2 Chronicles 26:18 Meaning and Explanation
“And they withstood Uzziah the king, and said unto him, It appertaineth not unto thee, Uzziah, to burn incense unto the LORD, but to the priests the sons of Aaron, that are consecrated to burn incense: go out of the sanctuary; for thou hast trespassed; neither shall it be for thine honour from the LORD God.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Azariah confronts Uzziah: only consecrated priests may burn incense; he has trespassed.
The Context of 2 Chronicles 26:18
The priests' direct rebuke to the king.
What Does 2 Chronicles 26:18 Mean?
Azariah and the priests directly confront the king. They explain that burning incense belongs solely to the descendants of Aaron who are consecrated (set apart) for that task. Uzziah, though king, has no priestly consecration. They command him to leave the sanctuary and name his action for what it is: a transgression that will not bring him honor but shame.
The priests' words show both respect for the boundary between civil and religious authority, and courage in speaking truth to power. They understand that allowing a king to usurp priestly functions would corrupt the entire religious order and separate Uzziah from God's favor.
Frequently Asked Questions About 2 Chronicles 26:18
What does 2 Chronicles 26:18 mean?
Azariah confronts Uzziah: only consecrated priests may burn incense; he has trespassed.
What is the context of 2 Chronicles 26:18?
The priests' direct rebuke to the king.