TRV
Translation
King James Version
In the third month they began to lay the foundation of the heaps, and finished them in the seventh month.
Complete Jewish Bible
They began accumulating these heaps in the third month and completed them in the seventh month.
Berean Standard Bible
In the third month they began building up the heaps, and they finished in the seventh month.
American Standard Version
In the third month they began to lay the foundation of the heaps, and finished them in the seventh month.
World English Bible Messianic
In the third month they began to lay the foundation of the heaps, and finished them in the seventh month.
Geneva Bible (1599)
In the thirde moneth they beganne to lay the foundation of the heapes, and finished them in the seuenth moneth.
Young's Literal Translation
in the third month they have begun to lay the foundation of the heaps, and in the seventh month they have finished.
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In the KJVVerse 11,862 of 31,102
Study This Verse
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 31:7 powerfully illustrates the extraordinary scale and sustained effort involved in collecting the offerings during King Hezekiah's sweeping spiritual reforms. This verse highlights the culmination of a period of profound national generosity, where the contributions of firstfruits and tithes were so vast that they formed literal "heaps," requiring several months to collect, organize, and store, thereby underscoring the people's zealous and widespread commitment to supporting the restored temple worship.
CONTEXT
Literary Context: This verse is strategically placed within a pivotal narrative in 2 Chronicles, detailing King Hezekiah's comprehensive religious reforms and the subsequent national revival. Following decades of spiritual decline under previous monarchs, Hezekiah initiated a profound cleansing and rededication of the temple, meticulously recorded in 2 Chronicles 29. This was immediately followed by a joyous and extended celebration of Passover, drawing participants from both Judah and Israel, as recounted in 2 Chronicles 30. Chapter 31 then describes the practical and tangible outworking of this spiritual renewal: the people's enthusiastic and obedient response to Hezekiah's command to provide for the priests and Levites. Specifically, 2 Chronicles 31:5-6 detail the unprecedented outpouring of firstfruits and tithes from across Judah and Israel, leading directly into verse 7, which describes the physical manifestation of these abundant contributions as immense "heaps." Thus, this verse serves as a concrete and visible testament to the depth and sincerity of the people's repentance and renewed devotion to the Lord.
Historical & Cultural Context: The precise mention of the "third month" (Sivan) and the "seventh month" (Tishri) is vital for grasping the historical and agricultural context of ancient Israel. The third month, Sivan (typically May/June), coincided with the Feast of Weeks (Pentecost), which marked the wheat harvest and the presentation of firstfruits to the Lord. The seventh month, Tishri (typically September/October), was a period of major autumn feasts, including the Feast of Trumpets, the Day of Atonement, and the Feast of Tabernacles (Sukkot), signifying the ingathering of the final harvest of grapes and olives. This timeframe, spanning approximately four months from Sivan to Tishri, encompasses the main agricultural harvest seasons in ancient Israel. The "heaps" therefore represent the culmination of the year's produce—grain, new wine, oil, and honey—given as firstfruits and tithes, demonstrating the people's widespread obedience to the Mosaic Law regarding offerings (e.g., Deuteronomy 14:22-29). The sheer volume of these contributions indicates a national commitment, made possible and managed by Hezekiah's efficient and organized administration, which was essential for collecting and storing such immense quantities from various regions.
Key Themes: This verse powerfully illustrates several crucial themes central to the book of 2 Chronicles and broader biblical theology. Firstly, it underscores Abundant Generosity, showcasing a people whose hearts were so profoundly turned towards God that their giving far exceeded mere obligation, forming literal mountains of produce. This reflects a deep and widespread commitment to supporting God's work and His appointed ministers, echoing the principle found in Proverbs 3:9-10. Secondly, the specific timeframe—from the "third month" to the "seventh month"—highlights Order and Diligence in stewardship. The sustained effort demonstrates not only the vastness of the contributions but also the efficient and organized administration put in place by Hezekiah to manage such a large undertaking, emphasizing the importance of wise management of God's provisions. Thirdly, these physical "heaps" serve as a direct and tangible manifestation of Spiritual Revival. When the people's hearts were right with God, their obedience extended to their resources, fulfilling the principle that true worship impacts every area of life, including material possessions, as seen in the broader context of Hezekiah's reforms described in 2 Chronicles 31. Finally, the sheer volume of offerings also implicitly points to Divine Provision and Blessing. The ability of the people to give so lavishly suggests that God had blessed their land and their labor, enabling such an outpouring of generosity, echoing promises of blessing for obedience found in passages like Malachi 3:10.
