2 Chronicles 35:12

KJV

And they removed the burnt offerings, that they might give according to the divisions of the families of the people, to offer unto the LORD, as [it is] written in the book of Moses. And so [did they] with the oxen.

KJV (with Strong's)

And they removed {H5493} the burnt offerings {H5930}, that they might give {H5414} according to the divisions {H4653} of the families {H1}{H1004} of the people {H1121}{H5971}, to offer {H7126} unto the LORD {H3068}, as it is written {H3789} in the book {H5612} of Moses {H4872}. And so did they with the oxen {H1241}.

Complete Jewish Bible

They removed the portions to be burned, in order to give them to the divisions of the clans of the ordinary people to present to ADONAI, as written in the scroll of Moshe. They did the same with the oxen.

Berean Standard Bible

They set aside the burnt offerings to be given to the divisions of the families of the people to offer to the LORD, as is written in the Book of Moses; and they did the same with the bulls.

American Standard Version

And they removed the burnt-offerings, that they might give them according to the divisions of the fathers’ houses of the children of the people, to offer unto Jehovah, as it is written in the book of Moses. And so did they with the oxen.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Second Chronicles 35:12 meticulously details the organizational precision and profound reverence that characterized King Josiah's unparalleled Passover celebration, emphasizing strict adherence to divine law. This verse specifically describes how the Levites systematically prepared and distributed burnt offerings and oxen to the various family divisions, ensuring widespread and orderly participation in the prescribed worship, precisely "as it is written in the book of Moses."

