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 31:19KJVWhat does 2 Chronicles 31:19 mean?
2 Chronicles 31:19 describes how the sons of Aaron, who were priests living in the fields around their cities, received their assigned portions of food and resources. Specific men, named and recorded, were responsible for distributing these portions to all the male priests and to Levites who were listed by genealogy.
This verse is part of a record showing how King Hezekiah organized the support and care of the priests and Levites during his religious reforms. The verse highlights the practical steps taken to ensure that even those priests and Levites living outside the main city centers, in the surrounding areas, were provided for in an orderly and fair way.
The Hebrew behind 2 Chronicles 31:19
- "fields" (שָׂדֶה, sadeh): This word refers to the open land or countryside around the cities, showing that the priests did not all live in the main city but were spread out in rural areas.
- "suburbs" (מִגְרָשׁ, migrash): This term means the pasturelands or outskirts around a city, emphasizing that the priests’ homes and responsibilities extended beyond city walls.
- "expressed" (נָתַן, nathan): Here, this word means those who were specifically named or appointed, showing that the distribution was organized and based on official records.
- "genealogies" (יָחַשׂ, yachas): This word refers to being registered by family line, which was important for determining who was eligible to receive the portions as Levites.
Why 2 Chronicles 31:19 matters
- This verse clarifies that the care and support of priests and Levites was not limited to those serving at the temple in Jerusalem but included those living and working in outlying areas.
- It shows the importance of record-keeping and organization in the religious life of Israel, ensuring fairness and accountability in distributing resources.
- The verse connects to the broader reforms of Hezekiah, highlighting his efforts to restore proper worship and support for all those serving in religious roles, not just the most visible leaders.