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
The verse employs several literary devices to convey its powerful message. Chronological Markers are prominently used, with the specific mention of "the third month" and "the seventh month" providing a precise temporal framework. This not only grounds the narrative in historical reality but also emphasizes the sustained effort and the significant duration required for this massive undertaking. Hyperbole is evident in the description of "heaps," which, while likely literal in the sense of large piles, also serves to exaggerate the overwhelming abundance, underscoring the extraordinary generosity of the people. This vivid imagery creates a strong impression of overflowing provision. Furthermore, the physical "heaps" function as Symbolism, representing the tangible fruit of spiritual revival. They are a visible testament to the people's renewed commitment to God, demonstrating that a transformed heart leads to transformed actions, particularly in the realm of material stewardship and support for sacred institutions.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The account in 2 Chronicles 31:7 serves as a powerful theological statement about the intrinsic relationship between genuine spiritual revival and tangible, obedient action. The overflowing generosity of the people, manifested in these "heaps" of offerings, is a direct and visible consequence of their hearts being turned back to God under Hezekiah's faithful leadership. It vividly illustrates the timeless biblical principle that when God's people are truly devoted to Him, their obedience extends to every area of their lives, including their material resources, demonstrating profound trust in His provision and a fervent desire to honor Him with their firstfruits. This act of giving was not merely a grudging duty but a joyful, abundant response to God's goodness and faithfulness, reflecting a deep understanding that all blessings ultimately come from His hand. It also highlights God's reciprocal faithfulness to provide for His people when they walk in obedience, enabling them to give so lavishly that their contributions formed literal mountains.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The scene described in 2 Chronicles 31:7 offers a profound challenge and inspiration for believers today. It reminds us that genuine spiritual renewal is rarely confined to internal feelings but almost always manifests in tangible acts of obedience, particularly in how we steward the resources God has entrusted to us. The "heaps" symbolize a generosity born out of a willing heart, a joyful response to God's goodness and faithfulness rather than a grudging obligation. This verse calls us to examine our own giving: Is it proportionate to the blessings we have received? Do we give with diligence, cheerfulness, and a spirit of worship, recognizing that our contributions directly support God's ongoing work in the world and the flourishing of His kingdom? Furthermore, the sustained effort from the "third month" to the "seventh month" highlights the importance of consistent, organized stewardship. It's not just about an initial burst of enthusiasm, but about sustained commitment, wise management, and faithful perseverance in deploying what God has entrusted to us for the advancement of His purposes.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why did it take so long to collect these offerings?
Answer: The duration from the third month to the seventh month (approximately four months) was necessary due to the immense scale of the offerings and the significant logistical challenges involved. The contributions came from all over Judah and Israel, as detailed in 2 Chronicles 31:6, requiring considerable time for transportation from various regions to the central collection points. Furthermore, the offerings consisted of agricultural produce—grain, new wine, oil, and honey—and livestock, which needed to be collected, measured, and stored as they were harvested throughout the agricultural season. The specific timeframe encompasses the main harvest periods, from the early wheat harvest in Sivan to the final ingathering of grapes and olives in Tishri. This sustained effort also reflects the meticulous organization and efficient administration put in place by King Hezekiah and his officials to manage such a massive national undertaking, ensuring proper accounting and distribution.
What was the purpose of these "heaps" of offerings?
Answer: The primary purpose of these "heaps" was to provide sustained and abundant support for the priests and Levites who served in the temple. As a crucial part of Hezekiah's comprehensive reforms, he recognized the vital need to restore the proper functioning of the temple worship, which included ensuring that those dedicated to sacred service were adequately provided for, allowing them to focus fully on their duties (2 Chronicles 31:4). These offerings, consisting primarily of firstfruits and tithes, were mandated by Mosaic Law (e.g., Numbers 18:21) to sustain the Levitical priesthood, who had no tribal land inheritance. The overwhelming abundance of these "heaps" ensured that there was more than enough, leading to the question in 2 Chronicles 31:10 about the surplus, indicating God's profound blessing on their obedience and generosity.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While 2 Chronicles 31:7 describes the impressive physical "heaps" of offerings as a tangible testament to Israel's revived obedience and God's temporal provision, it ultimately points forward to the ultimate and eternal provision found in Jesus Christ. The Old Testament system of tithes and offerings, while divinely commanded and good, was a shadow of the perfect and complete sacrifice that Christ would make on the cross. The "heaps" of grain, wine, and oil, though abundant and sustaining for a time, were temporary and perishable; they foreshadow the inexhaustible spiritual riches and eternal life offered through Christ. Our giving under the New Covenant is not primarily to support a physical temple, but to participate in the spread of the Gospel and the building of His spiritual body, the Church, a living temple where God dwells by His Spirit (Ephesians 2:19-22). The ultimate "foundation" laid is not of physical heaps of produce, but Christ Himself, the chief cornerstone upon whom the entire spiritual temple of God's people is built. Our generosity, like that of the early church described in Acts 4:32-35, becomes a joyful, Spirit-empowered response to the immeasurable gift of God's Son, who, though rich, for our sakes became poor, so that we through His poverty might become rich (2 Corinthians 8:9). The abundance of the Old Covenant, seen in these overflowing "heaps," points to the superabundant grace and provision of the New Covenant, where Christ is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world, offering a spiritual feast that truly satisfies for all eternity and provides for every need.