2 Kings 12:12

KJV

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].

KJV (with Strong's)

And to masons {H1443}, and hewers {H2672} of stone {H68}, and to buy {H7069} timber {H6086} and hewed {H4274} stone {H68} to repair {H2388} the breaches {H919} of the house {H1004} of the LORD {H3068}, and for all that was laid out {H3318} for the house {H1004} to repair {H2394} it.

Complete Jewish Bible

on masons, stoneworkers, timber, worked stone and everything else needed for repairing the damaged places in the house of ADONAI.

Berean Standard Bible

masons, and stonecutters. They also purchased timber and dressed stone to repair the damage to the house of the LORD, and they paid the other expenses of the temple repairs.

American Standard Version

and to the masons and the hewers of stone, and for buying timber and hewn stone to repair the breaches of the house of Jehovah, and for all that was laid out for the house to repair it.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Second Kings 12:12 provides a granular look at the practical implementation of King Joash's ambitious Temple restoration project. Following years of neglect, likely under the idolatrous reign of Athaliah, the young king initiated a comprehensive repair effort. This verse specifically details the direct allocation of collected funds to the skilled laborers—masons and stone hewers—and for the purchase of essential building materials like timber and hewed stone, all dedicated to mending the structural damage ("breaches") of the sacred House of the LORD. It underscores a period of diligent stewardship and focused action to renew the physical center of Israelite worship.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is embedded within the narrative of King Joash's reign, particularly focusing on his efforts to restore the Jerusalem Temple. The preceding verses (e.g., [2 Kings 12:4](/2_kings/12-4 "2 Kings 12:4 - Joash's Temple Repair Initiative")) describe Joash's initial command to the priests to use dedicated money for repairs. However, when progress was slow, a new system was implemented: a chest was placed at the Temple entrance to collect funds directly from the people ([2 Kings 12:9](/2_kings/12-9 "2 Kings 12:9 - The Collection Chest")). Verses [2 Kings 12:10-12](/2_kings/12-10 "2 Kings 12:10-12 - Disbursement of Funds for Temple Repair") detail how this money was counted and then directly disbursed to the supervisors of the work, who in turn paid the laborers and purchased materials. This direct approach, bypassing the priests' previous handling of the funds for this specific purpose, ensured efficiency and accountability, as highlighted by the integrity of the workmen mentioned later in [2 Kings 12:15](/2_kings/12-15 "2 Kings 12:15 - Integrity of the Workmen"). The narrative emphasizes a shift towards a more practical and transparent management of resources for the sacred task.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** King Joash (also known as Jehoash) ascended to the throne of Judah at the tender age of seven, having been hidden for six years to escape the murderous purge of his grandmother, Athaliah ([2 Kings 11:1-3](/2_kings/11-1 "2 Kings 11:1-3 - Athaliah's Usurpation")). His early reign was heavily influenced by the righteous high priest Jehoiada, who had preserved him and orchestrated Athaliah's overthrow. During Athaliah's idolatrous rule, the Temple of the LORD had likely suffered significant neglect and even desecration, as suggested by [2 Chronicles 24:7](/2_chronicles/24-7 "2 Chronicles 24:7 - Athaliah's Sons Desecrate the Temple"). The Temple was not merely a building but the central place of worship, the dwelling place of God's presence among His people, and a symbol of their covenant relationship. Its disrepair was a spiritual and national disgrace. Joash's initiative, therefore, was not just a construction project but a significant act of national and religious revival, restoring proper worship and demonstrating commitment to the LORD after a period of apostasy. The mention of specific trades like masons and hewers of stone reflects the common building practices of the ancient Near East, where skilled craftsmen were essential for large-scale construction projects.
