2 Chronicles 35:14

KJV

And afterward they made ready for themselves, and for the priests: because the priests the sons of Aaron [were busied] in offering of burnt offerings and the fat until night; therefore the Levites prepared for themselves, and for the priests the sons of Aaron.

KJV (with Strong's)

And afterward {H310} they made ready {H3559} for themselves, and for the priests {H3548}: because the priests {H3548} the sons {H1121} of Aaron {H175} were busied in offering {H5927} of burnt offerings {H5930} and the fat {H2459} until night {H3915}; therefore the Levites {H3881} prepared {H3559} for themselves, and for the priests {H3548} the sons {H1121} of Aaron {H175}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Afterwards, they prepared food for themselves and for the cohanim; because the cohanim, the descendants of Aharon, were busy till nightfall offering the fat and the portions to be burned up; this is why the L'vi'im prepared food both for themselves and for the cohanim the descendants of Aharon.

Berean Standard Bible

Afterward, they made preparations for themselves and for the priests, since the priests, the descendants of Aaron, were offering up burnt offerings and fat until nightfall. So the Levites made preparations for themselves and for the priests, the descendants of Aaron.

American Standard Version

And afterward they prepared for themselves, and for the priests, because the priests the sons of Aaron were busied in offering the burnt-offerings and the fat until night: therefore the Levites prepared for themselves, and for the priests the sons of Aaron.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
This verse from 2 Chronicles 35:14 offers a vivid depiction of the meticulous organization and dedicated service of the Levites during King Josiah's unprecedented Passover celebration. It specifically highlights their crucial role in preparing sustenance for themselves and for the priests, who were entirely engrossed in the demanding and continuous sacrificial duties, thereby ensuring the seamless and reverent execution of the worship prescribed by God's law.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within 2 Chronicles 35, a chapter dedicated to King Josiah's monumental Passover celebration, described as unmatched since the days of Samuel the prophet ([2 Chronicles 35:18](/2_chronicles/35-18 "2 Chronicles 35:18 - An Unprecedented Passover")). The preceding verses detail Josiah's extensive preparations, including the provision of animals for the Passover offerings and the meticulous assignment of duties to the priests and Levites according to their divisions ([2 Chronicles 35:1-12](/2_chronicles/35-1 "2 Chronicles 35:1-12 - Josiah's Passover Preparations")). Verse 14 specifically describes a logistical detail that underscores the intense dedication required for such a large-scale event, following the general description of the sacrifices being offered. It sets the stage for the concluding summary of the Passover's success and its historical significance.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** King Josiah reigned over Judah from 640-609 BC, a period marked by profound religious reform following the idolatrous reigns of his predecessors, particularly Manasseh. His reforms included cleansing the temple, destroying pagan altars, and, most significantly, rediscovering the Book of the Law ([2 Kings 22:8-13](/2_kings/22-8 "2 Kings 22:8 - The Discovery of the Book of the Law")). The Passover, a central feast commemorating Israel's deliverance from Egypt, was to be observed strictly according to Mosaic Law. The roles of the priests (descendants of Aaron) and the Levites were distinct but complementary, as prescribed in the Torah ([Numbers 3:5-10](/numbers/3-5 "Numbers 3:5-10 - Roles of Levites and Priests")). Priests were responsible for altar duties, while Levites assisted in various capacities, including slaughtering, preparing, and transporting sacrifices, as well as maintaining the temple. The sheer volume of offerings during this particular Passover meant that the priests were literally "busied until night," necessitating the Levites' additional support.
* **Key Themes:** The verse powerfully illustrates several key themes prevalent in 2 Chronicles. Firstly, **Dedicated Service** is evident in the priests' complete engrossment in their sacred duties, working tirelessly "until night." Their singular focus on offering sacrifices highlights the intensity and importance of their role in facilitating the nation's worship. Secondly, **Division of Labor and Cooperation** is a prominent theme, showcasing the intricate teamwork between the priests and Levites. The Levites' willingness to step outside their immediate, assigned tasks to ensure the well-being of the priests demonstrates a spirit of mutual support essential for the efficient functioning of God's house. This reflects the divinely ordained order for temple service, where different roles contribute to a unified purpose ([Numbers 18:6](/numbers/18-6 "Numbers 18:6 - Levites Given to Priests as a Gift")). Finally, the passage underscores the importance of **Orderly and Thorough Worship**. The meticulous planning and execution, including the Levites' foresight in preparing food, ensured that the immense spiritual undertaking was carried out without interruption, reflecting a deep reverence for God and His commands.