2 Chronicles 30:11 (KJV)

What does 2 Chronicles 30:11 mean?

2 Chronicles 30:11 says that some people from the tribes of Asher, Manasseh, and Zebulun humbled themselves and traveled to Jerusalem. These individuals responded positively to an invitation to join a religious gathering, even though many others from their tribes did not.

This verse is part of the story where King Hezekiah of Judah invites all Israelites, including those from the northern tribes, to come to Jerusalem to celebrate the Passover. Most people from these northern tribes ignored or even mocked the invitation, but a number of them chose to humble themselves and make the journey. The verse highlights their willingness to set aside pride or hesitation to participate in a shared act of worship.

The Hebrew behind 2 Chronicles 30:11

• "divers" (אֲנָשִׁים, 'anashim): This word means "men" or "people." The translation "divers" in the KJV simply means "some" or "various" people from these tribes, not all.
• "humbled" (כָּנַע, kanaʿ): This word means to lower oneself, to submit, or to be humble. Here, it points to a deliberate choice to set aside pride or resistance in order to respond to Hezekiah’s invitation.
• "came" (בּוֹא, bo): This is the common Hebrew word for "to come" or "to go." It emphasizes the action of actually making the journey to Jerusalem, not just agreeing in spirit.

Why 2 Chronicles 30:11 matters

• The verse shows that even when most people resist a good invitation, some are willing to respond with humility and take action.
• It highlights the openness of Hezekiah’s invitation, reaching out to tribes that were often separated from Judah, and the willingness of some to cross those boundaries.
• This moment sets up a theme in the chapter: true worship and unity are possible when people are willing to humble themselves, regardless of their background or the choices of those around them.