2 Chronicles 31:6
And concerning the children of Israel and Judah, that dwelt in the cities of Judah, they also brought in the tithe of oxen and sheep, and the tithe of holy things which were consecrated unto the LORD their God, and laid them by heaps.
2 Chronicles 31:6 · King James Version
Meaning
During the time when the children of Israel and Judah dwelt in the cities of Judah, they were instructed to bring in tithes of oxen, sheep, and other holy things that were consecrated to the Lord their God. The act of bringing in tithes was a way for the people to show their obedience and dedication to God, as well as to support the priests and Levites who served in the temple. The tithes were collected and laid by heaps, symbolizing the abundance and blessings that God had provided to the people. By faithfully giving their tithes, the children of Israel and Judah demonstrated their trust in God's provision and their commitment to following His commandments. This practice of tithing was not only a way to support the religious institutions of the time but also a way for the people to express their gratitude and worship to the Lord.
Theological Overview
In this verse, the children of Israel and Judah are seen bringing in tithes of oxen, sheep, and holy offerings to the Lord. This act of tithing, which involved giving a tenth of their produce or earnings, was a way for the Israelites to show their faithfulness and obedience to God. Tithing was a practice that dated back to the time of Abraham, as a way to acknowledge God's provision and sovereignty. The tithes brought in by the people were set aside for the priests, Levites, and those in need, ensuring that the spiritual leaders and the less fortunate were taken care of. The heaps of offerings mentioned in the verse symbolize the abundance and generosity of the people towards God, trusting in His provision and faithfulness. Through tithing, the people of Israel and Judah demonstrated their commitment to honoring God and supporting the work of the temple, as well as caring for the community as a whole.
2 Chronicles 31:6 in other translations
American Standard Version
And the children of Israel and Judah, that dwelt in the cities of Judah, they also brought in the tithe of oxen and sheep, and the tithe of dedicated things which were consecrated unto Jehovah their God, and laid them by heaps.
World English Bible
The children of Israel and Judah, who lived in the cities of Judah, they also brought in the tithe of cattle and sheep, and the tithe of dedicated things which were consecrated to Yahweh their God, and laid them by heaps.
Douay-Rheims
Moreover the children of Israel and Juda, that dwelt in the cities of Juda, brought in the tithes of oxen, and sheep, and the tithes of holy things, which they had vowed to the Lord their God: and carrying them all, made many heaps.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And the children of Israel and Iudah that dwelt in ye cities of Iudah, they also brought the tithes of bullockes and sheepe, and the holy tithes which were consecrate vnto the Lord their God, and laide them on many heapes.