And the Levites, of the children of the Kohathites, and of the children of the Korhites, stood up to praise the LORD God of Israel with a loud voice on high.

2 CHRONICLES 20:19KJV
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2 Chronicles 20:19 (KJV)

What does 2 Chronicles 20:19 mean?

2 Chronicles 20:19 describes how certain Levites, specifically from the families of the Kohathites and Korhites, stood up and praised the LORD, the God of Israel, with loud and powerful voices. This verse shows a moment of public worship and celebration led by these particular Levite groups.

The setting is during King Jehoshaphat’s reign, as the people of Judah prepare for a challenging situation involving enemy armies. The Levites, who were responsible for temple worship, take a leading role in encouraging the people by praising God with great energy and volume. This act of praise is both a spiritual response and a way to strengthen the community’s faith before a time of crisis.

The Hebrew behind 2 Chronicles 20:19

  • "Levites" (לֵוִי, Leviyy): This term refers to the tribe set apart for religious duties. Here, it highlights their special role in leading worship.
  • "Kohathites" (קְהָתִי, Qehati) and "Korhites" (קָרְחִי, Qorḥi): These are specific clans within the Levites, showing that not all Levites were involved, but particular families with a tradition of leading music and worship.
  • "Praise" (הָלַל, halal): This word means to praise or boast about someone, often with music or loud voices. The root idea is to shine or make something clear, so the Levites are making God’s greatness obvious to everyone.
  • "Loud" (גָּדוֹל, gadol) and "voice" (קוֹל, qol): These words stress that the praise was not quiet or private, but strong and public—meant to be heard by all.

Why 2 Chronicles 20:19 matters

  • This verse clarifies that public, enthusiastic worship was a key part of Israel’s response to fear and uncertainty, not just private prayer or quiet faith.
  • The mention of specific Levite families connects this act of praise to a long tradition of temple service, showing continuity and order in Israel’s worship practices.
  • By highlighting the Levites’ leadership, the verse sets the stage for the miraculous events that follow, showing that worship and trust in God come before victory or deliverance.