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Busied (Hebrew, _ʿāśâ'_):** While "were busied" is supplied by the KJV translators for clarity, the underlying Hebrew verb `עָשָׂה` (`'asah'`) means "to do," "make," or "perform." In this context, it conveys intense, continuous activity or being fully occupied. It emphasizes that the priests were not merely performing tasks but were wholly engrossed and consumed by their sacrificial duties, leaving no time for personal needs.
* **Burnt Offerings (Hebrew, _ʿōlâ'_):** The `עוֹלָה` (`'olah'`) was a sacrifice entirely consumed by fire on the altar, symbolizing complete dedication, atonement, and devotion to God. The fact that the priests were engaged in offering these "until night" signifies the vast number of animals being sacrificed and the exhaustive nature of their work in mediating the nation's repentance and worship.
* **Fat (Hebrew, _ḥēleḇ'_):** The `חֵלֶב` (`'chelev'`), or fat, of the sacrificial animals was considered the choicest portion and was explicitly reserved for the Lord, offered on the altar as a "sweet savor" ([Leviticus 3:16](/leviticus/3-16 "Leviticus 3:16 - The Fat is the Lord's")). Its inclusion here alongside "burnt offerings" highlights the priests' meticulous adherence to the specific requirements of the Mosaic Law, ensuring that God received His due portion.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And afterward they made ready for themselves, and for the priests":** "They" refers to the Levites. This clause indicates that after assisting with the general sacrificial duties, the Levites took on the additional responsibility of preparing food and sustenance, not only for themselves but also for the priests. This action demonstrates foresight and a spirit of service beyond their immediate, assigned tasks.
* **"because the priests the sons of Aaron [were busied] in offering of burnt offerings and the fat until night":** This is the explanatory clause, providing the crucial reason for the Levites' actions. The priests, specifically the descendants of Aaron, were so completely absorbed and occupied with the continuous, physically demanding, and ritually precise work of offering the whole burnt offerings and the designated fat portions that they had no time to attend to their own needs for food or rest, working tirelessly from morning "until night."
* **"therefore the Levites prepared for themselves, and for the priests the sons of Aaron":** This concluding clause reiterates the Levites' practical response, emphasizing the direct cause-and-effect relationship. Because the priests were fully engaged in their sacred duties, the Levites stepped in to ensure that both groups were nourished, allowing the priests to maintain their focus on the sacrificial rites without interruption.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several effective literary devices to convey its message. **Explanatory Clause** is prominently used with the "because... therefore" structure, clearly establishing the cause-and-effect relationship between the priests' intense dedication and the Levites' supportive actions. This logical flow highlights the necessity of the Levites' intervention. **Emphasis** is achieved through the phrase "until night," which underscores the exhaustive and continuous nature of the priests' work, conveying the sheer scale of the Passover sacrifices and the unceasing devotion required. Furthermore, **Synecdoche** is subtly present in the phrase "burnt offerings and the fat," which represents the entirety of the sacrificial duties and the specific ritual requirements, rather than just these two elements in isolation. This concise phrasing efficiently communicates the priests' comprehensive engagement in the sacred rites.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This passage beautifully illustrates the theological principle of **interdependence within God's service**. Just as the human body has many parts, each with a distinct function yet all working in harmony for the good of the whole, so too does the community of faith require diverse gifts and roles. The priests, dedicated to the most sacred and demanding altar duties, relied entirely on the Levites for practical support. This mutual reliance ensures that the work of God can proceed efficiently and reverently, emphasizing that no task, whether prominent or "behind-the-scenes," is insignificant in the grand scheme of worship. It speaks to the dignity of all forms of service rendered unto the Lord and the importance of supporting those who are called to specific, demanding ministries, allowing them to focus on their primary responsibilities.

