Old Testament
2 Chronicles 23:6
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
No one is to enter the house of the LORD except the priests and the Levites who are serving; they may enter because they are holy. All the other people must keep the watch of the LORD.
Compare translations
But let none come into the house of the LORD, save the priests, and they that minister of the Levites; they shall go in, for they are holy: but all the people shall keep the watch of the LORD.
What 2 Chronicles 23:6 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, the focus is on the importance of maintaining the sanctity of the house of the LORD. Only the priests and Levites, who are set apart for service, are allowed to enter because they are considered holy. This highlights the special role they play in worship and the care required in approaching sacred spaces. The rest of the people are instructed to keep watch, which signifies their responsibility to protect and honor the place of worship. This division of roles emphasizes that everyone has a part to play in the community of faith, even if it looks different. The priests and Levites serve directly in the presence of God, while the others support and uphold the worship environment. This structure fosters a sense of respect and reverence for the divine. It reminds us that while some are called to lead, all have a role in honoring what is sacred. Understanding this can deepen our appreciation for the community and the importance of each person's contribution.
How to apply 2 Chronicles 23:6 to your life
Consider how you can honor sacred spaces in your life. Whether it's a place of worship or a moment of personal reflection, approach it with respect. Remember that everyone has a role in creating a supportive environment for faith and community. Your actions matter in this shared journey of reverence and care for the divine.
Curated for this public verse page. 2 Chronicles Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Esther's story: Esther Becomes Queen (Esther 2:1–18)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Esther
Photo: Deror Avi, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 4.0. Source. Location: Tel Shiloh archaeological site, West Bank. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Shiloh
Where Israel set up the tabernacle, and where God called the boy Samuel.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about 2 Chronicles 23:6
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying 2 Chronicles 23:6
Related Bible verses
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of 2 Chronicles
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Ezra
- Written
- Around 430 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Post-exilic Jews
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 2 Chronicles 23:6 mean?
This verse emphasizes that only the priests and Levites, who are considered holy, are allowed to enter the house of the LORD. It highlights the importance of maintaining the sanctity of sacred spaces and the distinct roles within the community of faith.
What is the significance of holiness in 2 Chronicles 23:6?
Holiness in this verse signifies the special status of the priests and Levites, who are set apart for service in the house of the LORD. Their ability to enter reflects their role in worship and the care needed when approaching sacred spaces.
How does 2 Chronicles 23:6 relate to community roles in worship?
This verse illustrates that within a faith community, different roles exist, with priests and Levites leading worship while others support it. It shows that everyone has a part to play in honoring and maintaining the sacredness of worship.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.