2 Chronicles 35:13

And they roasted the passover with fire according to the ordinance: but the [other] holy [offerings] sod they in pots, and in caldrons, and in pans, and divided [them] speedily among all the people.

And they roasted {H1310} the passover {H6453} with fire {H784} according to the ordinance {H4941}: but the other holy {H6944} offerings sod {H1310} they in pots {H5518}, and in caldrons {H1731}, and in pans {H6745}, and divided them speedily {H7323} among all the people {H1121}{H5971}.

They roasted the Pesach lamb over fire, according to the rule; while they boiled the holy offerings in pots, kettles and pans and carried them quickly to all the ordinary people.

They roasted the Passover animals on the fire according to the regulation, and they boiled the other holy offerings in pots, kettles, and bowls and quickly brought them to all the people.

And they roasted the passover with fire according to the ordinance: and the holy offerings boiled they in pots, and in caldrons, and in pans, and carried them quickly to all the children of the people.

Commentary

Commentary on 2 Chronicles 35:13

2 Chronicles 35:13 provides a specific detail regarding the preparation of the Passover meal and other offerings during King Josiah's monumental Passover celebration. This verse highlights the meticulous adherence to God's ancient commands, showcasing the devotion and organizational skills of those involved.

Context

This verse is part of a larger narrative in 2 Chronicles 35, which describes King Josiah's unparalleled Passover. Josiah, one of Judah's most righteous kings, initiated a profound spiritual revival, purging idolatry and restoring true worship according to the Law of Moses. The chapter details the extensive preparations, the contributions from the king, princes, and people, and the diligent service of the priests and Levites. This particular Passover was so grand that the Bible records no such celebration since the days of Samuel (2 Chronicles 35:18), emphasizing Josiah's commitment to fulfilling the commandments regarding the feast.

Key Themes

  • Obedience to Divine Ordinance: The verse explicitly states that the Passover lamb was "roasted... according to the ordinance." This underscores the paramount importance of following God's instructions precisely, especially concerning sacred rituals like the Passover. The specific method of preparation for the Passover lamb—roasting with fire—was a divine command given in Exodus 12:8-9, distinguishing it from other offerings.
  • Distinction in Sacrificial Preparation: The contrast between roasting the Passover and "sodding" (boiling) the "other holy offerings" reveals a careful distinction in the handling of different types of sacrifices. While the Passover lamb had a unique preparation method, other peace or fellowship offerings could be boiled, allowing for easier and quicker distribution among the large assembly. This demonstrates a deep understanding and application of the various Levitical laws concerning sacrifices.
  • Diligence and Efficiency: The phrase "divided them speedily among all the people" highlights the organized and efficient manner in which the Levites and priests handled the immense volume of offerings. Given the vast number of participants and sacrifices, prompt distribution was crucial for the smooth running of the feast, ensuring everyone could partake in the communal meal.

Linguistic Insights

  • The King James Version word "sod" is an archaic form of "boiled." It clearly differentiates the preparation method of the general "holy offerings" from the specific roasting required for the Passover lamb.
  • "Ordinance" (Hebrew: mishpat) refers to a prescribed statute or judgment, indicating a divine command or rule that must be followed.

Related Scriptures

  • The original instruction for roasting the Passover lamb can be found in Exodus 12:8-9.
  • Josiah's unparalleled righteousness and adherence to the Law are also praised in 2 Kings 23:25.
  • For comparison, another significant Passover celebration is recorded during King Hezekiah's reign in 2 Chronicles 30:26, though Josiah's is noted as even greater.

Practical Application

This verse serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of precise obedience to God's Word. Just as the Israelites meticulously followed the instructions for the Passover, believers today are called to a diligent and intentional walk with God, adhering to His revealed will. It also underscores the value of order and efficiency in serving God, especially within corporate worship and community life, ensuring that spiritual duties are carried out thoughtfully and effectively for the benefit of all. The dedication shown by King Josiah and his people in restoring proper worship practices encourages us to pursue a genuine and thorough commitment to our faith.

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Cross-References

  • Exodus 12:8 (5 votes)

    And they shall eat the flesh in that night, roast with fire, and unleavened bread; [and] with bitter [herbs] they shall eat it.

  • Exodus 12:9 (5 votes)

    Eat not of it raw, nor sodden at all with water, but roast [with] fire; his head with his legs, and with the purtenance thereof.

  • 1 Samuel 2:13 (4 votes)

    And the priests' custom with the people [was, that], when any man offered sacrifice, the priest's servant came, while the flesh was in seething, with a fleshhook of three teeth in his hand;

  • 1 Samuel 2:15 (4 votes)

    Also before they burnt the fat, the priest's servant came, and said to the man that sacrificed, Give flesh to roast for the priest; for he will not have sodden flesh of thee, but raw.

  • Leviticus 6:28 (3 votes)

    But the earthen vessel wherein it is sodden shall be broken: and if it be sodden in a brasen pot, it shall be both scoured, and rinsed in water.

  • Deuteronomy 16:7 (3 votes)

    And thou shalt roast and eat [it] in the place which the LORD thy God shall choose: and thou shalt turn in the morning, and go unto thy tents.

  • Psalms 22:14 (2 votes)

    I am poured out like water, and all my bones are out of joint: my heart is like wax; it is melted in the midst of my bowels.