2 Chronicles 34:10

KJV

And they put [it] in the hand of the workmen that had the oversight of the house of the LORD, and they gave it to the workmen that wrought in the house of the LORD, to repair and amend the house:

KJV (with Strong's)

And they put {H5414} it in the hand {H3027} of the workmen {H6213}{H4399} that had the oversight {H6485} of the house {H1004} of the LORD {H3068}, and they gave {H5414} it to the workmen {H6213}{H4399} that wrought {H6213} in the house {H1004} of the LORD {H3068}, to repair {H918} and amend {H2388} the house {H1004}:

Complete Jewish Bible

They gave it to the supervisors of the work being done in the house of ADONAI; and those doing the work in the house of ADONAI used it to repair and restore the house -

Berean Standard Bible

They put it into the hands of the supervisors of those doing the work of the house of the LORD, who in turn gave it to the workmen restoring and repairing the house of the LORD.

American Standard Version

And they delivered it into the hand of the workmen that had the oversight of the house of Jehovah; and the workmen that wrought in the house of Jehovah gave it to mend and repair the house:

Commentary

### SUMMARY
2 Chronicles 34:10 describes a pivotal moment in King Josiah's widespread spiritual reforms, detailing the practical administration of funds collected for the restoration of the Temple in Jerusalem. This verse highlights the careful and accountable transfer of resources from those who collected them to the various categories of workmen responsible for the physical repair and amendment of the neglected house of the LORD, underscoring the diligence and integrity required for sacred endeavors.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within the broader narrative of King Josiah's reign, which begins in [2 Chronicles 34](/2_chronicles/34 "2 Chronicles 34 - Josiah's Reforms"). The preceding verses establish Josiah's early piety and his initiation of religious reforms at a young age, starting with the purging of idolatry from Judah and Jerusalem by his twelfth year ([2 Chronicles 34:3-7](/2_chronicles/34-3 "2 Chronicles 34:3-7 - Josiah's Idolatry Purge")). Following this spiritual cleansing, Josiah turns his attention to the physical restoration of the Temple, God's dwelling place, which had fallen into disrepair due to generations of neglect and idolatry. Verses [2 Chronicles 34:8-9](/2_chronicles/34-8 "2 Chronicles 34:8-9 - Collection of Temple Funds") detail the collection of money from the people and its delivery to Hilkiah the high priest. Verse 10 then marks the crucial next step: the allocation of these funds to the specific individuals and groups tasked with carrying out the extensive renovation work, setting the stage for the actual repairs described in the subsequent verses ([2 Chronicles 34:11-13](/2_chronicles/34-11 "2 Chronicles 34:11-13 - The Temple Repairs Begin")). This careful administrative process underscores the seriousness and integrity with which Josiah approached the sacred task of restoring true worship.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** King Josiah reigned over Judah from 640-609 BC, a period marked by significant geopolitical shifts, including the decline of the Assyrian Empire. This decline created a window of opportunity for Judah to reassert its religious and national identity, free from foreign influence. Josiah's reforms were a radical departure from the reigns of his idolatrous predecessors, Manasseh and Amon, who had introduced widespread pagan worship and allowed the Temple to fall into disrepair. The Temple in Jerusalem was not merely a building but the central locus of Israelite worship, representing God's presence among His people. Its physical state reflected the spiritual health of the nation. The collection of funds from "all Israel" ([2 Chronicles 34:9](/2_chronicles/34-9 "2 Chronicles 34:9 - Funds from All Israel")) for its repair was a communal act of repentance and rededication, reminiscent of earlier Temple projects, such as those under King Joash ([2 Kings 12:4-16](/2_kings/12-4 "2 Kings 12:4-16 - Joash Repairs the Temple")). The meticulous oversight and distribution of funds, as described in verse 10, were crucial for ensuring accountability and preventing corruption, a vital aspect of public works in ancient Near Eastern societies.
* **Key Themes:** The verse contributes significantly to several key themes within [2 Chronicles 34](/2_chronicles/34 "2 Chronicles 34 - Josiah's Reforms") and the broader book. Firstly, it highlights the theme of **Restoration and Renewal**, both physical and spiritual. The repair of the Temple symbolizes the restoration of Judah's covenant relationship with God, moving away from years of apostasy. Secondly, **Stewardship and Accountability** are prominent, as the careful handling and distribution of the collected funds demonstrate integrity in managing resources dedicated to God's service. This reflects a commitment to ethical administration, a principle echoed throughout the wisdom literature. Thirdly, the verse underscores **Diligence and Order** in sacred work. The distinction between "workmen that had the oversight" and "workmen that wrought" indicates a structured, organized approach to the massive task, emphasizing the value of proper administration and excellence in service to God. Finally, Josiah's initiative in repairing the Temple, as described in this context, exemplifies **Commitment to God's House and True Worship**, serving as a model for national and individual devotion.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Oversight (Hebrew, _pĕqidim'_):** This term refers to "appointed ones," "officials," or "overseers." It implies individuals who were specifically designated and entrusted with a supervisory role due to their reliability, skill, and integrity. Their presence ensured that the funds were managed responsibly and the work was executed effectively, highlighting a system of accountability in the Temple's restoration project.
* **Repair (Hebrew, _ḥazaq'_):** Meaning "to strengthen," "to repair," or "to restore." This verb suggests more than just superficial patching; it implies a thorough and foundational renovation, making the structure sound and robust. In a broader sense, it points to the comprehensive nature of Josiah's reforms, aiming for a deep spiritual and structural renewal, not just outward appearances.
* **Amend (Hebrew, _badak'_):** Meaning "to mend," "to reinforce," or "to make good." This term complements "repair," emphasizing the meticulous attention to detail and the completeness of the restoration. It suggests fixing flaws, reinforcing weak points, and ensuring everything is brought to a proper, functional state, reflecting the reverence for the sanctity of God's house.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And they put [it] in the hand of the workmen that had the oversight of the house of the LORD":** This phrase describes the initial transfer of the collected money. "They" refers to Hilkiah the high priest and the king's officials (Shaphan, Ahikam, Abdon) who had received the funds from the Levites. The money was not kept by these officials but immediately entrusted to the "workmen that had the oversight," who were the project managers or foremen. This highlights a clear chain of command and accountability, ensuring that the funds reached those directly responsible for managing the renovation.
* **"and they gave it to the workmen that wrought in the house of the LORD":** This second clause indicates a further distribution of the funds. The "workmen that had the oversight" (the supervisors) then disbursed the money to the various "workmen that wrought" (the laborers or craftsmen) who were actively engaged in the physical work of repair. This distinction emphasizes the organized and hierarchical nature of the project, with different tiers of responsibility for the management and execution of the work.
* **"to repair and amend the house":** This final clause states the ultimate purpose of the entire process: the comprehensive restoration of the Temple. The use of two strong verbs, "repair" (to strengthen/restore) and "amend" (to mend/reinforce), underscores the thoroughness and completeness of the intended renovation. It was not a superficial fix but a deep, structural renewal to bring the house of the LORD back to its proper state of glory and functionality for worship.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several literary devices to convey its message. **Metonymy** is present in "the house of the LORD," which stands not just for the physical structure but also for the institution of worship and the covenant relationship between God and Israel. The act of repairing the physical building thus becomes a **Symbolism** for the spiritual restoration and renewal of the nation under Josiah's leadership, moving away from idolatry and neglect back to true devotion. The careful enumeration of different groups of "workmen" (those with oversight and those who wrought) illustrates **Synecdoche**, where a part (the specific types of workers) represents the whole (the entire, complex, and collaborative effort of the Temple restoration project). The precise and purposeful language, particularly the double verbs "repair and amend," also exhibits **Emphasis**, highlighting the thoroughness and dedication required for such a sacred task.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The meticulous process described in 2 Chronicles 34:10, from the collection of funds to their distribution for the Temple's repair, is rich with theological significance. It underscores the divine expectation for integrity and diligence in handling resources dedicated to God's work. The physical restoration of the Temple serves as a powerful metaphor for spiritual renewal, reminding us that just as a physical structure can fall into disrepair, so too can our spiritual lives and communities. Josiah's commitment to the Temple reflects a profound understanding that outward actions of obedience and stewardship are integral to a vibrant relationship with God. This verse, therefore, calls believers to a similar commitment to excellence, accountability, and active participation in the work of God's kingdom, whether in managing resources, serving in leadership, or performing the diligent labor required for spiritual and communal flourishing.

