Then Hezekiah answered and said, Now ye have consecrated yourselves unto the LORD, come near and bring sacrifices and thank offerings into the house of the LORD. And the congregation brought in sacrifices and thank offerings; and as many as were of a free heart burnt offerings.

2 CHRONICLES 29:31KJV
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2 Chronicles 29:31 (KJV)

What does 2 Chronicles 29:31 mean?

2 Chronicles 29:31 describes King Hezekiah inviting the people, after they have dedicated themselves to God, to come forward and bring sacrifices and offerings of thanks to the temple. The people respond by bringing these gifts, and those who felt moved freely also brought burnt offerings.

Hezekiah is speaking to the gathered people of Judah after a time of spiritual renewal and temple cleansing. He acknowledges that the people have now set themselves apart for God and encourages them to express their dedication through giving. The verse highlights both the formal offerings and the additional, voluntary burnt offerings brought by those whose hearts were willing, showing a mix of duty and heartfelt generosity in worship.

The Hebrew behind 2 Chronicles 29:31

  • "Consecrated" uses מָלֵא (male, "to fill") and יָד (yad, "hand"), a phrase often understood as "to fill the hand," meaning to be fully dedicated or set apart for service to God. This shows that the people were now ready and prepared for worship.
  • "Thank offerings" is תּוֹדָה (todah), meaning offerings given in gratitude. These are not required sacrifices but expressions of thankfulness, highlighting the people's voluntary praise.
  • "Free" is נָדָב (nadav), meaning willing or generous. The phrase "of a free heart" (לֵב, lev) points to offerings given out of genuine desire, not obligation, emphasizing the sincerity behind the people's actions.

Why 2 Chronicles 29:31 matters

  • The verse clarifies that worship involved both required and voluntary offerings, showing that heartfelt giving was valued alongside ritual obedience.
  • It highlights a key moment of revival under Hezekiah, where the people's response was not just outward but also deeply personal and willing.
  • The language of "consecration" and "free heart" connects this event to broader biblical themes of dedication and sincere worship, helping readers see the importance of both action and attitude in approaching God.