King James Version
What Does 2 Chronicles 30:23 Mean?
“And the whole assembly took counsel to keep other seven days: and they kept other seven days with gladness.”
Context
21
And the children of Israel that were present at Jerusalem kept the feast of unleavened bread seven days with great gladness: and the Levites and the priests praised the LORD day by day, singing with loud instruments unto the LORD. present: Heb. found loud: Heb. instruments of strength
22
And Hezekiah spake comfortably unto all the Levites that taught the good knowledge of the LORD: and they did eat throughout the feast seven days, offering peace offerings, and making confession to the LORD God of their fathers. comfortably: Heb. to the heart of all
23
And the whole assembly took counsel to keep other seven days: and they kept other seven days with gladness.
24
For Hezekiah king of Judah did give to the congregation a thousand bullocks and seven thousand sheep; and the princes gave to the congregation a thousand bullocks and ten thousand sheep: and a great number of priests sanctified themselves. did give: Heb. lifted up, or, offered gave: Heb. lifted up, or, offered
25
And all the congregation of Judah, with the priests and the Levites, and all the congregation that came out of Israel, and the strangers that came out of the land of Israel, and that dwelt in Judah, rejoiced.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(23) **Took counsel.**—*Determined,* the result of taking counsel (2Chronicles 30:2).
**To keep.**—Literally, *to do* or *make.*
**Other seven days.**—As a prolongation of the festivities. (Comp. 2Chronicles 7:9.)
**With gladness.**—*Simhāh,* an adverbial accusative. But some Hebrew MSS. express the *with,* as in 2Chronicles 7:10. The chronicler is fond of dwelling upon the joy of the ancient festivals, as though he would suggest greater whole-heartedness and magnificence to the people and princes of his own day.
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 30:23 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to 2 Chronicles 30:23
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge