2 chronicles 17:8 - and with them the Levites, even Shemaiah, Nethaniah, Zebadiah, Asahel, Shemiramoth, Jehonathan, Adonijah, Tobijah, and Tobadonijah, the Levites; and with them Elishama and Jehoram, the priests.

Generated Verse: 2 chronicles 17:8

What does "2 chronicles 17:8" mean?


This verse, 2 Chronicles 17:8, is part of a larger passage (2 Chronicles 17:7-9) describing the actions of King Jehoshaphat of Judah in the third year of his reign. He sent out officials, Levites, and priests throughout the cities of Judah to teach the people the Law of the Lord.

Here's a breakdown of the verse's meaning:

"and with them the Levites..." This refers back to the earlier verse (v.7) where Jehoshaphat sent his officials. Now, specific Levites are named as being part of this group. Levites were members of the tribe of Levi who were dedicated to religious service in the temple and among the community.

"...even Shemaiah, Nethaniah, Zebadiah, Asahel, Shemiramoth, Jehonathan, Adonijah, Tobijah, and Tobadonijah, the Levites..." This is a list of the names of specific Levites who were tasked with teaching the Law of the Lord throughout the land. These names are important because they show that Jehoshaphat's initiative was carefully planned and involved specific individuals. The presence of named individuals lends historical weight to the narrative.

"...and with them Elishama and Jehoram, the priests." In addition to the Levites, priests (who were also from the tribe of Levi but held a higher status and performed specific functions in the temple) were also included in this group. Elishama and Jehoram are identified as the priests involved. This signifies the inclusion of both Levitical ranks in teaching the people.

In essence, this verse indicates:

Organized Religious Education: King Jehoshaphat was actively promoting religious education and adherence to the Law of the Lord among his people.
Qualified Personnel: He entrusted this important task to specific, named individuals who were Levites and priests, demonstrating a careful selection of qualified personnel.
Comprehensive Outreach: This initiative was likely intended to reach all the people of Judah by sending these teachers throughout the cities.
Importance of Levites and Priests: It highlights the important role the Levites and priests played in the religious life of the nation, particularly in teaching and administering the Law.

The verse, therefore, provides a snapshot of Jehoshaphat's reforms and his commitment to promoting religious observance within his kingdom.

What categories does "2 chronicles 17:8" have?