2 Chronicles 35:13

They roasted the Passover animals on the fire according to the regulation, and they boiled the other holy offerings in pots, kettles, and bowls and quickly brought them to all the people.

Study Bible

They roasted the Passover lambs over the fire
The act of roasting the Passover lambs over the fire is deeply rooted in the original Passover instructions given in Exodus 12:8-9. The Hebrew word for "roasted" is "צָלָה" (tzalah), which signifies a specific method of cooking that preserves the integrity of the meat, symbolizing the purity and wholeness required in the sacrificial offering. This method of preparation is a direct obedience to God's command, reflecting the Israelites' commitment to maintaining the sanctity of the Passover, a pivotal event commemorating their deliverance from Egypt. The fire represents purification and divine presence, a reminder of God's guidance and protection.

according to the regulation
The phrase "according to the regulation" underscores the importance of adhering to divine instructions. The Hebrew term "מִשְׁפָּט" (mishpat) refers to a decree or ordinance, emphasizing the structured and ordained nature of worship practices. This adherence to regulation highlights the Israelites' dedication to following God's law as given through Moses, ensuring that their worship remains pure and acceptable. It serves as a reminder of the importance of obedience in the life of faith, where God's commands are not burdensome but are designed for the well-being and spiritual growth of His people.

and they boiled the other holy offerings
Boiling the other holy offerings, as opposed to roasting, indicates a different method of preparation for different types of sacrifices. The Hebrew word "בָּשַׁל" (bashal) means to boil or cook, and it reflects the diversity of sacrificial practices within the temple worship. This distinction in preparation methods signifies the varied ways in which offerings were made to God, each with its own symbolic meaning and purpose. The holy offerings, which could include peace offerings or other sacrifices, were part of the communal worship experience, fostering unity and shared devotion among the people.

in pots, kettles, and bowls
The use of "pots, kettles, and bowls" for boiling the offerings indicates the practical aspects of temple service and the communal nature of the feast. These vessels, mentioned in the Hebrew as "סִיר" (sir), "דּוּד" (dud), and "מִזְרָק" (mizrak), were essential for preparing the food that would be shared among the people. The variety of utensils reflects the organized and communal effort involved in temple worship, where each item had a specific role in facilitating the sacrificial process. This imagery evokes a sense of community and shared responsibility in worship, where each person plays a part in honoring God.

and quickly brought them to all the people
The phrase "quickly brought them to all the people" highlights the efficiency and dedication of the Levites and priests in serving the congregation. The Hebrew root "מָהַר" (mahar) means to hasten or act swiftly, indicating the urgency and importance of distributing the offerings to ensure that all could partake in the sacred meal. This act of service reflects the heart of ministry, where leaders prioritize the needs of the people and facilitate their participation in worship. It underscores the communal aspect of the Passover celebration, where every individual is included in the remembrance of God's deliverance and provision.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Josiah
The king of Judah who initiated the Passover celebration as part of his religious reforms, seeking to restore proper worship according to the Law of Moses.

2. Passover
A significant Jewish festival commemorating the Israelites' deliverance from Egypt, symbolizing God's salvation and protection.

3. Priests and Levites
The religious leaders responsible for conducting the Passover and ensuring the offerings were prepared according to the Law.

4. Jerusalem
The central place of worship where the Passover was celebrated, highlighting its importance as the spiritual heart of Israel.

5. The People of Judah
The participants in the Passover, representing the collective community of God's covenant people.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God's Commands
Josiah's adherence to the Passover regulations demonstrates the importance of following God's instructions precisely. This obedience is a model for our own lives, emphasizing the need to align our actions with biblical teachings.

Community Worship
The collective participation in the Passover highlights the significance of communal worship. It reminds us of the importance of gathering together as a body of believers to celebrate and remember God's faithfulness.

Symbolism of Sacrifice
The Passover lamb is a foreshadowing of Christ's ultimate sacrifice. Understanding this connection deepens our appreciation for the redemption we have through Jesus.

Role of Spiritual Leaders
The priests and Levites played a crucial role in guiding the people in worship. This underscores the responsibility of spiritual leaders to lead with integrity and ensure that worship is conducted in accordance with Scripture.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Josiah's observance of the Passover challenge us to prioritize obedience to God's Word in our own lives?

2. In what ways can we foster a sense of community worship in our local church, similar to the collective celebration of Passover?

3. How does understanding the symbolism of the Passover lamb enhance our appreciation for Christ's sacrifice?

4. What responsibilities do spiritual leaders have today in ensuring that worship aligns with biblical principles?

5. How can we apply the principles of sacrifice and obedience from the Passover to our daily walk with Christ?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 12
The original institution of the Passover, providing the foundational instructions that Josiah followed during his reforms.

Deuteronomy 16
Offers additional details on the observance of Passover, emphasizing the importance of following God's commands.

1 Corinthians 5:7
Paul refers to Christ as our Passover lamb, drawing a parallel between the Old Testament Passover and the sacrifice of Jesus.