* [Numbers 18:6](/numbers/18-6 "Numbers 18:6 - Levites as a Gift to Priests")
* [1 Corinthians 12:12](/1_corinthians/12-12 "1 Corinthians 12:12 - One Body, Many Members")
* [Romans 12:4-5](/romans/12-4 "Romans 12:4-5 - Many Members, One Body")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The scene in 2 Chronicles 35:14 offers profound lessons for contemporary spiritual communities. It calls us to recognize and value the diverse contributions within the body of Christ, understanding that every role, from the most visible to the most hidden, is vital for the flourishing of God's work. The Levites' proactive service reminds us that true spiritual maturity often involves looking beyond our immediate responsibilities to identify and meet the needs of others, especially those burdened with significant spiritual leadership or demanding tasks. It challenges us to cultivate a culture of mutual support, where we are quick to serve one another, enabling all to fulfill their God-given callings without being hindered by practical needs. This verse encourages us to see every act of service, no matter how mundane it may seem, as an act of worship that contributes to the overall health and effectiveness of the church, fostering unity and dedication in our collective pursuit of God's glory.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways can we, as individuals and as a community, better identify and support those who are "busied" with primary spiritual duties or demanding service in our churches today?**
* **What "behind-the-scenes" tasks in our spiritual communities are often overlooked but are absolutely vital for the smooth functioning of ministry? How can we better affirm and participate in these roles?**
* **How does the Levites' example of proactive service challenge our own willingness to step outside our comfort zones to meet the practical needs of others in ministry?**

### FAQ
**What was the primary distinction between the roles of the priests and the Levites during temple service?**

Answer: The priests, descendants of Aaron, had the exclusive right to perform duties directly at the altar, including offering sacrifices, handling the blood, burning the fat, and presenting incense. They also pronounced blessings and taught the Law. The Levites, from the tribe of Levi but not descendants of Aaron, served as assistants to the priests. Their duties were extensive and varied, including slaughtering animals for sacrifice, preparing the offerings, transporting sacred items, maintaining the temple, singing in worship, and serving as gatekeepers and treasurers. This verse specifically highlights the Levites' role in preparing sustenance, which was crucial to allow the priests to focus on their unique, demanding altar duties.

**Why was King Josiah's Passover celebration considered so unique and significant?**

Answer: Josiah's Passover was unparalleled in its adherence to the Mosaic Law and its sheer scale since the days of Samuel the prophet ([2 Chronicles 35:18](/2_chronicles/35-18 "2 Chronicles 35:18 - An Unprecedented Passover")). It was a culmination of Josiah's extensive religious reforms, which began with cleansing the land of idolatry and repairing the temple. The discovery of the Book of the Law ([2 Kings 22:8](/2_kings/22-8 "2 Kings 22:8 - The Discovery of the Book of the Law")) profoundly impacted Josiah, leading him to meticulously restore true worship according to God's commands. The unprecedented number of offerings and the precise execution by all involved underscored the nation's renewed commitment to Yahweh, making it a pivotal moment in Judah's spiritual history.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The diligent, all-consuming service of the priests in offering "burnt offerings and the fat until night" beautifully foreshadows the ultimate, once-for-all sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Just as the priests were wholly "busied" with the intricate and demanding work of atonement, so Christ, our great High Priest ([Hebrews 4:14](/hebrews/4-14 "Hebrews 4:14 - Our Great High Priest")), was entirely consumed by the work of redemption on the cross. His sacrifice was the perfect `עוֹלָה` (`'olah'`), a complete offering of Himself, symbolizing total dedication and providing full atonement for sin ([Hebrews 9:11-14](/hebrews/9-11 "Hebrews 9:11-14 - Christ's Superior Sacrifice")). The Levites' supportive role, ensuring the priests could remain focused on their sacred task, points to the Holy Spirit's empowering work and the mutual support within the New Covenant community, enabling believers to serve Christ, who has already completed the ultimate work. In Christ, the need for continuous animal sacrifices ceased, as He became the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")), fulfilling the shadows of the Old Testament sacrificial system and establishing a new covenant of grace ([Hebrews 8:6](/hebrews/8-6 "Hebrews 8:6 - A Superior Covenant")).

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

Acts 6:2

Then the twelve called the multitude of the disciples [unto them], and said, It is not reason that we should leave the word of God, and serve tables.

Acts 6:4

But we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the ministry of the word.