TRV
Translation
King James Version
Moreover he provided him cities, and possessions of flocks and herds in abundance: for God had given him substance very much.
Complete Jewish Bible
He provided cities for himself and purchased flocks and herds in abundance, for God had made him extremely wealthy.
Berean Standard Bible
He made cities for himself, and he acquired herds of sheep and cattle in abundance, for God gave him very great wealth.
American Standard Version
Moreover he provided him cities, and possessions of flocks and herds in abundance; for God had given him very much substance.
World English Bible Messianic
Moreover he provided him cities, and possessions of flocks and herds in abundance; for God had given him very much substance.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And he made him cities, and had possession of sheepe and oxen in abundance: for God had giuen him substance exceeding much.
Young's Literal Translation
and cities he hath made for himself, and possessions of flocks and herds in abundance, for God hath given to him very much substance.
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In the KJVVerse 11,905 of 31,102
Study This Verse
Commentary on 2 Chronicles 32 verses 24–33
24 ¶ In those days Hezekiah was sick to the death, and prayed unto the LORD: and he spake unto him, and he gave him a sign.
25 But Hezekiah rendered not again according to the benefit done unto him; for his heart was lifted up: therefore there was wrath upon him, and upon Judah and Jerusalem.
26 Notwithstanding Hezekiah humbled himself for the pride of his heart, both he and the inhabitants of Jerusalem, so that the wrath of the LORD came not upon them in the days of Hezekiah.
27 And Hezekiah had exceeding much riches and honour: and he made himself treasuries for silver, and for gold, and for precious stones, and for spices, and for shields, and for all manner of pleasant jewels;
28 Storehouses also for the increase of corn, and wine, and oil; and stalls for all manner of beasts, and cotes for flocks.
29 Moreover he provided him cities, and possessions of flocks and herds in abundance: for God had given him substance very much.
30 This same Hezekiah also stopped the upper watercourse of Gihon, and brought it straight down to the west side of the city of David. And Hezekiah prospered in all his works.
31 Howbeit in the business of the ambassadors of the princes of Babylon, who sent unto him to enquire of the wonder that was done in the land, God left him, to try him, that he might know all that was in his heart.
32 Now the rest of the acts of Hezekiah, and his goodness, behold, they are written in the vision of Isaiah the prophet, the son of Amoz, and in the book of the kings of Judah and Israel.
33 And Hezekiah slept with his fathers, and they buried him in the chiefest of the sepulchres of the sons of David: and all Judah and the inhabitants of Jerusalem did him honour at his death. And Manasseh his son reigned in his stead.
Here we conclude the story of Hezekiah with an account of three things concerning him: -
I. His sickness and his recovery from it, Ch2 32:24. The account of his sickness is but briefly mentioned here; we had a large narrative of it, 2 Kings 20. His disease seemed likely to be mortal. In the extremity of it he prayed. God answered him, and gave him a sign that he should recover, the going back of the sun ten degrees.
II. His sin and his repentance for it, which were also more largely related, Kg2 20:12, etc. Yet several things are here observed concerning his sin which we had not there. 1. The occasion of it was the king of Babylon's sending an honourable embassy to him to congratulate him on his recovery. But here it is added that they came to enquire of the wonder that was done in the land (Ch2 32:31), either the destruction of the Assyrian army or the going back of the sun. The Assyrians were their enemies; they came to enquire concerning their fall, that they might triumph in it. The sun was their god; they came to enquire concerning the favour he had shown to Hezekiah, that they might honour him whom their god honoured, Ch2 32:31. These miracles were wrought to alarm and awaken a stupid careless world, and turn them from dumb and lame idols to the living God; and men were startled by them, but not converted till a greater wonder was done in that land, in the appearing of Jesus Christ, Mat 2:1, Mat 2:2. 2. God left him to himself in it, to try him, Ch2 32:31. God, by the power of his almighty grace, could have prevented the sin; but he permitted it for wise and holy ends, that, by this trial and his weakness in it, he might know, that is, it might be known (a usual Hebraism), what was in his heart, that he was not so perfect in grace as he thought he was, but had his follies and infirmities as other men. God left him to himself to be proud of his wealth, to keep him from being proud of his holiness. It is good for us to know ourselves, and our own weakness and sinfulness, that we may not be conceited or self-confident, but may always think meanly of ourselves and live in a dependence upon divine grace. We know not the corruption of our own hearts, nor what we shall do if God leave us to ourselves. Lord, lead us not into temptation. 