore son of Imnah the Levite, the keeper of the East Gate, was in charge of the freewill offerings given to God, distributing the contributions to the LORD and the consecrated gifts.
American Standard Version
And Kore the son of Imnah the Levite, the porter at the east gate, was over the freewill-offerings of God, to distribute the oblations of Jehovah, and the most holy things.
World English Bible Messianic
Kore the son of Imnah the Levite, the porter at the east gate, was over the freewill offerings of God, to distribute the offerings of the LORD, and the most holy things.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And Kore the sonne of Imnah the Leuite porter towarde the East, was ouer the things that were willingly offred vnto God, to distribute the oblations of the Lord, and the holy things that were consecrate.
Young's Literal Translation
And Kore son of Imnah the Levite, the gatekeeper at the east, is over the willing-offerings of God, to give the heave-offering of Jehovah, and the most holy things.
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In the KJVVerse 11,869 of 31,102
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Commentary on 2 Chronicles 31 verses 11–21
11 ¶ Then Hezekiah commanded to prepare chambers in the house of the LORD; and they prepared them,
12 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.
13 And Jehiel, and Azaziah, and Nahath, and Asahel, and Jerimoth, and Jozabad, and Eliel, and Ismachiah, and Mahath, and Benaiah, were overseers under the hand of Cononiah and Shimei his brother, at the commandment of Hezekiah the king, and Azariah the ruler of the house of God.
14 And Kore the son of Imnah the Levite, the porter toward the east, was over the freewill offerings of God, to distribute the oblations of the LORD, and the most holy things.
15 And next him were Eden, and Miniamin, and Jeshua, and Shemaiah, Amariah, and Shecaniah, in the cities of the priests, in their set office, to give to their brethren by courses, as well to the great as to the small:
16 Beside their genealogy of males, from three years old and upward, even unto every one that entereth into the house of the LORD, his daily portion for their service in their charges according to their courses;
17 Both to the genealogy of the priests by the house of their fathers, and the Levites from twenty years old and upward, in their charges by their courses;
18 And to the genealogy of all their little ones, their wives, and their sons, and their daughters, through all the congregation: for in their set office they sanctified themselves in holiness:
19 Also of the sons of Aaron the priests, which were in the fields of the suburbs of their cities, in every several city, the men that were expressed by name, to give portions to all the males among the priests, and to all that were reckoned by genealogies among the Levites.
20 And thus did Hezekiah throughout all Judah, and wrought that which was good and right and truth before the LORD his God.
21 And in every work that he began in the service of the house of God, and in the law, and in the commandments, to seek his God, he did it with all his heart, and prospered.
Here we have,
I. Two particular instances of the care of Hezekiah concerning church matters, having put them into good order, to keep them so. The tithes and other holy things being brought in, he provided, 1. That they should be carefully laid up, and not left exposed in loose heaps, liable to be wasted and embezzled. He ordered chambers to be made ready in some of the courts of the temple for store-chambers (Ch2 31:11), and into them the offerings were brought and there kept under lock and key, Ch2 31:12, Ch2 31:13. Treasures or store-keepers were appointed, who had the oversight of them, to see that moth and rust did not corrupt them nor thieves break through to steal. This wisdom of laying up the surplus in days of plenty we may learn from the ant, who provideth meat in summer. The laying up in store what was brought in was an encouragement to people to pay in their contributions. That will be given cheerfully by the public which appears to be well husbanded. 2. That they should be faithfully laid out, according to the uses they were intended for. Church treasures are not to be hoarded any longer than till there is occasion for them, lest even the rust should be a witness against those who hoard them. Officers were appointed, men (no doubt) of approved wisdom and faithfulness, to distribute the oblations of the Lord and the most holy things among the priests (Ch2 31:14), and to see that they all had a competent maintenance for themselves and their families. The law provided sufficient for them all, and therefore, if some had too little, it must be because others had too much; to prevent such inequality these officers were to go by some certain rule of proportion in the disposal of the incomes of the temple. It is said of the priests here (Ch2 31:18) that in their set office they sanctified themselves; in faith they sanctified themselves (so the word is), that is, as bishop Patrick explains it, they attended their ministry at the house of God, not doubting but they should be provided with all things necessary. Now, because they served God in that confidence, care was taken that they should not be made ashamed of their hope. Note, Those that sanctify themselves to God and his service in faith, believing that he will see them want for nothing that is good for them, shall certainly be fed. Out of the offerings of the Lord distribution was made, (1.) To the priests in the cities (Ch2 31:15), who staid at home while their brethren went to Jerusalem, and did good there in teaching the good knowledge of the Lord. The preaching priests were maintained as well as the sacrificing priests, and those that abode by the stuff as well as those that warred the warfare. (2.) To those that entered into the house of the Lord, all the males from three years old and upwards; for the male children even at that tender age, it seems, were allowed to come into the temple with their parents, and shared with them in this distribution, Ch2 31:16. (3.) Even the Levites from twenty years old and upwards had their share, Ch2 31:17. (4.) The wives and children of the priests and Levites had a comfortable maintenance out of those offerings, Ch2 31:18. In maintaining ministers, regard must be had to their families, that not they only, but theirs, may have food convenient. In some countries where ministers have their salary paid them by the state an addition is made to it upon the birth of a child. (5.) The priests in the country, that lived in the fields of the suburbs, were not overlooked in this ministration, Ch2 31:19. Those also had their share who were inhabitants of the villages, though they might be supposed to live at a less expense.
