And concerning the children of Israel and Judah, that dwelt in the cities of Judah, they also brought in the tithe of oxen and sheep, and the tithe of holy things which were consecrated unto the LORD their God, and laid them by heaps.

2 CHRONICLES 31:6KJV
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2 Chronicles 31:6 (KJV)

What does 2 Chronicles 31:6 mean?

2 Chronicles 31:6 describes how the people of Israel and Judah, living in the cities of Judah, brought a tenth (a tithe) of their cattle, sheep, and other items dedicated to God, and piled them up in heaps as offerings. This verse shows the people's response to religious reforms by giving generously from their resources for the service of God.

The context is King Hezekiah's efforts to restore proper worship in Jerusalem after a period of neglect. The verse highlights how not only the people living in Jerusalem but also those in the surrounding cities participated by bringing their tithes—both animals and things set apart as holy—to support the priests and Levites. The mention of "heaps" emphasizes the abundance and willingness of the people's giving during this time of renewal.

The Hebrew behind 2 Chronicles 31:6

  • "Tithe" (מַעֲשֵׂר, ma‘ăsēr): This word means a tenth part, often referring to what was set aside for religious purposes. Its use here underlines the organized, systematic giving expected from the people.
  • "Consecrated" (קָדַשׁ, qādash): This verb means to set apart as holy for God. The verse mentions "holy things" that were specifically dedicated, showing that the offerings were not just routine but intentionally set aside for sacred use.
  • "Heaps" (עֲרֵמָה, ‘ărēmāh): This word refers to large piles or mounds. The repetition in the verse ("heaps") highlights the sheer volume of what was brought, pointing to the people's enthusiasm and the success of Hezekiah's reforms.

Why 2 Chronicles 31:6 matters

  • This verse clarifies that the religious revival under Hezekiah was widespread, involving not just the capital but the broader population in Judah and Israelite settlers.
  • The focus on tithes and consecrated things shows the people's renewed commitment to supporting temple worship and those who served there.
  • The image of "heaps" connects to the larger narrative, illustrating the tangible results of spiritual renewal and the people's willingness to give when inspired by faithful leadership.

Where else these words appear

“heaps” Hebrew H6194 · used in 10 verses

  • Ruth 3:7 And when Boaz had eaten and drunk, and his heart was merry, he went to lie down at the end of the heap of corn: and she came softly, and uncovered his feet, and laid her down.
  • 2 Chronicles 31:9 Then Hezekiah questioned with the priests and the Levites concerning the heaps.
  • Song of Solomon 7:2 Thy navel is like a round goblet, which wanteth not liquor: thy belly is like an heap of wheat set about with lilies.

“tithe” Hebrew H4643 · used in 27 verses

  • Genesis 14:20 And blessed be the most high God, which hath delivered thine enemies into thy hand. And he gave him tithes of all.
  • Deuteronomy 12:6 And thither ye shall bring your burnt offerings, and your sacrifices, and your tithes, and heave offerings of your hand, and your vows, and your freewill offerings, and the firstlings of your herds and of your flocks:
  • Nehemiah 10:38 And the priest the son of Aaron shall be with the Levites, when the Levites take tithes: and the Levites shall bring up the tithe of the tithes unto the house of our God, to the chambers, into the treasure house.