What number verse is 2 Chronicles 34:17 in the Bible?

2 Chronicles 34:17 is the 11,951st verse of the Bible. Counting straight through the King James canon — all 31,102 verses from Genesis 1:1 to Revelation 22:21 — 2 Chronicles 34:17 sits at position 11,951.

Translation

King James Version

And they have gathered together the money that was found in the house of the LORD, and have delivered it into the hand of the overseers, and to the hand of the workmen.

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KJV (with Strong's)

And they have gathered together ^H5413 the money ^H3701 that was found ^H4672 in the house ^H1004 of the LORD ^H3068, and have delivered ^H5414 it into the hand ^H3027 of the overseers ^H6485, and to the hand ^H3027 of the workmen ^{H6213 H4399}.

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Complete Jewish Bible

They have poured out the money found in the house of ADONAI and handed it over to the supervisors and workers."

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Berean Standard Bible

They have paid out the money that was found in the house of the LORD and have put it into the hands of the supervisors and workers.”

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American Standard Version

And they have emptied out the money that was found in the house of Jehovah, and have delivered it into the hand of the overseers, and into the hand of the workmen.

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World English Bible Messianic

They have emptied out the money that was found in the LORD’s house, and have delivered it into the hand of the overseers, and into the hand of the workmen.”

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Geneva Bible (1599)

For they haue gathered the money that was found in the house of the Lord, and haue deliuered it into the handes of the ouerseers, and to the handes of the workemen.

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Young's Literal Translation

and they pour out the money that is found in the house of Jehovah, and give it into the hand of those appointed, and into the hands of those doing the work.'

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In the KJVVerse 11,951 of 31,102

Study This Verse

SUMMARY

2 Chronicles 34:17 meticulously records a pivotal administrative act during King Josiah's widespread religious reforms, detailing the transparent collection and transfer of funds designated for the restoration of the dilapidated Temple in Jerusalem. This verse underscores the essential role of practical diligence and unwavering integrity in supporting spiritual renewal, highlighting the accountability of those entrusted with sacred resources and the collaborative effort required to rebuild God's house after generations of neglect and decay.

CONTEXT

Literary Context: This verse is strategically placed within the narrative of King Josiah's transformative reign, specifically in his eighteenth year (2 Chronicles 34:8), a period marked by profound spiritual revival and comprehensive reform. Following Josiah's earlier, zealous initiatives to purge Judah and Jerusalem of pervasive idolatry and pagan practices (as detailed in 2 Chronicles 34:3-7), the focus shifts to the physical restoration of the LORD's Temple. Verses 9-11 elaborate on the collection of money by the Levites and its subsequent delivery to the Temple overseers, who then distribute it to various craftsmen. Verse 17, therefore, functions as a concise summary statement, confirming the successful and accountable transfer of these gathered funds to the appropriate administrators and laborers. This administrative integrity sets the stage for the monumental discovery of the Book of the Law (2 Chronicles 34:14-16), which further propels Josiah's reforms, cementing the Temple repair as a foundational and necessary step in the nation's spiritual reawakening and return to covenant faithfulness.
Historical & Cultural Context: Josiah's reign (640-609 BC) emerged after decades of profound spiritual decline and rampant idolatry, particularly under his grandfather Manasseh and father Amon, during which the Temple of the LORD had fallen into severe disrepair and its proper worship practices largely abandoned. The concept of collecting funds for Temple repair was not unprecedented; King Joash had undertaken similar efforts centuries earlier (as recorded in 2 Kings 12:4-16), establishing a historical precedent for organized and accountable financial management of sacred projects. The "money that was found in the house of the LORD" likely refers to voluntary contributions from the people of Judah and Benjamin, and even from the northern tribes (2 Chronicles 34:9), demonstrating a widespread desire among the populace to participate in the restoration of true worship. The appointment of "overseers" and the engagement of "workmen" reflects standard ancient Near Eastern practices for large-scale construction projects, emphasizing order, specialization, and accountability in public works, ensuring that sacred funds were handled with the utmost care and transparency.
Key Themes: This verse significantly contributes to several overarching themes within 2 Chronicles and the broader Deuteronomistic history. It powerfully illustrates the principle of Stewardship and Accountability, demonstrating that resources dedicated to God's work must be handled with utmost integrity and transparency. This principle is a recurring motif throughout Scripture concerning the management of divine trusts, from the Tabernacle offerings in Exodus 35 to the New Testament's emphasis on faithfulness in all things (e.g., Luke 16:10). The act of gathering and distributing funds for the Temple's physical repair is a tangible expression of Restoration and Renewal, a central theme of Josiah's reign, which sought to bring the nation back into covenant with God after generations of apostasy, mirroring the spiritual cleansing of the land (e.g., 2 Chronicles 34:3). Furthermore, the collection of funds from the people underscores Community Participation in God's work, highlighting that the revival was not merely a top-down initiative by the king but involved the willing contributions of the entire nation, demonstrating a collective commitment to the re-establishment of proper worship and the physical upkeep of God's dwelling place, as seen in the broader narrative of 2 Chronicles 34.

EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

Key Word Analysis

gathered together (Hebrew, nâthak', H5413): This verb, while sometimes meaning "to flow forth" or "to liquify," also carries the sense of "to gather (together)" or "to pour (forth, out)" in a collective manner. In this context, it signifies a systematic and purposeful collection of the money, implying that the funds were carefully amassed from various sources and brought into a central repository within the Temple. This highlights the organized nature of the financial process, ensuring all contributions were accounted for before disbursement.
money (Hebrew, keçeph', H3701): This term refers to "silver" and, by implication, "money." In ancient Israel, silver was a primary form of currency and a store of value. Its mention here emphasizes the tangible nature of the contributions and the significant financial resources dedicated to the Temple's repair. The use of "money" underscores the practical investment required for such a large-scale renovation project.
overseers (Hebrew, pâqad', H6485): Derived from a root meaning "to visit," "to oversee," or "to appoint," pâqad here refers to those appointed officials who were given charge over the Temple's restoration project. These individuals were not merely recipients of the money but were responsible for its proper management, disbursement to the workmen, and overall supervision of the repair operations. Their role ensured accountability, efficiency, and integrity in the use of sacred funds, reflecting a structured and trustworthy administration.

Verse Breakdown

"And they have gathered together the money that was found in the house of the LORD": This initial clause describes the culmination of the collection process. "They" refers to the Levites and other Temple officials who, under the explicit direction of King Josiah, were responsible for receiving and compiling the contributions. The phrase "money that was found" indicates funds that had been collected from the people and deposited within the Temple precincts, likely in designated offering chests or treasuries. This emphasizes both the communal nature of the contributions and the sacred context of their origin within God's dwelling place.
"and have delivered it into the hand of the overseers": This phrase details the formal transfer of the collected funds to the project managers. The act of "delivering into the hand" signifies a formal, accountable handover, ensuring that the substantial sum was entrusted to those specifically appointed to manage the Temple repair. This step highlights a crucial chain of custody and the principle of financial accountability within the sacred administration, preventing misappropriation and ensuring proper stewardship.
"and to the hand of the workmen.": This final clause specifies the ultimate recipients of the funds, or at least those for whom the funds were intended to compensate their labor and materials. While the overseers were the direct recipients from the collectors, the money was ultimately for the "workmen"—the skilled laborers and craftsmen (such as carpenters, builders, masons, and smiths, as detailed in 2 Chronicles 34:11) who would physically restore the Temple. This underscores the practical purpose of the collection: to directly fund the labor and materials necessary for the extensive renovation project, bringing the abstract concept of contributions to a tangible outcome of physical restoration.

Literary Devices

The verse employs Metonymy through the repeated phrase "into the hand of the overseers" and "to the hand of the workmen." Here, "hand" stands for the authority, control, and agency of these individuals, emphasizing the direct and personal responsibility involved in the transfer, management, and ultimate use of the funds. This literary choice highlights the integrity and accountability of the process. Additionally, the verse demonstrates Conciseness, summarizing a complex financial and administrative process into a single, clear statement of action and outcome. This brevity, however, does not diminish its significance; rather, it serves as a pivotal point connecting the collection of resources to their practical application in the Temple's restoration. The precise enumeration of the recipients ("overseers" and "workmen") also highlights a strong sense of Order and Systematization, reflecting the meticulous planning and execution characteristic of Josiah's comprehensive reforms.

THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS

2 Chronicles 34:17 stands as a powerful testament to the theological principle that God's work requires both spiritual fervor and practical diligence. The careful handling of funds for the Temple's repair underscores the divine expectation for integrity and accountability in stewardship, particularly when managing resources dedicated to sacred purposes. This act of transparent financial management is not merely an administrative detail but a profound reflection of the reverence due to God and His dwelling place. It illustrates that true worship involves not only spiritual devotion and sacrificial giving but also responsible action, ensuring that the physical structures and practical needs of ministry are met with honesty, order, and purpose. This commitment to diligent stewardship for the sake of God's house foreshadows the New Testament emphasis on managing resources for the advance of the Kingdom and the edification of the Church.

