And they roasted the passover with fire according to the ordinance: but the other holy offerings sod they in pots, and in caldrons, and in pans, and divided them speedily among all the people.
2 CHRONICLES 35:13KJVWhat does 2 Chronicles 35:13 mean?
2 Chronicles 35:13 describes how the Israelites prepared the Passover meal by roasting it over fire, just as the instructions required, while the other offerings were boiled in pots, caldrons, and pans, and then quickly distributed to the people. This verse highlights the careful attention given to following the specific rules for the Passover and other sacrifices during King Josiah’s great Passover celebration.
The setting is the temple in Jerusalem during King Josiah’s reign, as the priests and Levites lead the people in observing Passover according to the ancient laws. The verse points out the difference in how the Passover lamb (roasted) and other holy offerings (boiled) were prepared, showing a clear respect for the distinct rituals. The focus is on both obedience to tradition and the practical work of feeding a large gathering.
The Hebrew behind 2 Chronicles 35:13
- "Roasted" (בָּשַׁל, bashal H1310): While this word usually means "to boil," here it refers to roasting, as required for the Passover lamb. This shows the translators recognized the special context of the Passover instructions.
- "Passover" (פֶּסַח, pesach H6453): This word specifically refers to the Passover sacrifice, a central ritual in Israel’s worship, marking the Exodus from Egypt.
- "Ordinance" (מִשְׁפָּט, mishpat H4941): This means a legal requirement or rule. The verse emphasizes that the people were careful to follow the exact instructions for the Passover.
- "Sod" (בָּשַׁל, bashal H1310): Here, the same word as "roasted" is used, but in this case it keeps its usual meaning of "to boil," referring to the other offerings. This highlights the different cooking methods required for different sacrifices.
Why 2 Chronicles 35:13 matters
- This verse clarifies that the Passover meal had to be prepared in a specific way—roasted, not boiled—while other offerings could be cooked differently, showing the importance of following God’s instructions in detail.
- The verse connects to the larger story of Josiah’s reforms, emphasizing a return to proper worship and careful observance of the law after a period of neglect.
- By describing the quick distribution of food, the verse also shows the Levites’ dedication to serving the people and ensuring everyone took part in the celebration.