2 Kings 12:4 Meaning and Explanation
“And Jehoash said to the priests, All the money of the dedicated things that is brought into the house of the LORD, even the money of every one that passeth the account, the money that every man is set at, and all the money that cometh into any man's heart to bring into the house of the LORD,”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Jehoash directs the priests to gather all the dedicated money given to the temple for its repair and upkeep.
The Context of 2 Kings 12:4
The 'dedicated things' refer to tithes, votive offerings, and other gifts brought by worshippers to support the temple. The 'money that every one that passeth the account' likely refers to poll taxes or ransom money. This verse sets up Jehoash's plan to restore the temple, which has fallen into disrepair.
What Does 2 Kings 12:4 Mean?
A king takes inventory of what has been given to God's house and decides to put it to immediate use. The poetic accumulation of phrases, 'all the money...even the money...the money that...all the money,' shows the comprehensive scope of what Jehoash gathers. Nothing is overlooked. Every offering, whether from a person's obligation or from the stirring of their own heart, belongs to the Lord's work. The king sees his role not as keeper of a treasury for his own purposes, but as steward of what belongs to the Lord's house.
This vision of stewardship matters deeply. Jehoash does not hoard the temple's wealth for personal glory or for war. Instead, he channels it toward the maintenance of the place where God is worshipped. His leadership reflects a theology: the house of the Lord comes first, and those who lead are accountable to make sure its foundation remains strong. In the New Testament, Jesus teaches that all we have is held in trust for the kingdom of God, not for ourselves.
Frequently Asked Questions About 2 Kings 12:4
What does 2 Kings 12:4 mean?
Jehoash directs the priests to gather all the dedicated money given to the temple for its repair and upkeep.
What is the context of 2 Kings 12:4?
The 'dedicated things' refer to tithes, votive offerings, and other gifts brought by worshippers to support the temple. The 'money that every one that passeth the account' likely refers to poll taxes or ransom money. This verse sets up Jehoash's plan to restore the temple, which has fallen into disrepair.