1 Josiah kept a Passover to the Lord in Jerusalem. And they slaughtered the Passover lamb on the fourteenth day of the first month.
2 And he appointed the priests to their offices and encouraged them in the service of the house of the Lord.
3 And he said to the Levites who taught all Israel and who were holy to the Lord, “Put the holy ark in the house that Solomon the son of David, king of Israel, built. You need not carry it on your shoulders. Now serve the Lord your God and his people Israel.
4 And prepare yourselves according to your fathers’ houses by your divisions, as prescribed in the writing of David king of Israel and the document of Solomon his son.
5 And stand in the Holy Place according to the groupings of the fathers’ houses of your brothers the lay people, and according to the division of the Levites by fathers’ houses.
6 And slaughter the Passover lamb, and consecrate yourselves, and prepare for your brothers to do according to the word of the Lord by Moses.
7 Then Josiah contributed to the lay people, as Passover offerings for all who were present, lambs and young goats from the flock to the number of 30,000, and 3,000 bulls; these were from the king’s possessions.
8 And his officials contributed willingly to the people, to the priests, and to the Levites. Hilkiah, Zechariah, and Jehiel, the chief officers of the house of God, gave to the priests for the Passover offerings 2,600 Passover lambs and 300 bulls.
9 Conaniah also, and Shemaiah and Nethanel his brothers, and Hashabiah and Jeiel and Jozabad, the chiefs of the Levites, gave to the Levites for the Passover offerings 5,000 lambs and young goats and 500 bulls.
10 And the service was prepared, and the priests stood in their place, and the Levites in their divisions according to the king’s command.
11 And they slaughtered the Passover lamb, and the priests threw the blood that they received from them while the Levites flayed the sacrifices.
12 And they roasted the Passover lamb with fire according to the rule; and they boiled the holy offerings in pots, in cauldrons, and in pans, and carried them quickly to all the lay people.
13 And they roasted the Passover lamb with fire according to the rule; and they boiled the holy offerings in pots, in cauldrons, and in pans, and carried them quickly to all the lay people.
14 And afterward they prepared for themselves and for the priests, because the priests, the sons of Aaron, were busy in offering the burnt offerings and the fat parts until night; so the Levites prepared for themselves and for the priests, the sons of Aaron.
15 The singers, the sons of Asaph, were in their place according to the command of David, and Asaph, and Heman, and Jeduthun the king’s seer; and the gatekeepers were at each gate. They did not need to depart from their service, for their brothers the Levites prepared for them.
16 So all the service of the Lord was prepared that day, to keep the Passover and to offer burnt offerings on the altar of the Lord, according to the command of King Josiah.
17 And the people of Israel who were present kept the Passover at that time, and the Feast of Unleavened Bread seven days.
18 No Passover like it had been kept in Israel since the days of Samuel the prophet.
19 In the eighteenth year of the reign of Josiah this Passover was kept.
20 After all this, when Josiah had prepared the temple, Neco king of Egypt went up to fight at Carchemish on the Euphrates, and Josiah went out to meet him.
21 But he sent envoys to him, saying, “What have we to do with each other, king of Judah? I am not coming against you this day, but against the house with which I am at war. And God has commanded me to hurry. Cease opposing God, who is with me, lest he destroy you.”
22 Nevertheless, Josiah did not turn away from him, but disguised himself in order to fight with him. He did not listen to the words of Neco from the mouth of God, but came to fight in the plain of Megiddo.
23 And the archers shot King Josiah. And the king said to his servants, “Take me away, for I am badly wounded.”
24 So his servants took him out of the chariot and carried him in his second chariot and brought him to Jerusalem. And he died and was buried in the tombs of his fathers. All Judah and Jerusalem mourned for Josiah.
25 Jeremiah also uttered a lament for Josiah; and all the singing men and singing women have spoken of Josiah in their laments to this day. They made these a rule in Israel; behold, they are written in the Laments.
26 Now the rest of the acts of Josiah and his good deeds, according to what is written in the Law of the Lord,
27 And his deeds, first and last, behold, they are written in the Book of the Kings of Israel and Judah.
The True Meaning of 2 Chronicles 35
The Book of 2 Chronicles was written by an anonymous author, likely a Levite priest or scribe, who compiled historical accounts of the kingdom of Judah after the reign of King David. This chapter describes the final years of King Josiah, one of Judah’s most righteous and reforming kings. Josiah’s meticulous preparations for the observance of the Passover feast, a pivotal event in the life of the Israelite nation, are witnessed in this passage. Josiah’s unwavering commitment to upholding the law of Moses and his desire to lead the people back to the true worship of God will be seen as the chapter unfolds. However, this chapter also foreshadows the tragic events that would soon befall the kingdom, as Josiah meets his untimely end in a battle against the Egyptian pharaoh.