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within the extensive and climactic account of King Josiah's religious reforms and the grand Passover celebration he orchestrated, detailed throughout [2 Chronicles 35](/2_chronicles/35 "2 Chronicles 35 - Josiah's Great Passover"). Following the pivotal rediscovery of the Book of the Law during the temple's renovation ([2 Chronicles 34:14](/2_chronicles/34-14 "2 Chronicles 34:14 - Discovery of the Book of the Law")), Josiah initiated a sweeping spiritual revival across Judah, purging idolatry and restoring pure worship of Yahweh. The Passover described here was so meticulously observed and grand in scale that it surpassed any held since the days of the prophet Samuel ([2 Chronicles 35:18](/2_chronicles/35-18 "2 Chronicles 35:18 - Significance of Josiah's Passover")). Verse 12 specifically highlights the efficient and orderly distribution of sacrificial animals by the Levites to the various family divisions, a crucial logistical step to ensure that every household could fulfill their sacrificial obligations as mandated by the Mosaic Law. This particular detail underscores the comprehensive nature of Josiah's reforms, extending even to the practicalities of sacred worship.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Josiah's reign (640-609 BC) followed decades of severe idolatry under his predecessors, Manasseh and Amon, which had deeply corrupted Judah's religious and moral fabric. The rediscovery of the Law prompted Josiah to undertake a radical purge of pagan worship and to restore pure Yahwism as the national religion. The Passover was one of the most significant annual festivals, commemorating Israel's miraculous deliverance from slavery in Egypt ([Exodus 12:1-28](/exodus/12-1-28 "Exodus 12:1-28 - Institution of the Passover")). Its proper observance, including the offering of various sacrifices, was central to Israelite identity, covenant relationship with God, and national atonement. The practice of families bringing their own offerings and the Levites assisting in their preparation and distribution was a common feature of large-scale festivals, ensuring that the vast number of sacrifices could be handled efficiently and reverently, according to the detailed regulations found in the [Torah](/deuteronomy/17-18 "Deuteronomy 17:18 - The King and the Law"). The "book of Moses" refers to the Pentateuch, the foundational legal and narrative texts for Israelite worship and societal structure.
* **Key Themes:** The meticulous details in [2 Chronicles 35:12](/2_chronicles/35-12 "2 Chronicles 35:12 - Josiah's Obedience in Passover Preparations") contribute to several overarching themes within the Chronicler's narrative and broader biblical theology. Firstly, it highlights the paramount importance of **strict obedience to divine law**. The repeated phrase "as it is written in the book of Moses" underscores that Josiah's reforms were driven by an unwavering desire to conform every aspect of worship to the ancient, divinely revealed commands concerning sacrifices and feasts, as detailed in books like [Leviticus 1](/leviticus/1 "Leviticus 1 - Burnt Offerings") and [Deuteronomy 16](/deuteronomy/16 "Deuteronomy 16 - Passover Regulations"). This emphasizes that true worship is not self-invented but God-prescribed. Secondly, the verse showcases the emphasis on **order and reverence in worship**. The systematic removal and distribution of offerings "according to the divisions of the families of the people" demonstrates the high degree of organization essential for such a massive sacred event, ensuring it honored the LORD without chaos, reflecting the principle found in [1 Corinthians 14:40](/1_corinthians/14-40 "1 Corinthians 14:40 - Let All Things Be Done Decently and in Order"). Thirdly, the distribution to "families of the people" underscores the **communal participation in sacrifice**, fostering a collective sense of responsibility and involvement in atonement and dedication, as originally mandated in [Exodus 12:3](/exodus/12-3 "Exodus 12:3 - Lamb for Each Household"). Finally, the mention of "burnt offerings" (`‘ōlāh` in Hebrew) points to sacrifices entirely consumed by fire, symbolizing complete dedication and atonement for sin, while the inclusion of "oxen" indicates the immense scale of animals consecrated during this significant Passover.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Burnt offerings (Hebrew, _‘ôlâh'_):** Derived from the root meaning "to ascend" or "go up," this sacrifice (H5930) was entirely consumed by fire on the altar, with the smoke ascending to God. It symbolized complete dedication, devotion, and atonement for sin, representing the worshiper's total surrender to God. Unlike other sacrifices where portions were consumed by priests or worshipers, the `‘ôlāh` was wholly given to the LORD.
* **Book of Moses (Hebrew, _sêpher Mōsheh'_):** This phrase refers to the Torah, or Pentateuch (H5612, H4872), the first five books of the Hebrew Bible (Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy). It signifies the foundational body of divine law, instructions, and covenant stipulations given by God through Moses, serving as the ultimate authority for Israel's religious and communal life, particularly concerning worship, sacrifices, and festivals.
* **Divisions of the families (Hebrew, _miphlaggâh bayith bên_' / _miphlaggâh ‘am_' / _miphlaggâh ‘ab_' / _miphlaggâh mishpâchâh'_):** While the KJV uses "divisions of the families of the people," the underlying Hebrew (H4653, H1, H1004, H1121, H5971) points to an organized classification or distribution among the established family units and people groups. The term `miphlaggâh` (H4653) specifically means "a classification; division." The meticulous distribution "according to the divisions" highlights the systematic and equitable approach taken during this massive Passover celebration, ensuring that every family unit could participate in the sacrificial rites as prescribed by the Law, reflecting a highly structured and orderly approach to communal worship.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And they removed the burnt offerings":** "They" refers to the Levites, who, as detailed in the preceding verses ([2 Chronicles 35:10-11](/2_chronicles/35-10-11 "2 Chronicles 35:10-11 - Levites' Role in Passover")), were responsible for preparing and assisting with the sacrifices. The act of "removed" (H5493) implies a systematic and efficient process of taking the animals from the place of slaughter to the designated areas for further preparation and distribution, ensuring a smooth flow for the immense number of sacrifices required for such a large-scale event.
* **"that they might give according to the divisions of the families of the people, to offer unto the LORD":** This clause reveals the precise purpose of the Levites' actions: to facilitate the participation of every family in the Passover sacrifices. The offerings were not merely for the priests or Levites to consume, but were distributed to the various family units, enabling each household to present its own offering to the LORD. This underscores the communal and inclusive aspect of the Passover command, ensuring that all of Israel could fulfill their covenant obligations.
* **"as [it is] written in the book of Moses":** This pivotal phrase underscores the ultimate authority and guiding principle behind Josiah's reforms and this specific act of worship. Every detail, including the distribution and offering procedures, was performed in strict conformity to the divine mandates recorded in the Torah, emphasizing the king's profound commitment to biblical fidelity and his desire to restore worship according to God's original design.
* **"And so [did they] with the oxen":** This final clause extends the meticulous and orderly process to other sacrificial animals, specifically oxen (H1241), which were larger and required more handling and preparation. It confirms that the same precise and lawful procedures applied to all large animals brought for sacrifice, further illustrating the immense scale of the event and the comprehensive obedience to the Law that characterized Josiah's Passover.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several literary devices to convey its message and emphasize its significance. **Emphasis** is powerfully achieved through the repeated reference to the "book of Moses," underscoring the absolute authority of God's written Word as the standard for all worship and practice. This repetition highlights Josiah's unwavering commitment to biblical fidelity and serves as a model for the reader. **Narrative Detail** is evident in the precise description of the logistical process—"removed," "give according to the divisions," "with the oxen"—which paints a vivid picture of the scale and order of the Passover. This meticulous detail serves to impress upon the reader the unprecedented nature and spiritual significance of Josiah's reforms, demonstrating how practical organization facilitates sacred worship. Furthermore, the **Symbolism** of the burnt offerings themselves, representing complete dedication and atonement, is implicitly present, pointing to the profound spiritual commitment underlying the physical acts of sacrifice. The "book of Moses" can also be seen as a form of **Metonymy**, where the physical scroll or collection of writings stands for the entire body of divine law, covenant instructions, and the very will of God.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
[2 Chronicles 35:12](/2_chronicles/35-12 "2 Chronicles 35:12 - Josiah's Obedience in Passover Preparations") profoundly illustrates the theological principle that true worship is characterized by both ordered reverence and unwavering obedience to God's revealed Word. Josiah's meticulous adherence to the "book of Moses" demonstrates that God is honored not only by the act of sacrifice but by the manner in which it is performed—systematically, communally, and precisely according to His commands. This commitment to divine instruction reflects a deep understanding that God's ways are perfect and His commands are for the good of His people. The communal distribution of offerings also highlights the corporate nature of Israel's covenant relationship with God, where individual families participated in a collective act of worship, atonement, and dedication, fostering unity and shared spiritual responsibility. This holistic approach to worship, encompassing both internal devotion and external conformity to divine standards, is a timeless principle.

