2 Chronicles 31:18
And to the genealogy of all their little ones, their wives, and their sons, and their daughters, through all the congregation: for in their set office they sanctified themselves in holiness:
2 Chronicles 31:18 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse, we see that the people are being set apart for a specific purpose, indicating the importance of their roles within the community. The mention of their offspring, wives, sons, and daughters emphasizes the inclusivity and responsibility that comes with their consecrated positions. By sanctifying themselves in holiness, they are committing to a life of purity and devotion to their set office. This verse serves as a reminder of the need for all members of the congregation, regardless of age or gender, to participate in the sanctification process. It underscores the idea that holiness is not achieved in isolation but through the collective dedication of the entire community. Each individual's commitment to sanctification contributes to the overall sanctity of the congregation as a whole, highlighting the interconnectedness and shared responsibility among believers.
Theological Overview
One theological interpretation of this verse is that it emphasizes the importance of sanctification and holiness in the lives of the people of Israel. The focus on the genealogy of the little ones, wives, sons, and daughters highlights the idea that sanctification is not just an individual endeavor but also a communal one. The verse suggests that the entire congregation participated in sanctifying themselves, indicating a collective commitment to holiness. This underscores the belief in Judaism that holiness is a central aspect of their identity and relationship with God. The phrase "set office" can be understood as referring to the specific roles and responsibilities that each individual had within the community, further emphasizing the idea of sanctification as a communal effort. Overall, this verse serves as a reminder of the importance of holiness and sanctification in the lives of believers, both individually and collectively.
2 Chronicles 31:18 in other translations
American Standard Version
and them that were reckoned by genealogy of all their little ones, their wives, and their sons, and their daughters, through all the congregation: for in their office of trust they sanctified themselves in holiness.
World English Bible
and those who were reckoned by genealogy of all their little ones, their wives, and their sons, and their daughters, through all the congregation: for in their office of trust they sanctified themselves in holiness.
Douay-Rheims
And to all the multitude, both to their wives, and to their children of both sexes, victuals were given faithfully out of the things that had been sanctified.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And to the generation of all their children, their wiues, and their sonnes and their daughters throughout all ye Congregation: for by their fidelitie are they partakers of the holy things.