The author’s attention to detail in this chapter underscores the importance of obedience to God’s commands, as seen in Josiah’s faithful observance of the Passover. This theme is echoed throughout the Book of 2 Chronicles, where the author repeatedly emphasizes the consequences of both righteous and unrighteous leadership. As we delve into this chapter, we will gain a deeper understanding of the complex political and spiritual landscape of Judah during this pivotal moment in its history.
2 Chronicles 35:1-6
King Josiah made preparations for celebrating the Passover in 2 Chronicles 35:1-6. The passage begins by stating that Josiah kept the Passover to the Lord in Jerusalem and slaughtered the Passover lamb on the fourteenth day of the first month. This action aligns with the instructions laid out in the Law of Moses regarding the observance of the Passover (Exodus 12:3-11), highlighting Josiah’s adherence to God’s commandments.
Furthermore, King Josiah assigned the priests to their duties and encouraged them to serve in the temple of the Lord faithfully. This underscores Josiah’s dedication to the restoration of proper worship and adherence to the law within the kingdom of Judah. Josiah sought to bring the people back to God and ensure that the Passover was celebrated in accordance with the prescribed traditions by reinstating the roles of the priests and Levites.
The mention of Josiah providing for the regular burnt offerings suggests a commitment to ongoing worship and sacrifice in addition to the Passover celebration. This dedication to maintaining the daily rituals ordained by God further demonstrates Josiah’s desire to please the Lord and lead his people in righteousness. It also reflects the importance of continuity in worship and the offering of sacrifices in the life of the Israelites.
The generosity of King Josiah in providing for the people, particularly the laypeople, with lambs, goats, and cattle for the Passover offerings, showcases his benevolence and commitment to ensuring that all could participate in this sacred observance. This act of kindness echoes the biblical principles of generosity and caring for others, aligning with verses such as Proverbs 19:17, which states, “Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will reward them for what they have done. King Josiah in 2 Chronicles 35:1-6 portrays a faithful and diligent leader who sought to uphold the worship practices prescribed by God. His commitment to the Passover observance, reinstating the roles of the priests and Levites, ensuring the regular burnt offerings, and providing for the people’s participation in the celebrations, serves as a model of obedience, leadership, and care for others. Through these actions, Josiah set an example for the people of Judah to follow, emphasizing the importance of honoring God’s commands and fostering unity and generosity within the community.
2 Chronicles 35:7-9
King Josiah participated in preparing for a great religious festival, as highlighted in 2 Chronicles 35:7-9. The verse reads, “Then Josiah contributed to the lay people, as Passover offerings for all who were present, lambs and young goats from the flock to the number of 30,000, and 3,000 bulls; these were from the king’s possessions. And his officials contributed willingly to the people, to the priests, and to the Levites.”
This section of the verse emphasizes Josiah’s generosity and dedication to ensuring that the Passover celebration was conducted according to the law of Moses. Passover was one of the most significant religious feasts for the people of Israel, commemorating their deliverance from slavery in Egypt. Josiah demonstrated his commitment to upholding the religious practices and traditions of Israel by providing such a large number of animals for the sacrifices.
The mention of the king’s possessions being used for the offerings can be seen as a reflection of Josiah’s wealth and resources being used for the service of God and the well-being of his people. It also serves as a reminder of the responsibility that leaders have to support and promote the worship of God among the community.
Furthermore, the willingness of Josiah’s officials to contribute to the people, priests, and Levites highlights the spirit of unity and cooperation that existed among the leadership and the community. This sense of collective responsibility and support was essential for the successful observance of religious festivals and the maintenance of the worship practices in Israel.
This passage serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of generosity, obedience to God’s commandments, and the unity of believers in serving the Lord. It underscores the significance of leaders using their resources to support the worship and spiritual growth of the community, as well as the importance of individuals willingly giving of themselves for the well-being of others. Jesus Christ, who is described as the sacrificial lamb without blemish in 1 Peter 1:19, fulfills the act of sacrificial offering in the broader context of the Bible. Jesus offered Himself as the perfect sacrifice for the forgiveness of sins for all who believe in Him, just as Josiah provided the animals for the Passover sacrifice (Hebrews 9:26). Josiah’s actions point to a deeper spiritual truth of the need for a sacrificial atonement, which is ultimately fulfilled in the person of Jesus Christ.