* [Deuteronomy 12:32](/deuteronomy/12-32 "Deuteronomy 12:32 - Do Not Add or Subtract from the Law")
* [1 Samuel 15:22](/1_samuel/15-22 "1 Samuel 15:22 - Obedience is Better Than Sacrifice")
* [Hebrews 10:1-10](/hebrews/10-1-10 "Hebrews 10:1-10 - Christ's Perfect Sacrifice Fulfills the Law")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The detailed account of Josiah's Passover in [2 Chronicles 35:12](/2_chronicles/35-12 "2 Chronicles 35:12 - Josiah's Obedience in Passover Preparations") offers powerful lessons for believers today. Just as Josiah diligently followed the "book of Moses" with unparalleled precision, we are called to center our lives, worship, and service on God's revealed Word, the Bible. This means not only reading Scripture but actively seeking to understand and apply its precepts in every area of our lives, recognizing its ultimate authority and sufficiency for all matters of faith and practice. Furthermore, the meticulous organization and reverence displayed during this ancient Passover remind us that God values order and excellence in our worship and service. Whether in our personal devotion, family spiritual practices, or corporate gatherings, intentionality, preparation, and a spirit of reverence honor Him. Finally, the communal aspect of the offerings underscores that faith is often lived out and strengthened in community. Participating alongside fellow believers in worship, service, and spiritual disciplines fosters a collective sense of purpose and strengthens our shared witness to the world, reflecting the body of Christ working together in harmony and love.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Josiah's commitment to the "book of Moses" challenge our own adherence to God's Word today, both personally and corporately?**
* **In what practical ways can we cultivate greater order, intentionality, and reverence in our personal worship and our corporate church gatherings?**
* **How does communal participation in faith, as seen in the Passover, strengthen our walk with God and our collective witness to the world?**

### FAQ
**What is the "book of Moses" and why is its mention significant in 2 Chronicles 35:12?**

Answer: The "book of Moses" refers to the Torah, or Pentateuch, which comprises the first five books of the Hebrew Bible: Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy. These books contain the foundational laws, covenants, and instructions given by God to Israel through Moses, governing every aspect of their national and religious life, including detailed procedures for sacrifices, festivals, and worship. Its mention in [2 Chronicles 35:12](/2_chronicles/35-12 "2 Chronicles 35:12 - Josiah's Obedience to the Law") is highly significant because it underscores King Josiah's absolute commitment to biblical fidelity. After the rediscovery of this book ([2 Chronicles 34:14](/2_chronicles/34-14 "2 Chronicles 34:14 - Discovery of the Book of the Law")), Josiah initiated sweeping reforms to bring Judah's worship and life back into strict alignment with God's commands, making the "book of Moses" the ultimate authority for his actions, including the meticulous organization of this unparalleled Passover.

