Definition: Conaniah also, and Shemaiah and Nethaneel, his brethren, and Hashabiah and Jeiel and Jozabad, chief of the Levites, gave unto the Levites for passover offerings five thousand [small cattle], and five hundred oxen.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Chronicles 35:9. It’s a fascinating piece of history that tells us about how the Jewish community in Judah was providing for them during Passover. Here's what it means, explained simply: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a significant giving – a large amount of livestock – given to the Levites (a group of priests and religious leaders) as part of a special offering for Passover. Let’s unpack each part: “2 Chronicles 35:9” : This is a specific section in the Bible, found in the Book of Chronicles, which tells about the events surrounding the Passover. “Conaniah, and Shemaiah and Nethaneel, his brethren, and Hashabiah and Jeiel and Jozabad, chief of the Levites…” : This identifies the people involved – a group of prominent leaders in the Jewish community. Let’s call them “the Levite Chiefs.” “gave unto the Levites for passover offerings five thousand [small cattle], and five hundred oxen.” This is the crucial part. It means: Five Thousand Small Cattle: This is a huge number – think of thousands of cows! These were valuable livestock, used for sacrifice and ceremonial purposes. Five Hundred Oxen: This represents a large amount of oxen (heavy draft animals). Oxen were essential for carrying the food and offering to the Temple in Jerusalem. What’s the Significance? This act of giving was a huge demonstration of faith and devotion within the Jewish community. It shows: Deep Commitment: The Levites were willing to put their resources (their livestock) into this significant offering, especially during a time when they needed it most. Religious Observance: Passover was a very important holiday for Jews, and this giving was a way of showing their reverence and commitment to God’s law. In short, the verse describes a large, generous donation made by the leaders of the Jewish community to support the religious life of the people during the Passover season. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of this verse? Discuss the historical context surrounding this event?