2 Chronicles 35:6 (KJV)

What does 2 Chronicles 35:6 mean?

2 Chronicles 35:6 instructs the Levites to slaughter the Passover lambs, set themselves apart as holy, and help prepare their fellow Israelites so that everyone can follow the instructions God gave through Moses. The verse highlights the careful preparation and obedience needed for the Passover celebration.

King Josiah is directing the Levites, who are responsible for the temple service, during a major Passover observance in Jerusalem. The Levites are told to carry out their duties exactly as God commanded through Moses, including both the ritual slaughter and making sure the people are ready. This verse shows the importance of following God’s instructions closely and helping the whole community participate properly.

The Hebrew behind 2 Chronicles 35:6

• "kill" (שָׁחַט, shachat): This word means to slaughter, especially in a ritual sense. It emphasizes that the Levites are to perform the sacrifice according to the prescribed method, not just any killing.
• "sanctify" (קָדַשׁ, qadash): This means to set apart or make holy. The Levites must be ritually clean and dedicated before serving, underlining the seriousness of their role.
• "prepare" (כּוּן, kun): This word often means to make ready or establish. The Levites are to help their "brethren" (אח, ach) — the other Israelites — get ready for the Passover, showing a shared responsibility.

Why 2 Chronicles 35:6 matters

• This verse clears up that the Levites were not only responsible for the sacrifices but also for helping the people prepare, showing their leadership role in worship.
• The emphasis on doing everything "according to the word of the LORD by the hand of Moses" underlines the importance of following God’s instructions exactly, not just in spirit but in detail.
• The verse connects to the wider passage by showing how Josiah’s reforms restored proper worship, with everyone — leaders and people alike — participating as God intended.