Old Testament
2 Kings 22:9
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, Shaphan the scribe reports to the king about the funds collected for the repairs of the temple.
- Author
- Author unknown; possibly Jeremiah
- Written
- Around 560 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Exiled Israelites in Babylon
Shaphan the scribe went to the king and gave his report: "Your servants have collected the money that was in the house and turned it over to the supervisors in charge of the repairs on the LORD's house."
And Shaphan the scribe came to the king, and brought the king word again, and said, Thy servants have gathered the money that was found in the house, and have delivered it into the hand of them that do the work, that have the oversight of the house of the LORD.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, Shaphan the scribe reports to the king about the funds collected for the repairs of the temple. The money was gathered by the king's servants and handed over to those responsible for overseeing the work. This shows a commitment to maintaining the place of worship, reflecting the importance of caring for sacred spaces. The act of collecting and managing funds responsibly highlights the value of teamwork and accountability. It also emphasizes the significance of the temple as a central place for the community's spiritual life. By ensuring that the temple is well-maintained, the king and his officials demonstrate their dedication to their faith and the well-being of their people. This moment serves as a reminder of the importance of stewardship in our own lives, whether it be in our homes, communities, or places of worship. It encourages us to take responsibility for the resources we have and use them wisely for the greater good. Shaphan's actions inspire us to be proactive in supporting what we value.
Related Bible verses
How to apply 2 Kings 22:9 to your life
Consider how you can contribute to your community or support a cause you care about. Whether through volunteering, donating, or simply being involved, your actions can make a difference. Remember that taking care of shared spaces and resources is a collective responsibility that benefits everyone. Every small effort counts towards a greater impact in your community and beyond. Be proactive in making a positive change today.
Curated for this public verse page. 2 Kings Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 2 Kings 22:9 teach about financial stewardship?
2 Kings 22:9 highlights the importance of financial stewardship by showing how Shaphan the scribe and the king's servants responsibly collected and managed funds for the repairs of the temple. This act demonstrates accountability and teamwork in ensuring that sacred spaces are maintained, reflecting a commitment to faith and community well-being.
How can we apply the lessons from 2 Kings 22:9 in our lives?
We can apply the lessons from 2 Kings 22:9 by actively participating in our communities, whether through volunteering, donating, or supporting local causes. Just as the king and his officials took responsibility for the temple, we should take initiative in caring for shared spaces and resources, recognizing that our contributions, no matter how small, can lead to significant positive change.
What is the significance of the temple in 2 Kings 22:9?
In 2 Kings 22:9, the temple represents a central place of worship and community life. The efforts to collect funds for its repair underscore the value placed on maintaining sacred spaces, which serve as a foundation for spiritual growth and communal identity. This reflects the broader theme of honoring and caring for places that hold significant meaning in our lives.
Who is Shaphan in 2 Kings 22:9 and what was his role?
Shaphan was a scribe and an important official in King Josiah's court. In 2 Kings 22:9, he plays a crucial role by reporting to the king about the collection of funds for the temple repairs. His actions demonstrate the importance of communication and organization in governance, particularly in matters related to faith and community resources.

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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