3. His sin was the his heart was lifted up, Ch2 32:25. He was proud of the honour God had put upon him in so many instances, the honour his neighbours did him in bringing him presents, and now that the king of Babylon should send an embassy to him to caress and court him: this exalted him above measure. When Hezekiah had destroyed other idolatries he began to idolize himself. O what need have great men, and good men, and useful men, to study their own infirmities and follies, and their obligations to free grace, that they may never think highly of themselves, and to beg earnestly of God that he will hide pride from them and always keep them humble! 4. The aggravation of his sin was the he made so bad a return to God for his favours to him, making even those favours the food and fuel of his pride (Ch2 32:25): He rendered not again according to the benefit done unto him. Note, It is justly expected that those who have received mercy from God should study to make some suitable returns for the mercies they have received; and, if they do not, their ingratitude will certainly be charged upon them. Though we cannot render an equivalent, or the payment of a debt, we must render the acknowledgment of a favour. What shall I render that may be so accepted? Psa 116:12. 5. The divine displeasure he was under for this sin; though it was but a heart-sin, and the overt-act seemed not only innocent but civil (the showing of his treasures to a friend), yet wrath came upon him and his kingdom for it, Ch2 32:25. Note, Pride is a sin that God hates as much as any, and particularly in his own people. Those that exalt themselves must expect to be abased, and put under humbling providences. Wrath came on David for his pride in numbering the people. 6. His repentance for this sin: He humbled himself for the pride of his heart. Note, (1.) Though God may, for wise and holy ends, suffer his people to fall into sin, yet he will not suffer them to lie still in it; they shall not be utterly cast down. (2.) Heart-sins are to be repented of, though they go no further. (3.) Self-humiliation is a necessary branch of repentance. (4.) Pride of heart, by which we have lifted up ourselves, is a sin for which we ought in a special manner to humble ourselves. (5.) People ought to mourn for the sins of their rulers. The inhabitants of Jerusalem humbled themselves with Hezekiah, because they either knew that they also had been guilty of the same sin, or at least feared that they might share in the punishment. When David, in his pride, numbered the people, they all smarted for his sin. 7. The reprieve granted thereupon. The wrath came not in his days. While he lived the country had peace and truth prevailed; so much does repentance avail to put by, or at least to put off, the tokens of God's anger.
III. Here is the honour done to Hezekiah, 1. By the providence of God while he lived. He had exceeding much riches and honour (Ch2 32:27), replenished his stores, victualled his campus, fortified his city, and did all he wished to do; for God had given him very much substance, Ch2 32:29. Among his great performances, his turning the water-course of Gihon is mentioned (Ch2 32:30), which was done upon occasion of Sennacherib's invasion, Ch2 32:3, Ch2 32:4. The water had come into that which is called the old pool (Isa 22:11) and the upper pool (Isa 7:3); but he gathered the waters into a new place, for the greater convenience of the city, called the lower pool, Isa 22:9. And, in general, he prospered in all his works, for they were good works. 2. By the respect paid to his memory when he was dead. (1.) The prophet Isaiah wrote his life and reign (Ch2 32:32), his acts and his goodness or piety, or which it is part of the honour to be recorded and remembered, for examples to others. (2.) The people did him honour at his death (Ch2 32:33), buried him in the chief of the sepulchres, made as great a burning for him as for Asa, or, which is a much greater honour, made great lamentation for him, as for Josiah. See how the honour of serious godliness is manifested in the consciences of men. Though it is to be feared that the generality of the people did not heartily comply with the reforming kings, yet they could not but praise their endeavours for reformation, and the memory of those kings was blessed among them. It is a debt we owe to those who have been eminently useful in their day to do them honour at their death, when they are out of the reach of flattery and we have seen the end of their conversation. The due payment of this debt will be an encouragement to others to do likewise.
Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 24–33. Public domain.
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SUMMARY
2 Chronicles 32:29 encapsulates the extraordinary prosperity of King Hezekiah, detailing his vast holdings in cities, abundant flocks, and herds. This verse emphatically attributes his immense wealth not to human ingenuity or military might, but directly and singularly to the sovereign hand of God, who had generously bestowed upon him "substance very much," thereby underscoring the divine source of all true blessing and the Lord's faithfulness to His righteous king.