**Why was such meticulous organization, including the "divisions of the families," necessary for the Passover celebration?**

Answer: The meticulous organization, particularly the distribution of offerings "according to the divisions of the families of the people," was essential for several reasons. Firstly, the sheer scale of Josiah's Passover was immense, involving the entire nation of Judah and countless animal sacrifices ([2 Chronicles 35:7-9](/2_chronicles/35-7-9 "2 Chronicles 35:7-9 - Josiah's Generosity")). Without precise planning and distribution, such an event would have descended into chaos, dishonoring the sacred occasion. Secondly, it ensured that every family could properly participate in the sacrificial rites as prescribed by the Mosaic Law, which often required specific types and quantities of offerings per household. The Levites' role was to facilitate this, making the process efficient and accessible for all. This level of order also reflected a deep reverence for God and His commands, demonstrating that worship should be conducted with intentionality and excellence, honoring the sacredness of the occasion and the God being worshipped.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While [2 Chronicles 35:12](/2_chronicles/35-12 "2 Chronicles 35:12 - Josiah's Obedience in Passover Preparations") details an extraordinary act of obedience and worship under the Old Covenant, it ultimately points forward to the perfect fulfillment found in Jesus Christ. The meticulous care taken in preparing and distributing the burnt offerings, "as it is written in the book of Moses," foreshadows the ultimate, once-for-all sacrifice of the [Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God!"). The Old Testament sacrifices, including the burnt offerings, were shadows that could never fully atone for sin ([Hebrews 10:1-4](/hebrews/10-1-4 "Hebrews 10:1-4 - The Law is a Shadow")). They pointed to a greater reality: Christ's perfect and complete sacrifice on the cross. His unwavering obedience to the Father's will, even to death ([Philippians 2:8](/philippians/2-8 "Philippians 2:8 - Christ's Humility and Obedience")), perfectly fulfilled everything "written in the book of Moses" concerning atonement and dedication. Through His single offering, Christ has perfected for all time those who are being sanctified ([Hebrews 10:14](/hebrews/10-14 "Hebrews 10:14 - Christ's Perfect Sacrifice")). Therefore, believers are now empowered to offer themselves as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God ([Romans 12:1](/romans/12-1 "Romans 12:1 - Living Sacrifices")), participating in a new covenant worship that is not bound by physical divisions or animal offerings, but by the Spirit and truth, through the access we have to the Father by Christ's blood ([Hebrews 10:19-22](/hebrews/10-19-22 "Hebrews 10:19-22 - Access to God Through Christ's Blood")).

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 3:14

And he shall offer thereof his offering, [even] an offering made by fire unto the LORD; the fat that covereth the inwards, and all the fat that [is] upon the inwards,

Leviticus 3:16

And the priest shall burn them upon the altar: [it is] the food of the offering made by fire for a sweet savour: all the fat [is] the LORD'S.

Leviticus 3:5

And Aaron's sons shall burn it on the altar upon the burnt sacrifice, which [is] upon the wood that [is] on the fire: [it is] an offering made by fire, of a sweet savour unto the LORD.

Leviticus 3:9

And he shall offer of the sacrifice of the peace offering an offering made by fire unto the LORD; the fat thereof, [and] the whole rump, it shall he take off hard by the backbone; and the fat that covereth the inwards, and all the fat that [is] upon the inwards,

Leviticus 3:11

And the priest shall burn it upon the altar: [it is] the food of the offering made by fire unto the LORD.

Leviticus 3:3

And he shall offer of the sacrifice of the peace offering an offering made by fire unto the LORD; the fat that covereth the inwards, and all the fat that [is] upon the inwards,