2 Kings 22:5 (KJV)

What does 2 Kings 22:5 mean?

2 Kings 22:5 instructs that the collected money should be given to the workers who are responsible for maintaining the temple of the LORD, so they can use it to repair the damages in the building. The verse emphasizes handing the funds directly to those overseeing and performing the restoration work.

In this scene, King Josiah is having the temple repaired after years of neglect. The officials are told to entrust the money to the supervisors and laborers (not just priests or officials), showing trust in their integrity and skill. The verse highlights the practical steps being taken to restore the temple, focusing on the workers and the repairs needed.

The Hebrew behind 2 Kings 22:5

• "Doers" (עֹשֵׂי, osei): This word means "those who do" or "workers." The verse repeats it, making clear that the actual laborers—not just managers—are being trusted with the resources.
• "Oversight" (פָּקִיד, paqid): This word refers to those who supervise or have charge over something. Here, it means the supervisors of the temple repairs, stressing organized, responsible management.
• "Repair" (חָזַק, chazaq): This word often means "to strengthen" or "make strong." In this context, it means to repair or reinforce the temple, suggesting the work is about restoring the building’s strength and stability.
• "Breaches" (בֶּדֶק, bedek): This word means "gaps" or "breaks." It refers to the physical damage or holes in the temple that need fixing, showing the practical nature of the repairs.

Why 2 Kings 22:5 matters

• The verse shows a high level of trust in the workers and supervisors, which is highlighted later in the chapter when their honesty is praised.
• It clarifies that the temple’s restoration was a community effort involving skilled laborers, not just religious leaders or officials.
• This verse sets the stage for the spiritual reforms under Josiah, beginning with the physical restoration of the temple and leading to renewed attention to God’s law.