2 Chronicles 31:6

KJV

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.

KJV (with Strong's)

And concerning the children {H1121} of Israel {H3478} and Judah {H3063}, that dwelt {H3427} in the cities {H5892} of Judah {H3063}, they also brought in {H935} the tithe {H4643} of oxen {H1241} and sheep {H6629}, and the tithe {H4643} of holy things {H6944} which were consecrated {H6942} unto the LORD {H3068} their God {H430}, and laid {H5414} them by heaps {H6194}{H6194}.

Complete Jewish Bible

The people of Isra'el and Y'hudah living in the cities of Y'hudah also brought the required tenth of oxen and sheep and the required tenth of consecrated gifts that had been dedicated to ADONAI their God, and piled them in heaps.

Berean Standard Bible

And the Israelites and Judahites who lived in the cities of Judah also brought a tithe of their herds and flocks and a tithe of the holy things consecrated to the LORD their God, and they laid them in large heaps.

American Standard Version

And 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 dedicated things which were consecrated unto Jehovah their God, and laid them by heaps.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
This verse vividly describes the overwhelming and joyful response of the people of Judah, including a remnant from the northern kingdom of Israel, to King Hezekiah's sweeping spiritual reforms. Following the cleansing and reconsecration of the Temple and the national celebration of Passover, the people spontaneously brought immense quantities of tithes from their livestock and other sacred offerings. These contributions, described as being "laid by heaps," were designated to support the restored Temple service and the Levitical priesthood, serving as a tangible manifestation of a profound national revival and a renewed commitment to God's covenant commands.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** 2 Chronicles 31:6 is situated within the broader narrative of King Hezekiah's reign, specifically detailing the practical outcomes of his comprehensive religious reforms. Chapters 29 and 30 describe Hezekiah's initial actions: the cleansing and reconsecration of the defiled Temple, followed by a nationwide celebration of Passover, which drew participants from both Judah and the remnants of the northern kingdom. The people's enthusiastic response in chapter 31, bringing their tithes and offerings, is presented as a direct and tangible consequence of this spiritual awakening. The verses immediately preceding [2 Chronicles 31:6](/2_chronicles/31-6 "2 Chronicles 31:6 - Tithes and Offerings") recount the people's spontaneous destruction of idolatrous altars and high places, while the subsequent verses detail the administrative organization of these abundant offerings and the provision made for the priests and Levites, highlighting the practical implementation and sustainability of the revival.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** King Hezekiah reigned in Judah during the late 8th century BCE (c. 715-686 BCE), a period marked by the formidable power of the Assyrian Empire. His father, Ahaz, had led Judah into deep idolatry and politically compromising alliances, moving away from exclusive worship of Yahweh. Hezekiah's reforms were a radical and courageous departure, aiming to restore pure Yahwistic worship and adherence to the Mosaic covenant. Tithing was a fundamental aspect of Israelite law, commanded in the Pentateuch (e.g., [Leviticus 27:30-33](/leviticus/27-30-33 "Leviticus 27:30-33 - Law of Tithes"), [Numbers 18:21-24](/numbers/18-21-24 "Numbers 18:21-24 - Tithes for Levites"), [Deuteronomy 14:22-29](/deuteronomy/14-22-29 "Deuteronomy 14:22-29 - Tithes and Offerings")). These contributions were essential for supporting the Levites and priests, who, lacking tribal land inheritance, were wholly dedicated to Temple service. The mention of "children of Israel and Judah" signifies that even after the fall of the northern kingdom (Israel) to Assyria in 722 BCE, a remnant from those tribes had either migrated south or remained in Judah, participating in this national spiritual restoration.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully illustrates several key themes central to the book of Chronicles and biblical theology. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **revival and restoration**, demonstrating how genuine repentance and a return to God's commands lead to tangible acts of obedience and generosity. The people's overflowing contributions are a direct fruit of the spiritual awakening under Hezekiah, echoing the principle found in [Malachi 3:10](/malachi/3-10 "Malachi 3:10 - Bring the Whole Tithe"). Secondly, it highlights the **importance of supporting God's ministry and His servants**. The tithes were crucial for sustaining the priests and Levites, enabling them to fulfill their sacred duties without distraction, a principle also seen in [1 Corinthians 9:13-14](/1_corinthians/9-13-14 "1 Corinthians 9:13-14 - Support for Ministers"). Finally, the sheer volume of the offerings, "laid by heaps," emphasizes the theme of **abundant and joyful giving**, portraying it not as a reluctant duty but as an exuberant expression of faith and gratitude, reflecting the heart of generosity described in [2 Corinthians 9:7](/2_corinthians/9-7 "2 Corinthians 9:7 - God Loves a Cheerful Giver").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Tithe (Hebrew, _maʻăsêr'_):** From H4643, meaning "a tenth; especially a tithe." This term refers to a tenth part, specifically a tenth of one's agricultural produce or livestock, which was legally and religiously prescribed as an offering to God. Its purpose was primarily for the support of the Levites and priests, who served in the sanctuary. The consistent mention of "tithe" here emphasizes the systematic and obedient nature of the giving, reflecting adherence to Mosaic Law, not merely spontaneous gifts.
* **Holy things (Hebrew, _qôdesh'_):** From H6944, meaning "a sacred place or thing; rarely abstract, sanctity." This word implies something set apart, made holy, or dedicated exclusively for sacred use or to God. In this context, it distinguishes these offerings from common goods, highlighting their sacred purpose and the people's recognition of God's ownership over all things. It signifies a deliberate act of devotion and reverence, indicating items consecrated (H6942, _qâdash_) unto the Lord.
* **Heaps (Hebrew, _ʻârêm'_):** From H6194, meaning "a heap; specifically, a sheaf." This plural noun, used twice in rapid succession in the Hebrew text ("heaps, heaps"), vividly conveys the immense volume and overflowing abundance of the offerings. It speaks to the extraordinary generosity and enthusiasm of the people, far exceeding a mere dutiful contribution, indicating a spontaneous and exuberant act of worship and profound spiritual commitment.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And [concerning] the children of Israel and Judah, that dwelt in the cities of Judah":** This clause specifies the broad scope of the contributors. It includes not only the people of the southern kingdom of Judah (H3063, _Yᵉhûwdâh_) but also a remnant of the northern kingdom of Israel (H3478, _Yisrâʼêl_) who had either migrated south or remained in the territory of Judah after the Assyrian conquest. This indicates a broad, unified response to Hezekiah's reforms, transcending old political divisions and highlighting a national spiritual revival among all God's people (H1121, _bên_, "children").
* **"they also brought in the tithe of oxen and sheep":** This details a primary form of their contributions. Livestock (H1241, _bâqâr_, "oxen" and H6629, _tsôʼn_, "sheep") constituted a significant portion of wealth in an agrarian society and were a common form of tithing (H4643, _maʻăsêr_), as stipulated in Mosaic Law. The act of bringing them in (H935, _bôwʼ_) signifies active participation and obedience to God's commands regarding the sustenance of His ministers.
* **"and the tithe of holy things which were consecrated unto the LORD their God":** Beyond livestock, the people also brought "holy things" (H6944, _qôdesh_). This likely refers to other dedicated offerings, such as firstfruits of grain, wine, or oil, or other items specifically set apart for sacred use in the Temple. The phrase "consecrated unto the LORD (H3068, _Yᵉhôvâh_) their God (H430, _ʼĕlôhîym_)" underscores the sacred nature and divine destination of these gifts, acknowledging God's sovereignty and their devotion.
* **"and laid [them] by heaps":** This powerful concluding phrase describes the sheer quantity and manner of the offerings. The image of "heaps" (H6194, _ʻârêm_) conveys an overwhelming abundance, far beyond what was merely required, suggesting a joyful, spontaneous, and overflowing generosity that was a direct result of their revived spiritual state and deep gratitude, as they "laid" (H5414, _nâthan_) them down.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs **Hyperbole** through the vivid imagery of "laid them by heaps," emphasizing the extraordinary abundance of the offerings. This exaggerated description powerfully conveys the people's overflowing generosity and enthusiasm, which likely exceeded literal storage capacity but vividly communicated the depth of their commitment. This **Imagery** creates a strong visual of immense piles of contributions, underscoring the extraordinary nature of their giving. The repetition of "tithe" (of oxen and sheep, and the tithe of holy things) serves as a form of **Anaphora** or **Repetition**, reinforcing the systematic and comprehensive nature of their giving, covering various categories of their wealth. The mention of "children of Israel and Judah" also functions as **Synecdoche**, where a part (the remnant of Israel) represents the whole (the unified people of God responding to revival), highlighting the broad scope of the spiritual awakening and Hezekiah's inclusive vision.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This passage powerfully illustrates the principle that genuine spiritual revival invariably leads to tangible expressions of obedience and generosity. When hearts are turned back to God, the natural outflow is a desire to honor Him with one's substance and to support His work and His appointed ministers. The "heaps" of offerings are not merely a record of financial transactions but a visible testament to a transformed community, demonstrating that true worship encompasses not only ritual but also sacrificial giving. This act of tithing and offering was an acknowledgment of God's sovereignty over all creation and a practical means of sustaining the covenant community's spiritual infrastructure, ensuring the continuation of Temple worship and the instruction of God's law. It reflects a profound understanding that God provides for His work through the faithfulness of His people, and that such faithfulness brings blessing.
* [Proverbs 3:9-10](/proverbs/3-9-10 "Proverbs 3:9-10 - Honor the Lord with your wealth and the firstfruits of all your produce")
* [Malachi 3:10](/malachi/3-10 "Malachi 3:10 - Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse")
* [2 Corinthians 9:6-7](/2_corinthians/9-6-7 "2 Corinthians 9:6-7 - Sowing generously and cheerfully")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
2 Chronicles 31:6 serves as a profound challenge and encouragement for believers today. It reminds us that our spiritual health is often reflected in our generosity and commitment to supporting God's kingdom work. Just as the Israelites responded to Hezekiah's reforms with open hands and hearts, we are called to consider how we steward the resources God has entrusted to us. Are we giving grudgingly, or with the joyful abundance that characterized the people who "laid them by heaps"? This verse encourages us to see our giving not as a burdensome obligation but as an act of worship, a tangible expression of our gratitude for God's blessings, and a vital means of enabling the spread of the Gospel and the care of those who minister. It prompts us to examine whether our generosity truly reflects a heart transformed by revival, understanding that our contributions directly enable the ongoing work of ministry, teaching, and outreach in our communities and globally, ensuring that God's work is sustained and flourishes.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does my giving reflect the depth of my spiritual commitment and gratitude to God?**
* **In what ways can I practically support those who are dedicated to full-time ministry today, both locally and globally?**
* **What "heaps" of generosity—whether of time, talent, or treasure—might God be calling me to offer in response to His grace in my life?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of "tithe" in this context?**

