2 Chronicles 31 19

2 Chronicles 31:19 kjv

Also of the sons of Aaron the priests, which were in the fields of the suburbs of their cities, in every several city, the men that were expressed by name, to give portions to all the males among the priests, and to all that were reckoned by genealogies among the Levites.

2 Chronicles 31:19 nkjv

Also for the sons of Aaron the priests, who were in the fields of the common-lands of their cities, in every single city, there were men who were designated by name to distribute portions to all the males among the priests and to all who were listed by genealogies among the Levites.

2 Chronicles 31:19 niv

As for the priests, the descendants of Aaron, who lived on the farm lands around their towns or in any other towns, men were designated by name to distribute portions to every male among them and to all who were recorded in the genealogies of the Levites.

2 Chronicles 31:19 esv

And for the sons of Aaron, the priests, who were in the fields of common land belonging to their cities, there were men in the several cities who were designated by name to distribute portions to every male among the priests and to everyone among the Levites who was enrolled.

2 Chronicles 31:19 nlt

As for the priests, the descendants of Aaron, who were living in the open villages around the towns, men were appointed by name to distribute portions to every male among the priests and to all the Levites listed in the genealogical records.

2 Chronicles 31 verses

2 Chronicles 31 19 Meaning

2 Chronicles 31:19 details the system King Hezekiah established to provide for the priests and Levites residing in the cities and their surrounding pasture lands throughout Judah. This verse emphasizes that specific men were appointed by name to ensure fair and systematic distribution of the holy portions and contributions to all eligible males among the priests and to every Levite registered by genealogy, guaranteeing their sustenance and enabling their dedicated service to the Lord.

2 Chronicles 31 19 Context

This verse is set within King Hezekiah's extensive religious reforms after the reign of his wicked father, Ahaz. Chapters 29-31 of 2 Chronicles describe Hezekiah's fervent efforts to restore the worship of Yahweh in Judah. Chapter 29 details the purification and reconsecration of the Temple. Chapter 30 recounts the celebration of a belated but glorious Passover. Following these spiritual revivals, Chapter 31 addresses the practical and organizational aspects of maintaining God's service. Having called the people to bring their offerings and tithes (2 Chron 31:5-6), Hezekiah ensured these abundant provisions were properly managed and distributed. Verse 19 specifically highlights the meticulous care taken to provide for the priests and Levites living in outlying areas, beyond Jerusalem, who served intermittently or maintained the spiritual life in local communities. This organized system ensured that the servants of God, whether actively ministering in Jerusalem or managing their properties in their designated cities, received their due portions, allowing them to remain dedicated to their divine calling without financial hardship.

2 Chronicles 31 19 Word analysis

• Also for the sons of Aaron the priests: This specifies the recipients of the provisions. "Sons of Aaron" (בְּנֵי אַהֲרֹן, benē ’aharon) denotes the priestly lineage, those consecrated to serve in the sanctuary and offer sacrifices according to the Mosaic Law (Exod 29; Lev 8-10). They were distinct from the wider Levites in their specific ministerial roles.
• who were in the fields of the suburbs of their cities: This phrase specifies the dwelling places of these priests. "Suburbs" (מִגְרָשׁ, migrāš) refers to the common pasture lands or outskirts around the Levitical cities given to them for their cattle and sustenance (Num 35:2-3). This shows a broad geographical distribution, not just priests resident in Jerusalem, underscoring the comprehensive nature of Hezekiah's provision system to those spread throughout Judah.
• in every city: Reinforces the idea that the provision was comprehensive, reaching the priestly and Levitical families no matter where they resided in their allotted towns, not just the capital.
• there were men who were designated by name: "Designated by name" (נִקְּבֻוּ בְּשֵׁמוֹת, niqevu bišmōṯ) indicates a formal, deliberate appointment. These were authorized individuals, chosen for their reliability and integrity, tasked with this crucial administrative responsibility. It implies transparency and accountability in the distribution process, contrasting with periods of neglect where priests lacked provision.
• to give portions: "Portions" (מָנוֹת, mānōṯ) refers to their prescribed shares of the holy things, tithes, and offerings that were due to them for their service (Num 18; Deut 18). This includes offerings, firstfruits, and tithes contributed by the people. The organized giving ensured consistent support.
• to every male among the priests: Emphasizes provision for all adult male priests. The male was typically the head of the household and represented his family unit in terms of receiving provisions and service allocation. This ensured the sustenance of the entire priestly family.
• and to everyone listed by genealogies among the Levites: "Listed by genealogies" (הִתְיַחֵשׂ, hityaḥēs) refers to those formally registered or counted according to their family lineages. Genealogy was paramount for Levites as it confirmed their tribal identity, eligibility for service, and right to receive Levitical provisions (Num 1:47-50; Ezra 2:61-62). This implies accuracy and proper verification in distributing resources. The Levites, though distinct from Aaron's sons (priests), also had an essential role in temple service, from assisting the priests to music and gatekeeping.

2 Chronicles 31 19 Bonus section

The detailed focus on "males" among the priests and "everyone listed by genealogies among the Levites" reinforces the patriarchal structure of ancient Israelite society, where the male head of the household was the designated recipient on behalf of his family. For the Levites, the emphasis on "genealogies" not only confirmed their right to provisions but also affirmed their eligibility for various roles in the Tabernacle/Temple service, from porters to musicians. During times of national decline, records and support often faltered, leading priests and Levites to abandon their posts for secular work (as seen much later in Nehemiah's time). Hezekiah's actions in this chapter, culminating in administrative details like this verse, reveal his commitment to establishing a lasting framework for Israel's covenant fidelity and the functional sanctity of God's house and its ministers. This systematic approach speaks to a deeply ingrained theological conviction that spiritual order requires material support and administrative diligence.

2 Chronicles 31 19 Commentary

2 Chronicles 31:19 is a testament to King Hezekiah's meticulous and thorough reforms, moving beyond merely religious ritual to practical, administrative excellence. It underscores the importance of a well-organized support system for those dedicated to spiritual service. The verse illustrates several key principles: first, the divine command to care for God's ministers, ensuring their sustenance from the tithes and offerings so they are not distracted from their sacred duties. Second, it highlights the need for effective administration and accountability through specifically appointed and trustworthy individuals. This prevented arbitrary distribution and ensured fairness, reflecting God's nature of order, not chaos. Third, the inclusion of priests and Levites across "every city" and in their "suburban fields" demonstrates the comprehensive reach of the reform, emphasizing care for all God's servants, wherever they resided, not just those visible in the main Temple. This systematic provision reflects a robust commitment to maintaining a thriving and healthy spiritual life across the entire nation of Judah, allowing those "listed by genealogies" to fulfill their calling. This mirrors the New Testament principle that those who minister the spiritual things are worthy of receiving material support.

Examples:

• Modern Parallel: A church or ministry ensuring that its full-time pastoral staff and missionaries receive a regular, sufficient salary, enabling them to focus fully on their calling.
• Organizational Principle: A non-profit setting up clear protocols and named individuals responsible for fund distribution to beneficiaries, ensuring transparency and equitability.
• Spiritual Stewardship: A community dedicating resources to its teachers or elders, recognizing their value and providing for their needs to support their diligent study and service.