Old Testament
2 Kings 12:9
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this passage, Jehoiada the priest demonstrates a practical approach to gathering funds for the temple.
- Author
- Author unknown; possibly Jeremiah
- Written
- Around 560 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Exiled Israelites in Babylon
Jehoiada the priest took a chest, drilled a hole in its lid, and placed it beside the altar on the right side as one enters the house of the LORD. The priests who guarded the entrance put all the money brought into the house of the LORD into this chest.
But Jehoiada the priest took a chest, and bored a hole in the lid of it, and set it beside the altar, on the right side as one cometh into the house of the LORD: and the priests that kept the door put therein all the money that was brought into the house of the LORD.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, Jehoiada the priest demonstrates a practical approach to gathering funds for the temple. He creates a chest with a hole in the lid, allowing people to contribute money easily. This chest is placed beside the altar, making it accessible for worshippers as they enter the house of the LORD. The priests stationed at the entrance are responsible for collecting all the money that is placed in the chest. This act symbolizes the community's commitment to supporting their place of worship and ensuring it remains a vital part of their lives. By organizing the collection in this way, Jehoiada not only facilitates donations but also encourages participation from the people. It reflects a sense of shared responsibility and dedication to their faith and community. This simple yet effective method highlights the importance of transparency and accountability in handling contributions for sacred purposes. It shows how even small acts can contribute to a larger mission.
Related Bible verses
How to apply 2 Kings 12:9 to your life
Consider how you can contribute to your community or place of worship. Small acts of generosity can make a significant impact. Reflect on ways to support causes that matter to you, whether through time, resources, or encouragement. Every contribution counts and fosters a sense of belonging and purpose in your community.
Curated for this public verse page. 2 Kings Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What is the significance of the chest in 2 Kings 12:9?
The chest in 2 Kings 12:9 symbolizes a practical and organized way to collect funds for the temple. Jehoiada the priest's decision to create a chest with a hole in the lid made it easy for worshippers to contribute money as they entered the house of the LORD. This act reflects the community's commitment to supporting their place of worship and highlights the importance of collective responsibility in maintaining their faith.
How does 2 Kings 12:9 relate to community support?
This verse illustrates the concept of community support by showing how the people collectively contributed to the temple's upkeep. By placing the chest beside the altar, Jehoiada encouraged participation from all worshippers, reinforcing the idea that maintaining a place of worship is a shared responsibility. It serves as a reminder that small contributions from many individuals can lead to significant outcomes for the community.
What can we learn about generosity from 2 Kings 12:9?
From 2 Kings 12:9, we learn that generosity can be facilitated through practical means. Jehoiada's chest allowed for easy contributions, demonstrating that making it simple for people to give can enhance participation. This teaches us that generosity doesn't have to be grand; even small, consistent acts of giving can have a meaningful impact on our communities and places of worship.
Why did Jehoiada place the chest beside the altar?
Jehoiada placed the chest beside the altar to ensure it was easily accessible for worshippers as they entered the house of the LORD. This strategic location not only encouraged donations but also symbolized the act of giving as part of the worship experience. It highlights the importance of integrating community support into religious practices, making it a natural part of their faith journey.
The Book of 2 Kings
2 Kings 1: Elijah’s Final Prophecy
The book of 2 Kings opens with the reign of Ahaziah, Ahab’s son and successor, who continues his father’s wicked ways. After falling through a lattice in his upper chamber, Ahaziah is seriously injured. Instead of inquiring of the Lord of Israel, he sends messengers to inquire of Baal-zebub, the god of Ekron, whether he will recover. The prophet Elijah is sent by an angel to intercept the messengers. He confronts them with the question, “Is it not because there is not a God in Israel, that ye go to enquire of Baal-zebub the god of Ekron?” and delivers a message of judgment: Ahaziah will not recover but will surely die.
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