* [1 Corinthians 4:2](/1_corinthians/4-2 "1 Corinthians 4:2 - Faithfulness in Stewardship")
* [Nehemiah 3](/nehemiah/3 "Nehemiah 3 - Rebuilding the Walls of Jerusalem")
* [Psalm 127:1](/psalms/127-1 "Psalm 127:1 - Unless the LORD Builds the House")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
2 Chronicles 34:10 offers profound insights for contemporary believers concerning stewardship, service, and spiritual renewal. Just as the funds for the Temple were handled with transparency and accountability, we are called to be faithful stewards of all resources God entrusts to us—our time, talents, finances, and even our spiritual gifts. This verse encourages us to approach every task, especially those in service to God's kingdom, with diligence, integrity, and a spirit of excellence, recognizing that even seemingly mundane administrative tasks contribute to a greater divine purpose. Furthermore, the physical repair of the Temple serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing need for spiritual "repair and amendment" in our own lives and in the church. We are prompted to examine areas of neglect, compromise, or disrepair in our walk with God and actively seek His renewal, allowing Him to strengthen and mend us for His glory. The collaborative effort of officials, overseers, and workmen also highlights the importance of teamwork and diverse roles in accomplishing God's work, affirming that every member of the body of Christ has a vital part to play.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life or ministry might God be calling you to "repair and amend," moving from neglect to intentional restoration?**
* **How does the principle of accountability in handling resources, as seen in this verse, apply to your personal finances or your involvement in church ministries?**
* **How can you cultivate a spirit of diligence and excellence in your daily tasks, recognizing that all work can be done "as for the Lord"?**
* **Considering the different roles of the "workmen that had the oversight" and "workmen that wrought," how can you better appreciate and support the diverse contributions within your spiritual community?**

