2 Kings 12:5

Let every priest receive it from his constituency, and let it be used to repair any damage found in the temple."

Study Bible

Let every priest receive it
This phrase indicates a decentralized system of collection, where each priest is responsible for gathering funds from their own community or constituency. The Hebrew root for "receive" is "laqach," which implies taking possession or acquiring something. This reflects a trust in the priests' integrity and their direct relationship with the people. Historically, this system underscores the communal responsibility in maintaining the temple, emphasizing the role of the priesthood as both spiritual and administrative leaders.

from his constituency
The term "constituency" refers to the local community or district from which the priest would collect funds. In the Hebrew context, this would be the "yada," meaning a familiar or known group. This highlights the personal connection between the priests and their communities, suggesting a system where the needs of the temple are met through local contributions. It reflects the biblical principle of stewardship and the importance of community involvement in religious life.

and let it be used
This phrase indicates the purpose of the collected funds. The Hebrew word "asah," meaning to do or make, is used here, suggesting action and purpose. The funds are not to be hoarded or misused but are designated for a specific task. This reflects a biblical principle of accountability and transparency in the use of resources, aligning with the broader scriptural theme of faithful stewardship.

to repair any damage
The focus here is on restoration and maintenance. The Hebrew word "chazaq," meaning to strengthen or repair, is used, indicating a proactive approach to preserving the temple's integrity. This reflects the importance of maintaining the physical space where worship and sacrifices occur, symbolizing the need for spiritual renewal and the upkeep of one's faith and relationship with God.

found in the temple
The temple, or "bayith" in Hebrew, is the central place of worship and the dwelling place of God's presence among His people. The emphasis on repairing damage found in the temple underscores the sacredness of this space. It serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining the holiness and purity of the places dedicated to God, reflecting the broader biblical theme of reverence for the divine and the spaces set apart for worship.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joash (Jehoash)
The king of Judah who initiated the repair of the temple. He was concerned with the proper worship of God and the maintenance of the temple.

2. Priests
The religious leaders responsible for collecting funds and overseeing the repair work of the temple. They were expected to be stewards of the resources given for God's work.

3. Temple of the LORD
The central place of worship in Jerusalem, which had fallen into disrepair. It symbolized the presence of God among His people and the importance of maintaining a place dedicated to His worship.

4. Constituency
The people from whom the priests were to collect funds. This term indicates the communal responsibility in supporting the temple's upkeep.

5. Repair of the Temple
The event of restoring the temple to its former glory, reflecting the spiritual renewal and dedication to God’s service.

Teaching Points

Stewardship of Resources
God calls His people to be responsible stewards of the resources He provides, ensuring they are used for His glory and purposes.

Community Responsibility
The repair of the temple was a communal effort, reminding us that maintaining the house of God is a shared responsibility among believers.

Spiritual Renewal
Physical repairs of the temple symbolize the need for spiritual renewal and dedication to God’s service in our lives.

Leadership and Accountability
Leaders, like the priests, are accountable for the resources entrusted to them and must act with integrity and diligence.

Prioritizing Worship
The emphasis on repairing the temple underscores the priority of worship in the life of God’s people, calling us to prioritize our relationship with Him.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the responsibility of the priests in 2 Kings 12:5 reflect the role of church leaders today in managing church resources?

2. In what ways can we, as a community of believers, contribute to the upkeep and maintenance of our places of worship?

3. How does the physical restoration of the temple in Joash's time parallel the need for spiritual renewal in our personal lives?

4. What lessons can we learn from Joash's initiative to repair the temple about prioritizing worship and dedication to God?

5. How can the principles of stewardship and accountability seen in this passage be applied to our personal finances and resources?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25-27
These chapters describe the original construction of the tabernacle, emphasizing the importance of a dedicated place for worship and God's presence.

1 Kings 6
Details the building of Solomon's temple, highlighting the significance of a physical structure for worship and the glory of God.

2 Chronicles 24
Provides a parallel account of Joash's reign and the temple repairs, offering additional insights into the process and challenges faced.

Malachi 3:10
Discusses the importance of bringing tithes into the storehouse, which parallels the collection of funds for temple repairs.