King James Version

What Does 2 Chronicles 11:15 Mean?

“And he ordained him priests for the high places, and for the devils, and for the calves which he had made.”

Context

And the priests and the Levites that were in all Israel resorted to him out of all their coasts. resorted: Heb. presented themselves to him

For the Levites left their suburbs and their possession, and came to Judah and Jerusalem: for Jeroboam and his sons had cast them off from executing the priest's office unto the LORD:

And he ordained him priests for the high places, and for the devils, and for the calves which he had made.

And after them out of all the tribes of Israel such as set their hearts to seek the LORD God of Israel came to Jerusalem, to sacrifice unto the LORD God of their fathers.

So they strengthened the kingdom of Judah, and made Rehoboam the son of Solomon strong, three years: for three years they walked in the way of David and Solomon.

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(15) **And he ordained.**—*And had appointed* (1Chronicles 15:16-17; 1Chronicles 22:2). **For the high places.**—*Bâmôth.* (See Note on 1Kings 12:31 *seqq.*) Such local sanctuaries existed not only at Dan and Bethel, but also in other cities of the northern kingdom. (Comp. 2Kings 17:9.) **And for the devils.**—*Sĕ‘îrîm,* “satyrs” (Isaiah 13:21). Literally, *goats.* (See Note on Leviticus 17:7.) The phrase indicates a prevalence of debasing idolatry in the time of Jeroboam. **And for the calves.**—See Note on 1Kings 12:28. The “calves” represented the God of Israel. It appears therefore that Jeroboam encouraged a system of syncretism, or mixture of worships.

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of 2 Chronicles. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

2 Chronicles 11:15 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.