### FAQ
**Why was the Temple in disrepair, necessitating such extensive repairs?**

Answer: The Temple had fallen into disrepair primarily due to generations of neglect and deliberate desecration by previous kings of Judah, particularly Manasseh and Amon, Josiah's predecessors. These kings had actively promoted idolatry and pagan worship, even setting up altars to Baal and Asherah poles within the Temple courts ([2 Chronicles 33:3-7](/2_chronicles/33-3 "2 Chronicles 33:3-7 - Manasseh's Idolatry")). This widespread apostasy meant that the Temple, the central place of true worship, was neglected, its structure weakened, and its sacred spaces defiled. Josiah's reforms, including the Temple repair, were a direct reversal of these policies, aiming to restore the purity and functionality of God's house as part of a national spiritual revival.

**Who were the "workmen that had the oversight" and the "workmen that wrought"?**

Answer: The "workmen that had the oversight" (Hebrew: _pĕqidim_) were the supervisors, foremen, or project managers. They were trusted, appointed individuals responsible for managing the overall repair project, ensuring the funds were used correctly, and overseeing the quality and progress of the work. The "workmen that wrought" were the actual laborers, craftsmen, and artisans—carpenters, masons, plasterers, etc.—who performed the physical work of repairing and restoring the Temple structure. This distinction highlights an organized and efficient system of project management, with clear roles and responsibilities, ensuring the massive undertaking was carried out effectively and with integrity ([2 Chronicles 34:11-13](/2_chronicles/34-11 "2 Chronicles 34:11-13 - Specific Workmen and Their Integrity")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While 2 Chronicles 34:10 details the physical restoration of a building, its deeper significance points toward the ultimate restoration found in Jesus Christ. The Temple, as the dwelling place of God among His people, foreshadowed Christ Himself, who is the true and perfect Temple, the ultimate embodiment of God's presence on earth ([John 2:19-21](/john/2-19 "John 2:19-21 - Jesus and the Temple")). Just as the physical Temple had fallen into disrepair due to human sin and neglect, humanity itself was in a state of spiritual ruin, alienated from God. Christ, through His atoning sacrifice on the cross, undertook the ultimate "repair and amend" work, not of a building, but of our broken relationship with God, reconciling us to the Father ([Colossians 1:19-20](/colossians/1-19 "Colossians 1:19-20 - Reconciliation Through Christ")). Furthermore, in the New Covenant, believers are collectively the "temple of the Holy Spirit" ([1 Corinthians 6:19](/1_corinthians/6-19 "1 Corinthians 6:19 - Your Body is a Temple")) and are being built together into a "spiritual house" ([1 Peter 2:5](/1_peter/2-5 "1 Peter 2:5 - Living Stones")), with Christ as the cornerstone ([Ephesians 2:20-22](/ephesians/2-20 "Ephesians 2:20-22 - Christ the Cornerstone")). The diligence and integrity shown in 2 Chronicles 34:10 thus serve as a model for how we, as living stones, are to participate in the ongoing work of building up the body of Christ, His spiritual Temple, until His return ([Ephesians 4:11-16](/ephesians/4-11 "Ephesians 4:11-16 - Building Up the Body of Christ")).

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

2 Kings 12:11

And they gave the money, being told, into the hands of them that did the work, that had the oversight of the house of the LORD: and they laid it out to the carpenters and builders, that wrought upon the house of the LORD,

2 Kings 12:12

And to masons, and hewers of stone, and to buy timber and hewed stone to repair the breaches of the house of the LORD, and for all that was laid out for the house to repair [it].

2 Kings 22:5

And let them deliver it into the hand of the doers of the work, that have the oversight of the house of the LORD: and let them give it to the doers of the work which [is] in the house of the LORD, to repair the breaches of the house,

2 Kings 22:6

Unto carpenters, and builders, and masons, and to buy timber and hewn stone to repair the house.

Ezra 3:7

They gave money also unto the masons, and to the carpenters; and meat, and drink, and oil, unto them of Zidon, and to them of Tyre, to bring cedar trees from Lebanon to the sea of Joppa, according to the grant that they had of Cyrus king of Persia.

2 Kings 12:14

But they gave that to the workmen, and repaired therewith the house of the LORD.