* **Key Themes:** The meticulous description in [2 Kings 12](/2_kings/12 "2 Kings 12 - Joash Repairs the Temple") and specifically in this verse contributes to several key themes. Firstly, it highlights the theme of **diligent stewardship and accountability** in handling sacred resources. The funds collected from the people were scrupulously counted and directly applied to the work, demonstrating a commitment to responsible management of God's house and the people's contributions, as further affirmed in [2 Kings 12:15](/2_kings/12-15 "2 Kings 12:15 - Integrity of the Workmen"). Secondly, the verse underscores the theme of **restoration and renewal**. The primary goal was to "repair the breaches," signifying a return to reverence and proper order after a period of neglect and spiritual decline. This physical restoration of the Temple mirrored a spiritual renewal in the nation under Joash and Jehoiada. Thirdly, it emphasizes the **value of skilled labor and quality materials** in service to God. The explicit mention of "masons," "hewers of stone," "timber," and "hewed stone" acknowledges the practical, hands-on nature of the work and the importance of excellence in craftsmanship dedicated to the Lord. Finally, it subtly reinforces the theme of **divine priority**, demonstrating that the maintenance of God's dwelling place was a paramount concern for the king and the people, reflecting a desire to honor God with their best.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Masons (Hebrew, _ḥārāšîm_):** This term refers to skilled craftsmen or artisans, specifically those who work with stone. In ancient Israel, masons were highly valued for their expertise in shaping, cutting, and laying stones for construction, particularly for significant buildings like the Temple. Their inclusion here emphasizes the professional and high-quality nature of the repair work.
* **Hewers of stone (Hebrew, _ḥōṣəḇê ’eḇen_):** These were individuals specialized in quarrying and rough-shaping stones from rock formations. Their role was foundational, providing the raw material that masons would then refine and fit into the structure. The distinction between "masons" and "hewers of stone" indicates a division of labor, highlighting the comprehensive and organized approach to the Temple's restoration.
* **Breaches (Hebrew, _bedeq_):** This word denotes a crack, fissure, or damage, specifically referring to structural decay or dilapidation. Its use here vividly portrays the deteriorated state of the Temple, necessitating extensive repair rather than mere cosmetic improvements. The "breaches" were literal structural weaknesses that threatened the integrity of the sacred edifice.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And to masons, and hewers of stone":** This clause specifies the direct recipients of the funds—the skilled laborers responsible for the physical reconstruction. It highlights the practical, hands-on nature of the repair work and the importance of employing competent professionals for such a sacred task. The inclusion of both masons (finishers) and hewers (quarrymen/rough shapers) indicates a comprehensive approach to sourcing and preparing the stone.
* **"and to buy timber and hewed stone":** This part details the materials that were purchased. "Timber" (wood) would have been essential for roofing, internal structures, and decorative elements, while "hewed stone" refers to finished, cut, and shaped stones ready for placement. This demonstrates that the funds covered not only labor but also the necessary high-quality raw materials for durable and proper restoration.
* **"to repair the breaches of the house of the LORD":** This phrase states the explicit purpose of all the expenditure: to fix the structural damage and decay of the Temple. "The house of the LORD" is a reverent designation for the Jerusalem Temple, emphasizing its sacred status as God's dwelling place. The focus on "breaches" underscores the severity of the neglect and the urgency of the repair.
* **"and for all that was laid out for the house to repair [it]":** This concluding phrase serves as a comprehensive summary, indicating that the funds covered all necessary expenses related to the restoration of the Temple. It implies that no detail or cost associated with the repair was overlooked, ensuring a complete and thorough renovation of the sacred structure.

