2 Chronicles 31:14

KJV

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.

KJV (with Strong's)

And Kore {H6981} the son {H1121} of Imnah {H3232} the Levite {H3881}, the porter {H7778} toward the east {H4217}, was over the freewill offerings {H5071} of God {H430}, to distribute {H5414} the oblations {H8641} of the LORD {H3068}, and the most {H6944} holy things {H6944}.

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.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Second Chronicles 31:14 introduces Kore, a Levite from the family of Imnah, who held a significant administrative position during King Hezekiah's extensive religious reforms. As the "porter toward the east," Kore was entrusted with the crucial responsibility of overseeing and distributing the abundant freewill offerings, oblations, and "most holy things" that the people brought to the temple. This verse underscores the meticulous organization and faithful stewardship required to manage the sacred provisions intended for the priests and Levites, reflecting Hezekiah's commitment to restoring order and integrity to the worship of God in Judah.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within a broader narrative (2 Chronicles 29-31) detailing King Hezekiah's comprehensive religious reforms following years of spiritual decline under his father, Ahaz. Chapters 29-30 describe the cleansing and rededication of the Temple, the re-establishment of the Levitical courses, and a grand Passover celebration. The outpouring of national repentance and renewed devotion led to an unprecedented abundance of tithes and offerings from the people, as described in [2 Chronicles 31:5-10](/2_chronicles/31-5 "2 Chronicles 31:5-10 - Abundance of Offerings"). This surplus necessitated a structured system for storage and distribution, which chapters 31:11-19 detail. Kore's specific role as an overseer of these offerings is presented as a vital part of this newly organized system, highlighting the importance of every administrative function in maintaining the integrity and efficacy of temple worship and the support of its ministers.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** King Hezekiah reigned over Judah from approximately 715-686 BCE, a period marked by significant Assyrian imperial pressure. His reforms were a radical departure from the idolatrous practices of his predecessor, Ahaz, and aimed to centralize worship back to the Jerusalem Temple, as commanded by the Mosaic Law. The Levites, as a tribe set apart for temple service, played diverse roles, from musicians and teachers to gatekeepers and administrators. The "porter" (gatekeeper) was not merely a guard but often held significant administrative responsibilities, including managing storerooms and distributing provisions. The system of offerings (freewill, obligatory, and "most holy things") was central to Israelite worship and the sustenance of the priestly and Levitical classes, as outlined in the Pentateuch (e.g., [Numbers 18](/numbers/18 "Numbers 18 - Duties and Support of Priests and Levites")). The meticulous organization under Hezekiah reflects a return to Mosaic principles and a deep commitment to the proper functioning of the national cult.
* **Key Themes:** Kore's appointment and duties contribute to several overarching themes in 2 Chronicles 31 and the broader book. First, it powerfully illustrates the theme of **Faithful Stewardship**, emphasizing the responsible management of God's provisions and the resources of the community. Kore's oversight of the offerings demonstrates integrity and careful administration, echoing the biblical call for faithfulness in all entrusted responsibilities, as seen in [1 Corinthians 4:2](/1_corinthians/4-2 "1 Corinthians 4:2 - Requirements for Stewards"). Second, the passage highlights the importance of **Organized Worship and Ministry Support**. The detailed administration, including Kore's role, reveals Hezekiah's commitment to orderly worship and ensuring that those serving in the temple (priests and Levites) were properly sustained, preventing them from needing to abandon their duties to seek sustenance (cf. [Nehemiah 13:10-14](/nehemiah/13-10 "Nehemiah 13:10-14 - Nehemiah's Reforms Regarding Tithes")). Finally, the mention of "most holy things" underscores the theme of **Holiness and Reverence**, emphasizing the sacred nature of items dedicated to God and the precision required in their handling and distribution. This reflects the broader biblical principle that God's presence and provisions demand a high degree of respect and purity.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Porter (Hebrew, _sho'er'_):** While often translated as "gatekeeper," the role of a _sho'er_ in the Temple context was far more extensive than merely guarding entrances. Porters were responsible for various administrative duties, including managing the temple treasuries, overseeing storerooms, and distributing portions of offerings to priests and Levites. Kore's designation as "the porter toward the east" indicates a specific, significant administrative post, likely involving the main entrance and its associated storage facilities, from which the distribution of offerings would commence. This position required trustworthiness, integrity, and organizational skill.
* **Freewill offerings (Hebrew, _nedabah'_):** This term refers to voluntary gifts given from a willing heart, beyond any obligatory tithes or sacrifices. Unlike mandatory contributions, _nedabah_ offerings were expressions of spontaneous gratitude, devotion, or a vow. Their abundance in Hezekiah's time (cf. [2 Chronicles 31:5](/2_chronicles/31-5 "2 Chronicles 31:5 - Abundance of Freewill Offerings")) signifies the people's renewed spiritual fervor and generous response to God's grace, requiring careful management by individuals like Kore.
* **Most holy things (Hebrew, _qodesh haqqodashim'_):** This phrase denotes the highest category of sacred items, portions of sacrifices, or dedicated articles that were supremely set apart for God. These were often portions of grain offerings, sin offerings, or guilt offerings that were reserved exclusively for the priests to eat within the sacred precincts, or items specifically consecrated to the Lord that could not be consumed by laypersons. Kore's responsibility over these items highlights the extreme reverence and precision required in handling God's dedicated provisions, ensuring their proper allocation according to Mosaic Law.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And Kore the son of Imnah the Levite":** This introduces the specific individual, Kore, providing his lineage (son of Imnah) and tribal affiliation (Levite). This detail emphasizes his legitimate claim to a role within the temple administration, as Levites were divinely appointed for such service. His identity grounds the administrative structure in the established order of God's people.
* **"the porter toward the east":** This phrase specifies Kore's particular administrative function and location within the Temple complex. The "east gate" was a prominent entrance, often associated with significant traffic and administrative oversight. His position indicates a key point of access and control for the flow of offerings and resources into the Temple treasuries.
* **"[was] over the freewill offerings of God":** This clause defines Kore's primary area of responsibility: the oversight and management of the voluntary contributions brought by the people. The phrase "of God" emphasizes the divine ownership and sacred nature of these gifts, highlighting the spiritual significance of Kore's administrative task.
* **"to distribute the oblations of the LORD":** This specifies Kore's active duty – the distribution of "oblations." "Oblations" (Hebrew, _terumah_) were contributions, often "heave offerings" lifted up as a dedication to the Lord. This part of his role involved ensuring that these contributions, whether voluntary or more structured, reached their intended recipients, primarily the priests and other Levites for their sustenance.
* **"and the most holy things":** This final phrase adds the most sacred category of items to Kore's charge. His responsibility extended to the handling and distribution of the "most holy things," which were portions of sacrifices or dedicated items reserved for the priests, underscoring the extreme care, purity, and adherence to ritual law required in his duties.