Answer: The "tithe" (Hebrew _maʻăsêr_) in 2 Chronicles 31:6 refers to the biblical command for Israelites to give a tenth of their produce or livestock to God. This was not merely a donation but a prescribed act of worship and obedience, serving as the primary means of supporting the Levites and priests who had no land inheritance and were dedicated to the Temple service. Hezekiah's reforms re-established this practice, and the people's enthusiastic response demonstrated their renewed commitment to God's covenant and His appointed system for maintaining worship. This systematic giving ensured the financial stability of the religious infrastructure, allowing the ministers to focus on their sacred duties, as outlined in passages like [Numbers 18:21](/numbers/18-21 "Numbers 18:21 - Tithes for the Levites").

**Why did people bring "heaps" of offerings, and what does it signify?**

Answer: The phrase "laid them by heaps" (Hebrew _ʻârêm_, plural _ʻârêmôt_) signifies an extraordinary, overflowing abundance of offerings, far exceeding the minimum required. It indicates a spontaneous, joyful, and fervent response from the people, driven by genuine spiritual revival rather than mere obligation. This abundance was so great that special provisions had to be made to store and manage it, as detailed in [2 Chronicles 31:10-11](/2_chronicles/31-10-11 "2 Chronicles 31:10-11 - Hezekiah's response to the abundance"). It signifies a transformed heart, where generosity becomes a natural outflow of gratitude and renewed devotion to God, demonstrating the powerful impact of Hezekiah's reforms on the national psyche and spiritual life.

**Who were the "children of Israel and Judah" mentioned in the verse?**

Answer: The "children of Israel and Judah" refers to the inhabitants of the southern kingdom of Judah, as well as a remnant of the northern kingdom of Israel. After the Assyrian conquest of the northern kingdom in 722 BCE, many Israelites were deported, but some remained in the land or migrated south into Judah. During Hezekiah's reign, efforts were made to include these remaining Israelites in the national spiritual revival, particularly in the celebration of Passover, as described in [2 Chronicles 30:1-12](/2_chronicles/30-1-12 "2 Chronicles 30:1-12 - Hezekiah invites all Israel to Passover"). This inclusion highlights Hezekiah's vision for a unified people of God, transcending the political division that had existed for centuries, and underscores the broad impact of the revival on all who identified with God's covenant people.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While 2 Chronicles 31:6 describes the Old Testament pattern of supporting God's work through the tithes and offerings for the Temple and its ministers, it ultimately points forward to the ultimate and perfect offering of Jesus Christ. The "holy things" consecrated to the Lord foreshadow the one who was truly set apart and consecrated for God's redemptive purposes – Jesus Himself, the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"). His life, death, and resurrection constitute the ultimate act of giving, a sacrifice so abundant and complete that it establishes a new covenant, fulfilling all previous requirements for atonement. Under the New Covenant, the emphasis shifts from physical tithes to a spiritual offering of our lives in worship, motivated by the immeasurable generosity of Christ. Believers are called to give not out of obligation, but out of a heart transformed by grace, reflecting the boundless love of God who [gave His only Son](/john/3-16 "John 3:16 - God so loved the world") for our salvation. Our giving, whether of resources, time, or talent, becomes an act of worship, a response to the [indescribable gift](/2_corinthians/9-15 "2 Corinthians 9:15 - Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift") of Christ, and a means of participating in the ongoing mission of His church, which is now the living temple of God's Spirit ([1 Corinthians 3:16](/1_corinthians/3-16 "1 Corinthians 3:16 - You are God's temple")).

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

Leviticus 27:30

And all the tithe of the land, [whether] of the seed of the land, [or] of the fruit of the tree, [is] the LORD'S: [it is] holy unto the LORD.

Deuteronomy 14:28

At the end of three years thou shalt bring forth all the tithe of thine increase the same year, and shalt lay [it] up within thy gates:

2 Chronicles 11:16

And after them out of all the tribes of Israel such as set their hearts to seek the LORD God of Israel came to Jerusalem, to sacrifice unto the LORD God of their fathers.

2 Chronicles 11:17

So they strengthened the kingdom of Judah, and made Rehoboam the son of Solomon strong, three years: for three years they walked in the way of David and Solomon.