#### Literary Devices
The verse primarily employs **Practical Detail** and **Enumeration** to convey its message. By listing specific trades ("masons," "hewers of stone") and materials ("timber," "hewed stone"), the text grounds the grand project of Temple restoration in concrete, tangible actions. This detailed enumeration emphasizes the thoroughness and meticulousness of the work undertaken by King Joash and his overseers. The phrase "breaches of the house of the LORD" uses **Metonymy**, where "breaches" (the damage) stands for the overall state of disrepair of the Temple, vividly illustrating its neglected condition. The repeated emphasis on "repair" (implied in "to repair the breaches" and "to repair [it]") serves as a form of **Repetition for Emphasis**, underscoring the central goal and urgency of the project. This focus on the practicalities of construction highlights the human effort and resources dedicated to restoring a sacred space.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The meticulous account of the Temple's repair in 2 Kings 12, particularly the detailed expenditure in verse 12, offers profound theological insights. It underscores the biblical principle of diligent stewardship, demonstrating that resources, whether financial or material, are to be managed with integrity and purpose, especially when dedicated to God's work. The restoration of the physical Temple was not merely an architectural project but a profound act of spiritual renewal, signifying a national commitment to honor God after a period of neglect and idolatry. It highlights the importance of maintaining sacred spaces as symbols of God's presence and centers of worship, reflecting a people's reverence for Him. Furthermore, the emphasis on skilled labor and quality materials illustrates that excellence in craftsmanship and dedication in work are valuable forms of worship when offered in service to the Lord. This narrative serves as a timeless reminder that our commitment to God should be reflected in the care we take of His "house," whether that be a physical structure or the spiritual body of believers.

* [Nehemiah 4:6](/nehemiah/4-6 "Nehemiah 4:6 - Rebuilding the Wall of Jerusalem")
* [Haggai 1:4](/haggai/1-4 "Haggai 1:4 - Rebuilding the Temple after Exile")
* [1 Corinthians 3:16-17](/1_corinthians/3-16 "1 Corinthians 3:16-17 - Believers as God's Temple")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The detailed account of King Joash's Temple repair, particularly the practicalities highlighted in 2 Kings 12:12, offers enduring lessons for believers today. It calls us to consider the "breaches" in our own lives, in our families, and in our communities of faith—areas that have suffered neglect, disrepair, or compromise. Just as Joash was zealous for the physical house of the LORD, we are called to be zealous for the spiritual health and integrity of our own lives and the church, which is the living temple of God. This verse encourages diligent stewardship of all resources God has entrusted to us—our time, talents, and finances—directing them purposefully towards His kingdom work. It reminds us that every effort, no matter how seemingly mundane, like cutting stone or laying timber, is valuable and sacred when performed with dedication and integrity in service to the Lord. We are to be faithful managers of what God has given us, ensuring that our "houses" (both physical places of worship and our spiritual lives) are maintained in a manner that honors Him and facilitates His presence.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How do we identify and address "breaches" in our own spiritual lives or in our communities of faith today?**
* **In what ways can we demonstrate diligent stewardship of the resources God has entrusted to us for His kingdom work?**
* **How does the commitment to excellence in physical repair of the Temple translate to our approach to ministry and service in the church today?**

### FAQ

**Why was the Temple in such disrepair during Joash's reign?**

Answer: The Temple's dilapidated state was primarily a consequence of the ungodly and idolatrous reign of Queen Athaliah, Joash's grandmother. During her six-year usurpation of the throne, she and her sons not only neglected the Temple but actively plundered and desecrated it, using its sacred articles for Baal worship (as indicated in [2 Chronicles 24:7](/2_chronicles/24-7 "2 Chronicles 24:7 - Athaliah's Sons Desecrate the Temple")). This period of apostasy led to both physical decay and spiritual abandonment of the House of the LORD, necessitating the extensive repairs initiated by Joash.

**What was unique about the financial management in Joash's Temple repair project compared to previous methods?**

Answer: Initially, Joash instructed the priests to use the dedicated Temple money for repairs ([2 Kings 12:4](/2_kings/12-4 "2 Kings 12:4 - Joash's Initial Command for Temple Repair")). However, when the repairs were not progressing, a new, more direct system was implemented. A chest was placed at the Temple entrance to collect funds directly from the people, and this money was then counted and given directly to the overseers of the work. These overseers, in turn, paid the masons, hewers of stone, and purchased materials, as described in [2 Kings 12:12](/2_kings/12-12 "2 Kings 12:12 - Direct Disbursement of Funds"). A key aspect of this new system was the remarkable integrity of these overseers and workmen; [2 Kings 12:15](/2_kings/12-15 "2 Kings 12:15 - Integrity of the Workmen") explicitly states that "they did not require an accounting from the men into whose hand they delivered the money to pay out to the workmen, for they dealt faithfully." This direct and trustworthy management of funds was a notable departure from previous practices and ensured the money was used solely for its intended purpose.

