2 Chronicles 15:11

At that time they sacrificed to the LORD seven hundred oxen and seven thousand sheep from all the plunder they had brought back.

Study Bible

At that time
This phrase situates the events within a specific historical context, during the reign of King Asa of Judah. Asa's reign was marked by religious reforms and a return to the worship of Yahweh. The phrase underscores a pivotal moment of spiritual renewal and national rededication to God. Historically, this was a time when the kingdom was experiencing peace and prosperity, allowing them to focus on spiritual matters.

they sacrificed
The act of sacrifice was central to Israelite worship, symbolizing atonement, thanksgiving, and dedication to God. The Hebrew root for "sacrifice" is "זָבַח" (zabach), which conveys the idea of offering something valuable to God. Sacrifices were a tangible expression of faith and obedience, reflecting the people's desire to honor God and seek His favor.

to the LORD
The use of "LORD" in all capital letters indicates the translation of the Tetragrammaton, YHWH, the covenant name of God. This highlights the personal and relational aspect of Israel's worship. It was not just a ritualistic act but a covenantal interaction with the God who had chosen and redeemed them. The sacrifices were directed to Yahweh, affirming their allegiance and devotion to Him alone.

seven hundred oxen
The number seven often symbolizes completeness or perfection in the Bible. Offering seven hundred oxen signifies a complete and wholehearted dedication to God. Oxen were valuable assets, used for plowing and as a source of wealth, indicating the people's willingness to give generously from their resources.

and seven thousand sheep
Similarly, the number seven thousand amplifies the sense of abundance and totality in their offering. Sheep were commonly used in sacrifices, and such a large number reflects the magnitude of their gratitude and commitment. This act of giving from the plunder suggests a recognition that all blessings come from God and a desire to honor Him with the firstfruits of their victory.

from the plunder they had brought back
This phrase indicates that the sacrifices were made from the spoils of a recent victory, likely over the Cushites as described earlier in 2 Chronicles 14. It highlights the principle of dedicating a portion of one's gains to God, acknowledging His role in their success. The act of offering from the plunder demonstrates a heart of gratitude and a recognition of God's sovereignty in their triumphs.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Asa
The king of Judah during this time, known for his religious reforms and efforts to return the people to the worship of Yahweh.

2. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, where Asa reigned and led the people in a covenant renewal with God.

3. The LORD (Yahweh)
The God of Israel, to whom the sacrifices were made as an act of worship and dedication.

4. Sacrifices
The act of offering oxen and sheep as a form of worship and thanksgiving to God, symbolizing devotion and repentance.

5. Plunder
The spoils taken from military victories, which were used to honor God, showing gratitude for His provision and protection.

Teaching Points

Commitment to God
Asa's actions demonstrate a wholehearted commitment to God, reminding us of the importance of dedicating our lives and resources to Him.

Worship through Sacrifice
The sacrifices made by Asa and the people illustrate the principle of worship through giving, encouraging us to offer our best to God.

Gratitude for God's Provision
Using the plunder for sacrifices shows gratitude for God's blessings, teaching us to acknowledge His hand in our victories and successes.

Covenant Renewal
Asa's reforms and the sacrifices signify a renewal of the covenant with God, prompting us to regularly renew our commitment to Him.

Community Worship
The collective act of sacrifice highlights the importance of communal worship and unity in seeking God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Asa's example of leadership and commitment to God challenge us in our personal and communal worship practices today?

2. In what ways can we offer "sacrifices" to God in our modern context, and how do these acts of worship reflect our gratitude and devotion?

3. How does the concept of using plunder for sacrifices relate to the idea of stewardship and using our resources for God's glory?

4. What parallels can we draw between the covenant renewal in Asa's time and our need for spiritual renewal and recommitment in our lives?

5. How can we foster a sense of community worship and unity in our churches, similar to the collective sacrifices made by the people of Judah?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 15
Provides a parallel account of Asa's reign, highlighting his commitment to God and the reforms he implemented.

2 Chronicles 14
Describes Asa's earlier military victories and his reliance on God, setting the stage for the covenant renewal in chapter 15.

Romans 12:1
Encourages believers to offer themselves as living sacrifices, drawing a parallel to the physical sacrifices made by Asa and the people of Judah.

Hebrews 13:15-16
Speaks of offering sacrifices of praise and doing good, connecting the physical sacrifices of the Old Testament to spiritual acts of worship in the New Testament.