#### Literary Devices
The Chronicler's account in 2 Chronicles 31:14 employs **Detailing** and **Emphasis** to underscore the meticulous nature of Hezekiah's reforms and the importance of administrative integrity. The precise naming of Kore, his lineage, and his specific role ("porter toward the east") demonstrates a concern for historical accuracy and highlights that even seemingly minor administrative positions were crucial to the functioning of God's house. The listing of the types of offerings – "freewill offerings," "oblations," and "most holy things" – provides a comprehensive scope of Kore's responsibilities, emphasizing the vast quantity and varied nature of the provisions entrusted to him. This **Emphasis** on order and accountability serves to validate the success of Hezekiah's revival, showing that spiritual renewal was accompanied by practical, organized management. Furthermore, Kore's role can be seen as a **Symbolism** of faithful stewardship; his diligent service in managing the temple's resources becomes a model for all who are entrusted with God's provisions, whether material or spiritual.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Kore's role in 2 Chronicles 31:14 serves as a powerful illustration of the biblical principles of faithful stewardship, the necessity of order in worship, and the divine provision for those who serve God. His oversight of the "freewill offerings," "oblations," and "most holy things" underscores that all resources dedicated to God's service, regardless of their origin or specific designation, are sacred and must be managed with integrity and precision. This passage affirms that administrative roles, though often unseen, are vital to the health and flourishing of God's people and their 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 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 administration.

* [1 Corinthians 4:2](/1_corinthians/4-2 "1 Corinthians 4:2 - Requirements for Stewards")
* [Numbers 18:21](/numbers/18-21 "Numbers 18:21 - Provision for Levites")
* [Malachi 3:10](/malachi/3-10 "Malachi 3:10 - Bringing the Whole Tithe")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The seemingly administrative detail of Kore's appointment in 2 Chronicles 31:14 carries profound implications for contemporary believers and the church. It reminds us that every role within God's work, from the most visible leadership to the often-unseen administrative and logistical tasks, is valuable and essential. Kore's diligent service in managing the temple's resources—the freewill offerings and the most holy things—is a model for faithful stewardship in all areas of life, particularly in the support and administration of ministry. It emphasizes that order, integrity, transparency, and careful distribution of resources are not merely good business practices but spiritual disciplines essential for the health, credibility, and flourishing of God's people and their worship. In a world often skeptical of religious organizations, the meticulous accountability demonstrated here serves as a timeless call for ethical financial management and the valuing of every individual who contributes to the body of Christ, whether through giving or through diligent service behind the scenes.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Kore's role challenge my perception of "spiritual" versus "administrative" tasks within the church or my own life?**
* **In what ways can I practice faithful stewardship of the resources (time, talent, treasure) God has entrusted to me, reflecting the integrity seen in Kore?**
* **How can my local church or ministry better embody the principles of organized worship, transparent financial management, and proper support for its ministers, as exemplified in Hezekiah's reforms?**

### 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. He is identified as "the porter toward the east," indicating a specific and important gatekeeping role that extended beyond merely guarding. His primary responsibility was to oversee and distribute the vast amounts of freewill offerings, oblations, and "most holy things" that the people brought to the Temple. His role is highlighted to demonstrate the meticulous organization and integrity 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 (cf. [2 Chronicles 31:11-19](/2_chronicles/31-11 "2 Chronicles 31:11-19 - Appointment of Overseers for Offerings")).

**What were "freewill offerings" and "most holy things," and why was their management so important?**

Answer: "Freewill offerings" (Hebrew: _nedabah_) were voluntary gifts given by the people from a willing heart, distinct from obligatory tithes or sacrifices. They represented spontaneous acts of devotion and gratitude. "Most holy things" (Hebrew: _qodesh haqqodashim_) referred to the most sacred portions of offerings (e.g., certain 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 dedicated to God and ensuring the sustenance of the priests and Levites, who were dependent on these offerings for their livelihood. Proper 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 duties (cf. [Nehemiah 13:10-14](/nehemiah/13-10 "Nehemiah 13:10-14 - Neglect of Levites' Portions")).

**How does this passage relate to modern church administration and financial integrity?**

Answer: This passage provides a timeless model for modern church administration and financial integrity. Kore's role 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," modern churches are entrusted with the generous contributions of believers, which are consecrated for God's work. The meticulous organization under Hezekiah, including the appointment of trustworthy individuals like Kore, serves as a biblical precedent for establishing clear systems for receiving, safeguarding, and distributing funds and resources. It emphasizes that financial stewardship is a spiritual matter, requiring integrity, faithfulness, and a commitment to ensuring that resources are used effectively to support ministry and honor God, fostering trust within the congregation and demonstrating good witness to the world (cf. [Acts 6:1-7](/acts/6-1 "Acts 6:1-7 - Appointment of Deacons for Distribution") for early church example).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Kore's diligent service in managing the "freewill offerings" and "most holy things" in the earthly temple 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 provides for His people but is the ultimate "most holy thing" offered for 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](/john/6-35 "John 6:35 - Jesus, the Bread of Life") and the [living water](/john/4-10 "John 4:4-10 - Jesus, the Living Water"). He is the one who perfectly administers the new covenant, ensuring that all spiritual provisions, including forgiveness, righteousness, and eternal life, are distributed to those who believe. Just as Kore ensured the sustenance of the earthly ministers, Christ sustains His church, the new spiritual temple, by His [Spirit](/john/14-26 "John 14:26 - The Holy Spirit, the Helper") and His [Word](/john/1-1 "John 1:1 - The Word Became Flesh"). Ultimately, Kore's faithful management of earthly resources finds its fulfillment in Christ's perfect and eternal administration of all things, who is [head over everything for the church](/ephesians/1-22 "Ephesians 1:22 - Christ as Head of the Church"), ensuring its provision and flourishing until His glorious return.

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

Psalms 119:108

¶ Accept, I beseech thee, the freewill offerings of my mouth, O LORD, and teach me thy judgments.

Leviticus 2:10

And that which is left of the meat offering [shall be] Aaron's and his sons': [it is] a thing most holy of the offerings of the LORD made by fire.

Nehemiah 13:13

And I made treasurers over the treasuries, Shelemiah the priest, and Zadok the scribe, and of the Levites, Pedaiah: and next to them [was] Hanan the son of Zaccur, the son of Mattaniah: for they were counted faithful, and their office [was] to distribute unto their brethren.

Leviticus 10:12

¶ And Moses spake unto Aaron, and unto Eleazar and unto Ithamar, his sons that were left, Take the meat offering that remaineth of the offerings of the LORD made by fire, and eat it without leaven beside the altar: for it [is] most holy:

Leviticus 10:13

And ye shall eat it in the holy place, because it [is] thy due, and thy sons' due, of the sacrifices of the LORD made by fire: for so I am commanded.

Leviticus 23:38

Beside the sabbaths of the LORD, and beside your gifts, and beside all your vows, and beside all your freewill offerings, which ye give unto the LORD.

Numbers 29:39

These [things] ye shall do unto the LORD in your set feasts, beside your vows, and your freewill offerings, for your burnt offerings, and for your meat offerings, and for your drink offerings, and for your peace offerings.