2 Chronicles 35:10-15
King Josiah provided for the offerings for the Passover as described in 2 Chronicles 35:10-15. This section can be broken down into two important parts: the contribution of the people and the actions of the priests.
The first part of the passage highlights the generous contributions made by the people for the Passover. They willingly gave their livestock for the sacrifices according to the number of families. This act of giving reflects the hearts of the people, their obedience to the Lord’s commands, and their unity in celebrating the Passover together. It shows the importance of generosity and communal participation in worship and festivals. This emphasis on the people’s involvement also signifies a return to the ways of their ancestors who followed God wholeheartedly.
The second part focuses on the responsibilities of the priests in carrying out the sacrifices. The priests received the offerings from the people and sprinkled the blood as required by the Law of Moses. They also roasted the Passover lambs as instructed. This illustrates the importance of the role of the priests in facilitating worship and ensuring that the rituals were carried out according to God’s commands. The priests’ obedience to the Law serves as an example of faithfulness and adherence to the Word of God. This passage emphasizes the significance of obedience, unity, and worship in the life of the community of believers. It underscores the importance of following God’s commands, coming together in celebration and worship, and recognizing the roles and responsibilities of each individual within the community. This story serves as a reminder of the value of honoring traditions, following God’s word, and working together in unity for the glory of God.
Reflecting on this passage, we can draw parallels to other biblical stories that highlight the themes of obedience, worship, and unity. For example, in Exodus, we see how the Israelites followed Moses’ instructions for the first Passover in Egypt, leading to their deliverance from slavery. Similarly, in the New Testament, the early Christians gathered together in unity to worship and share in the Lord’s Supper, demonstrating their commitment to God and to one another (Acts 2:42-47). These stories remind us of the timeless importance of obedience, communal worship, and faithfulness in our relationship with God.
2 Chronicles 35:16-19
The account of King Josiah’s reign and the celebration of the Passover presents a crucial moment in 2 Chronicles 35:16-19. Let’s break down the verse into important sections for a deeper understanding.
Firstly, in verse 16, it is mentioned that all the service of the Lord was prepared that same day to keep the Passover and to offer burnt offerings on the altar of the Lord. This highlights the meticulous and dedicated preparation that went into honoring the Passover, a significant event in the Israelite calendar that commemorated their deliverance from slavery in Egypt. The Passover represented God’s faithfulness and protection over His people, and observing it was a way for the Israelites to renew their covenant relationship with Him.
Moving on to verse 17, we see that the children of Israel who were present kept the Passover at that time, and the Feast of Unleavened Bread for seven days. This adherence to the prescribed feasts and rituals outlined in the Law showed the people’s desire to obey God’s commands and seek His favor. The Feast of Unleavened Bread symbolized the removal of sin and impurity from their lives, emphasizing the importance of spiritual cleansing and consecration before God.
Verse 18 mentions that such a Passover had not been held in Israel since the days of Samuel the prophet. This comparison to Samuel, a revered figure in Israelite history known for his prophetic ministry and leadership, underscores the magnitude and significance of the Passover celebration under Josiah’s reign. It serves as a reminder of the importance of returning to the ways of the Lord and reviving neglected practices of worship and obedience.
Lastly, in verse 19, we encounter another significant detail that further emphasizes the exceptional nature of this Passover observance. It states that Josiah removed all the abominations from all the territories that belonged to the children of Israel and made all who were present in Israel diligently serve the Lord their God. Josiah’s actions of purging idolatry and promoting true worship demonstrate his zeal for the Lord and his commitment to leading the people back to God. These verses from 2 Chronicles 35 depict a pivotal moment of spiritual revival and restoration under King Josiah’s leadership, in conclusion. The observance of the Passover, the adherence to God’s commands, the comparison to Samuel, and the removal of idolatry all point to the themes of repentance, obedience, and the importance of wholehearted devotion to God throughout the Bible. Josiah’s efforts to reform the worship practices of Israel serve as a powerful example of the blessings that come from seeking God wholeheartedly and turning away from sin. This narrative serves as a timeless reminder for believers to prioritize their relationship with God above all else and to remain faithful to His word.
2 Chronicles 35:20-24
King Josiah of Judah, a righteous and reformist king, sought to bring the people back to following God’s law in 2 Chronicles 35:20-24. The verses describe how Necho, the king of Egypt, marched against the Assyrians and was on his way to fight the Babylonians at Carchemish. Josiah, perhaps feeling the need to protect his kingdom or possibly acting against the word of God, went out to meet Necho in battle, despite Necho’s warning that this was not a fight against Judah.
