2 maccabees 3:22 - While therefore they called upon the Almighty Lord to keep the things intrusted to them safe and sure for those that had intrusted them,

Generated Verse: 2 maccabees 3:22

What does "2 maccabees 3:22" mean?


This verse from 2 Maccabees 3:22 is part of a larger narrative where Heliodorus, sent by King Seleucus, is attempting to plunder the Temple treasury in Jerusalem. The Jewish people are horrified and praying for God's intervention.

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

"While therefore they called upon the Almighty Lord..." - This emphasizes the widespread prayer and fervent appeal to God in their time of crisis. "Almighty Lord" highlights God's power and ability to intervene.

"...to keep the things intrusted to them safe and sure..." - This refers to the Temple treasures. The people see these treasures as a sacred trust. They are not simply possessions, but things placed in their care. "Safe and sure" emphasizes their desire for God's protection against theft and desecration.

"...for those that had intrusted them." - This underscores that the treasures don't belong to the current generation alone. They belong to the community and, importantly, to those who had dedicated them (past generations). It suggests a sense of responsibility to uphold the wishes and intentions of the original donors.

In essence, the verse is a plea to God to protect the Temple treasures as a matter of sacred trust, not just for the current generation, but for all those who had entrusted them to the Temple's care throughout history. It highlights the sanctity of the Temple and the people's commitment to safeguarding what they considered holy and dedicated to God. They are asking God to be faithful to the trust placed in them.

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