**Does the principle of repairing the "house of the LORD" apply to modern church buildings?**

Answer: Yes, the principles underlying the repair of the "house of the LORD" in 2 Kings 12:12 certainly apply to modern church buildings, though with an expanded understanding. While the New Testament reveals that believers themselves are now the "temple of the Holy Spirit" ([1 Corinthians 6:19](/1_corinthians/6-19 "1 Corinthians 6:19 - Your Body is a Temple")), and the church, as a collective body, is God's spiritual dwelling ([Ephesians 2:19-22](/ephesians/2-19 "Ephesians 2:19-22 - The Church as God's Dwelling")), physical church buildings still serve as dedicated spaces for worship, fellowship, and ministry. Therefore, the principles of diligent stewardship, care for sacred spaces, and the commitment to excellence in maintaining these structures for God's glory remain highly relevant. Just as Joash ensured the physical Temple was fit for worship, so too should communities of faith responsibly manage and care for their meeting places, recognizing them as tools for ministry and symbols of God's presence among them.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The physical restoration of the Temple under King Joash, as detailed in [2 Kings 12:12](/2_kings/12-12 "2 Kings 12:12 - Practicalities of Temple Repair"), foreshadows the ultimate and spiritual restoration accomplished through Jesus Christ. While Joash sought to mend the "breaches" of a stone edifice, Jesus came to repair the fundamental breach between God and humanity, caused by sin. He is the true and ultimate Temple, as He declared, "Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up" ([John 2:19](/john/2-19 "John 2:19 - Jesus Predicts His Resurrection")), referring to the temple of His body. Through His sacrificial death and resurrection, Jesus became the perfect and eternal dwelling place of God, making direct access to the Father possible ([Hebrews 10:19-22](/hebrews/10-19 "Hebrews 10:19-22 - Access to God Through Christ")). Furthermore, Christ's work extends to building His church, which is described as a "spiritual house" and a "holy priesthood" ([1 Peter 2:5](/1_peter/2-5 "1 Peter 2:5 - Believers as Living Stones")), comprised of living stones built upon the cornerstone of Christ Himself ([Ephesians 2:20-22](/ephesians/2-20 "Ephesians 2:20-22 - Christ the Cornerstone")). The zeal for God's house seen in Joash's actions finds its perfect embodiment in Jesus, who cleansed the Temple and declared, "My house shall be called a house of prayer" ([Matthew 21:13](/matthew/21-13 "Matthew 21:13 - Jesus Cleanses the Temple")), demonstrating His passion for pure worship. Ultimately, the meticulous repair of the earthly Temple points forward to the new heavens and new earth, where God's presence is fully realized, and there is no need for a temple, "for its temple is the Lord God the Almighty and the Lamb" ([Revelation 21:22](/revelation/21-22 "Revelation 21:22 - No Temple in New Jerusalem")).

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 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.

1 Kings 5:17

And the king commanded, and they brought great stones, costly stones, [and] hewed stones, to lay the foundation of the house.

1 Kings 5:18

And Solomon's builders and Hiram's builders did hew [them], and the stonesquarers: so they prepared timber and stones to build the house.

Luke 21:5

¶ And as some spake of the temple, how it was adorned with goodly stones and gifts, he said,

Ezra 5:8

Be it known unto the king, that we went into the province of Judea, to the house of the great God, which is builded with great stones, and timber is laid in the walls, and this work goeth fast on, and prospereth in their hands.

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.