2 Chronicles 16:14

And he was buried in the tomb that he had cut out for himself in the City of David. They laid him on a bier that was full of spices and various blended perfumes; then they made a great fire in his honor.

Study Bible

He was buried
The act of burial in ancient Israel was a significant ritual, reflecting respect and honor for the deceased. The Hebrew root for "buried" is קָבַר (qabar), which implies a formal and respectful interment. This practice underscores the belief in the sanctity of the body and the hope of resurrection, a theme that resonates throughout Scripture. Burial customs were deeply rooted in tradition, often involving family tombs, which signified a connection to one's heritage and lineage.

in the tomb that he had cut out for himself
The phrase highlights the foresight and preparation of the individual, in this case, King Asa. The Hebrew word for "tomb" is קֶבֶר (qeber), indicating a burial place or sepulcher. The act of cutting out a tomb reflects a personal investment in one's final resting place, a common practice among the wealthy and powerful in ancient times. This preparation signifies a sense of dignity and the importance of one's legacy, as well as a belief in the afterlife.

in the City of David
The City of David refers to Jerusalem, the political and spiritual center of Israel. This location is significant as it connects the deceased to the Davidic lineage and the promises associated with it. Jerusalem, being the city chosen by God for His temple, holds profound theological importance, symbolizing God's presence and covenant with His people. Burial in this city would be seen as an honor, reflecting one's status and relationship with God.

They laid him on a bier
A "bier" is a platform or frame used to carry the body to its burial place. The Hebrew term מִטָּה (mittah) can refer to a bed or couch, indicating a respectful and dignified conveyance. This practice emphasizes the community's role in honoring the deceased, as the bier would be carried in a procession, allowing for public mourning and remembrance.

covered in spices and various blended perfumes
The use of "spices and various blended perfumes" in burial rites was a common practice in ancient Israel, intended to honor the deceased and counteract the odor of decay. The Hebrew word for "spices" is בְּשָׂמִים (besamim), which were often costly and imported, signifying the value placed on the individual. This act of anointing the body reflects the belief in the sacredness of the human form and the hope of resurrection, as well as a foreshadowing of the burial of Jesus Christ, who was also anointed with spices.

they made a great fire in his honor
The "great fire" likely refers to a large burning of incense or a ceremonial fire, a practice used to honor the deceased and signify their transition to the afterlife. The Hebrew word for "fire" is אֵשׁ (esh), which can symbolize purification, the presence of God, or a means of offering. This act of making a great fire would serve as a public demonstration of respect and mourning, highlighting the community's recognition of the individual's contributions and status.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Asa
Asa was the king of Judah who reigned for 41 years. He is known for his initial faithfulness to God and his reforms to rid Judah of idolatry, but later in his reign, he relied on human alliances rather than God.

2. City of David
This is a term often used to refer to Jerusalem, specifically the oldest settled part of the city. It is significant as the burial place of many of Judah's kings.

3. Tomb
Asa had prepared a tomb for himself, indicating his foresight and the honor he expected in death.

4. Spices and Perfumes
These were used in the burial process to honor the deceased and to mask the odor of decay, signifying respect and reverence.

5. Great Fire
This was a customary practice to honor a king, symbolizing the burning of incense and the offering of respect to the deceased.

Teaching Points

The Importance of a Godly Legacy
Asa's burial with honor reflects the respect he earned through his early faithfulness. Our actions today can impact how we are remembered.

Preparation for the Future
Asa prepared his tomb in advance, reminding us of the importance of planning for our future, both physically and spiritually.

The Role of Tradition in Honoring Leaders
The use of spices and a great fire shows the cultural practices of honoring leaders. We should consider how we honor those who have led us in faith.

The Danger of Relying on Human Strength
Asa's later years were marked by reliance on human alliances rather than God, serving as a warning to maintain our trust in God throughout our lives.

The Significance of Burial Practices
The care taken in Asa's burial reflects the value placed on honoring the dead, encouraging us to consider how we show respect to those who have passed.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Asa's preparation of his tomb reflect his understanding of legacy and honor? How can we apply this to our own lives?

2. In what ways did Asa's reliance on human alliances in his later years affect his legacy? How can we ensure our trust remains in God?

3. What cultural practices do we have today that honor leaders or loved ones who have passed? How do these practices reflect our values?

4. How does the burial of Jesus with spices connect to the burial practices seen in Asa's time? What does this tell us about the continuity of tradition?

5. Reflect on a time when you relied on human strength rather than God. What did you learn from that experience, and how can Asa's account guide you in future decisions?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 15:24
This verse also records Asa's burial in the City of David, providing a parallel account of his death and burial.

2 Chronicles 21:19
This passage describes the burial of another king with spices, showing a consistent practice of honoring kings in Judah.

John 19:39-40
The burial of Jesus with spices by Nicodemus and Joseph of Arimathea reflects a similar tradition of honoring the dead.