2 Chronicles 35:7

From his own flocks and herds Josiah contributed 30,000 lambs and goats plus 3,000 bulls for the Passover offerings for all the people who were present.

Study Bible

From his own flocks and herds
This phrase highlights King Josiah's personal commitment and generosity. The Hebrew root for "flocks" (צֹאן, tson) and "herds" (בָּקָר, baqar) indicates domesticated animals, essential for agrarian life in ancient Israel. Josiah's offering from his personal resources underscores his dedication to God and his role as a leader who leads by example. Historically, this reflects the king's responsibility to ensure proper worship and the well-being of his people, aligning with the biblical principle of stewardship.

Josiah contributed
The act of contribution here is significant. The Hebrew verb used for "contributed" (נָתַן, natan) means to give or bestow. Josiah's action is not merely a duty but a heartfelt offering, reflecting his devotion to God and his desire to restore true worship in Judah. This aligns with the biblical theme of sacrificial giving, where leaders are called to give generously and willingly.

30,000 lambs and goats
The number "30,000" is symbolic of abundance and completeness in biblical numerology. Lambs and goats were central to Passover, representing the sacrificial system established in Exodus. The Hebrew words for "lambs" (כֶּבֶשׂ, keves) and "goats" (עֵז, ez) remind us of the Passover's significance, where the blood of the lamb protected the Israelites. Josiah's provision ensures that all could participate in this pivotal feast, emphasizing inclusivity and communal worship.

plus 3,000 bulls
Bulls (פָּרִים, parim) were significant in ancient sacrifices, often used in burnt offerings and peace offerings. The number "3,000" further emphasizes the magnitude of Josiah's offering. This provision reflects the king's understanding of the importance of atonement and reconciliation with God, as bulls were often associated with more substantial sacrifices, symbolizing strength and atonement.

for the Passover offerings
The Passover (פֶּסַח, Pesach) is a foundational event in Israel's history, commemorating their deliverance from Egypt. Josiah's offerings for the Passover highlight his commitment to restoring this critical observance, which had been neglected. This act of revival is a call back to covenant faithfulness, reminding the people of God's salvation and their identity as His chosen people.

for all the people who were present
This phrase underscores the communal aspect of worship. Josiah's provision ensures that everyone, regardless of their social or economic status, could participate in the Passover. The inclusivity here reflects the biblical principle that worship and access to God are available to all, not just the elite. It also demonstrates Josiah's role as a shepherd to his people, ensuring their spiritual needs are met.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Josiah
The King of Judah who reigned from approximately 640 to 609 BC. Known for his religious reforms and efforts to restore the worship of Yahweh, he is a central figure in this passage.

2. Passover
A significant Jewish festival commemorating the Israelites' exodus from Egypt. It involves the sacrifice of lambs and is a time of remembrance and celebration of God's deliverance.

3. Lambs and Goats
These animals were used as offerings during the Passover. They symbolize purity and atonement in the sacrificial system.

4. Bulls
Larger animals used for sacrifices, often representing strength and a more substantial offering to God.

5. The People of Judah
The recipients of Josiah's generosity, they were present to partake in the Passover celebration, which was a communal and unifying event.

Teaching Points

Generosity in Worship
Josiah's contribution from his own resources highlights the importance of giving generously in worship. Our offerings should reflect our gratitude and commitment to God.

Leadership by Example
Josiah's actions demonstrate the impact of godly leadership. Leaders are called to set an example in devotion and service to God, inspiring others to follow suit.

Community and Unity
The Passover celebration was a communal event that brought the people together. Our worship and religious observances should foster unity and strengthen our community bonds.

Remembrance and Renewal
Observing Passover was a way for the Israelites to remember God's past deliverance and renew their commitment to Him. Similarly, we should regularly reflect on God's work in our lives and renew our dedication to Him.

Sacrificial Living
The sacrificial system points to the ultimate sacrifice of Christ. As believers, we are called to live sacrificially, offering our lives in service to God and others.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Josiah's generosity in providing for the Passover challenge us in our own giving and support of communal worship?

2. In what ways can we, like Josiah, lead by example in our faith communities, and what impact might this have on others?

3. How can the observance of religious traditions and festivals strengthen our sense of community and unity within the church?

4. What are some practical ways we can regularly remember and celebrate God's deliverance and faithfulness in our lives?

5. How does the concept of sacrificial living, as demonstrated by Josiah and ultimately by Christ, influence our daily decisions and interactions with others?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 12
This chapter provides the original instructions for the Passover, establishing the significance of the lamb and the act of sacrifice as a means of deliverance and remembrance.

2 Kings 23
This passage parallels the account in 2 Chronicles, detailing Josiah's reforms and his dedication to restoring proper worship practices, including the observance of Passover.

Hebrews 10
This New Testament passage discusses the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, drawing a parallel between the Old Testament sacrifices and the new covenant established through Christ's atonement.