Old Testament
2 Chronicles 29:21
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They brought 7 bulls, 7 rams, 7 lambs, and 7 male goats as a sin offering for the kingdom, for the sanctuary, and for Judah. Hezekiah ordered the priests — the descendants of Aaron — to offer them on the LORD's altar.
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And they brought seven bullocks, and seven rams, and seven lambs, and seven he goats, for a sin offering for the kingdom, and for the sanctuary, and for Judah. And he commanded the priests the sons of Aaron to offer them on the altar of the LORD.
What 2 Chronicles 29:21 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, King Hezekiah is taking significant steps to restore the spiritual health of his kingdom. He gathers the people and instructs them to bring offerings to atone for their sins. The offerings consist of seven bulls, seven rams, seven lambs, and seven male goats. This number, seven, symbolizes completeness and perfection, indicating a thorough approach to seeking forgiveness. Hezekiah specifically commands the priests, who are descendants of Aaron, to perform these sacrifices on the altar dedicated to the Lord. This act of worship is not just for the individuals but for the entire kingdom and the sanctuary, highlighting the communal aspect of repentance. By doing this, Hezekiah is leading his people back to a right relationship with God, emphasizing the importance of spiritual renewal and accountability. The act of offering sacrifices was a way to express remorse and seek restoration, showing that even in difficult times, there is a path back to grace and favor.
How to apply 2 Chronicles 29:21 to your life
When we recognize our mistakes, it's important to take steps toward making things right. Just as Hezekiah led his people in seeking forgiveness, we can also encourage those around us to pursue healing and restoration. This can involve open conversations, acts of kindness, and a commitment to change. Remember, seeking forgiveness is a powerful step toward personal growth and community healing.
Curated for this public verse page. 2 Chronicles Summary
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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 29:21 mean?
This verse describes King Hezekiah's actions to restore worship in Judah by bringing offerings for sin atonement. Hezekiah instructs the priests to sacrifice seven bulls, rams, lambs, and goats, symbolizing a complete effort to seek forgiveness for the kingdom.
What is the significance of the number seven in 2 Chronicles 29:21?
The number seven in this verse symbolizes completeness and perfection. By offering seven of each animal, it reflects a thorough approach to seeking atonement for the sins of the kingdom and the sanctuary.
Who were the priests mentioned in 2 Chronicles 29:21?
The priests referred to in this verse are the descendants of Aaron, who were responsible for performing sacrifices and maintaining the worship practices in the temple.
What does the sin offering in 2 Chronicles 29:21 represent?
The sin offering in this verse represents an act of atonement for the sins of the kingdom and its people. It is a way to express remorse and seek restoration with God.
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