Exodus 35:29 – Illustrates the people's willing contributions for the construction of the Tabernacle, establishing a historical precedent for communal support of sacred structures.
2 Kings 12:15 – Highlights the trust placed in the overseers of Temple funds during King Joash's reign, paralleling the integrity and accountability emphasized in Josiah's reform.
1 Corinthians 4:2 – States the fundamental requirement for stewards: "it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful," directly connecting to the integrity and accountability seen in 2 Chronicles 34:17.

REFLECTION AND APPLICATION

The meticulous financial management described in 2 Chronicles 34:17 offers profound and enduring lessons for contemporary believers and the church as a whole. It serves as a powerful reminder that stewardship encompasses far more than mere financial giving; it extends to the responsible, transparent, and purposeful handling of all resources—time, talents, and treasures—that have been entrusted to us for God's glory. Just as the funds for the Temple were carefully gathered and delivered to specific, accountable individuals, so too should resources dedicated to God's work today be managed with unwavering integrity, clarity, and intentionality. This verse calls us to a personal and corporate examination of our practices, encouraging us to ensure that our contributions are not only generous but also part of a larger, well-managed, and divinely purposed work. It challenges us to actively participate in supporting the "repair" and "restoration" of both spiritual and physical needs within our communities and churches, understanding that our contributions, however small, are vital components of God's ongoing mission. Ultimately, it compels us to be faithful stewards, ensuring that every resource is utilized to honor God and effectively advance His Kingdom.

Questions for Reflection

In what ways does this verse challenge my current understanding and practice of "stewardship" beyond just financial giving?
How can I personally and practically contribute to the "restoration" and "repair" of God's work in my local community or church with greater integrity and diligence?
What systems of accountability are currently in place in my own life or in the ministries I support, and how can they be strengthened to better reflect the transparency and trustworthiness seen in Josiah's reforms?

FAQ

What was the "money that was found in the house of the LORD," and where did it come from?

Answer: The "money that was found in the house of the LORD" refers to the voluntary contributions and freewill offerings brought by the people of Judah, Benjamin, and even remnants from the northern tribes (as detailed in 2 Chronicles 34:9) for the specific purpose of repairing and restoring the dilapidated Temple in Jerusalem. These funds were likely placed in collection chests or treasuries within the Temple precincts, similar to the system established by King Joash centuries earlier (see 2 Kings 12:9-10). It represents the collective generosity and commitment of the people to support King Josiah's spiritual reforms and the physical renewal of God's dwelling place, demonstrating a widespread desire to return to proper worship.

CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT

While 2 Chronicles 34:17 meticulously details the diligent stewardship of physical resources for the restoration of a physical temple, it ultimately points to a far greater spiritual reality fulfilled in Jesus Christ. The careful and transparent care for the earthly Temple, which served as the dwelling place of God's presence among His people, foreshadows the ultimate dwelling of God among humanity in the person of Jesus Christ, who is the true and perfect Temple (as declared by Jesus Himself in John 2:21). The organized collection of funds and the concerted efforts to repair and restore the physical Temple prefigure the spiritual resources and divine provision for the building of the Church, which is the new Temple, comprised of living stones (as described in 1 Peter 2:5). Just as the money was faithfully delivered to overseers and workmen for the Temple's restoration, so too has God entrusted the spiritual "building materials"—the gospel message, the gifts of the Spirit, and the various ministries—to His apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers (as outlined in Ephesians 4:11-12) for the edification, growth, and equipping of His spiritual house. The integrity and accountability seen in Josiah's reform find their ultimate expression in Christ, who perfectly managed the Father's resources and perfectly accomplished the work of salvation, laying the foundation for a spiritual temple not made with human hands, a temple where God's presence truly dwells through the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 3:16). The diligent stewardship for the physical temple thus serves as a powerful type for the greater, spiritual work of building God's eternal Kingdom through Christ's redemptive work and the ongoing mission of His Church until His return.

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Commentary on 2 Chronicles 34 verses 14–28

14 ¶ And when they brought out the money that was brought into the house of the LORD, Hilkiah the priest found a book of the law of the LORD given by Moses.

15 And Hilkiah answered and said to Shaphan the scribe, I have found the book of the law in the house of the LORD. And Hilkiah delivered the book to Shaphan.

16 And Shaphan carried the book to the king, and brought the king word back again, saying, All that was committed to thy servants, they do it.