II. A general character of Hezekiah's services for the support of religion, Ch2 31:20, Ch2 31:21. 1. His pious zeal reached to all the parts of his kingdom: Thus he did throughout all Judah; every part of the country, and not those only that lay next him, shared in the good fruits of his government. 2. He sincerely designed to please God, and approved himself to him in all he did: He wrought that which was good before the Lord his God; all his care was to do that which should be accepted of God, which was right (that is, agreeable to natural equity), and truth (that is, agreeable to divine revelation and his covenant with God), before the Lord; to do according to that law which is holy, just, and good. 3. What he began he went through with, prosecuted it with vigour, and did it with all his heart. 4. All his good intentions were brought to a good issue; whatever he did in the service of the house of God, and in the government of his kingdom, he prospered in it. Note, What is undertaken with a sincere regard to the glory of God will succeed to our own honour and comfort at last.
Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 11–21. 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 31:14 introduces Kore, a Levite from the family of Imnah, who served in a pivotal administrative role during King Hezekiah's sweeping religious reforms. Identified as "the porter toward the east," Kore was entrusted with the weighty responsibility of overseeing and distributing the abundant freewill offerings, oblations, and "most holy things" that the people generously brought to the Temple. This verse highlights the meticulous organization, faithful stewardship, and profound reverence required to manage the sacred provisions intended for the priests and Levites, underscoring Hezekiah's unwavering commitment to restoring order, integrity, and divine provision within the worship life of Judah.
CONTEXT
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
The Chronicler's account in 2 Chronicles 31:14 masterfully employs Detailing and Emphasis to underscore the meticulous nature of King Hezekiah's reforms and the paramount importance of administrative integrity within God's house. The precise naming of Kore, his specific lineage, and his exact administrative role ("porter toward the east") demonstrates a profound concern for historical accuracy and highlights that even seemingly administrative positions were vital to the seamless functioning of Temple worship. The comprehensive listing of the types of offerings—"freewill offerings," "oblations," and "most holy things"—provides a full scope of Kore's extensive responsibilities, thereby emphasizing the vast quantity and varied nature of the sacred provisions entrusted to him. This Emphasis on order, accountability, and proper management serves to validate the spiritual success of Hezekiah's revival, demonstrating that genuine spiritual renewal was inextricably linked with practical, organized, and ethical administration. Furthermore, Kore's diligent service can be interpreted as a powerful Symbolism of faithful stewardship; his careful management of the Temple's resources becomes a timeless model for all who are entrusted with God's provisions, whether material, spiritual, or relational.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Kore's role in 2 Chronicles 31:14 serves as a powerful illustration of the enduring biblical principles of faithful stewardship, the necessity of order in divine worship, and God's providential care for those who serve Him. His oversight of the "freewill offerings," "oblations," and "most holy things" profoundly underscores that all resources dedicated to God's service, regardless of their origin or specific designation, are inherently sacred and must be managed with the utmost integrity, precision, and reverence. This passage affirms that administrative roles, though often operating behind the scenes, are absolutely vital to the health, credibility, and flourishing of God's people and their corporate worship. It highlights God's expectation for His people to bring their offerings generously and for His servants to manage those gifts responsibly, ensuring that the needs of the ministry are met and that the sanctity of God's provisions is upheld. This divinely ordered system of giving and distribution reflects God's design for a well-ordered community that honors Him in every aspect, from spontaneous generosity to meticulous and transparent administration.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The seemingly administrative detail of Kore's appointment in 2 Chronicles 31:14 carries profound and enduring implications for contemporary believers and the church today. It serves as a powerful reminder that every role within God's work, from the most visible leadership positions to the often-unseen administrative and logistical tasks, is invaluable, essential, and imbued with spiritual significance. Kore's diligent service in managing the Temple's sacred resources—the freewill offerings and the most holy things—stands as a timeless model for faithful stewardship in all areas of life, particularly in the support and administration of Christian ministry. It emphasizes that order, integrity, transparency, and the careful, equitable distribution of resources are not merely good business practices but are, in fact, spiritual disciplines foundational for the health, credibility, and flourishing of God's people and their corporate worship. In a world often characterized by skepticism towards religious organizations, the meticulous accountability demonstrated here serves as a timeless call for ethical financial management and the profound valuing of every individual who contributes to the body of Christ, whether through generous giving or through diligent, behind-the-scenes service.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Who was Kore and why is his specific role highlighted in this passage?