CONTEXT
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
The verse employs several potent literary devices to convey its profound message. Divine Attribution is central, as the Chronicler directly and explicitly assigns the source of Hezekiah's vast wealth to God, leaving no ambiguity about the ultimate origin of his prosperity. This serves to glorify God and firmly establish the theological principle that all blessings, especially those of such magnitude, ultimately flow from the divine hand. Hyperbole and Emphasis are achieved through the use of intensifying phrases such as "in abundance" and "very much," which function as superlatives, highlighting the extraordinary scale and overflowing nature of Hezekiah's possessions. This rhetorical amplification underscores the sheer magnitude of God's blessing. Furthermore, the verse functions as a powerful Summary Statement, encapsulating the material prosperity that accompanied Hezekiah's righteous reign and God's miraculous intervention, providing a concluding flourish to the narrative of his success and God's faithfulness.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The profound theological truth embedded in 2 Chronicles 32:29 is that all genuine prosperity and "substance" ultimately originate from the sovereign hand of God. Hezekiah's immense wealth was not merely the product of his shrewd governance, military might, or the tribute he received, but a direct, divine endowment. This powerfully reinforces the Old Testament covenantal principle that obedience and faithfulness to God often result in tangible blessings, demonstrating God's boundless capacity and unwavering willingness to provide abundantly for His people. It fundamentally challenges any notion that wealth is solely a product of human effort, chance, or cleverness, instead pointing to God's ultimate ownership and sovereign hand in all aspects of life. This perspective cultivates a deep sense of gratitude, humility, and a recognition of divine proprietorship over all possessions, fostering a stewardship mindset rather than a possessive one.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
2 Chronicles 32:29 offers enduring and vital lessons for believers today, serving as a profound reminder that God remains the ultimate source of all provision and blessing. While the New Covenant places a greater emphasis on spiritual riches and eternal inheritance, the foundational principle of divine sovereignty over all resources remains immutable. This verse compels us to cultivate a heart of profound gratitude for everything we possess, recognizing that our "substance"—whether it be material wealth, unique talents, cherished relationships, or timely opportunities—is a gracious gift from God. It calls us to be faithful and wise stewards of these divine endowments, using them not for selfish accumulation or fleeting pleasure, but primarily for God's glory and the flourishing of others. Hezekiah's story encourages us to trust God implicitly for our provision, especially during seasons of need or crisis, understanding that His resources are limitless and His faithfulness unwavering. Moreover, it challenges us to thoughtfully consider how our "abundance," in whatever form it takes, can be strategically leveraged to advance God's kingdom and serve His redemptive purposes in the world, just as Hezekiah used his prosperity to further the welfare of his people and the worship of the Lord.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Was Hezekiah's wealth a sign of his righteousness?
Answer: Yes, within the Old Testament covenant framework, particularly as presented by the Chronicler, material blessings and national prosperity were frequently portrayed as direct indicators of a king's and a nation's faithfulness and obedience to God. Hezekiah's reign is consistently depicted as righteous and pleasing in the Lord's sight, as affirmed in 2 Chronicles 31:20, and his wealth is presented as a direct consequence of God's favor upon his obedience. However, it is crucial to understand that this direct, one-to-one correlation between material wealth and righteousness is not a universal principle for all believers across all dispensations. Under the New Covenant, spiritual blessings are paramount, and suffering can also be a profound part of God's refining plan for the righteous, as highlighted in passages like Romans 5:3-5.
How did Hezekiah acquire this immense wealth?
Answer: Hezekiah's immense wealth stemmed from a confluence of factors, all ultimately attributed to God's overarching blessing. Firstly, as the reigning king, he exercised control over the kingdom's inherent resources, including agricultural output, trade routes, and taxation. Secondly, following God's miraculous deliverance of Jerusalem from the Assyrian invasion, surrounding nations brought significant tribute and gifts to Hezekiah, acknowledging the Lord's greatness and Hezekiah's elevated status, as explicitly stated in 2 Chronicles 32:23. Lastly, and most importantly, the verse unequivocally states that "God had given him substance very much," indicating a direct, supernatural enablement and provision from the Lord that transcended normal means of accumulation, emphasizing divine favor as the primary source.
Does this verse mean God will make all faithful believers rich?
Answer: No. While God is indeed the ultimate provider of all good and perfect gifts, and He certainly has the power to bless materially, this verse describes a specific covenantal blessing experienced by an Old Testament king within a unique historical and theological context. The New Testament primarily emphasizes spiritual riches in Christ as the believer's true and enduring inheritance, as taught in Ephesians 1:3. It frequently highlights the virtues of contentment and generosity over the pursuit of material wealth, as seen in 1 Timothy 6:6-10. While God faithfully promises to meet the needs of His people according to His riches in glory, as promised in Philippians 4:19, this does not guarantee material abundance for every faithful believer in the same extraordinary way Hezekiah experienced it.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While 2 Chronicles 32:29 meticulously details the earthly, material prosperity of King Hezekiah, its deeper and more profound fulfillment is discovered in the spiritual and eternal "substance" that God has lavishly bestowed upon humanity through His Son, Jesus Christ. Hezekiah's abundant cities, flourishing flocks, and vast herds, though impressive and divinely given, were ultimately temporary and subject to decay and loss. In stark contrast, Christ is the true, inexhaustible, and eternal source of all spiritual riches, providing His people with an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, securely kept in heaven for them, as beautifully described in 1 Peter 1:3-4. Just as God sovereignly provided for King Hezekiah, so too does He infinitely provide for us in Christ, not merely with transient earthly goods, but with the eternal blessings of redemption, perfect righteousness, profound peace, and everlasting life, as celebrated in Ephesians 1:7. Hezekiah's prosperous reign, marked by divine favor, powerfully foreshadows the ultimate and eternal reign of Christ, the King of kings and Lord of lords, who possesses all authority in heaven and on earth (Matthew 28:18), and whose kingdom is not of this world but transcends all earthly realms (John 18:36). The "substance" given to Hezekiah thus points to the infinitely greater, spiritual "substance" that God has freely and graciously bestowed upon us in His Son, making us co-heirs with Christ and granting us access to the unsearchable and glorious riches of His grace (Ephesians 3:8).