This decision proved fatal for Josiah. Despite disguising himself in the battlefield, he was struck by Egyptian archers and mortally wounded. When his servants took him off the chariot and brought him to Jerusalem, he died, and Judah mourned for him.
This account serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of not seeking God’s guidance before making important decisions. Throughout the Bible, there are numerous instances where human pride or lack of faith leads to disastrous consequences. Josiah’s untimely death not only brought an end to a good king’s reign but also symbolized a turning point for Judah. After his death, Judah fell back into idolatry and disobedience, eventually leading to its downfall and exile.
The story of King Josiah highlights the importance of humility, obedience, and seeking God’s will in all aspects of our lives. Proverbs 16:18 reminds us, “Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall.” Josiah’s story reinforces the theme that God’s plans and timing are always perfect, and when we try to go against His will or act out of our own pride, we are setting ourselves up for failure.
It’s also worth noting that Josiah’s reign was marked by a period of religious reform and revival. He rediscovered the Book of the Law (likely the Torah) in the temple and led the people in a renewal of the covenant with God. This rediscovery led to a great Passover celebration, described in detail earlier in 2 Chronicles 35, where the people worshipped God and followed His commandments. Josiah’s life and reign serve as a powerful example of the importance of faithfulness, obedience, and the consequences of straying from God’s path, despite the tragic event of his death. Let us learn from Josiah’s legacy and strive to always seek and follow God’s will in our lives, trusting in His wisdom and guidance.
2 Chronicles 35:25-27
A poignant passage in 2 Chronicles 35:25-27 speaks of the death of King Josiah. Identify the subject: “Let’s”
Rewrite the sentence in active voice: Let’s delve deeper into the meaning and significance of this verse by breaking it down into its important sections.
Firstly, let’s focus on the section that describes the great sorrow that enveloped Judah and Jerusalem after the death of Josiah. This outpouring of grief highlights the deep respect and love the people had for their king. King Josiah was a righteous and just ruler who had brought about significant religious reforms in Judah during his reign. His death was not only a personal loss for his people but also a blow to the stability and prosperity of the nation. This section serves as a reminder of the impact a righteous leader can have on a community and the void left behind when such a leader is no more.
The next part mentions the prophecy of the prophet Jeremiah and the inclusion of his lamentations in the Book of Lamentations. Jeremiah was a major prophet in the Old Testament, known for his prophecies of impending doom and exile if the people did not turn back to God. The fact that his words were included in the Book of Lamentations emphasizes the solemnity of the occasion and highlights the spiritual significance of Josiah’s death. This also underscores the continuity of God’s message through the prophets, showing that even in times of loss and despair, God’s word endures.
Furthermore, the mention of the musicians in this passage is also noteworthy. The chronicler points out that these musicians sang songs of lamentation for Josiah, emphasizing the importance of mourning and honoring the departed. Music has always held a significant place in biblical narratives, whether in times of celebration or sorrow. The musicians in this context play a crucial role in expressing the deep sorrow felt by the people of Judah, allowing them to grieve and pay their respects in a meaningful way.
This passage from 2 Chronicles 35 not only narrates the events following Josiah’s death but also conveys timeless messages about the impact of righteous leadership, the role of prophets in conveying God’s word, and the significance of mourning and remembrance. It serves as a reminder to cherish and emulate leaders like Josiah who lead with righteousness and justice, to heed the words of prophets like Jeremiah who call us to repentance, and to find solace and healing through communal expressions of grief and remembrance. The loss of a righteous leader like Josiah reminds us of the transient nature of human life and the importance of investing in eternal values and principles that outlast earthly rulers and kingdoms.
After 2 Chronicles 35
The people of Judah mourned the loss of their beloved King Josiah. His reign had brought a time of spiritual renewal and obedience to God’s commands. But now, the future of the kingdom was uncertain. The people wondered what challenges lay ahead and who would lead them. Little did they know, the coming years would test their faith and their loyalty to the Lord. The stage was set for a new chapter in Judah’s history, one that would require the people to cling to their God more tightly than ever before.
Reverend Michael Johnson is an experienced Church Minister with a profound expertise in spirituality and guidance. With a serene presence and a compassionate heart, he has faithfully served his congregation for over 20 years, leading them on a spiritual journey towards inner peace and enlightenment. Reverend Johnson’s extensive knowledge of religious philosophies and profound understanding of human nature have made him a trusted confidant and mentor to many, as he seamlessly weaves his profound wisdom into life teachings. Reverend Johnson’s calming demeanor and empathetic nature continue to uplift and heal souls, nurturing a sense of unity and tranquility within his community.