17 And they have gathered together the money that was found in the house of the LORD, and have delivered it into the hand of the overseers, and to the hand of the workmen.

18 Then Shaphan the scribe told the king, saying, Hilkiah the priest hath given me a book. And Shaphan read it before the king.

19 And it came to pass, when the king had heard the words of the law, that he rent his clothes.

20 And the king commanded Hilkiah, and Ahikam the son of Shaphan, and Abdon the son of Micah, and Shaphan the scribe, and Asaiah a servant of the king's, saying,

21 Go, enquire of the LORD for me, and for them that are left in Israel and in Judah, concerning the words of the book that is found: for great is the wrath of the LORD that is poured out upon us, because our fathers have not kept the word of the LORD, to do after all that is written in this book.

22 And Hilkiah, and they that the king had appointed, went to Huldah the prophetess, the wife of Shallum the son of Tikvath, the son of Hasrah, keeper of the wardrobe; (now she dwelt in Jerusalem in the college:) and they spake to her to that effect.

23 And she answered them, Thus saith the LORD God of Israel, Tell ye the man that sent you to me,

24 Thus saith the LORD, Behold, I will bring evil upon this place, and upon the inhabitants thereof, even all the curses that are written in the book which they have read before the king of Judah:

25 Because they have forsaken me, and have burned incense unto other gods, that they might provoke me to anger with all the works of their hands; therefore my wrath shall be poured out upon this place, and shall not be quenched.

26 And as for the king of Judah, who sent you to enquire of the LORD, so shall ye say unto him, Thus saith the LORD God of Israel concerning the words which thou hast heard;

27 Because thine heart was tender, and thou didst humble thyself before God, when thou heardest his words against this place, and against the inhabitants thereof, and humbledst thyself before me, and didst rend thy clothes, and weep before me; I have even heard thee also, saith the LORD.

28 Behold, I will gather thee to thy fathers, and thou shalt be gathered to thy grave in peace, neither shall thine eyes see all the evil that I will bring upon this place, and upon the inhabitants of the same. So they brought the king word again.

This whole paragraph we had, just as it is here related, Kg2 22:8-20, and have nothing to add here to what was there observed. But, 1. We may hence take occasion to bless God that we have plenty of Bibles, and that they are, or may be, in all hands, - that the book of the law and gospel is not lost, is not scarce, - that, in this sense, the word of the Lord is not precious. Bibles are jewels, but, thanks be to God, they are not rarities. The fountain of the waters of life is not a spring shut up or a fountain sealed, but the streams of it, in all places, make glad the city of our God. Usus communis aquarum - These waters flow for general use. What a great deal shall we have to answer for if the great things of God's law, being thus made common, should be accounted by us as strange things! 2. We may hence learn, whenever we read or hear the word of God, to affect our hearts with it, and to get them possessed with a holy fear of that wrath of God which is there revealed against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, as Josiah's tender heart was. When he heard the words of the law he rent his clothes (Ch2 34:19), and God was well pleased with his doing so, Ch2 34:27. Were the things contained in the scripture new to us, as they were here to Josiah, surely they would make deeper impressions upon us than commonly they do; but they are not the less weighty, and therefore should not be the less considered by us, for their being well known. Rend the heart therefore, not the garments. 3. We are here directed when we are under convictions of sin, and apprehensions of divine wrath, to enquire of the Lord; so Josiah did, Ch2 34:21. It concerns us to ask (as they did, Act 2:37), Men and brethren, what shall we do? and more particularly (as the jailor), What must I do to be saved? Act 16:30. If you will thus enquire, enquire (Isa 21:12); and, blessed be God, we have the lively oracles to which to apply with these enquiries. 4. We are here warned of the ruin that sin brings upon nations and kingdoms. Those that forsake God bring evil upon themselves (Ch2 34:24, Ch2 34:25), and kindle a fire which shall not be quenched. Such will the fire of God's wrath be when the decree has gone forth against those that obstinately and impenitently persist in their wicked ways. 5. We are here encouraged to humble ourselves before God and seek unto him, as Josiah did. If we cannot prevail thereby to turn away God's wrath from our land, yet we shall deliver our own souls, Ch2 34:27, Ch2 34:28. And good people are here taught to be so far from fearing death as to welcome it rather when it takes them away from the evil to come. See how the property of it is altered by making it the matter of a promise: Thou shalt be gathered to thy grave in peace, housed in that ark, as Noah, when a deluge is coming.

Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 14–28. 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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