Answer: Kore, the son of Imnah, was a Levite appointed by King Hezekiah to a crucial administrative position within the Temple during a period of significant religious revival and reform. He is specifically identified as "the porter toward the east," indicating a particular and important gatekeeping role that extended far beyond merely guarding entrances. His primary responsibility was to meticulously oversee and equitably distribute the vast amounts of freewill offerings, oblations, and "most holy things" that the people generously brought to the Temple. His role is highlighted by the Chronicler to underscore the meticulous organization, profound integrity, and divine order that characterized Hezekiah's reforms, ensuring that the abundant provisions for the priests and Levites were managed and distributed fairly and properly, reflecting a return to biblical order in worship and ministry support (2 Chronicles 31:11-19).
What were "freewill offerings" and "most holy things," and why was their management so important?
Answer: "Freewill offerings" (Hebrew: nᵉdâbâh) were voluntary gifts given by the people from a willing and generous heart, distinct from obligatory tithes or prescribed sacrifices. They represented spontaneous acts of devotion, gratitude, or the fulfillment of a vow. "Most holy things" (Hebrew: qôdesh, in its intensified usage) referred to the most sacred portions of offerings (e.g., specific parts of grain or sin offerings) or dedicated items that were exclusively reserved for the priests to consume within the holy precincts of the Temple, or were otherwise set apart as supremely consecrated to God. Their management was critically important because it involved handling sacred provisions directly dedicated to God and ensuring the sustenance of the priests and Levites, who were entirely dependent on these offerings for their livelihood. Proper and meticulous management ensured that God was honored, that the Temple ministry could function without hindrance, and that those serving God were adequately provided for, preventing them from having to abandon their sacred duties to seek sustenance (Nehemiah 13:10-14).
How does this passage relate to modern church administration and financial integrity?
Answer: This passage provides a timeless and foundational model for modern church administration and financial integrity. Kore's role profoundly underscores the importance of transparent, accountable, and diligent management of resources within God's house. Just as Kore was entrusted with "freewill offerings" and "most holy things" that were consecrated to God, modern churches are entrusted with the generous contributions of believers, which are likewise consecrated for God's work and kingdom purposes. The meticulous organization under King Hezekiah, including the appointment of trustworthy individuals like Kore to oversee finances, serves as a clear biblical precedent for establishing clear systems for receiving, safeguarding, and distributing funds and resources. It emphasizes that financial stewardship is not merely a secular business practice but a profoundly spiritual matter, requiring the highest levels of integrity, faithfulness, and a commitment to ensuring that resources are used effectively to support ministry and honor God, thereby fostering deep trust within the congregation and demonstrating a credible witness to the world (Acts 6:1-7 for an early church example of administrative integrity).
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Kore's diligent service in managing the "freewill offerings" and "most holy things" within the earthly Temple complex powerfully foreshadows the ultimate and perfect stewardship of Jesus Christ. While Kore oversaw the distribution of physical provisions for the Levitical priesthood, Christ Himself is the true and eternal High Priest, who not only perfectly provides for His people but is the ultimate "most holy thing" offered for the redemption of the world. The abundance of offerings managed by Kore points to the spiritual abundance found in Christ, who generously gives Himself as the bread of life and the source of living water. He is the one who perfectly administers the new covenant, ensuring that all spiritual provisions—including forgiveness, righteousness, eternal life, and the very presence of God—are freely distributed to all who believe. Just as Kore ensured the sustenance of the earthly ministers, Christ perfectly sustains His church, the new spiritual Temple, by His Holy Spirit and His life-giving Word. Ultimately, Kore's faithful management of earthly resources finds its glorious fulfillment in Christ's perfect and eternal administration of all things, for He is head over everything for the church, ensuring its provision, protection, and flourishing until His triumphant return.