2 Chronicles 34:12

And the men did the work faithfully: and the overseers of them [were] Jahath and Obadiah, the Levites, of the sons of Merari; and Zechariah and Meshullam, of the sons of the Kohathites, to set [it] forward; and [other of] the Levites, all that could skill of instruments of musick.

And the men {H582} did {H6213} the work {H4399} faithfully {H530}: and the overseers {H5329} of them were Jahath {H3189} and Obadiah {H5662}, the Levites {H3881}, of the sons {H1121} of Merari {H4847}; and Zechariah {H2148} and Meshullam {H4918}, of the sons of the Kohathites {H6956}, to set it forward {H6485}; and other of the Levites {H3881}, all that could skill {H995} of instruments {H3627} of musick {H7892}.

The men did the work faithfully. Their supervisors were Yachat and 'Ovadyahu, L'vi'im from the descendants of M'rari, also Z'kharyah and Meshulam from the descendants of the K'hatim to give direction; and other L'vi'im, all of whom could accompany singing with musical instruments.

And the men did the work faithfully. The Levites overseeing them were Jahath and Obadiah, descendants of Merari, and Zechariah and Meshullam, descendants of Kohath. Other Levites, all skilled with musical instruments,

And the men did the work faithfully: and the overseers of them were Jahath and Obadiah, the Levites, of the sons of Merari; and Zechariah and Meshullam, of the sons of the Kohathites, to set it forward; and others of the Levites, all that were skilful with instruments of music.

Commentary

2 Chronicles 34:12 provides a snapshot of the diligent and organized effort involved in repairing the Temple under the righteous reign of King Josiah. This verse highlights the integrity of the workers and the meticulous oversight provided by various Levites, some of whom were typically associated with musical service.

Context

This verse is part of the larger narrative of King Josiah's reign, which began when he was just eight years old. Unlike many of his predecessors, Josiah distinguished himself by seeking the Lord early in his rule and initiating widespread religious reforms. By his eighteenth year, after cleansing Judah and Jerusalem of idolatry, Josiah commanded the repair and restoration of the dilapidated Temple of the Lord. The funds for this massive undertaking were collected from the people and entrusted to the workers. Verses 10 and 11 emphasize the honesty and trustworthiness of those handling the money, and verse 12 extends that commendation to the workers themselves and their overseers.

Key Themes

  • Faithfulness in Service: The opening phrase, "And the men did the work faithfully," sets the tone. It underscores the importance of integrity, diligence, and commitment in carrying out any task, especially one dedicated to God. This faithfulness ensured the project's success and honored God.
  • Organized Leadership: The detailed mention of overseers—Jahath, Obadiah, Zechariah, and Meshullam, specifically identified by their Levitical families (Merari and Kohathites)—demonstrates the structured and orderly nature of the work. God's work thrives on good organization and accountable leadership.
  • Diverse Gifts for a Common Goal: Intriguingly, some of the Levites involved in "setting it forward" were "all that could skill of instruments of musick." This shows that even those with seemingly unrelated talents (like musical proficiency) were utilized in a supervisory or expediting capacity for the Temple's restoration. It highlights the principle that all gifts can be consecrated for God's glory and applied wherever needed for the advancement of His purposes. This echoes the broader theme of the diversity of gifts working together for the common good.
  • Restoration and Revival: The physical repair of the Temple was a tangible sign of the spiritual revival taking place under Josiah. The faithful work of these individuals contributed directly to the nation's return to worship and obedience to God.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "faithfully" is bĕ'ĕmûnah (בֶּאֱמוּנָה), derived from the root `aman`, which signifies firmness, reliability, and trustworthiness. It's the same root that gives us "Amen" and the concept of `emunah` (faith). Here, it denotes the workers' steadfastness, integrity, and honest execution of their duties. The phrase "to set it forward" (Hebrew: lĕnaṣṣēaḥ - לְנַצֵּחַ) carries the sense of overseeing, supervising, or bringing something to completion. It's a term often associated with leading or excelling, and in the context of music, it's used for "the choirmaster" in many Psalms, reinforcing the connection to the musically skilled Levites.

Practical Application

This verse offers valuable lessons for believers today. It reminds us that all work, whether in the church or in our daily lives, should be undertaken with integrity and faithfulness. Our commitment to excellence reflects our dedication to God. Furthermore, it encourages us to recognize and utilize diverse talents within the community of faith. Just as musical Levites contributed to temple construction oversight, every skill and gift we possess can be purposed for God's kingdom, even if it's in an unexpected role. Good leadership and diligent effort are always essential for God's work to flourish and for communities to experience spiritual renewal.

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Cross-References

  • 2 Kings 12:15 (4 votes)

    Moreover they reckoned not with the men, into whose hand they delivered the money to be bestowed on workmen: for they dealt faithfully.

  • 1 Chronicles 23:5 (3 votes)

    Moreover four thousand [were] porters; and four thousand praised the LORD with the instruments which I made, [said David], to praise [therewith].

  • 1 Chronicles 25:1 (2 votes)

    ¶ Moreover David and the captains of the host separated to the service of the sons of Asaph, and of Heman, and of Jeduthun, who should prophesy with harps, with psalteries, and with cymbals: and the number of the workmen according to their service was:

  • 1 Chronicles 25:31 (2 votes)

    The four and twentieth to Romamtiezer, [he], his sons, and his brethren, [were] twelve.

  • 1 Chronicles 16:41 (2 votes)

    And with them Heman and Jeduthun, and the rest that were chosen, who were expressed by name, to give thanks to the LORD, because his mercy [endureth] for ever;

  • 2 Kings 22:7 (2 votes)

    Howbeit there was no reckoning made with them of the money that was delivered into their hand, because they dealt faithfully.

  • Proverbs 28:20 (2 votes)

    ¶ A faithful man shall abound with blessings: but he that maketh haste to be rich shall not be innocent.