2 Chronicles 19:11
And, behold, Amariah the chief priest is over you in all matters of the LORD; and Zebadiah the son of Ishmael, the ruler of the house of Judah, for all the king's matters: also the Levites shall be officers before you. Deal courageously, and the LORD shall be with the good.
2 Chronicles 19:11 · King James Version
Meaning
Within this verse, we see the division of responsibilities among the leaders and priests in ancient Israel. Amariah, the chief priest, is appointed to oversee all matters pertaining to the LORD, guiding the people in matters of faith and worship. Zebadiah, the ruler of the house of Judah, is designated to handle the secular affairs and administrative duties on behalf of the king. Additionally, the Levites are assigned as officers to assist in the organization and implementation of various tasks. The directive to "deal courageously" is a call to action, encouraging the leaders and officers to act with strength, boldness, and resolve in carrying out their duties. This verse serves as a reminder that with courage and faithfulness in fulfilling their responsibilities, the leaders can trust that the LORD will be with them, guiding and supporting their efforts towards what is good and just.
Theological Overview
In this verse, we see a clear division of roles among the leaders of the Israelites. Amariah is appointed as the chief priest, responsible for all matters related to the LORD. This signifies the significance of religious guidance and leadership in the community. Zebadiah, on the other hand, is designated as the ruler of the house of Judah, managing all the king's secular affairs. This division highlights the importance of both spiritual and earthly leadership in ensuring the well-being of the people. Additionally, the mention of the Levites as officers emphasizes the role of the Levites in assisting and supporting the leaders in their respective duties. The exhortation to "deal courageously" signifies the need for boldness and faith in facing challenges, with the assurance that the LORD will be with those who do good. This verse reminds us of the importance of wise and courageous leadership, both in spiritual and worldly matters, under the guidance and protection of the LORD.
2 Chronicles 19:11 in other translations
American Standard Version
And, behold, Amariah the chief priest is over you in all matters of Jehovah; and Zebadiah the son of Ishmael, the ruler of the house of Judah, in all the king's matters: also the Levites shall be officers before you. [ Deal courageously, and Jehovah be with the good.
World English Bible
Behold, Amariah the chief priest is over you in all matters of Yahweh; and Zebadiah the son of Ishmael, the ruler of the house of Judah, in all the king’s matters: also the Levites shall be officers before you. Deal courageously, and may Yahweh be with the good.”
Douay-Rheims
And Amarias the priest your high priest shall be chief in the things which regard God: and Zabadias the son of Ismahel, who is ruler in the house of Juda, shall be over those matters which belong to the king's office: and you have before you the Levites for masters, take courage and do diligently, and the Lord will be with you in good things.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And behold, Amariah the Priest shalbe the chiefe ouer you in all matters of the Lord, and Zebadiah ye sonne of Ishmael, a ruler of the house of Iudah, shalbe for al the Kings affaires, and the Leuites shalbe officers before you. Bee of courage, and doe it, and the Lord shalbe with the good.