2 Chronicles 16:14 (KJV)

What does 2 Chronicles 16:14 mean?

2 Chronicles 16:14 describes the burial of King Asa, explaining that he was laid to rest in a tomb he had prepared for himself in the city of David, surrounded by fragrant spices and perfumes, with a large fire made in his honor. This verse highlights the respect and elaborate care given to Asa’s burial, marking it as a significant event.

The verse is part of the account of King Asa’s death and burial, written by the chronicler to the people of Judah. The details about the sepulchre, the bed of spices, and the “very great burning” show that Asa was honored as a king, with skilled apothecaries preparing special scents and a public display of mourning. The passage emphasizes the customs and respect shown to a deceased king in ancient Judah.

The Hebrew behind 2 Chronicles 16:14

• "sepulchres" (קֶבֶר, qever): This word means tombs or burial places. The verse notes that Asa had prepared his own burial site, which was not unusual for kings but shows forethought and status.
• "odours" (בְּשָׂמִים, besamim): This refers to sweet-smelling spices or perfumes. Their use here points to a royal burial tradition meant to honor the dead and perhaps mask the scent of decay.
• "apothecaries'" (רֹקֵחַ, rokeach): This word means perfumers or those skilled in preparing aromatic substances. The mention of their “art” highlights that Asa’s burial involved professional preparation, not just common spices.
• "burning" (שְׂרֵפָה, s'refah): This word can mean a burning or a ceremonial fire. In this context, it likely refers to a large burning of spices or materials as a sign of mourning and respect, not cremation.

Why 2 Chronicles 16:14 matters

• The verse clarifies that the “burning” was likely a ceremonial act of honor, not cremation, which was not a common Israelite practice; this helps avoid confusion about burial customs.
• The careful mention of spices and professional apothecaries shows the high regard for Asa, even though his reign ended with some controversy, highlighting the respect still given to a king.
• The details connect this event to broader biblical traditions of honoring leaders in death, helping readers understand ancient royal funerals and the values of the community at that time.