2 Chronicles 30:3

Authorized King James Version

For they could not keep it at that time, because the priests had not sanctified themselves sufficiently, neither had the people gathered themselves together to Jerusalem.

Word-by-Word Analysis

כִּ֣י

H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

לֹ֧א

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

יָֽכְל֛וּ

H3201

For they could

to be able, literally (can, could) or morally (may, might)

לַֽעֲשֹׂת֖וֹ

H6213

not keep

to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application

בָּעֵ֣ת

H6256

it at that time

time, especially (adverb with preposition) now, when, etc

הַהִ֑יא

H1931

he (she or it); only expressed when emphatic or without a verb; also (intensively) self, or (especially with the article) the same; sometimes (as demo

כִּ֤י

H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

הַכֹּֽהֲנִים֙

H3548

because the priests

literally one officiating, a priest; also (by courtesy) an acting priest (although a layman)

לֹֽא

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

#10

הִתְקַדְּשׁ֣וּ

H6942

had not sanctified

to be (causatively, make, pronounce or observe as) clean (ceremonially or morally)

#11

לְמַדַּ֔י

H4078

themselves sufficiently

what (is) enough, i.e., sufficiently

#12

וְהָעָ֖ם

H5971

neither had the people

a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock

#13

לֹא

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

#14

נֶאֶסְפ֥וּ

H622

gathered themselves together

to gather for any purpose; hence, to receive, take away, i.e., remove (destroy, leave behind, put up, restore, etc.)

#15

לִירֽוּשָׁלִָֽם׃

H3389

to Jerusalem

jerushalaim or jerushalem, the capital city of palestine

Analysis

Within the broader context of 2 Chronicles, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of covenant community connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about covenant community, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of 2 Chronicles.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

How might the original audience's understanding of covenant community differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?