And Jehoash said to the priests, All the money of the dedicated things that is brought into the house of the LORD, even the money of every one that passeth the account, the money that every man is set at, and all the money that cometh into any man's heart to bring into the house of the LORD,

2 KINGS 12:4KJV
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2 Kings 12:4 (KJV)

What does 2 Kings 12:4 mean?

2 Kings 12:4 describes King Jehoash instructing the priests to collect all the money brought into the temple of the LORD, including money from required offerings, assessments, and any voluntary gifts people choose to give. This verse sets out the different sources of funds that were to be gathered for the temple’s use.

King Jehoash is speaking directly to the priests, giving them clear directions about managing the finances that come into the temple. The verse mentions three types of money: regular contributions, money assigned to each person (likely a census or assessment), and any extra money people feel moved to donate. This instruction is part of a larger effort to repair and maintain the temple, which had fallen into disrepair.

The Hebrew behind 2 Kings 12:4

  • כֶּסֶף (kesef, “money”): This word appears several times in the verse, emphasizing the focus on financial contributions and the practical means of supporting temple work.
  • קָדָשִׁים (qodashim, “dedicated things”): This refers to items or money set apart for sacred use, highlighting that these funds are not ordinary but meant for the LORD’s house.
  • לֵב (lev, “heart”): The phrase about money that comes into any man’s heart to bring points to voluntary offerings, showing that giving was not just a duty but could also come from personal generosity.

Why 2 Kings 12:4 matters

  • This verse clarifies that temple funding came from both required and voluntary sources, not just one official tax or offering.
  • The inclusion of money given from the heart shows that personal generosity was valued alongside formal obligations in supporting worship and temple upkeep.
  • Understanding these categories of giving helps explain the financial system behind later repairs and reforms in the temple, which become a central theme in Jehoash’s reign.